The Toronto Maple Leafs emerged victorious after an overtime period against the Dallas Stars on Thursday night. Aside from an intense battle between two playoff-bound teams, Thursday night's Maple Leafs-Stars contest was also a historic one for the NHL record books. Maple Leafs star center Auston Matthews, who has been enjoying an excellent season, added to his standout campaign by rewriting the NHL history books with his two-goal night, as reported by ESPN.

The 24-year-old center scored his 55th goal of the season late in the second period, passing Rick Vaive to claim Toronto's single-season goal-scoring record. His 56th gave the Maple Leafs the victory in overtime and set the record for most goals by a U.S.-born player in a season.

Matthews scored his 55th and 56 goals of the season, marks that not only lead the NHL, but also helped the 24-year-old break not one, but two records. Matthews' 55th goal, scored in the second period, earned him the Maple Leafs' franchise record for the most goals scored in a single season.

His 56th goal, which sealed the victory over the Stars, made NHL history for the most goals scored by a U.S.-born player in one season.

Matthews has broken out this year, posting career-highs in goals, assists and points while leading Toronto to their sixth straight winning season.

He is now a permanent part of the NHL history books.