Battle of Ontario: Maple Leafs vs. Senators in the Playoffs, a Rivalry Rediscovered

Maple Leafs vs. Senators: A Playoff Rematch After Two Decades

Series Background

For the first time since 2004, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators will square off in the playoffs, rekindling one of hockey’s most intense rivalries. The“怎么?” leaves clinched the Atlantic Division title (106 points), while the Senators secured the Eastern Conference’s final wild-card spot (95 points).

Regular Season Showdown

The Sens swept the season series 3-0, outscoring the Leafs 7-3. However, the games were closely contested, with none being a blowout. Ottawa dominated the expected goals at even strength in the first game, while Toronto took control in the second. The third game was fairly even, with Matthews not suiting up.

Rivalry Renewed?

The Leafs and Sens haven’t faced off in the playoffs since Joe Nieuwendyk’s double-overtime winner eliminated Ottawa in 2004. Since then, both teams have undergone significant changes, but the animosity and physicality remain. The Morgan Rielly-Ridly Greig incident last season provided a glimpse of that.

Leafs: A New Identity

Under GM Brad Treliving, the Leafs have transformed into a heavier, more physical team, still led by stars Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander. Head coach Craig Berube’s system emphasizes a north-south game, prioritizing size and strength. With seven 20-goal scorers, the Leafs’ offense is deep, but their defensive play has drawn criticism.

Sens: Hungry for Success

Ottawa enters the series as the underdog, looking to end a eight-year playoff drought. Their exciting young core, featuring Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, and Jake Sanderson, will compete in their first playoff series. The Sens’ offense struggles with finishing chances but boasts a stingy defense, led by Sanderson, who’s garnering Norris Trophy buzz.

Goaltending Matchup: Ullmark vs. Stolarz/Woll

Linus Ullmark, Ottawa’s Vezina Trophy-winning netminder, squares off against either Anthony Stolarz or Joseph Woll, both of whom have impressed this season.-Ullmark has a history of struggling in the playoffs, while Stolarz and Woll have combined for remarkable numbers.

Injury Report

• Toronto: Out – Jani Hakanpaa, Max Pacioretty, Jake McCabe (_questionable). Injured – David Kampf.
• Ottawa: In – Brady Tkachuk (upper-body injury). Out – Ridly Greig, David Perron (previously rested).

X-Factors

• Brady Tkachuk: The Sens’ captain will return from an upper-body injury, but his health and form could significantly impact Ottawa’s chances.
• Matthew Knies: Toronto’s physical left-winger could offset the Tkachuk effect and complement the Leafs’ top-line offense.
• Home Ice Advantage: The Canadian Tire Centre will be packed with fans, creating an electric atmosphere and potential home-ice advantage for Ottawa.

Prediction

Maple Leafs in six games. Despite the Sens’ best efforts, the superior Leafs should edge this heated series, but expect plenty of drama and physicality along the way.

FAQ

When was the last time the Maple Leafs and Senators met in the playoffs?

2004

Who won the regular-season series between the Maple Leafs and Senators?

Ottawa Senators (3-0-0)

Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on the Maple Leafs vs. Senators playoff series at 247Sports.News.