OTTAWA, Ontario -- In a thrilling conclusion to their first-round playoff series, the Toronto Maple Leafs clinched a spot in the second round by defeating the Ottawa Senators 4-2 in Game 6 on Thursday night. Max Pacioretty emerged as the hero, scoring the game-winning goal with just 5:39 left on the clock, propelling Toronto to victory and ending Ottawa's postseason run.
Pacioretty, who had been a healthy scratch at the start of the series, made his mark when it mattered most, netting his first goal of the playoffs off a pass from Max Domi. This crucial goal came after the Senators had fought back to tie the game at 2-2, showcasing the resilience of the Maple Leafs as they navigated through the pressure of the moment. "A lot of ups and downs mentally," Pacioretty told Sportsnet after the game. "Coach (Craig Berube) did a good job of kind of easing me into the series. Because, you know, given the role and my age, you can't just jump in and play a ton of minutes."
William Nylander also had a standout performance, celebrating his 29th birthday with two goals, including an empty-netter in the final seconds to seal the deal for Toronto. Auston Matthews contributed with a power-play goal, giving the Maple Leafs an early lead in the first period.
The game began with Matthews putting Toronto ahead 1-0, firing a low shot through traffic with just 70 seconds left in the first period. Nylander doubled the lead just 43 seconds into the second period, taking advantage of a turnover caused by Pacioretty against Senators defenseman Nick Jensen. But the Senators, determined to keep their playoff hopes alive, responded. Brady Tkachuk tipped a shot past Toronto goalie Anthony Stolarz at 7:28 in the second, narrowing the gap to 2-1.
As the game progressed, the intensity heightened. Ottawa managed to equalize with 7:20 left in regulation when David Perron scored on a shot from below the goal line that deflected off Stolarz's back. However, the Maple Leafs quickly regained control of the game, with Pacioretty's decisive goal coming shortly after Perron's equalizer.
Nylander's empty-net goal with 18.3 seconds remaining ensured the Maple Leafs' victory, putting an end to the Senators' playoff aspirations. This win marks a significant achievement for Toronto, as they advance to the second round for only the third time since 2004, where they will face the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, who defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning in five games.
The series against Ottawa was a rollercoaster for the Maple Leafs. After taking a commanding 3-0 series lead, Toronto faced a tough challenge as the Senators fought back, winning Game 4 in overtime and shutting out the Leafs 4-0 in Game 5. The pressure was on for Toronto heading into Game 6, but they came out as the aggressors, determined to finish the series.
Coach Craig Berube emphasized the importance of a 'business-like' approach as the team prepared for Game 6. His players responded well, executing their game plan effectively despite the Senators' attempts to mount a comeback.
As the Maple Leafs prepare for their next challenge against the Panthers, the momentum from this victory could play a crucial role. Pacioretty's return to form and Nylander's birthday celebration highlight the potential for success in the upcoming series.
In the aftermath of the game, Tkachuk expressed optimism for the Senators' future despite the disappointment of elimination. "I know it sucks right now, but I really can't wait for what the future holds," he said, reflecting the resilience of the young team.
The matchup against the Panthers will be a test for the Maple Leafs, who will need to maintain their focus and intensity as they aim to advance further in the playoffs. With the experience gained from this series and the contributions from key players like Pacioretty, Matthews, and Nylander, Toronto looks poised to make a significant impact in the next round.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming games, fans will be eager to see how the Maple Leafs adapt to the challenges posed by the Panthers, hoping for a deep playoff run that has eluded them for years.
