Maple Leafs Stun Ducks with Last-Second OT Winner

Captain John Tavares scores game-winning goal with 5 seconds left in overtime

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:24am

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In a physical, back-and-forth game, Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares scored the game-winning goal with just 5 seconds remaining in overtime to lift his team to a 5-4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks. The late heroics capped off a thrilling comeback for the Leafs, who had trailed by multiple goals earlier in the contest.

Why it matters

The win keeps the Maple Leafs in the playoff hunt in the highly competitive Eastern Conference, while the Ducks' loss is a tough blow to their postseason aspirations in the West. The physical nature of the game also raises questions about player safety and potential suspensions stemming from any altercations.

The details

With the game tied 4-4 in overtime, Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly fired a shot on net that was redirected past Ducks goalie John Gibson by Tavares for the game-winning goal. The goal came just 5 seconds before the end of the extra period, capping off a furious Leafs comeback after they had trailed 3-1 earlier in the game.

  • The game-winning goal was scored with 5 seconds left in overtime.

The players

John Tavares

Captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs who scored the game-winning goal in overtime.

Morgan Rielly

Defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs who assisted on the game-winning goal.

John Gibson

Goaltender for the Anaheim Ducks who was in net for the overtime loss.

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What they’re saying

“That was an unbelievable play by Rielly to get the puck on net, and I was just able to get a piece of it at the last second. The boys battled hard all night and we're thrilled to get this huge win.”

— John Tavares, Captain, Toronto Maple Leafs

What’s next

The NHL is expected to review any potential supplementary discipline for any players involved in the game's physical altercations.

The takeaway

In a season filled with tight playoff races, the Maple Leafs' dramatic overtime victory showcases the team's resilience and ability to win close games, keeping them firmly in the hunt for a postseason berth.