The NHL Playoffs intensify as the Toronto Maple Leafs host the Ottawa Senators in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference First Round series. With the Maple Leafs leading the series 3–1, this clash at Scotiabank Arena could seal the deal—or spark a Senators comeback.
Match Details
| Match | Toronto Maple Leafs vs Ottawa Senators |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, April 29, 2025 |
| Time | 7:00 PM ET |
| Venue | Scotiabank Arena, Toronto |
| Competition | NHL Playoffs – Eastern Conference First Round |
Head-to-Head Record
| Total Meetings | Maple Leafs Wins | Senators Wins | Draws | Last Meeting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 175 | 87 | 79 | 9 | Senators 4–3 Maple Leafs (OT) |
Insight: This rivalry has been neck-and-neck, with Ottawa claiming a crucial overtime win in Game 4 to keep their hopes alive.
Team Form and Standings
| Team | Regular Season Record | Last 5 Games | Last Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maple Leafs | 52–24–6 | W-W-W-L-W | Lost 3–4 (OT) vs Senators |
| Senators | 41–33–8 | L-L-L-W-W | Won 4–3 (OT) vs Maple Leafs |
Analysis: Toronto has controlled much of the series but must be wary of Ottawa’s late momentum after a gritty comeback win.
Key Players to Watch
Toronto Maple Leafs
- Mitch Marner – Leads the team in playoff points; key playmaker and finisher.
- William Nylander – Brings scoring depth and composure on the puck.
- Ilya Samsonov – Goaltender with big-game potential and solid reflexes.
Ottawa Senators
- Brady Tkachuk – Sets the physical tone and delivers offensive production.
- Jake Sanderson – Young defenseman with composure and puck-moving ability.
- Tim Stützle – Creative forward who can unlock tight defenses.
Tactical Preview
| Team | Formation (Lines) | Style of Play | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maple Leafs | 12-6-2 (4 lines, 3 pairs) | High tempo, possession | Offensive depth, power play unit | Prone to lapses in neutral zone |
| Senators | 12-6-2 | Physical & direct | Transition speed, gritty forecheck | Inconsistent goaltending |
Tactical Insight: Expect Toronto to push with speed and structure, while Ottawa relies on momentum swings and physical dominance to unsettle the Leafs.
Predictions
| Category | Prediction |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Score | Maple Leafs 4–2 Senators |
| First Goal Scorer | William Nylander (Toronto) |
| Total Goals | Over 5.5 |
| Possession Split | 54% Maple Leafs – 46% Senators |
| Expected Key Moment | Toronto power play goal in 2nd |
| Man of the Match | Mitch Marner (Toronto) |
Match Insight: Toronto has the tools to finish the job, but Ottawa’s confidence could make this another tight battle.
How to Watch Toronto Maple Leafs vs Ottawa Senators
| Region | Broadcaster |
|---|---|
| United States | NHL Network, ESPN+ |
| Canada | CBC, Sportsnet |
| United Kingdom | Premier Sports |
| India | NHL.tv |
| International | NHL.tv / Local Listings |
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
