Max Domi emerged as the hero for the Toronto Maple Leafs, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to secure a 3-2 victory against the Ottawa Senators. This win marked the Leafs' first 2-0 playoff series lead since 2002. John Tavares contributed significantly, netting a goal and an assist, while Morgan Rielly also found the net. Anthony Stolarz was solid in goal, making 26 saves. Despite a valiant effort from Brady Tkachuk and Adam Gaudette, who each scored for Ottawa, the Senators' inability to hold their opponents off the board ultimately cost them. The playoff series now shifts to Ottawa for Games 3 and 4.

The Ottawa Senators faced a tough Game 1 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, with mixed reactions from the players post-game. Goalie Linus Ullmark resorted to quoting Ted Lasso, while Brady Tkachuk displayed a mix of frustration and determination, expressing concerns over careless penalties. The Senators need to step up their game to avoid a short series. The importance of compelling personalities in the NHL was also highlighted, emphasizing the need for players like Tkachuk to become transformational figures like Caitlin Clark in the WNBA.

In a fierce opening game of the NHL playoffs, the Toronto Maple Leafs triumphed over the Ottawa Senators, with a score of 6-2. The atmosphere was electric, as Leafs fans directed relentless chants at Senators captain Brady Tkachuk, labeling him as Public Enemy No. 1. Tkachuk, unfazed by the taunts, expressed indifference, emphasizing his focus on the upcoming game. Despite his regular-season success, tallying 29 goals and 55 points, he struggled to make an impact, finishing pointless with five shots, primarily matched against the Leafs' top line.

The Senators initially controlled the game, outshooting the Leafs 13-5 in the first period. However, they fell into penalty trouble, which proved costly. Toronto capitalized with three power-play goals, further deepening the Senators’ frustration. Coach Travis Green noted the need for discipline while defending his goaltender, Linus Ullmark, who faced criticism after allowing four goals in a challenging start. As the series continues, both teams look to adjust strategies moving into Game 2.

The Ottawa Senators faced their first playoff game in eight years, which ended in a disappointing 6-2 loss against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Senators struggled with discipline, taking too many penalties that ultimately cost them, as the Maple Leafs capitalized with three goals on the power play. Linus Ullmark, in goal for Ottawa, allowed four goals on the first ten shots, reflecting the team's defensive lapses. Despite outshooting Toronto 33-24, the Senators could not convert their opportunities into goals. Brady Tkachuk acknowledged the need for improved discipline and focus as they prepare for Game 2.

The Toronto Maple Leafs enter the playoffs riding a wave of momentum, having secured the Atlantic Division title and boasting a remarkable 13-2-1 record in the final month of the regular season. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz has been a standout performer, going 8-0-0 with a .950 save percentage, instilling hope in Leafs fans weary from past playoff disappointments.

Leafs coach Craig Berube, however, is cautioning his team against complacency. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus while acknowledging the psychological hurdles that have plagued the franchise in previous playoff outings. As the Leafs prepare to face the Ottawa Senators, they are reminded of the fragility of momentum, especially considering the historical precedent set by the Senators' Linus Ullmark, who faced his own playoff collapse with the Boston Bruins.