Senators Defeat Maple Leafs 5-2 in Decisive Victory

Ottawa's Batherson and Cozens each score twice as Toronto's struggles continue

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:31am

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The Ottawa Senators delivered a 5-2 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday, marking Toronto's third consecutive loss. Drake Batherson and Dylan Cozens each scored two goals for the Senators, while Thomas Chabot also found the back of the net. The Maple Leafs' struggles were particularly evident in the second period, where they conceded four goals. Toronto's loss comes after a gold medal win for Auston Matthews at the Milan Cortina Olympics, with the home crowd initially booing Matthews before cheering. The Senators' win was their first against Toronto since a six-game playoff series loss last season.

Why it matters

The Senators' victory over the Maple Leafs is significant as it highlights the continued struggles of the Toronto team, who have now lost three straight games. This raises concerns about their performance since the Olympics and puts pressure on the team to turn things around. The game also featured some notable storylines, including the reception for Auston Matthews and Brady Tkachuk, as well as the Maple Leafs' ongoing issues with slow starts and offensive production.

The details

The Senators' offensive pressure was the key factor in their victory, with Batherson and Cozens each scoring two goals. The Maple Leafs' struggles were particularly evident in the second period, where they conceded four goals. Toronto's goals came from Morgan Rielly and William Nylander, but they were unable to overcome the Senators' lead. The Maple Leafs' frustration boiled over in the third period, resulting in a brawl and 28 penalty minutes.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 1, 2026.
  • Toronto's last win was on February 4th against the Edmonton Oilers.

The players

Drake Batherson

A forward for the Ottawa Senators who scored two goals in the game.

Dylan Cozens

A forward for the Ottawa Senators who scored two goals and contributed an assist in the game.

Auston Matthews

A forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs who recently won a gold medal with Team USA at the Milan Cortina Olympics.

Brady Tkachuk

The captain of the Ottawa Senators and a member of the gold-medal-winning U.S. Team at the Olympics.

Joseph Woll

The starting goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs who was replaced by Anthony Stolarz after allowing five goals on 28 shots.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Senators will next face the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday, while the Maple Leafs will host the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday.

The takeaway

The Senators' victory over the Maple Leafs highlights the continued struggles of the Toronto team, who have now lost three straight games. This raises concerns about their performance since the Olympics and puts pressure on the team to turn things around. The game also featured some notable storylines, including the reception for Auston Matthews and Brady Tkachuk, as well as the Maple Leafs' ongoing issues with slow starts and offensive production.