Anthony Stolarz's comments following the Toronto Maple Leafs' Game 5 loss to the Ottawa Senators reveal a troubling disconnect with the team's history of playoff failures. Despite outshooting the Senators, the Maple Leafs were unable to secure a win, losing 4-0, furthering their grim record of 1-13 in series-clinching games since 2018. Stolarz's optimism seems rooted in a naïve perspective, suggesting that he fails to grasp the mental blocks affecting the team. His lack of familiarity with the Maple Leafs' playoff struggles might be both a blessing and a curse—a potential fresh outlook hindered by a reality check in the form of their past failures.

The NHL is currently investigating the Ottawa Senators for a peculiar incident during warm-ups before Game 3 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, where Senator Nick Cousins reportedly shot a puck towards Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz. This playful yet contentious act drew a fine of $25,000 for the Senators and $2,083.33 for Cousins, highlighting the league's strict stance on player conduct during warm-ups. Coach Travis Green, known for his humor, acknowledged the act while emphasizing the competitive gamesmanship involved, as Cousins and Stolarz share a past as teammates. Despite Ottawa’s aggressive shooting strategy, they have struggled to score, averaging only two goals per game, which has led to speculation about their playoff viability.

The NHL playoffs are heating up, especially with a four-game slate on April 26, 2025, featuring critical matchups and key fantasy hockey picks for daily fantasy players. The Tampa Bay Lightning trail the Florida Panthers 0-2, while the Toronto Maple Leafs lead the Ottawa Senators 3-0. In goal, Anthony Stolarz of the Toronto Maple Leafs has shown remarkable consistency with a 3-0 record and solid stats, making him a top pick against the Senators. For centers, Jack Eichel is expected to finally find the scoresheet after a slow start against the Minnesota Wild. Winger William Nylander’s point streak of four points in three games makes him a valuable asset, especially against the Senators.

Defensively, Alex Pietrangelo’s drop in salary on DraftKings makes him an attractive value pick as he looks to contribute offensively. The article also highlights stacks to consider, like Florida’s Verhaeghe, Barkov, and Reinhart, as well as Toronto’s Knies, Matthews, and Marner, which could yield high returns in the playoffs. Staying updated with injury news, such as Aleksander Barkov's status, is essential for crafting optimal lineups and maximizing points.

The NHL handed down fines totaling $27,083.33, targeting both the Ottawa Senators and forward Nick Cousins for unsportsmanlike conduct during warmups before Game 3 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Cousins, who received the maximum player fine allowed by the NHL/NHLPA collective bargaining agreement, was caught on camera flipping a puck towards Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz, a former teammate. Senators coach Travis Green acknowledged the incident, remarking that it was likely intended as a playful jab rather than a serious provocation. With the Maple Leafs leading the series 3-0 after a tight Game 3 win, the Senators face a must-win situation in Game 4.