Maple Leafs beat Senators in Game 6 to take Battle of Ontario 4-2
The Toronto Maple Leafs have advanced to the second round of the playoffs, although it was not without some nail-biting moments. After taking a 3-0 series lead against the Ottawa Senators, the Leafs allowed their provincial rivals to win two straight games, putting pressure on the team that has faced plenty of post-season heartbreak in the past. However, with a 4-2 victory in Game 6, the Maple Leafs secured their spot in the next round.
Max Pacioretty was the hero of the night, scoring the game-winning goal with just 5:39 left in the third period. Pacioretty, who was a healthy scratch at the start of the series, also added an assist for a two-point night. William Nylander was instrumental in the victory, contributing two goals and an assist, while Auston Matthews also found the back of the net for the Leafs. Anthony Stolarz made 20 saves to secure the win for Toronto.
The Senators put up a valiant effort, with Brady Tkachuk and David Perron scoring for Ottawa. Linus Ullmark made 19 saves in the losing effort, while Thomas Chabot added two assists for the Senators. Ottawa managed to stay alive in the series with a Game 4 overtime win and a Game 5 shutout victory, but ultimately fell short in Game 6.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams having their chances to score. Matthews opened the scoring for the Leafs on a power play late in the first period, while Nylander extended the lead early in the second period. Tkachuk and Perron responded for the Senators to keep the game close, but ultimately Toronto was able to hold on for the win.
With the victory, the Maple Leafs will now face the Florida Panthers in the second round of the playoffs. It was only the second time in the NHL’s salary cap era that Toronto has won a playoff series, a welcome relief for the team and their fans. As they look ahead to the next round, the Leafs will be hoping to build on their success and continue their playoff run.
