While Auston Matthews is nearly a lock every year to have 50 goals, and his impressive 69 goal campaign last year matched the highest output since Mario Lemieux in 95-96. But while there's never been any question to his offensive capabilities, Matthews sometimes catches flak for his defensive measures.
Matthews became the first person in NHL history to record 50 goals, a +30 or higher +/-, and block 70 shots in a season. The goal scoring is no surprise, but it's the defensive metrics that may surprise many; a +30 rating isn't just based on goal scoring or being on the ice when the puck goes in, it goes hand in hand with defense.
While setting records left and right, and evidence of him being a complete forward over 200 feet of ice is there; wouldn't it be nice to make history again? This time with his name etched on Lord Stanley's Cup.
