Toronto, Jan 2, 2026 — Auston Matthews delivered a sensational performance to kick off the new year, scoring a hat trick and adding an assist as the **Toronto Maple Leafs rallied from a three-goal deficit to defeat the Winnipeg Jets 6–5 in a dramatic NHL showdown at Scotiabank Arena.

Trailing 4–1 in the second period, the Maple Leafs looked down early before mounting one of the most thrilling comebacks of the season. Matthews, the team’s captain, led the charge with three clutch goals, including the go-ahead tally late in the third period that gave Toronto its first lead since early in the game.

The game-winner came with 4:22 remaining, took advantage of a Jets mishandled puck and was buried by Matthews to break a 5–5 deadlock. The four-point night marked Matthews’ 14th career hat trick, tying him with franchise greats and etching his name further into NHL history as one of the league’s premier scorers.

Supporting Matthews’ heroics were key contributions from Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Matias Maccelli, who each recorded a goal and an assist as the Maple Leafs erased deficits and sustained offensive pressure all night.

Toronto goaltender Dennis Hildeby stepped in during the second period and delivered a stellar performance in relief, stopping 22 of 23 shots to preserve the comeback. Meanwhile, Winnipeg suffered its eighth consecutive loss, further deepening its struggles this season.

With this dramatic win, the Maple Leafs improve their record and build momentum as they aim to climb the competitive NHL standings, while Matthews continues to reinforce his status as a leader and clutch performer in high-stakes situations.