In a thrilling Game 4 matchup, the Ottawa Senators clinched a nail-biting 4-3 overtime victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs, forcing a fifth game in their series. Jake Sanderson scored the decisive goal, a screen shot that broke the hearts of the Leafs, who had been poised to sweep. William Nylander remarked on the back-and-forth nature of the game, highlighting the uncertainty that characterized the overtime period. With the win, the Senators celebrated a significant moment, marking their first playoff victory since 2017, while the Leafs grappled with the missed opportunity for extra rest.

This series has been marked by tight contests, as the previous three games also required extra time. Toronto's coach Craig Berube remained optimistic post-game, especially noting John Tavares' return after being injured during the overtime. Tavares’ absence during a crucial power play was felt, as the Leafs failed to capitalize on their advantage, leaving fans and analysts questioning their special teams' effectiveness. The Senators took full advantage of their scoring chances, effectively showcasing their resilience and tenacity.