Pontus Holmberg had to face the consequences after targeting Ridly Greig following a hit on Cole Reinhardt. Last season, the Battle of Ontario reached a level of intensity not seen in over a decade, with a notable moment when Morgan Rielly cross-checked Ridly Greig after an empty-netter, heightening the rivalry. Two preseason games later, the tension remains just as fierce.

In the first period, Holmberg, after missing a play, seized the chance to hit Greig, pulling him down from behind and slamming him to the ice. Greig was left stunned and had to exit the game without returning.

Holmberg received a two-minute roughing penalty for the hit, but the Senators felt that wasn’t enough. In the third period, Cole Reinhardt, a rookie known for handling rough situations, challenged Holmberg to a fight. Although Holmberg isn’t as experienced in fighting, he held his ground but eventually lost the bout. The Maple Leafs also lost the game 2-1 on a late shorthanded goal by the Senators.

With this loss, Toronto’s preseason record fell to 0-1-1, having dropped both games to Ottawa.