NHL Playoff Game 5 Preview: Ottawa Senators (1-3) vs. Toronto Maple Leafs (3-1)

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Toronto Maple Leafs logo

The Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs are set to face off in Game 5 of their first-round Stanley Cup Playoff series on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET.

Series Context

The Maple Leafs lead the series 3-1 and are one win away from advancing to the second round. After dominating the first three games, Toronto was unable to complete the sweep in Game 4, falling 4-3 in overtime. The Senators, facing elimination, showed resilience and will look to carry that momentum into Game 5.

Team Records and Form

  • Toronto Maple Leafs: Finished the regular season with a 52-26-4 record, earning the Atlantic Division title. They have been strong at home, boasting a 27-13-1 record at Scotiabank Arena.
  • Ottawa Senators: Ended the regular season with a 45-30-7 record, securing a wild-card spot. The Senators have struggled on the road, going 18-19-4 during the regular season.

Key Players to Watch

  • Toronto Maple Leafs:
    • Auston Matthews: Leading the Leafs with 5 points (3 goals, 2 assists) in the series, Matthews remains a constant offensive threat.
    • John Tavares: The captain has contributed 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) and provides leadership in high-pressure moments.
    • Anthony Stolarz: The goaltender has been solid, posting a 2.29 goals-against average (GAA) and a .902 save percentage in the playoffs.
  • Ottawa Senators:
    • Tim Stützle: The young star has been pivotal for Ottawa, with 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in the series, including a power-play goal in Game 4.
    • Jake Sanderson: Scored the overtime winner in Game 4 and has been a key contributor on both ends of the ice.
    • Linus Ullmark: Despite a shaky start in Game 1, Ullmark has rebounded with strong performances, holding a .848 save percentage in the series.

Matchup Insights

  • The Maple Leafs have averaged 3.25 goals per game in the series, while the Senators have averaged 2.95 goals per game.
  • Toronto’s power play has been a game-changer, converting at a 25% rate in the series, while Ottawa’s penalty kill has struggled to contain the Leafs’ man advantage.
  • Ottawa’s physicality has been evident, as they’ve outhit Toronto in every game, but the Leafs’ shot-blocking and defensive structure have limited high-danger chances.

Venue and Stakes

Scotiabank Arena will be rocking as the Leafs look to close out the series in front of their home crowd. Toronto has the opportunity to advance to the second round for the second time in three years, while Ottawa will aim to force a Game 6 and bring the series back to their home ice.

Game Odds

Ottawa Senators                              5.5

Toronto Maple Leafs                      – 185

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, April 28, 2025

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