Oliver Ekman-Larsson returns to the Toronto Maple Leafs' lineup just in time for the playoffs, ready to face the Ottawa Senators in Game 1. After missing the last four regular-season games due to an undisclosed injury, his presence is expected to bolster a Leafs team eager for postseason success. Coach Craig Berube praised Ekman-Larsson's versatility, noting his importance in multiple situations including power play and penalty kill.

Having recently won the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, Ekman-Larsson brings valuable experience to a franchise that has struggled historically in the playoffs. The team aims to break an eight-year streak of first-round exits and their matchup against Ottawa marks the first playoff Battle of Ontario since 2004. With players like Jake McCabe returning alongside Ekman-Larsson, the Leafs are poised to make a strong statement in their quest for the Cup.