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Matthews scores OT winner, McKenna gets his first NHL goal, as Maple Leafs beat Predators 5-4

The Toronto Maple Leafs secured a dramatic 5-4 overtime victory over the Nashville Predators in their season opener at Scotiabank Arena, with Auston Matthews delivering the game-winning goal in the extra period. Matthews also contributed four points overall, while rookie forward Gavin McKenna made his NHL debut and scored his first career goal, adding to the Leafs' offensive firepower.

The Predators, playing their first road game of the 2026-27 season, struggled to contain Matthews and McKenna, falling short despite a strong effort from their defense. Toronto’s goaltending rotation, led by starter Anthony Stolarz, held firm in the clutch, while Nashville’s offensive lineups failed to generate enough scoring chances against the Leafs’ defensive structure.

The win marks a promising start for Toronto, who now look to build momentum on the back of their star players’ performances.

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