Veteran Defenseman Jake McCabe Cashes In On a Bet with Teammate Simon Benoit
Veteran Maple Leafs defenseman Jake McCabe is a little bit richer after cashing in on a bet with a teammate over who would score their first goal first.
The Toronto Maple Leafs emerged victorious once again last night, improving their record to an impressive 25-13-2, which is good for first place in the Atlantic Division. They defeated their rivals, the Boston Bruins, 6-4, thanks to the heroics of Matthew Knies, who netted a hat trick.
Another player who stood out was Jake McCabe, who scored the game's opening goal. Goals from Maple Leafs defensemen are a rare sight this season, so it was especially satisfying for McCabe to tally one.
As per Evan Doerfler on X, McCabe was thrilled with the goal:
While McCabe's goal surprised many, none were more shocked than his teammate Simon Benoit,who had bet that he would score his first of the season before the grizzled veteran.
Benoit, during his media availability on Sunday, confirmed his lost wager, according to Nick Barden of The Hockey News.
This goal was a relief not only for the Leafs but also for McCabe, as it further confirms that he's fully recovered from the injury that sidelined him earlier in December.
The Maple Leafs will now shift their focus to tonight's game against the Philadelphia Flyers in a back-to-back match. A win tonight would further extend their lead in the Atlantic Division.
