Samsonov posts 31-save shutout as Maple Leafs deal major blow to Senators' fading playoff hopes

Toronto's Ilya Samsonov made 31 saves to blank the Senators 3-0 Saturday night in Ottawa.

Michael Bunting, William Nylander and Radim Zohorna each scored for the Maple Leafs (44-20-10).

Talbot started the third for the Senators (37-34-5) and Sogaard was not present on the bench for the period.

The loss could put an end to any chance the Senators had of staying in contention for the wild-card playoff spot in the NHL's Eastern Conference.

WATCH | Leafs blank Sens:

Trailing 3-0, the Senators looked to capitalize on a power play midway through the period, but were unsuccessful. Looking to generate some opportunities the Senators pulled their goaltender with five minutes remaining in regulation.

Bunting opened the scoring early in the second taking advantage of a loose puck knocked down by Nick Holden. He wristed it past Sogaard.

Midway through the period the Leafs won a draw and Nylander took it in the slot and beat Sogaard under the arm to take a 2-0 lead. It was Nylander's first goal in four games and just his second in the past nine.

With under two minutes remaining in the period, Zohorna — playing his first game with Toronto — scored his first goal.

Ottawa's Derick Brassard had surgery on a broken fibula after being injured Thursday. D Travis Hamonic also missed Saturday's game.

Toronto's Ryan O'Reilly practised Friday for the first time since he was injured March 4. Wayne Simmonds was still unable to play and so the Leafs dressed 11 forwards and seven defencemen.

Both teams are back in action on Sunday.

The Senators head to Columbus to take on the Blue Jackets, while the Maple Leafs Host the Detroit Red Wings.