Auston Matthews hadn't scored a hat trick in 121 games.
But on the first day of 2026, the Toronto Maple Leafs' captain ended that drought (and added an assist for good measure).
In the process, Matthews claimed an all-time NHL record.
He entered the game tied with Pat LaFontaine for the most hat tricks by an American-born player in NHL history.
Now, Matthews stands alone.
He has had 14 hat tricks, ahead of LaFontaine's 13.
Also in the top-five are three players who had 11 hat tricks apiece: John Leclair, Joe Mullen and Kevin Stevens.
Most Hat Tricks Among U.S.-Born Players in NHL History:
— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) January 2, 2026
Auston Matthews - 14
Pat LaFontaine - 13
John Leclair - 11
Joe Mullen - 11
Kevin Stevens - 11 pic.twitter.com/DU34FfpnSf
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Matthews and the Maple Leafs haven't been having a perfect season. There have been a lot of bumps in the road, including the fact that Matthews has been far from his prolific self as a scorer.
But this hat trick could be the awakening. Toronto could hit its stride now.
And the next time Matthews nets three goals in a game, he'll be extending his all-time record, which is just pretty darn cool.
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