Maple Leafs’ Strong Play Gives them 2-0 Series Lead Over Senators – The Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

The newest chapter of the Battle of Ontario is already off to an exhilarating start in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Toronto Maple Leafs are in a great spot now as they have a 2-0 series lead over the Ottawa Senators after a dominant 6-2 win in Game 1 and close, but resilient Game 2 with a game-winner from Max Domi. It was a tale of two games, but a win is a win in the playoffs.

So far, we’re witnessing a different team compared to what we have seen in the past as the team has been very inconsistent with their on-ice performance and nervous moments. Heading into Game 2, there was a “business-like” mentality and that appears to be the case overall. Now that they have an advantage, the Maple Leafs continue to push forward as their game is being taken to a new level suited for the playoffs. (from, “’Business-like’ Maple Leafs strive to go up 2-0 in Battle of Ontario”, Toronto Sun – 4/22/25)

To this point, the Maple Leafs have stood tall in big moments and even when things looked dicey, they manage to hold their own and stick with their game. There are plenty of reasons for their success after two games, but a few continue to standout above the rest.  

Strong Shut-Down Game

The old phrase defense wins championships is definitely one that teams take to heart as it is always on display with players doing whatever it takes to win. That is definitely the case with the Maple Leafs as their defensive game continues to standout against the Senators. 

The downside is that the Maple Leafs’ five-on-five game isn’t strong, as they’re lacking in the shot attempts and scoring chances department with the Senators having that advantage. The Maple Leafs do need to be better to get more of those chances themselves and sustain pressure however, the Maple Leafs haven’t been giving up a whole lot of quality chances given their defensive structure and mindset. 

Chris Tanev, Jake McCabe, Brandon Carlo and Simon Benoit are doing a really great job at getting into the shooting lanes, clogging up the middle of the ice and keeping the Senators to the outside. The team leads the league in blocked shots with 50 in order to help alleviate some of the pressure on Anthony Stolarz. While that’s helpful, Stolarz has been on top of his game, making key saves at key moments, something they haven’t had consistently in the playoffs in the past.