NHL Rookie's Record Debut Brings Mom to Tears

Auston Matthews made a stunning debut for the Toronto Maple Leafs Wednesday night, scoring four goals—a record for a rookie in his first NHL game. The Score reports that the 19-year-old American's parents were in the stands for the game against the Ottawa Senators. His proud mom was seen celebrating after the third goal—and wiping away tears after the fourth. "Those were tears of joy,'' Ema Matthews says. ''I feel very excited. This is what Auston has been dreaming since he was 6, [to] be playing right here in the NHL."

Matthews, who grew up in Arizona, entered the record books just 40 minutes into his NHL career when the fourth goal went in, scored with his fourth shot of the game, the AP notes. He was the first draft pick for the Leafs, who finished in last place last season and apparently still have some work to do as they—and the NHL—celebrate their 100th season: Despite Matthews' amazing performance, the Leafs lost 5-4, with the Senators scoring the winning goal just 37 seconds into overtime. (More Toronto Maple Leafs stories.)