The 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs are intensifying as elimination games loom across North America. With all teams still in contention, key narratives have emerged. Connor Hellebuyck's struggles with the Winnipeg Jets are at the forefront, as he faces pressure following early exits in playoff games against the St. Louis Blues, raising concerns about his playoff performance history. Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators defied expectations by forcing a Game 5 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, who have a dismal 1-12 record in elimination situations since 2017.

In the West, the Vegas Golden Knights are demonstrating their depth, as scoring contributions come from unexpected sources during critical moments. The Battle of Florida has heated up, with Matthew Tkachuk’s aggressive play triggering debates about discipline amidst a fierce Tampa Bay Lightning comeback. Goalies like Jacob Markstrom and Frederik Andersen are also pivotal, showcasing their skills while managing injuries that could affect future games. As the playoffs progress, the tides could shift rapidly as teams battle for supremacy.

Jake Sanderson's overtime goal propelled the Ottawa Senators to a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game 4 of their playoff series, forcing a decisive Game 5. The Senators had lost back-to-back overtime games in Games 2 and 3 but found a breakthrough with Sanderson keeping the puck in at the blue line and firing a long wrist shot past goalie Anthony Stolarz.

The game showcased an electric atmosphere, with Toronto looking to complete a sweep that would have marked their first since 2001. Each team had their share of opportunities, but Ottawa's special teams were crucial, particularly in killing off a critical four-minute power play in overtime.

This victory marks Ottawa's first playoff win since the 2017 Eastern Conference finals, underscoring their resilience and determination to come back from a 3-0 series deficit. With Game 5 looming, the Senators aim to continue their momentum against a Maple Leafs team that has struggled to close out series in recent seasons.

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.

The Ottawa Senators kept their playoff dreams alive with a thrilling 4-3 win in overtime against the Toronto Maple Leafs, narrowing the series lead to 3-1. Jake Sanderson secured the victory with a wrist shot through traffic, beating goaltender Anthony Stolarz. Ottawa's special teams finally made their mark, scoring both a power-play goal and a short-handed goal while successfully neutralizing Toronto's four power-play chances.

Tim Stutzle and Shane Pinto gave Ottawa an early lead, but Toronto's John Tavares and Matthew Knies quickly responded. David Perron restored Ottawa's lead in the third period before Oliver Ekman-Larsson tied the game, setting the stage for Sanderson's overtime heroics. Captain Brady Tkachuk emphasized mental clarity going into the pivotal Game 5, noting the importance of focusing on the present rather than the series' overall dynamics.

In a thrilling overtime finish, the Ottawa Senators defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 4-3 in Game 4, preventing a series sweep. Jake Sanderson scored the game-winner, demonstrating Ottawa's resilience as they rallied from a 2-0 deficit. The Leafs, led by John Tavares and Matthew Knies, had moments of brilliance after trailing, but couldn't seal the deal. This victory marks the Senators' first postseason win since 2017, igniting hope for an unlikely comeback, despite the statistical odds being against teams that fall behind 3-0 in a playoff series.

Goalie Linus Ullmark turned in a solid performance, outplaying his counterpart Anthony Stolarz, while the Senators capitalized on special teams, scoring on both a power play and a short-handed opportunity. The Leafs’ Max Domi made a crucial error with a roughing penalty, helping Ottawa gain the momentum they needed. As the series shifts to Game 5, the pressure mounts on Toronto, who have historically struggled to finish opponents in elimination scenarios against the Senators.