Ottawa Senators forward Claude Giroux (28) and Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies (23) compete for the puck during the first period of an NHL playoff game in Toronto on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston
In their Game 2 matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Ottawa Senators showed resilience, despite an overtime loss that extended their deficit in the series. After struggling in Game 1, Ottawa’s performance was notably better, but it wasn’t enough to avoid a 3-2 loss in overtime.
Max Domi’s game-winning goal in extra time handed Toronto a 2-0 series lead. But the Senators, who are returning to the playoffs after an eight-year drought, left the ice with plenty of positives. Coach Travis Green was pleased with the team's effort, noting, "It was a big step for our group," despite the defeat.
The game started similarly to the first, with Ottawa being on the back foot. Goaltender Linus Ullmark struggled early, conceding two goals on Toronto’s first four shots. Morgan Rielly got the ball rolling for the Leafs, scoring in the third minute. Then, a quick power-play goal from John Tavares at 8:20 put the Senators in a 2-0 hole.
But Ottawa wasn’t ready to back down. They came out more aggressive in the second period, with Ridly Greig doing his best to disrupt the Leafs’ rhythm. Ottawa's persistence paid off in the third period when Brady Tkachuk’s misdirected pass found the net off an opponent’s skate. Adam Gaudette added another goal at 14:47, tying the game and silencing the Scotiabank Arena crowd.
Despite dominating possession with a 28-21 shot advantage and a 44-25 edge in hits, Ottawa struggled to break through due to Toronto’s strong defence. The Leafs’ impressive 32-6 blocked shots were a key factor in their success. Senators’ players, however, remained positive, with Tkachuk acknowledging the game came down to one shot in overtime, adding, “It was a tight-checking game.”
Coach Green was pleased with the road performance, saying, "We spent a lot of time in their zone." He added, "But to play a road game like that was very encouraging for our team."
As the series heads to Ottawa for Games 3 and 4, the Senators face an uphill battle. Historically, teams that lose the first two games at home in a best-of-seven series rarely make a comeback, and Ottawa has never won a series after such a start. However, the team is determined to make a stand, with Gaudette excited to play in front of their home crowd. "We have a loud building, and it's going to be tough on them to come in and play," he said.
With Game 3 set for Thursday and Game 4 on Saturday, the Senators are hopeful that a strong performance on home ice will shift the momentum. If the series extends to a Game 5, it will be played in Toronto on April 29.
