Leafs' Auston Matthews destined to follow Patrick Kane's lead
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Leafs' Auston Matthews destined to follow Patrick Kane's lead
"That said, the next active player creeping up the list is Matthews. His record-breaking goal last weekend highlighted just how impressive Matthews' career has been. Entering Friday night's action, Matthews is 25th on the all-time scoring list for American-born players. His 761 points are tied with Brian Rolston. With a strong second-half of the season, Matthews could leapfrog a former Leaf, Ed Olczyk, for 23rd on the all-time list."
"Moreover, Matthews' 422 goals are good for 11th all-time among Americans, and seven behind current Minnesota Wild GM Bill Guerin. That's a highly impressive situation when considering just how hard it is to be successful in the NHL. But beyond skill, climbing up all-time charts requires longevity. That's what Kane has had. Despite the serious hip resurfacing surgery he underwent, Kane has managed to remain in the game."
"There are no signs he'll be slowing down any time soon. As such, Kane could ultimately catch Brett Hull for the all-time scoring lead among Americans. Meanwhile, Matthews is nipping at everyone's heels. Matthews is still just 28. Injuries aside, he's been remarkably durable given the role he plays. Star players generally skate around with a target on their backs. Plus, Matthews plays a two-way role, one that opens the door to injuries."
Auston Matthews has 761 points, tied with Brian Rolston, placing him 25th among American-born NHL scorers entering Friday's action, and his 422 goals rank 11th all-time among Americans. A strong second half could move him past Ed Olczyk for 23rd. Patrick Kane reached 500 career goals and strengthened his Hall of Fame case, sitting sixth all-time in goals among American-born players and closing on Mike Modano for second in points. Kane's longevity, despite hip resurfacing surgery, keeps him productive and could allow him to challenge Brett Hull. Matthews remains 28, durable, and plays a two-way role that increases injury risk.
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