In a thrilling overtime showdown, Simon Benoit scored at 1:19 of the extra period to lift the Toronto Maple Leafs to a 3-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators, extending their lead to 3-0 in the first round of the playoffs. The decisive goal came after a faceoff win by Auston Matthews, who set up Benoit at the left point. Benoit unleashed a low slap shot that found its way through a maze of players, beating Senators goalie Linus Ullmark.
“I just lifted both of my arms and didn’t move,” Benoit said, reflecting on the moment of victory. “I saw all those guys coming towards me. Good feeling.”
The Maple Leafs had previously secured a 3-2 win in Game 2, thanks to a goal from Max Domi in overtime, showcasing their resilience and determination as they aim for a deep playoff run.
Game 3 on Thursday night was a tightly contested affair, with both teams exchanging goals and momentum shifts. Claude Giroux opened the scoring for the Senators early in the second period with a power-play goal at 1:38, giving Ottawa their first lead of the series. However, the Maple Leafs responded quickly, with Matthew Knies tying the game at 1-1 with a power-play goal of his own at 8:31.
As the game progressed, the intensity heightened. Auston Matthews put Toronto ahead 2-1 just 32 seconds into the third period with a close-range shot, assisted by Mitch Marner. But the Senators were not done yet; Brady Tkachuk tied the game again with a low wrist shot from the high slot with 8:38 remaining in regulation.
“One thing I know about our team is we’re not going to lay down,” Ottawa coach Travis Green said after the game. “We’re not going to go away. We’re going to be ready to play.”
The back-and-forth nature of the game kept fans on the edge of their seats. Toronto's Anthony Stolarz made 18 saves, while Ullmark stopped 17 shots for Ottawa, both goalies showcasing their skills in a playoff atmosphere.
Max Pacioretty made his return to the Maple Leafs lineup after being sidelined since February 8. His experience is expected to bolster Toronto’s chances as they push for a series sweep. Pacioretty replaced Nick Robertson and joined a line with Domi and Bobby McMann, adding depth to the team.
As the series heads to Game 4 on Saturday night in Ottawa, the Senators will look to bounce back and avoid elimination. The Maple Leafs, riding high on momentum, aim to close out the series and secure their spot in the next round.
The Battle of Ontario has certainly lived up to its billing, with both teams exhibiting fierce rivalry and competitive spirit. Toronto, having dominated the opener with a 6-2 victory, has shown they are a force to be reckoned with this postseason.
With the stakes higher than ever, both teams will prepare for what promises to be an electrifying Game 4. Will the Maple Leafs complete the sweep, or will the Senators find a way to extend the series? Fans will have to tune in to find out!
