Toronto Maple Leafs: Matthews or McDavid as the Hart Front-runner?

The Case For Matthews

Arguably no player in the NHL has been talked about more this season than the Toronto Maple Leafs superstar center for one specific reason – his ridiculous goal soring heater. Matthews’ clearest path to winning the Hart Trophy would be if he accomplishes the 50-in-50 feat, which has not been officially done in the NHL since Brett Hull in 1991-92.

Up to 18 goas in 20 games so far this season, Matthews has already missed one Leaf game earlier this season, so to officially qualify for a 50-in-50 season, he would have to score 50 goals in 49 games.

Such an achievement would have to automatically render Matthews the ‘Most Valuable Player’, no?

But even so, Matthews can still build a compelling case beyond that potential illustrious goal-scoring performance.

He is third in league points, first in league goals, and tied for first in even-strength points. He leads the league in expected goals above replacement and at five-one-five, Matthews ranks fourth in individual expected goals, sixth in individual Corsi-for, first in individual scoring chances for, and sixth in individual high-danger chances-for, despite a wrist injury that has supposedly been bothering him “virtually all season” (stats; Evolving-Hockey).

What separates Matthews from McDavid is the Leafs center is more of a complete player.

Matthews has more defensive zone starts, has more blocks, more takeaways, more hits. He has a lower goals-against per 60 rating, a lower Corsi-against per 60 rating, and a lower expected goals against per 60 rating.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are also first in the North Division and first in the entire NHL. Should his team go on to win the President’s Trophy, Matthews can add “best player on the league’s best team” to his resume.