Connolly scores twice as Leafs edge Hurricanes 2-1

TORONTO - The Toronto Maple Leafs halted their slide down the standings with a much-needed win over a struggling opponent.

Tim Connolly's second goal of the game 44 seconds into overtime gave the Leafs a 2-1 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday night.

The Leafs centre went to the net and had an empty cage to shoot at when Joffrey Lupul's shot dribbled past Cam Ward. It brought relief to the Air Canada Centre after a game the Leafs were in danger of blowing.

Ward, who made 36 saves, broke his stick on a goal post in frustration after the winning goal.

James Reimer finished with 17 saves for the Maple Leafs (16-11-3). It was his first victory since returning to the lineup following six weeks of concussion-like symptoms.

Alex Ponikarovsky replied for the Hurricanes (9-18-4).

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  Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender James Reimer (centre left) makes a save in front of Carolina Hurricanes Andreas Nodl (centre right) as Leafs Luke Schenn (left) and Tyler Bozak close in during first period NHL action in Toronto on Tuesday December 13, 2011.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young