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.

Toronto Maple Leafs seized a commanding 1-0 series lead against the Ottawa Senators in their playoff opener, demonstrating their strength with a powerful 6-2 victory, heavily driven by their revitalized special teams. Mitch Marner, who struggled in the previous postseason, exploded for three points in Game 1, matching his entire output from last year's first round. The Leafs capitalized on three power-play opportunities out of six, a significant turnaround from last season’s dismal performance.

After a scoreless first period, the Leafs broke the deadlock early in the second, courtesy of Oliver Ekman-Larsson's goal, followed swiftly by Marner's conversion. Although Ottawa’s Drake Batherson narrowed the gap, John Tavares restored the two-goal lead with a power-play rebound. The Leafs continued their offensive assault, with Tavares and William Nylander contributing significantly to the scoreline. Matthew Knies capped off the scoring with a late goal, securing the victory for Toronto. The two teams return for Game 2, where Toronto looks to extend their lead.

The Toronto Maple Leafs kicked off their playoff series against the Ottawa Senators in an electrifying atmosphere at Scotiabank Arena. Fans rallied behind their team, chanting 'Go Leafs Go' as the Leafs established an early lead. Oliver Ekman-Larsson opened the scoring with a wrist shot, followed shortly by a breakaway goal from Mitch Marner, assisted by Auston Matthews. Despite Ottawa outshooting Toronto 9-2 early on, they struggled to convert opportunities, allowing Drake Batherson to pull one back before the end of the first period.

With significant contributions from their fourth line, the Leafs displayed physicality, with players like William Nylander and Nick Robertson not shying away from checks. Coach Craig Berube expressed excitement about the playoffs, highlighting the importance of preparation. The game was intense, marked by heavy hitting and spirited fan support, setting the stage for an exhilarating playoff rivalry.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson returns to the Toronto Maple Leafs' lineup just in time for the playoffs, ready to face the Ottawa Senators in Game 1. After missing the last four regular-season games due to an undisclosed injury, his presence is expected to bolster a Leafs team eager for postseason success. Coach Craig Berube praised Ekman-Larsson's versatility, noting his importance in multiple situations including power play and penalty kill.

Having recently won the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, Ekman-Larsson brings valuable experience to a franchise that has struggled historically in the playoffs. The team aims to break an eight-year streak of first-round exits and their matchup against Ottawa marks the first playoff Battle of Ontario since 2004. With players like Jake McCabe returning alongside Ekman-Larsson, the Leafs are poised to make a strong statement in their quest for the Cup.

The Maple Leafs gear up for their playoff opener against the Ottawa Senators with key players returning to the lineup, notably defenceman Jake McCabe, who missed the last seven games. Coach Craig Berube emphasized the importance of having a full practice for the team’s cohesion. McCabe feels that coming back after a break gives him 'fresher legs,' which could be pivotal for his role as part of the shutdown duo alongside Chris Tanev.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson also returns after missing some games, adding depth and experience to the blue line. His added playoff experience, having secured a cup with the Florida Panthers, could provide a strategic advantage against the less seasoned Senators. Meanwhile, the forward lineup remains unchanged, with Max Domi, John Tavares, and William Nylander leading the charge, supported by veterans Max Pacioretty, David Kämpf, and Ryan Reaves, all of whom bring critical playoff experience to the table.