Sheldon Keefe has words for Auston Matthews after 50th goal
He became the 1st Leafs forward since 1994 to hit the mark.
The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to get elite-level production out of superstar forward Auston Matthews, who just happens to be the NHL's reigning Rocket Richard Trophy winner as the top goal scorer. And it's clear that he's got his eyes set on a repeat.
He now has his first 50 goal season under his belt, reaching the mark tonight at Scotiabank Arena against the Winnipeg Jets:
And with over a dozen games remaining in their schedule, could he potentially hit 60? How about sometime in the near future reaching 70? Let's see what head coach Sheldon Keefe has to say, who believes that there aren't any limitations that can be set on the abilities of someone like Matthews' caliber.
I just don’t think you can put any limitations on someone like him with the ability that he has and the drive that he has," Keefe said ahead of tonight's game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. "You look at the pace that he’s played as here, especially the last 40-50 games or so, I don’t think you can put a limit on that. It’s pretty rare, obviously, especially in this era, but I think there’s no limits on him. He’s extremely driven and obviously very talented and continues to get better."
"We’ve been winning lots of games and he contributes in so many different ways and he scores in so many different ways. At times, he’s manufacturing his own goals in his own space. Other times, he’s working with his linemates. Mitch has been great at finding him in good spots. He’s forechecking, tracking, forcing turnovers, and doing all the things that lead to goals and giving himself those opportunities to score."
Right now, according to ESPN, Matthews is on pace to reach 62 goals and 106 points.
