Only the Leafs could have done what they did on the night of Auston Matthews' NHL debut. The team lost a close game to the Ottawa Senators by a score of 5-4. But the bigger story was an absolutely incredible first game for the 19-year-old that was about to dominate the NHL at 5-on-5 for the next 6 years. Matthews scored all 4 Leafs goals that night. He was, and still is, the only player in NHL history to score 4 in his NHL debut.
Craig Anderson was the first NHL goalie to be terrorized by the 2-time Rocket Richard winner. He was in the Senators net for all 4 goals. Anderson was so impressed that he asked Matthews to sign the goalie stick he used in that game. Matthews obliged but couldn't resist having a little fun at Anderson's expense. He signed the stick, along with the words, "Thanks four making my first game memorable".
Before the Leafs faced off against the Sabres for a classic Saturday night matchup on Hockey Night in Canada, 2021 first overall pick Owen Power was talking with the media about watching Matthews play growing up. Anderson was quick to remind everyone in attendance of his personal experience facing the Leafs superstar.
Clearly, Anderson's memory of that night in 2016 hasn't faded. The 41-year-old is probably thankful that Ukko-Pekka Lukkonen got the start tonight. As a goalie, I don't blame him. I wouldn't want any part of facing Matthews either!
