Matthews shut down, unlucky bounce, and more: 3 reasons why Toronto Maple Leafs lost 2-1 to Ottawa Senators

The Toronto Maple Leafs dropped a 2-1 decision to the Ottawa Senators on Saturday at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Leafs opened the scoring early in the first period but could not find the back of the net again.

Bobby McMann scored at 3:46 of the first to give the Toronto Maple Leafs the early lead. Meanwhile, Tim Stutzle (PPG) and Shane Pinto got the goals for the Ottawa Senators.

So, let’s take a look at the three main reasons why the Toronto Maple Leafs lost to the Ottawa Senators on Saturday night.

3 reasons why Toronto Maple Leafs lost to Ottawa Senators

#3 Subpar special teams

The Toronto Maple Leafs got an underwhelming performance from their special teams against the Ottawa Senators.

Firstly, the power play went 0-for-1. While the result wasn’t awful, a tally with the man advantage could have made a significant difference in the game.

Secondly, the Leafs gave up a power play goal, leaving the penalty kill 1-for-2 on the night. Like the missed power play opportunity, giving up a goal with the man advantage made the difference as it allowed the Senators to tie the game.

#2 Unlucky bounce

The Toronto Maple Leafs pushed to take the lead in the third period. They put pressure on the Senators, leading to several potential goal-scoring chances.

However, the Leafs ended up losing the game on an unlucky bounce. In the Shane Pinto goal, a centering pass hit Mitch Marner’s stick, bouncing right to Shane Pinto who was standing at the side of the net. The puck hit Pinto’s leg and past Joseph Woll for the goal.

Here’s a look at the play:

The officials on the ice met to discuss the goal but ruled it was good. The Leafs did not challenge, and the goal stood as the game-winner.

#1 Matthews shut down

The biggest reason why the Senators defeated the Maple Leafs was keeping Auston Matthews off the scoresheet. The Maple Leafs captain had a quiet night due to strong checking from the Sens.

Matthews ended the night with one shot on goal in nearly 23 minutes of ice time. While he generated some solid plays, he wasn’t the determining factor he typically is. He, and William Nylander, did not have the impact the team hoped for.

The Leafs will look to shake off the loss before hosting the Minnesota Wild at home on Wednesday night.