ANAHEIM – Auston Matthews’ 30th goal of the season, scored in overtime, led the Toronto Maple Leafs to a narrow 2-1 victory over the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center on Wednesday. Matthews’ decisive strike came off a one-timer, assisted by Mitchell Marner, marking his eighth consecutive season scoring at least 30 goals.
Toronto coach Sheldon Keefe praised Matthews’ recent performances, noting his significant contribution to the team’s success. This victory for the Maple Leafs (19-10-7) follows a 3-0 win against the Los Angeles Kings, ending a three-game losing streak.
John Tavares tied the game with a power-play goal in the third period, helping to set the stage for Matthews’ overtime heroics. Martin Jones, starting for the second consecutive night, made 27 saves.
Despite the loss, the game was a showcase for Ducks goalie Lukas Dostal, who made an impressive 55 saves, setting a franchise record for a regular-season game. Dostal’s performance kept the Ducks competitive, particularly in the face of Toronto’s 22-7 shot advantage in the third period.
Frank Vatrano scored a short-handed goal for the Ducks (13-23-1), who are struggling through their eight-game homestand with a 1-4-1 record so far. Anaheim’s defense showed resilience, but the offensive output wasn’t enough to overcome the Maple Leafs.
Tavares’ goal in the third period broke Dostal’s shutout and was a crucial moment for Toronto, reflecting the team’s persistence and ability to capitalize on power-play opportunities. Anaheim coach Greg Cronin commended Dostal’s efforts, expressing disappointment that the goalie’s stellar performance didn’t result in a win.
Matthews’ goal in overtime, his 13th shot of the game, was a fitting climax to a closely contested match. His achievement of reaching the 30-goal mark in 35 games or fewer is a feat not seen in the Maple Leafs since Frank Mahovlich in 1960-61.
The Ducks faced additional challenges with injuries and illnesses affecting key players, including defenseman Radko Gudas and forward Ross Johnston, and the recent placement of forward Troy Terry on injured reserve.
Looking ahead, the Maple Leafs continue to rely on their star players like Matthews and Tavares, while the Ducks, facing a tough season, will look to rebound from this loss and capitalize on their upcoming games.
