As Toronto regrouped near their blue line, rookie Auston Matthews curled near center ice as a pass was sent to William Nylander. Nylander executed a skillful move just inside the offensive blue line, carrying the puck deep along the wall before delivering a pass to Matthews in the slot. Although Matthews' initial shot attempt was denied, Zach Hyman eventually fed the puck back to him, and Matthews capitalized with his first career goal, scoring just outside the crease. This marked the beginning of an incredible NHL debut in Ottawa, where Matthews went on to score three more goals – the only player in the NHL’s modern era (since 1943-44) to score four times in his first NHL game. His outstanding rookie season culminated with 40 goals, earning him both the Calder Trophy and widespread acclaim.