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NHL Playoff Schedule: Battle of Ontario Heats Up
Get ready for some intense hockey! The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are upon us, and the first round features a highly anticipated matchup: the Toronto Maple Leafs versus the Ottawa Senators. This "Battle of Ontario" promises thrilling games and a renewed rivalry, igniting the passion of hockey fans across the province.
Leafs vs. Sens: A Rivalry Renewed
The Toronto Maple Leafs, winners of the Atlantic Division, will enjoy home-ice advantage in this best-of-seven series against the Ottawa Senators, the first wild card team from the Eastern Conference. While the Leafs have made the playoffs for nine consecutive seasons, their playoff success has been limited. The Senators, conversely, haven't seen playoff action since 2017. This clash of styles – the Leafs' high-octane offense versus the Senators' determined young squad – will undoubtedly keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews noted the excitement, while Senators forward Drake Batherson confirmed everyone wanted this "Battle of Ontario" showdown.
Key Players to Watch
For Toronto, all eyes will be on Mitch Marner (100 points this season!), William Nylander (45 goals!), and Auston Matthews (400 career goals milestone!). Ottawa's firepower rests on the shoulders of Tim Stutzle and Drake Batherson, but the return of Brady Tkachuk from injury could prove a game-changer. The goaltending battles will also be crucial, with the Leafs boasting Woll and Stolarz and the Senators fielding Ullmark and Forsberg.
Other First-Round Matchups
The NHL playoff brackets are nearly complete, with several other compelling matchups confirmed: Winnipeg Jets vs. St. Louis Blues, Vegas Golden Knights vs. Minnesota Wild, Dallas Stars vs. Colorado Avalanche, and Los Angeles Kings vs. Edmonton Oilers. The Eastern Conference also features the Florida Panthers against the Tampa Bay Lightning, another intense rivalry with championship pedigree. The final Eastern Conference matchup will be confirmed shortly.
Where to Watch
Don't miss a moment of the Stanley Cup Playoffs! Catch all the action on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+, starting April 19th. The full schedule will be released soon. This year's playoffs promise electrifying hockey and unforgettable moments!
