The Ottawa Senators are emerging as a promising team in the NHL, especially for fantasy hockey enthusiasts. With a plethora of young talent, the Senators displayed their potential during last season's playoffs, making them a team to watch closely this upcoming season. Key players such as Dylan Cousins are set to make significant impacts as they step into more prominent roles within the lineup. Additionally, players like Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stutzle are establishing themselves as core contributors, and their performances will be pivotal for both the team's success and fantasy value.

The growth of their young stars is breeding excitement among fantasy managers, with targets like Drake Batherson and Jake Sanderson likely to provide excellent value in drafts. Batherson's power-play potential can contribute to high point totals, while Sanderson is establishing himself as a top defenseman, capable of driving offensive plays. As the Senators continue to develop, their young core may lead to increased fantasy relevance across the board.

The Toronto Maple Leafs showcased a commanding performance, taking a 2-0 series lead against the Ottawa Senators, bolstered by a thrilling overtime goal from Max Doi. The Leafs initiated the game with an aggressive first period, featuring a remarkable goal by Doi that stirred excitement among fans, especially given his father's legacy. Despite some defensive lapses later in the match, the Leafs maintained composure to secure a win. The Senators, while showing glimpses of their potential, struggled with turnovers and defensive assignments, particularly Drake Batherson's costly mistake. With the series shifting to Ottawa, the pressure mounts for both teams. Ottawa needs a strong start in Game 3 to avoid going down 3-0, while Toronto aims to leverage their momentum and solid performances from key players like Matthews and Marner.

Drake Batherson, returning from his first season off, has shown significant growth as a vocal and goofy leader, displaying comfort and intelligence as he integrates back into the team environment. His presence is expected to have a positive impact, contributing to team cohesion and performance. Early observations indicate he is ready to embrace his role, which could lead to exciting developments this upcoming season. As the team prepares for the challenges ahead, Batherson's evolution into a more assertive figure is promising.