Simon Benoit solidified his status as an unsung hero for the Toronto Maple Leafs with a stunning overtime goal, securing a 3-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators. With only two goals in his previous two seasons, this playoff winner marked Benoit's first in postseason play, showcasing that in the playoffs, unpredictability reigns. His goal, propelled by a strong faceoff win from Auston Matthews, was not only crucial but also statistically significant, ranking among the fastest overtime goals by a defenseman in NHL playoff history.

Benoit's contributions extended beyond scoring, as he consistently brought physicality and grit to the ice. His recent performances, including a pivotal assist to Max Domi in the previous match, have made him an essential player for the Leafs. Coach Craig Berube praised Benoit for his hard work and defensive skills, which have helped the team maintain their lead in the series. As the Leafs head into game four, Matthews emphasized the need for a complete team effort to secure the series win.

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Simon Benoit became the unlikely hero as he scored the game-winning goal in overtime against the Ottawa Senators, leading to a 3-2 victory that puts the Leafs up 3-0 in their playoff series. Benoit's goal came just 1:19 into the extra frame, prompted by a faceoff win from captain Auston Matthews. Coach Craig Berube praised Benoit's defensive performance and ability to score crucial goals despite the pressure. Matthews contributed to the win with a goal and an assist, while Anthony Stolarz secured his 11th consecutive win in goal.

The Senators fought hard, with Claude Giroux and Brady Tkachuk marking the score sheet, but faced the daunting task of overcoming a 3-0 series deficit. Ottawa's head coach Travis Green emphasized that the team would not give up easily as they prepare for Game 4. The Leafs, looking to complete the sweep, are riding a wave of momentum as they aim for their first playoff series win since 2004.

In a thrilling overtime matchup, Simon Benoit scored the decisive goal for the Toronto Maple Leafs, clinching a 3-2 victory against the Ottawa Senators and taking a commanding 3-0 lead in their playoff series. Benoit unleashed a slap shot from the point, expertly set up by Auston Matthews, to beat Senators' goalie Linus Ullmark. The game featured a back-and-forth battle, with goals from both teams, including critical strikes from Matthews and Claude Giroux.

The contest saw Toronto's Matthews providing two points, while Anthony Stolarz secured the win with solid goaltending. Ottawa managed to tie the game late in regulation, thanks to Brady Tkachuk's skillful shot. This victory sets the stage for an intense Game 4 on Saturday in Ottawa.

The Maple Leafs faced off against the Senators in a highly anticipated Game 3 of the Stanley Cup series, marking the Senators' return to the playoffs at home for the first time since 2017. The first period was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging chances, but neither could find the net. The Senators capitalized on their crowd's energy, dominating with an early shot advantage, but Leafs goalie Anthony Stolarz kept his team in the game.

Max Pacioretty made his return to the lineup, replacing Nick Robertson. Pacioretty's veteran presence was hoped to counter Ottawa’s physicality and provide the Leafs with a more robust forward line. His playoff experience, including 50 career goals, could prove vital as Toronto seeks to maintain their series lead. Meanwhile, Senators captain Brady Tkachuk emphasized the importance of winning this pivotal game at home.

In an electrifying Game 1 of the NHL playoffs, the Toronto Maple Leafs bested the Ottawa Senators 6-2, showcasing their power play prowess. Auston Matthews led the charge, stating the urgency to maintain discipline amidst the chippiness typical of playoff hockey. Ridly Greig of the Senators stirred controversy with a high cross-check on John Tavares, leading to discussions among players about the need for focus rather than retaliation. Both teams face the challenge of managing emotions and discipline as tensions rise in this historic matchup.