The NHL is currently investigating the Ottawa Senators for a peculiar incident during warm-ups before Game 3 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, where Senator Nick Cousins reportedly shot a puck towards Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz. This playful yet contentious act drew a fine of $25,000 for the Senators and $2,083.33 for Cousins, highlighting the league's strict stance on player conduct during warm-ups. Coach Travis Green, known for his humor, acknowledged the act while emphasizing the competitive gamesmanship involved, as Cousins and Stolarz share a past as teammates. Despite Ottawa’s aggressive shooting strategy, they have struggled to score, averaging only two goals per game, which has led to speculation about their playoff viability.

The NHL playoffs are heating up, especially with a four-game slate on April 26, 2025, featuring critical matchups and key fantasy hockey picks for daily fantasy players. The Tampa Bay Lightning trail the Florida Panthers 0-2, while the Toronto Maple Leafs lead the Ottawa Senators 3-0. In goal, Anthony Stolarz of the Toronto Maple Leafs has shown remarkable consistency with a 3-0 record and solid stats, making him a top pick against the Senators. For centers, Jack Eichel is expected to finally find the scoresheet after a slow start against the Minnesota Wild. Winger William Nylander’s point streak of four points in three games makes him a valuable asset, especially against the Senators.

Defensively, Alex Pietrangelo’s drop in salary on DraftKings makes him an attractive value pick as he looks to contribute offensively. The article also highlights stacks to consider, like Florida’s Verhaeghe, Barkov, and Reinhart, as well as Toronto’s Knies, Matthews, and Marner, which could yield high returns in the playoffs. Staying updated with injury news, such as Aleksander Barkov's status, is essential for crafting optimal lineups and maximizing points.

The NHL handed down fines totaling $27,083.33, targeting both the Ottawa Senators and forward Nick Cousins for unsportsmanlike conduct during warmups before Game 3 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Cousins, who received the maximum player fine allowed by the NHL/NHLPA collective bargaining agreement, was caught on camera flipping a puck towards Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz, a former teammate. Senators coach Travis Green acknowledged the incident, remarking that it was likely intended as a playful jab rather than a serious provocation. With the Maple Leafs leading the series 3-0 after a tight Game 3 win, the Senators face a must-win situation in Game 4.

David Perron reflects on the Ottawa Senators' challenging playoff series against the Toronto Maple Leafs, noting similarities between the current Leafs squad and his 2019 St. Louis Blues team. Under coach Craig Berube, Toronto has taken a commanding 3-0 series lead, with standout performances including a strong power play and solid goaltending from Anthony Stolarz. The Leafs are showing resilience and patience, crucial traits for playoff success. Despite past playoff disappointments, Toronto aims to close out the series without giving Ottawa any momentum.

Berube's influence is clear, as both teams emphasize persistence and defensive responsibility. The Senators, with their own history of overcoming adversity, remain hopeful but understand the magnitude of the challenge ahead. Toronto’s players express confidence in their system and camaraderie, setting a tone that could make the difference in securing a playoff victory.

The Ottawa Senators find themselves in a precarious position, down 3-0 in their playoff series against the Toronto Maple Leafs. In a bid to rattle goaltender Anthony Stolarz, the Senators have resorted to some unusual tactics, including a peculiar incident in warm-ups where Nick Cousins directed a puck toward Stolarz. Coach Travis Green commented on the situation with humor, acknowledging the gamesmanship inherent in playoff hockey.

Despite the Senators' efforts, Stolarz has been a formidable presence in net, effectively stifling their offensive attempts. Players like Ridly Greig and Brady Tkachuk have attempted to provoke him physically, with Stolarz demonstrating his resolve by engaging back, particularly during a roughing incident with Greig. Ottawa's attempts to unsettle Stolarz appear to be part of a broader strategy to gain any psychological advantage as they face elimination.