Toronto — On a night when emotions at Scotiabank Arena reached their boiling point, the Toronto Maple Leafs didn’t just secure a dramatic 3–2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. They also witnessed a moment that transcended the ice itself. Mats Sundin, one of the greatest legends in franchise history, publicly called on Maple Leafs management to immediately increase Dakota Joshua’s salary following his decisive, game-winning goal — a goal that completed one of the most stunning turnarounds of the season.

“I still can’t believe he’s paid that little,” Sundin said bluntly. And within minutes, those words spread across Toronto like wildfire.

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A Defining Moment — and an Unsung Hero

Dakota Joshua’s goal against the Chicago Blackhawks didn’t just decide the game — it reshaped how the entire city views him. In a span of eight unbelievable seconds, the Maple Leafs went from the brink of defeat to euphoric victory, and Joshua was the one who delivered the final blow.

There was no over-the-top celebration. No search for the spotlight. Joshua raised his stick briefly, was mobbed by teammates, and calmly returned to the bench. But anyone who understands hockey knew instantly: this was the moment of a big-time player.

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When Mats Sundin Speaks, Toronto Listens

When Mats Sundin speaks, Toronto listens — not because he is loud, but because he has never spoken without meaning.

In his postgame comments, Sundin barely focused on the goal itself. Instead, he spoke about value.

“He doesn’t just score goals,” Sundin said. “He does the hardest jobs — battling along the boards, protecting teammates, applying pressure, sacrificing his body for the team. And he does all of that for a salary that, in my opinion, doesn’t reflect his true worth.”

These weren’t emotional, heat-of-the-moment words. They came from a former Maple Leafs captain who once carried the weight of an entire city on his shoulders — a man who understands better than almost anyone what truly wins games in the NHL.

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Dakota Joshua — The Embodiment of Toronto Hockey

Joshua isn’t a headline machine. He isn’t a 40-goal scorer. But he is exactly the kind of player every championship team needs.

• Physical presence

• Relentless work ethic

• Tactical discipline

• And above all: the courage to step up when it matters most

Sundin emphasized this point clearly:

“When you look back at the strongest Maple Leafs teams in history, they always had players like Joshua. Not flashy — but decisive.”

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The Salary Question No One Can Ignore

According to league sources, Dakota Joshua’s current contract is widely viewed as below market value given the role he now plays in the Maple Leafs lineup. In today’s NHL, where depth players and elite bottom-six forwards are critical to playoff success, Joshua represents both a bargain — and a potential risk if Toronto hesitates.

Sundin avoided specific numbers, but his message was unmistakable:

“If you want to build a winning culture, you have to reward the players who help you win.”

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The Locker Room Is Behind Joshua

Multiple insiders report that Sundin’s comments came as no surprise inside the locker room. In fact, they echoed what many players already feel.

One teammate, speaking anonymously, said:

“Dakota is the guy you want next to you when things get hard. None of us were surprised he scored that goal. We believe in him.”

That belief can’t be measured on a stat sheet — but it’s exactly what creates moments like the one against Chicago.

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More Than a Contract — A Statement

What makes Sundin’s call so powerful isn’t the money itself. It’s the message behind it.

For years, the Maple Leafs have been criticized as a team that pays its stars but lacks depth. Sundin’s words felt like a sharp reminder: don’t forget the players who do the invisible work.

“You don’t win the Stanley Cup with star power alone,” Sundin said.

“You win it with sacrifice.”

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Fans Rally Behind the Message

Within hours of Sundin’s comments, social media across Toronto was flooded with a simple message:

• “Pay Dakota Joshua.”

• “Sundin is right.”

• “This is Maple Leafs hockey.”

Fans saw what they’ve been witnessing all season — Joshua is no longer just a role player. He’s part of the team’s heartbeat.

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Joshua’s Response: Quiet, As Always

Amid the sudden spotlight, Joshua remained characteristically humble:

“I’m just trying to do my job. I love playing for Toronto. The rest is up to the organization.”

No demands. No pressure. Just professionalism. And somehow, that restraint only made Sundin’s plea even more compelling.

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A Moment That Could Shape the Future

The goal against the Blackhawks may end up as just one tally in an 82-game season. But for Dakota Joshua — and perhaps for the Toronto Maple Leafs as a whole — it could mark a turning point.

Mats Sundin spoke for many, using his credibility, experience, and love for this franchise to say what others wouldn’t.

Now, the question is no longer whether Joshua deserves it.

The question is how quickly the Maple Leafs will act.

In a city where history and expectations are always heavy, sometimes the right decision — made at the right moment, for the right player — can be the difference between a good season and something truly special.