"Planet's best goal scorer, presently": Auston Matthews hailed by hockey analyst as Leafs forward's goal projection nears NHL record of 76

Auston Matthews recently earned praise from ESPN analyst John Buccigross for his goal-scoring prowess. Buccigross took to Twitter to highlight Matthews' current tally of 28 goals in just 30 games.

"Cheddar is Better. 28 goals in 30 games for Matthews. Career high is 60. 70 goals is in play. Mogilny & Selanne are last 70 goal scorers. (Both 76 in '92-'93). Matthews has 168 goals in his last 229 games. The planet's best goal scorer, presently," he said.

According to ESPN, Matthews is projected to reach 74 goals. He has an impressive goal count of 168 in his last 229 games.

What makes Matthews' feat even more remarkable is the fact that he's outpacing Alexander Ovechkin across 511 NHL regular-season games.

If he continues to score at the same rate, Matthews would not be far off the NHL record of 76 goals.

Auston Matthews sparks Leafs to 4-1 victory over Blue Jackets

Auston Matthews propelled the Toronto Maple Leafs to a decisive 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. The star forward tallied two goals and added an assist. Matthews opened the scoring with his 27th goal of the season, showcasing his precision with a one-timer off a Mitchell Marner feed in the first period.

Although the Blue Jackets equalized in the second period, courtesy of Justin Danforth, the Leafs quickly regained control. Captain John Tavares displayed his offensive prowess with a goal, spinning around defenseman Erik Gudbranson to beat goaltender Daniil Tarasov.

Matthews further extended his league-leading goal count to 28 on a power play, highlighting his remarkable seven-game goal streak. William Nylander contributed to the offensive showcase with a short-handed goal, securing the Leafs' victory at 4-1.