Leafs Open Preseason with 4–3 Win Over Senators in Ottawa

Toronto’s prospects shine as Akhtyamov backstops opening victory

OTTAWA — The Toronto Maple Leafs kicked off their 2025–26 preseason with a 4–3 victory over the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre on Sunday afternoon, powered by early offence and steady goaltending from Artur Akhtyamov.

Toronto wasted no time finding the scoreboard, with Calle Järnkrok opening the scoring just 47 seconds into the first period. Nick Robertson added another midway through the frame, while defenceman William Villeneuve capitalized on the power play at 18:00 to give the Leafs a 3–0 lead heading into intermission.

Ottawa responded in the second with goals from Ridly Greig and Arthur Kaliyev, narrowing the margin before Leafs forward Mattia Barbolini restored Toronto’s cushion with a power-play marker at 5:42 — assisted by Benoit Groulx and Philippe Myers. The Senators again pushed back, with Olle Lycksell scoring on the power play in the third to make it 4–3, but Akhtyamov shut the door the rest of the way to secure the win.

Successful field trip pic.twitter.com/INLon1qCNS

— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) September 21, 2025

Vyacheslav Peksa started in net for Toronto, turning aside 16 of 18 shots through 30 minutes before giving way to Akhtyamov, who stopped 16 of 17 to earn the win and first-star honours.

Robertson’s goal and strong offensive showing earned him the game’s third star, while Ottawa’s Ridly Greig, who recorded a goal and two assists, was named second star.

Toronto finished 2-for-4 on the power play and out-disciplined Ottawa’s 1-for-6 performance. Attendance was 16,254.

What It Means

The Leafs’ first preseason outing showed early chemistry among depth players and prospects, with contributions across all lines and two effective power-play units. Toronto will look to build on the momentum as the exhibition schedule continues this week.

Game Summary

• Final Score: Toronto 4 – Ottawa 3

• Venue: Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa

• Shots on Goal: Toronto 20, Ottawa 35

• Power Plays: Toronto 2-for-4, Ottawa 1-for-6

• Three Stars:

  1. Artur Akhtyamov (TOR)

  2. Ridly Greig (OTT)

  3. Nick Robertson (TOR)

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