NHL Playoff Game 4 Preview: Toronto Maple Leafs (3-0) vs. Ottawa Senators (0-3)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators are set to face off in Game 4 of their first-round series in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on ESPN2, CBC, and TVAS. The Maple Leafs hold a commanding 3-0 series lead, and the Senators will look to stave off elimination in front of their home crowd.

Team Overview:

Toronto Maple Leafs (52-26-4, 3-0 in series):
The Maple Leafs have been dominant in this series, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive discipline. Toronto secured a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory in Game 3, with Simon Benoit scoring the game-winning goal. The Leafs have been clinical on the power play, converting four of their nine opportunities in the series. Max Domi has been a standout performer, scoring the overtime winner in Game 2 and contributing key plays throughout the series. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz has been solid, boasting a .926 save percentage in the playoffs. Toronto will aim to close out the series and advance to the next round for the first time since 2023.

Ottawa Senators (45-30-7, 0-3 in series):
The Senators are facing an uphill battle, trailing 3-0 in the series. Despite their struggles, Ottawa has shown flashes of promise, particularly in their physical play and five-on-five performance. Captain Brady Tkachuk has led by example, scoring key goals and providing energy on the ice. However, the Senators have struggled on special teams, allowing four power-play goals while scoring just one of their own. Goaltender Linus Ullmark has faced heavy pressure, and the team will need a stronger defensive effort to keep their season alive. Ottawa will also look to capitalize on the energy of their home crowd, playing in their first playoff series since 2017.

Key Players to Watch:

Toronto Maple Leafs:

  • Max Domi: The forward has been clutch in overtime and continues to be a key contributor in the playoffs.
  • William Nylander: Nylander has been a consistent offensive threat, scoring crucial goals in the series.
  • Anthony Stolarz: The goaltender’s steady play has been a backbone for Toronto’s success.

Ottawa Senators:

  • Brady Tkachuk: The captain’s leadership and scoring ability will be crucial as the Senators fight to extend the series.
  • Tim Stützle: The young forward has shown flashes of brilliance and will need to step up offensively.
  • Thomas Chabot: The defenseman’s ability to generate offense from the blue line will be key for Ottawa.

Matchup Analysis:

Offense vs. Defense:
Toronto’s high-powered offense, led by Nylander and Domi, will test Ottawa’s defense, which has struggled to contain the Leafs’ attack. Conversely, the Senators will need to find ways to break through Toronto’s disciplined defensive structure and capitalize on scoring chances.

Momentum:
The Maple Leafs enter Game 4 with confidence, riding a three-game winning streak. The Senators, facing elimination, will need to play with urgency and capitalize on their home-ice advantage.

Special Teams:
Toronto’s power play has been a difference-maker in the series, while Ottawa’s penalty kill has struggled. The Senators must stay out of the penalty box and improve their special teams to have a chance.

Game Odds

Toronto Maple Leafs                      5.5

Ottawa Senators                              – 115

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025