Matthews versus McDavid: Matthews Opens Lead on Stats

PUBLICATION

Ryan Hall
August 6, 2023 (0:03)

SHARE THIS STORY

Auston Matthews and Connor McDavid are both mega superstars in the NHL. They share similar stories, having been recognized for their exceptional talent well before becoming NHL players. Both players were heavily scouted even before they turned 15, with scouts knowing they would enter the league with their pure skill sets and impressive statistics, particularly in terms of goals, points, and other stats.

An interesting fact about Matthews is that if he had been born just four days earlier, he would have been eligible for the 2015 draft, alongside McDavid, Eichel, and Strome. However, fate had other plans, and he entered the 2016 draft, where the struggling Toronto Maple Leafs secured the opportunity to draft him.

Recently, a revealing stat was released, showing Matthews holding a clear edge over McDavid in terms of goals scored in a shorter number of games. Despite being drafted a year after McDavid, Matthews managed to score 221 goals in 481 games, which is 12 more than McDavid's current tally.

Both players have had their share of injuries, with Matthews dealing with a nagging wrist injury for the past two seasons, and McDavid facing shoulder injuries. Nonetheless, their exceptional performances have elevated their respective teams to new heights, and they both hope to lead their cities to Stanley Cup victories.

The big question in Toronto revolves around the length of Matthews' contract extension. As he continues to forge his path and do things his way, it is expected that he will request a shorter contract term with a higher payout, aiming to become the highest-paid player in the NHL. While Toronto hopes to secure an 8-year deal, it remains uncertain if that will be the case.