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Maple Leafs Surge Ahead in Playoff Series with Dramatic OT Win
OTTAWA – Simon Benoit found himself in a moment of disbelief and joy after netting the game-winning goal in overtime.
In a thrilling encounter, the Maple Leafs defenseman scored just 1:19 into the extra period, leading Toronto to a 3-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators. This win gives the Leafs a commanding 3-0 advantage in their first-round playoff series and puts them one step closer to a significant triumph in the Battle of Ontario.
“I just lifted both of my arms and didn’t move,” Benoit reflected after the game, describing the overwhelming feeling of elation as his teammates rushed to celebrate with him. “It was a good feeling.”
The pivotal goal came shortly after Leafs captain Auston Matthews won an offensive zone faceoff, showcasing Toronto’s dominance in that aspect of the game. Benoit’s shot managed to evade Senators goalie Linus Ullmark, contributing to the final scoreline.
“It’s always great when a guy like that scores a big goal,” said Leafs head coach Craig Berube. “Benoit has been a strong defensive presence for us, making it tough for opponents.”
Matthews had a noteworthy game himself, contributing with one goal and an assist, while Matthew Knies also found the back of the net for Toronto. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz recorded 18 saves, marking his 11th consecutive win since March 20.
The Senators countered with contributions from Claude Giroux and Brady Tkachuk, each having a goal in the contest, while Ullmark managed to stop 17 shots.
Series Overview
In this playoff series, the Maple Leafs initially prevailed in Game 1 with a decisive 6-2 score before edging Ottawa 3-2 in overtime in Game 2, despite an early two-goal lead slipping through their fingers. As the Senators prepare to host Game 4 on Saturday, they aim to avoid elimination in what marks their first home playoff game since 2017, following a lengthy rebuilding phase.
“One thing I know about our team is that we’re not going to lay down,” Ottawa head coach Travis Green remarked. “We’re going to be ready to play.”
Benoit, who joined the Leafs last season as a gritty depth player, has recently showcased his offensive potential in the playoffs, including a key assist in Game 2. The 27-year-old defenseman, who became a father last September, noted that balancing new parenthood with the demands of professional hockey was challenging, but he appreciates the support from the Leafs’ coaching staff during this transitional phase.
“It was a long process this season,” Benoit explained. “After Christmas, I started to manage all the things happening at home. It’s the best thing that could happen for me.”
As for the Senators, they have shown resilience in recent games but now face the critical task of turning the series around. One key area of focus will be improving their performance at the faceoff dot, where they lost 63% of draws against the Leafs in the latest match.
“Their timing is a little bit better than ours right now,” Giroux observed. “We need to continue to grind.”
Game Highlights
Matthews eventually broke through with his first goal of the series, scoring off a clever feed from Mitch Marner late in the third period. However, Tkachuk ignited the crowd at Canadian Tire Centre with a powerful goal that brought Ottawa within striking distance.
Giroux provided the Senators’ initial lead of the series, finding the net on a power play in the second period. Toronto quickly responded with a goal from Knies, leveling the game before Benoit’s dramatic late-game heroics.
“In the playoffs, it’s not always the same guys stepping up,” Benoit said, reflecting on his critical contribution to the game. “It’s pretty exciting.”
Return of Key Players
In a notable development, Leafs winger Max Pacioretty returned to the lineup after a 75-day absence. The experienced forward filled in for the injured Nick Robertson.
For Senators fans, this playoff run marked a significant occasion, as it had been 2,891 days since their last home playoff game, which occurred on May 23, 2017.
Source
globalnews.ca