The NHL playoffs heighten intensity and gamesmanship as teams seek advantages in tight series. Ottawa Senators' coach Travis Green accused the Toronto Maple Leafs of manipulating officials for penalties, while Leafs coach Craig Berube claimed the Senators were targeting his goaltender. This escalated during warm-ups as Winnipeg Jets' Mark Scheifele and St. Louis Blues' Joel Hofer engaged in a standoff. Players, like Morgan Rielly, advocate for focus amidst these distractions, emphasizing the battle for mental edge. The Ottawa Senators faced a fine for unsportsmanlike conduct due to pre-game antics, highlighting the thin line players walk in playoffs. Both experience and discipline are crucial, as articulated by players like Brady Tkachuk and Nino Niederreiter.

Max Domi delivered a game-winning overtime goal as the Toronto Maple Leafs edged past the Ottawa Senators 3-2, extending their playoff series lead to 2-0. The Leafs initially raced to a 2-0 lead, thanks to John Tavares and Morgan Rielly's contributions, but faced a late challenge as the Senators equalized. Toronto's Anthony Stolarz was solid in goal, making 26 saves, while Linus Ullmark stopped 18 shots for Ottawa. The series, shifting to Ottawa for Games 3 and 4, marks a notable return to playoff competition for the Senators after an extended rebuild.

Max Domi clinched the overtime victory for the Toronto Maple Leafs with a powerful shot, leading them to a 3-2 win over the Ottawa Senators and a commanding 2-0 series lead. Despite an early lead from goals by Morgan Rielly and John Tavares, the Senators fought back with goals from Brady Tkachuk and Adam Gaudette. The teams faced off in a tense battle, reminiscent of their 2004 playoff rivalry, igniting the competitive spirit in both clubs.

As the series heads to Ottawa, the Senators must overcome the daunting statistic that teams trailing 2-0 in a best-of-seven series have historically struggled to recover. The young Senators roster, filled with postseason debutants, will need to channel their nerves and capitalize on home-ice advantage if they hope to turn the tide.

Max Domi emerged as the hero for the Toronto Maple Leafs, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to secure a 3-2 victory against the Ottawa Senators. This win marked the Leafs' first 2-0 playoff series lead since 2002. John Tavares contributed significantly, netting a goal and an assist, while Morgan Rielly also found the net. Anthony Stolarz was solid in goal, making 26 saves. Despite a valiant effort from Brady Tkachuk and Adam Gaudette, who each scored for Ottawa, the Senators' inability to hold their opponents off the board ultimately cost them. The playoff series now shifts to Ottawa for Games 3 and 4.

Mitch Marner's standout performance, with a goal and two assists, propelled the Toronto Maple Leafs to a decisive 6-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators in Game 1 of their playoff series. Alongside goals from William Nylander, John Tavares, and others, the Leafs showcased their offensive depth. Toronto's Anthony Stolarz made 31 saves, while Ottawa struggled, with Linus Ullmark managing only 18 saves. This matchup is significant as it marks the first playoff Battle of Ontario in over two decades.

The game commenced with Oliver Ekman-Larsson's early goal, igniting the home crowd. Marner expanded the lead shortly after, demonstrating the Leafs' aggressive start. Despite a response from the Senators, Toronto's power play proved effective, converting opportunities into goals. The Leafs' continued pressure overwhelmed Ottawa, setting the stage for an intriguing series.