Mitch Marner Scores Game-Winner as Toronto Overcomes Three-Goal Deficit
BOSTON (AP) – February 27, 2025 – Mitch Marner delivered a clutch performance, scoring his second goal of the night in the final minute of overtime to cap off a dramatic comeback as the Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Boston Bruins 5-4 on Tuesday night.
Trailing by three goals in the second period, Toronto fought back to force overtime. Pontus Holmberg netted the tying goal with just 46 seconds left in regulation, moments after David Pastrnak had put Boston ahead with his second goal of the game.
Bruins Start Strong but Can’t Hold Lead
The game opened with a fast start for Boston, as Pastrnak scored just 29 seconds into the first period on a breakaway, extending his career-best point streak to 15 games.
Boston built a 3-0 lead by the middle of the second period, fueled by Morgan Geekie’s power-play goal and Brad Marchand’s first-period tally off a Pastrnak assist.
However, Toronto refused to back down, with Morgan Reilly and Nicholas Robertson getting on the scoresheet before Robertson’s wrister tied the game in the third period.
Marner Seals the Comeback in Overtime
After Holmberg forced overtime with his last-minute equalizer, Marner delivered the game-winner on a clean breakaway, expertly maneuvering the puck past Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman.
The win marks Toronto’s sixth victory in seven games, strengthening their position in the Atlantic Division playoff race. Meanwhile, Boston has now lost four straight as the NHL trade deadline looms, putting pressure on GM Don Sweeney to make key roster decisions.
Key Stats & Takeaways
- Mitch Marner’s heroics: Two goals, including the overtime winner.
- David Pastrnak’s point streak: Now at 15 games (13 goals, 17 assists). Still far from Bronco Horvath’s franchise record (22 games, 1959-60).
- Toronto’s resilience: Overcame a three-goal deficit to secure a crucial win.
What’s Next?
- Toronto Maple Leafs: Face the New York Rangers on Friday.
- Boston Bruins: Host the New York Islanders on Thursday.
Toronto’s late-game heroics keep their momentum rolling, while Boston will look to snap their skid as the playoff race intensifies.
