Rielly talks the talk, walks the walk. Associated Press
The Toronto Maple Leafs started their 2025-26 NHL season with a convincing 5-2 home victory over the Montreal Canadiens.
Rielly Delivers Game-Winning Goal
The game was tied 2-2 midway through the third period when Morgan Rielly seized the moment. Two Montreal defensemen lost their sticks, allowing Rielly to score the decisive goal. It was a powerful display of skill and anticipation, earning Rielly recognition as Toronto’s standout player of the night.
Bobby McMann and Calle Jarnkrok also scored for the Leafs. Auston Matthews and William Nylander added empty-net goals late to seal the victory.
Canadiens See Bright Spots Despite Loss
Montreal had moments to celebrate, too. Oliver Kapanen scored his first NHL goal shorthanded, while Zachary Bolduc added a second for the Canadiens. However, these efforts were not enough to overcome Toronto’s offensive firepower.
Rielly Shows Off Offseason Improvements
One of the biggest storylines heading into the season was Rielly’s commitment to bounce back after a disappointing 2024-25 campaign. The offseason workouts clearly paid off, as he showcased renewed speed, confidence, and aggression. Rielly led all Leafs in shots and dominated the offensive zone, proving he could change a game on his own.
Newcomers Struggle in Debut
While the Leafs secured a win, the three key offseason additions struggled to find rhythm. Dakota Joshua appeared hesitant on the forecheck and made costly turnovers. Matias Maccelli seemed indecisive with the puck, limiting the second power-play unit to only one shot.
Nicolas Roy fared slightly better, performing steady defensive plays and contributing to Toronto’s second goal. Still, none of the newcomers made a major impact, signaling that patience may be necessary for their full adjustment.
Matthews Returns to Form
Auston Matthews offered fans reassurance after injury concerns last season. He skated with pace, tracked back defensively, and made decisive plays. Matthews blocked a Nick Suzuki shot in the third period but quickly returned, underscoring his resilience. His assist on Bobby McMann’s goal and contribution to Nylander’s scoring highlighted his all-around effectiveness.
Nylander Makes History
William Nylander continued his impressive record in season openers. With an assist on Matthews’ goal and his own goal late, Nylander now has 15 points in nine career season openers. This surpasses Maple Leafs legend Darryl Sittler and places him behind only Mats Sundin (17 points) and Auston Matthews (16 points).
Milestones and Records
Rielly also joined an exclusive list, becoming the second Leafs defenseman in 50 years to record a goal and an assist in a season opener, alongside Dion Phaneuf in 2011. Meanwhile, Matthews’ empty-net goal marked his 13th career opener goal, tying him with Alex Ovechkin for most among active players. He is just one shy of the NHL all-time season opener record of 14 goals.
The Maple Leafs have now won 10 consecutive home openers, a streak unmatched in the modern era aside from the Canadiens’ 11 straight from 1953–63 and the Capitals’ 10 from 2001–11.
Leafs Look Strong Early
Toronto controlled much of the game, blending experience and youthful energy. Despite some rough patches from new additions, the team’s core players stepped up when it mattered most.
The season opener highlighted the Leafs’ offensive depth and defensive awareness. Rielly, Matthews, and Nylander provided sparks, while the team’s resilience ensured a strong start.
The Maple Leafs will look to carry this momentum into the next game, hoping the newcomers settle in and the team continues its dominant start at Scotiabank Arena.
