The Toronto Maple Leafs did something on Saturday that they hadn’t done in nearly a month, but they also kept losing players to injury.
Defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson opened the scoring for Toronto and extended his point streak to nine games, but his night ended on a concerning note during a 7–2 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, the first Leafs’ triumph in regulation since Nov. 5.
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The veteran defenseman left the game in the third period after suffering an undisclosed injury.
Leafs head coach Craig Berube confirmed the injury after the win, adding that the franchise will have more information through Sunday.
“Upper body,” Berube said. “I am hoping he is fine. I don’t know yet, but we will evaluate him tomorrow. I think he will be OK, but we’ll see.”
Ekman-Larsson’s early goal gave the Leafs a 1–0 lead on their first shot of the game.
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The 34-year-old has been one of Toronto’s most consistent producers (16 assists, four goals, 20 points in 25 games) from the blue line and a steadying presence during a stretch in which the Leafs have lost more games than not.
Ekman-Larsson’s departure slightly dulled what was otherwise one of the Leafs’ most dominant offensive outings of the season, scoring seven goals for the first time this year.
Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (95) carries the puck.John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Team captain Auston Matthews scored for the first time since returning from injury, Max Domi (who was scratched on Friday) had two assists in his return to the lineup, and five other Maple Leafs found their names on the scoresheet.
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Toronto had dropped eight of its previous 10 games but overwhelmed the Penguins despite being outshot 35–23, with backup goalie Dennis Hildeby getting the start and making 33 saves.
The Maple Leafs improved to 11–11–3 with the win and will visit the reigning champion Florida Panthers on Tuesday with puck drop set for 7:30 p.m. ET.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Nov 30, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.