The Toronto Maple Leafs edged out the Ottawa Senators 3-2 in a dramatic overtime win on Thursday night, taking a 3-0 lead in their first-round NHL playoff series. Defenceman Simon Benoit delivered the game-winner just 1:19 into the extra frame, pushing the Leafs to within one game of sweeping their long-time provincial rivals.
Benoit, who fired the puck through traffic after Auston Matthews won a key faceoff, was momentarily stunned after seeing his shot end the game.
“I just lifted my arms and didn’t move,” said a beaming Benoit post-game. “Then I saw everyone rushing towards me—it was a pretty good feeling.”
Matthews, Knies Shine in Tight Contest
Auston Matthews played a pivotal role once again, registering a goal and an assist. Rookie Matthew Knies also scored for the Leafs, continuing his impressive postseason campaign. The Leafs now hold a 3-0 series advantage for the first time since sweeping the Senators back in 2001, a period that marked Toronto’s dominance in the Battle of Ontario.
Leafs head coach Craig Berube praised Benoit’s clutch performance: “It’s always nice when a guy like that steps up in a big moment. He’s been steady defensively and now he’s giving us that spark on offence too.”
Goalie Anthony Stolarz continued his hot streak, stopping 18 of 20 shots and securing his 11th consecutive win since mid-March.
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Senators Fight Hard but Fall Short Again
Despite their best efforts, the Senators couldn’t hold on to a third-period lead. Claude Giroux, who had a goal and an assist, opened the scoring on a two-man advantage early in the second period. Captain Brady Tkachuk tied the game late in regulation with a bullet past Stolarz, lifting hopes for an Ottawa comeback. But those hopes were dashed quickly in overtime.
Ottawa’s netminder Linus Ullmark made 17 saves in a solid effort, but once again found himself outdueled in key moments.
“We believed we were going to win it,” said Tkachuk. “It really felt like that was our time.”
Leafs Show Depth and Resilience
The Maple Leafs have showcased more than just star power this postseason. With goals coming from role players like Benoit and consistent support from their bottom six, Toronto appears deeper and more composed than in years past.
Benoit’s resurgence has been one of the quieter stories of this playoff run. The 27-year-old defenceman from Laval, Quebec, faced early season struggles, balancing on-ice performance and new fatherhood.
“It was a long process,” he admitted. “But I have an amazing girlfriend and a beautiful baby. Things settled down after Christmas, and I’ve been able to focus more.”
His contribution extends beyond the scoresheet—Benoit also assisted on the OT winner in Game 2, continuing a playoff campaign that’s redefining his role with the team.
Senators’ Rebuild Faces Harsh Reality
This playoff appearance marked Ottawa’s first home game in the postseason since the 2017 Eastern Conference Final. After a prolonged rebuild, the Senators were hoping for a better outcome.
Head coach Travis Green remained optimistic despite the looming threat of elimination. “We’re not going to lay down. The guys will be ready. We’ll fight until the end.”
One critical area Ottawa will need to address is faceoff efficiency. Toronto dominated in the circle, winning 63% of draws—an edge that has helped them control the puck and the tempo throughout the series.
“Our timing is just a bit off,” said Giroux. “We’ve been good all year, but Toronto’s just been a little sharper.”
Looking Ahead: Game 4 and Beyond
Game 4 is set for Saturday night in Ottawa, where the Senators will look to avoid being swept. Historically, teams facing a 3-0 series deficit have rarely mounted a comeback, but the Senators are clinging to belief.
Meanwhile, the Leafs are hoping to close out the series early and move into the second round with momentum and rest on their side.
As the Battle of Ontario rages on, the Maple Leafs are making a statement—not only with their stars but through unexpected heroes like Simon Benoit.
