Auston Matthews Cements Himself in Maple Leafs History

Auston Matthews scored his 421st career goal to become the Toronto Maple Leafs' all-time leading goal scorer, surpassing Mats Sundin and etching his name at the top of one of hockey's most storied franchises.

Jan 1, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) celebrates with forwards Easton Cowan (53) and Nick Robertson (89) and defensemen Jake McCabe (22) and Troy Stecher (28) after scoring his third goal of the game against the Winnipeg Jets in the third period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images | Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Auston Matthews is now the greatest goal scorer in Toronto Maple Leafs history.

The captain reached 421 career goals to surpass Mats Sundin and claim the franchise record, cementing his legacy as one of the most prolific scorers to ever wear the blue and white.

The milestone caps a remarkable journey for Matthews since the Maple Leafs selected him first overall in the 2016 NHL Draft. In just his ninth season, he's accomplished what took Sundin 13 years with the organization. That production rate speaks to Matthews' elite scoring ability and consistency at the highest level.

Sundin held the record at 420 goals for years as one of the franchise's most beloved players and greatest leaders. Matthews passing him represents a changing of the guard and the establishment of a new era in Maple Leafs history.

Elite Company

Breaking the franchise record for one of the Original Six teams carries enormous weight. The Maple Leafs have existed since 1917, and countless Hall of Fame players have worn the uniform. For Matthews to score more goals than any of them validates his status among the all-time greats.

The captain has accomplished this feat despite dealing with various injuries throughout his career. He's missed significant time with wrist issues and other ailments, yet still managed to reach this milestone faster than anyone could have anticipated.

Matthews' goal-scoring ability sets him apart from virtually every player in the NHL. His combination of shot release, accuracy, and ability to find space in the offensive zone makes him nearly impossible to defend when he's healthy and playing at his best.

Building the Legacy

At just 27 years old, Matthews has plenty of time to extend this record beyond anyone's reach. If he maintains his current pace and stays healthy, he could finish his career with numbers that would make him one of the greatest goal scorers in NHL history, not just Maple Leafs history.

Auston Matthews: Toronto Maple Leafs All-Time Goals Leader pic.twitter.com/LrsWzBq1jU

— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) January 4, 2026

The challenge now becomes translating individual success into team success. Matthews has the franchise record, but what the Maple Leafs and their fans really want is a Stanley Cup championship. That remains the missing piece in his legacy.

Breaking the goals record is a monumental achievement that secures Matthews' place in franchise lore forever. His name will be mentioned alongside Sundin, Darryl Sittler, and other legends who defined different eras of Maple Leafs hockey.

The record is his now, and the number will only grow. Auston Matthews is the greatest goal scorer in Toronto Maple Leafs history, and he's still writing his story.

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