Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stutzle are emerging as pivotal leaders for the Ottawa Senators, guiding a youthful squad in its playoff debut. The Senators trail the Toronto Maple Leafs 3-1 in their opening round, but Jake Sanderson’s recent overtime goal kept their hopes alive with a thrilling 4-3 victory.

Sanderson, who has impressed with 11 goals and 46 assists this season, demonstrated his potential by netting the game-winner in an intense playoff atmosphere. Tkachuk praised Sanderson's work ethic and preparation, identifying him as a role model despite being younger. Both Tkachuk and Stutzle see immense talent in Sanderson, with Stutzle proclaiming he could become a top-tier defenseman.