The Toronto Maple Leafs are poised for an important Game 6 against the Ottawa Senators, holding a 3-2 series lead. Coach Craig Berube emphasized a focused mindset for his team, urging them to eliminate distractions and concentrate on playing for each other. Despite a history of struggling to close out series, captain Auston Matthews reiterated their commitment to focusing on the task at hand, seeking to build on team unity and urgency.

A key adjustment for the Leafs is the inclusion of veteran winger Max Pacioretty on a line with John Tavares and William Nylander, a move intended to boost offensive production after back-to-back losses. Pacioretty aims to facilitate play for his skilled linemates by leveraging his size and experience around the net. In goal, Toronto's Anthony Stolarz faces off against Ottawa's Linus Ullmark, setting the stage for an intense matchup.

Craig Berube, head coach of the Maple Leafs, is sticking with the same lineup for Game 6 of the playoffs against the Ottawa Senators, despite recent back-to-back losses that trimmed Toronto's series lead to 3-2. Berube has opted against making changes with forwards Nick Robertson and David Kampf, reflecting his confidence in the team's overall performance.

Max Pacioretty has been elevated to the second line, joining John Tavares and William Nylander, as the Maple Leafs look to rebound after Ottawa's strong comeback, winning two consecutive games. The Senators are aiming to achieve a rare feat, seeking to become only the fourth team in NHL history to win a best-of-seven series after trailing 3-0.

As the NHL playoffs heat up, injury news remains a key focus for teams and fantasy players alike. Marcus Johansson of the Minnesota Wild is showing positive signs after leaving Game 4 due to a lower-body injury, and coach John Hynes expressed optimism about his return for Game 5. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Lightning's Brandon Hagel is facing uncertainty after exiting early against the Florida Panthers following a hit. In Toronto, John Tavares, who briefly entered concussion protocol, also appears ready to play, while Auston Matthews is expected to join him after taking a maintenance day. The Washington Capitals might welcome Aliaksei Protas back after a foot injury sidelined him since early April. Lastly, the Winnipeg Jets are keeping an eye on Gabriel Vilardi, who is inching closer to a return after missing games due to an upper-body injury.

John Tavares recounted a tense moment during Game 4 of the playoffs when he sustained a concussion scare after a hit from Artem Zub of the Ottawa Senators. Tavares was forced to leave the game for a concussion evaluation after the incident, which occurred while he was not in possession of the puck. He expressed frustration over being sidelined during a critical overtime power play that the Leafs couldn't capitalize on. Despite the incident, Tavares reported feeling good and ready for the upcoming Game 5 against the Senators.

Coach Craig Berube added to the scrutiny of Zub's hit, emphasizing it was a head shot. The incident has heightened the stakes as the Toronto Maple Leafs strive to secure their playoff position. Tavares's readiness will be crucial for the team's performance in the decisive game.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are on the verge of making history as they aim to advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. They will face the Ottawa Senators after a close overtime loss. John Tavares, who suffered a head injury in the last game, has returned to full practice despite still feeling some soreness. He remains a crucial player for the Leafs, having already scored three goals this postseason.

The Leafs know the importance of seizing this opportunity, especially after faltering in past playoff scenarios. Tavares emphasized the need for composure and understanding each play's impact. Coach Craig Berube acknowledged Tavares’s absence during a critical overtime power play but expressed confidence in his ability to contribute as they strive to finish the series at home.