Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Austin Matthews won the Hart Trophy, becoming only the third player in franchise history to win the NHL MVP and the first since Ted Kennedy in 1955.
Matthews defeated finalists Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers and Igor Shesterkin of the New York Rangers for a Hart at the NHL Awards on Tuesday night in Tampa, Florida.
“Congratulations to Igor, Connor on the amazing seasons,” Matthews said in his acceptance speech for Hart. “As I said before, so much respect for you guys, you are amazing at what you do.
Matthews, who was a finalist in the Hart Trophy for the second year in a row after finishing second in the 2020-21 poll, was the predominant choice this season. He secured 119 votes in first place and 49 in second place, collecting 1,630 points.
McDavid, the two-time and defending Hart Trophy winner, received 29 votes for first place and 1,111 points to finish second in the vote. Shesterkin, who earlier in the night won the Vezina trophy as the best goalkeeper in the league, finished third with 738 points.
The Hart Trophy marked the second honor of Matthews’ night after being named Ted Lindsay Award winner for the league’s most notable player.
“My family, to me, means the whole world that you are here with me, thank you guys, just for your unwavering support, I can’t thank you enough,” Matthews said in his speech at the Ted Lindsay Award. “It just means a lot to be recognized by my peers and the guys I compete against every night, a fight against, it just means a lot.”
Matthews, who has played in 73 of Toronto’s regular games, has been instrumental in helping Maple Leafs secure the best season of 115 points.
“I want to thank the Toronto Maple Leafs, from top to bottom,” Matthews said. “Management, ownership, coaches, all the staff, every one of my teammates – it doesn’t happen without you guys, so thank you.”
In addition to leading Leafs by points this season with 106, Matthews led the league in goals with 60 – setting a franchise record that brought him his second consecutive Rocket Richard trophy.
“All the fans, fans of Toronto Maple Leafs, Leaf Nation, there’s no one like you guys,” Matthews said. “I love your family so much again. To me, the whole world means you’re here. I know Father’s Day was a few days ago, but Brian, this is for you.
Add Comment