NHL roundup: Maple Leafs, Canes go 2-0 up, Panthers grab win

The NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs continue to captivate audiences as the Toronto Maple Leafs establish a 2-0 advantage over the Ottawa Senators following an overtime victory, while the Hurricanes also take a 2-0 lead against the New Jersey Devils.

Morgan Reilly and John Tavares each netted their second goals of the playoffs, propelling the Leafs to a 2-0 lead in the first period. This marked the first time in 23 years that the Maple Leafs held a lead in a playoff game.

However, after relinquishing their 2-0 advantage, the Leafs ultimately secured a 3-2 victory over the Senators, thanks to Max Domi's game-winning goal, his first of the playoffs.

Toronto achieved this win despite being outshot 28 to 21 and outhit 44 to 21, with their 32 blocked shots compared to Ottawa's six proving crucial in a match that appeared to favor the Senators. The series now shifts to Ottawa for Game 3 on April 24th and Game 4 on April 26th.

Meanwhile, the Hurricanes maintain their momentum as goaltender Frederik Andersen delivered an outstanding performance with 25 saves. Although Jasper Bratt opened the scoring for New Jersey, Shayne Gostisbehere and Jordan Martinook responded with their inaugural goals of the playoffs, granting the Hurricanes a 2-0 series lead.

Both teams struggled on the power play, going 0 for 3, and each recorded 15 giveaways. The Devils outperformed the Hurricanes in hits, 51 to 31, but Martinook's short-handed goal proved to be a significant blow to the Devils. The series will continue in New Jersey for Game 3 on April 25th and Game 4 on April 27th.

SportsLigue