Barzal takes top spot in rookie scoring race with 5-point outing vs. Rangers

Mathew Barzal now tops the rookie charts.

The New York Islanders sensation moved to No. 1 in the rookie scoring race Saturday following a five-point outing against the rival New York Rangers.

It's the second time this season Barzal has recorded a five-point game after he tallied five assists against the Colorado Avalanche in a November contest. He picked up two goals and three assists Saturday to bring his total to 44 points on the season.

Saturday's showing saw Barzal leapfrog Vancouver Canucks rookie Brock Boeser for the top spot. Boeser has recorded 40 points on the year, a safe distance ahead of Arizona Coyotes first-year winger, Clayton Keller, who sits third with 33 points.

As for Barzal, the freshman trails only John Tavares and Josh Bailey in team scoring, who stand at 52 and 50 points, respectively.

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