He's one of the sport's superstars, and led the NHL in goals this season. A series win against Toronto's tormentors would elevate him further.
on Monday. The Leafs were trying to avoid falling into a 2-0 series deficit, with the scoreboard knotted at 2-2 late in the third period. The rowdy hometown crowd at TD Garden were taunting the visitors with electrified chants of"U-S-A ... U-S-A" when Matthews -- arguably the greatest American-born hockey player in the league today who happens to play for an iconic Canadian franchise -- saw his opening.
Make no mistake -- the numbers aren't bad. But for whatever reason, Matthews hasn't translated consistently to being the same difference-making threat in the playoffs that he's been in the regular season."It's just happening so fast, you don't really have time to think," Matthews said of teeing up his game-winner."It's honestly kind of instincts, and just trying to make the right play.
"Even when you think you're tight on him, you're not tight enough," Brad Marchand said of Matthews."But that's the thing about the best players; they find a way." Matthews has done it the hard way, bearing the brunt of expectations. It's been the same narrative since Matthews arrived in Toronto as their No. 1 overall pick in 2016; the Leafs will go as far in the playoffs as Matthews,Matthews shoulders that burden more than ever.
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