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.

After facing harsh criticism for his playoff performance against the Boston Bruins, Mitch Marner has turned his narrative around in the current postseason. As the Toronto Maple Leafs take a commanding 3-0 lead over the Ottawa Senators, Marner has emerged as a crucial player, leading the team in postseason scoring with a goal and five assists. His assist on Auston Matthews’s goal in Game 3 showcased his exceptional vision and playmaking ability, highlighting a pivotal shift in Toronto's dynamics compared to last year's playoff exit.

This year, all key players, including Marner, Matthews, William Nylander, and John Tavares, are contributing effectively, significantly outperforming their previous postseason statistics. The synergy displayed among the Core Four suggests a deeper understanding of each other’s gameplay, essential for navigating the pressures of the playoffs. However, the ultimate test remains: can the Leafs close out the Senators and avoid the pitfalls of past playoffs?

Anthony Stolarz returns to the crease for the Maple Leafs as they face the Ottawa Senators in Game 2 of their playoff series. After a successful Game 1 where Toronto triumphed 6-2, Stolarz made crucial saves against key players like Brady Tkachuk and Shane Pinto. His recent performance, with a .950 save percentage and a 1.40 GAA during the regular season, shows he’s ready for the pressure of the playoffs.

The Leafs' lineup sees Pontus Holmberg moving to the second line with John Tavares and William Nylander, taking the spot of Max Domi, while Senators coach Travis Green contemplates lineup changes with players like Ridly Greig available. Toronto looks to maintain their momentum as they head into this crucial matchup.

Mitch Marner led the charge for the Toronto Maple Leafs with a goal and two assists as they triumphed over the Ottawa Senators 6-2 in Game 1 of their playoff series. Significant contributions came from William Nylander and John Tavares, each scoring a goal and providing an assist, alongside goals from Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Morgan Rielly, and Matthew Knies. Toronto's Anthony Stolarz was solid in goal, stopping 31 shots, ensuring a commanding home victory during 'The Battle of Ontario.'

Ottawa's efforts were highlighted by goals from Drake Batherson and Ridly Greig, but it was not enough to challenge a disciplined Maple Leafs team. The series shifts to Ottawa for Games 3 and 4 after the next match at Scotiabank Arena. As the teams' histories suggest, the playoffs promise intensity and fierce competition, with both sides aiming for advancement.

Mitch Marner's standout performance, with a goal and two assists, propelled the Toronto Maple Leafs to a decisive 6-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators in Game 1 of their playoff series. Alongside goals from William Nylander, John Tavares, and others, the Leafs showcased their offensive depth. Toronto's Anthony Stolarz made 31 saves, while Ottawa struggled, with Linus Ullmark managing only 18 saves. This matchup is significant as it marks the first playoff Battle of Ontario in over two decades.

The game commenced with Oliver Ekman-Larsson's early goal, igniting the home crowd. Marner expanded the lead shortly after, demonstrating the Leafs' aggressive start. Despite a response from the Senators, Toronto's power play proved effective, converting opportunities into goals. The Leafs' continued pressure overwhelmed Ottawa, setting the stage for an intriguing series.