Toronto Maple Leafs vs Ottawa Senators Picks and Predictions April 22nd 2025

Senators vs Maple Leafs Game 2 Preview: Ottawa Needs Discipline to Even Series

After falling 6-2 in Game 1, the Ottawa Senators are heading into Game 2 against the Toronto Maple Leafs knowing exactly what needs to change: fewer penalties, better goaltending, and tighter execution.

The Battle of Ontario returned to the Stanley Cup Playoffs with intensity, but the outcome wasn’t what Ottawa had hoped for. Toronto’s power play went 3-for-6, capitalizing on every mistake the Senators made with time and space.

With the series resuming Tuesday night in Toronto, the pressure is on Ottawa to respond.

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What Went Wrong for Ottawa in Game 1

Ottawa committed six penalties and gave the Leafs too many high-quality chances. In a playoff atmosphere, discipline matters just as much as skill. Special teams tilted the game, with Toronto’s top unit firing on all cylinders.

Goaltending Needs a Boost

Linus Ullmark was outplayed by Toronto’s Anthony Stolarz, who made 31 saves in his first playoff start. Meanwhile, Ullmark allowed six goals on 24 shots. He’ll need a bounce-back performance to keep Ottawa competitive.

Missed Opportunities

Ottawa had its chances — including a breakaway by Brady Tkachuk early in the second — but couldn’t convert. Those moments can shift momentum, and the Senators need to be sharper in Game 2.

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Toronto’s Advantage: Depth and Discipline

The Maple Leafs were composed, balanced, and effective in all three zones. Their depth was on display, and their special teams delivered. Mitch Marner led the offense with a goal and two assists, and Stolarz made critical saves when it mattered most.

Toronto’s ability to control pace and limit high-danger chances at even strength helped them maintain their edge.

Game 2 Keys for the Senators

• Stay out of the penalty box: They can’t give Toronto six power plays again.
• Win 5-on-5 matchups: Ottawa was better at even strength and needs to build on that.
• Goaltending reset: Ullmark has to deliver a playoff-caliber performance.
• Get more from top scorers: Tkachuk and Tim Stützle need to finish chances.

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FAQs

When is Game 2 between Ottawa and Toronto?
Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. ET in Toronto.

Who starts in goal for Ottawa?
Linus Ullmark is expected to remain the starter.

How many power-play goals did Toronto score in Game 1?
Three goals on six power-play opportunities.

What was the biggest issue for Ottawa in Game 1?
Discipline. Penalties gave Toronto too many chances.

How did Stolarz perform in Game 1?
He stopped 31 shots in his playoff debut.

Final Take: Senators vs Maple Leafs Game 2 Preview

The Senators know what went wrong. Game 2 offers a chance to reset, refocus, and get back to the disciplined, physical game that got them to the postseason.

Toronto, meanwhile, will look to keep the pressure on, stay sharp on special teams, and protect home ice.

To dive deeper into playoff analysis, visit the Stanley Cup Odds & Predictions