For the first time in over two decades, the Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves leading a playoff series 2-0, setting the stage for what could become a historic victory against the Ottawa Senators.

In their recent matchup, Game 2 showcased a rollercoaster performance. After a blistering start, the Leafs stumbled in the second period but rallied in the third, ultimately showcasing resilience that led to an overtime victory thanks to a game-winning goal by Max Domi alongside Simon Benoit’s stellar play.

Key Performances from Game 2

While Auston Matthews is still searching for his first goal of the series, the Leafs' top line, featuring Mitch Marner, showed improvement compared to Game 1, controlling play against the Shane Pinto line. Their defensive efforts during away games will undoubtedly be tested as they shift to Ottawa for Game 3.

Pontus Holmberg's inclusion in the second line proved beneficial, earning a key power play and demonstrating his strong puck skills. Conversely, the bottom six, specifically the trio of Domi, Nick Robertson, and Bobby McMann, struggled early on, with Robertson’s penalties notably hurting the team until Domi saved the day at the last moment.

Defensively, Oliver Ekman-Larsson shone despite minor hiccups, while Simon Benoit’s overtime heroics were a refreshing surprise given his struggles in the regular season. The Leafs can feel confident in their defensive core and, perhaps more importantly, in goalie Anthony Stolarz, who has locked in a .934 save percentage over two games.

Ahead of Game 3: Critical Storylines

1. **Leafs’ Penalty Kill Efficiency**: After conceding their first power-play goal in Game 2, the Leafs must tighten their penalty kill. Ottawa’s special teams have shown bursts of efficiency and creativity, needing Toronto to step up defensively.

2. **Maple Leafs' Dominant Power Play**: The Leafs’ power play is firing on all cylinders with four goals in two games, highlighting their dominance. If they can maintain this level of execution and generate more offensive zone time in Game 3, they’ll further tilt the series in their favor.

3. **Senators’ Offensive Struggles**: The Senators have lagged significantly in five-on-five offense, scoring just two goals in that context. Their inability to penetrate the Leafs' defense has raised concerns, and they will need to find ways to create high-danger scoring chances to challenge Stolarz.

4. **Potential Line Changes for Game 3**: Coach Craig Berube faces a decision whether to tweak a winning lineup. Nick Robertson’s performance has been lackluster, prompting discussions about potential replacements, which could either strengthen or disrupt team chemistry.

5. **Ottawa’s Desperation**: The Senators find themselves in a precarious position, needing to avoid going down 3-0—a situation historically challenging in the NHL. Despite being inexperienced, their sense of urgency could lead to unexpected challenges for the Leafs.

Game 2 revealed the Leafs' ability to win under pressure, but some are wary of the Senators' underdog spirit. As the stage shifts to Ottawa, the Leafs must navigate through whatever desperation and fervor the Senators bring to the ice.