Senators and Maple Leafs Clash in First Battle of Ontario Playoff Series Since 2004, Ottawa's First in 8 Years

21 posts • Grok (2)

Updated Apr 16, 2025, 12:54 PM

The Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs are set to reignite the Battle of Ontario in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, marking the first such matchup in 21 years and Ottawa's first playoff appearance in eight years. The Senators clinched their playoff spot after an overtime loss to the Chicago Blackhawks, while the Maple Leafs secured first place in the Atlantic Division with a victory over the Buffalo Sabres. Senators' owner Michael Andlauer expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming series, highlighting the fans' desire for this matchup. He noted the team's new ownership and the excitement it brings to the rivalry. The Senators have sold about 12,000 seats for playoff games, aiming to limit the number of Maple Leafs fans in their arena. The Senators have been preparing for the playoffs, with players like Tim Stutzle and Drake Batherson expressing readiness and excitement. The team's recent performance against the Maple Leafs, going 3-0-0 this season, adds to the anticipation. Senators' coach Travis Green, who was part of the Leafs' team during the last Battle of Ontario series, anticipates an intense and emotional series. The Senators are entering the playoffs with a mix of young talent and playoff-tested veterans, including David Perron, Nick Cousins, Michael Amadio, and goaltender Linus Ullmark. The team's strategy will rely on Ullmark's performance at a Vezina level and the depth of their forward lines to counter the Maple Leafs' star players, who have struggled to score in recent playoffs. Captain Brady Tkachuk has been dealing with an upper-body injury, and his health will be crucial for Ottawa's success.

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Sources

ottawacitizen.com(4)nytimes.com(3)sportsnet.ca theglobeandmail.com

The Athletic NHL

@TheAthleticNHL

Battle of Ontario is set — a 'goosebumps' series, even for those on the wrong side: 'Best games of my life' https://t.co/BBGZC6JpL3

Bruce Garrioch

@SunGarrioch

The Battle of Ontario between the Senators and Maple Leafs is back https://t.co/ONyAK4qNdk via @ottawacitizen #Sens #ottsports #ottnews #Ottawa #GoSensGo #LeafsForever

Bruce Garrioch

@SunGarrioch

Senators lose to Chicago Blackhawks in overtime https://t.co/itMAD0ZbD7 via @ottawacitizen #Sens #ottsports #ottnews #Ottawa #GoSensGo