While Auston Matthews has yet to hoist the coveted Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL's Most Valuable Player, his incredible talent and impact on the game have been recognized with another highly significant "MVP" honor. Matthews earned the prestigious Ted Lindsay Award in the 2021-2022 season, an award voted on by his peers in the NHL Players' Association to recognize the league's Most Outstanding Player. This distinction speaks volumes about the respect he commands among his contemporaries, arguably making it an MVP award in its truest sense.
Matthews' Dominant 2021-2022 Campaign
The 2021-2022 season stands out as Auston Matthews' most exceptional to date and was undoubtedly his 'MVP' season. He didn't just lead the league in goals; he became the first player in the salary cap era to score 60 goals in a single season, earning him his second consecutive Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy. Beyond the sheer volume of his scoring, it was the efficiency, the clutch moments, and his vastly improved two-way game that truly set him apart. His patented quick release, deceptive shot, and ability to find open ice were on full display, making him a nightmare for opposing goaltenders and defencemen alike.
What made Matthews special during this period was not just his goal-scoring prowess but his complete game. He was a force at both ends of the ice, consistently winning puck battles, excelling on the penalty kill, and driving play for the Toronto Maple Leafs. His ability to elevate his team's performance night after night, coupled with his historic goal-scoring achievement, solidified his status as the league's most outstanding player as voted by the very athletes he competed against. The hockey world eagerly anticipates if a Hart Trophy is next on the horizon for this generational talent.
Trade on Every Game with Kalshi
Click Here to sign up to Kalshi — Free $10 when you sign up using our link or use code: ONTAPSEA. The only federally regulated prediction market in the US. Trade on real sports outcomes. Available in all 50 states.