The Maple Leafs won the first game of the National Hockey League (NHL) preseason schedule on Saturday in Toronto. Thanks to a brace from Alex Steeves, they defeated the Ottawa Senators 4-1.
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Steeves thus continues to progress. Never drafted, he accepted a contract as a free agent with the Leafs in March 2021. He instantly found success among the professionals, totaling 23 goals and 46 points in 58 games with the Toronto Marlies.
The 22-year-old American could see more NHL action this season, having been limited to one assist in three games last season.
Veteran Mark Giordano will want to prove that he is still capable of contributing offensively, he who will start the campaign at 39 years old. On Saturday, he had three assists.
Justin Holl and Denis Malgin also flashed the red light in victory. Tim Stützle, recent signatory to an eight-year, $66.8 million pact, was the sole scorer in the loss.
Quebec goaltender Kevin Mandolese was perfect in the second half of the game, stopping all 11 Maple Leafs shots.
It was the first game of a doubleheader between the two teams.