The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to face off against the Ottawa Senators in Game 4 of their opening-round series in the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs, with the Leafs eyeing a series sweep. This matchup marks a significant moment in both franchises' histories, as the last time the Leafs held a 3-0 series lead was against the Senators back in 2001. In that postseason, the Leafs completed a sweep of the Sens before eventually falling to the New Jersey Devils in a grueling seven-game series in the second round.
Fast forward nearly a quarter of a century, and the Leafs find themselves in a similar position. With the Senators desperate to stave off elimination, the stakes couldn't be higher. The Leafs are looking to move in for the kill, but can they finally shake off the ghosts of their past playoff failures?
During the Auston Matthews era, the Leafs have struggled to close out series-clinching games, with only one victory in such situations—a win against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round of the 2023 playoffs. Fans are understandably anxious, recalling the heartbreaking 2021 collapse when they blew a 3-1 series lead against the Montreal Canadiens. As the team prepares for Game 4, they hope not to repeat that painful history.
“Battle ain’t over,” the Leafs tweeted, reminding fans and players alike that the fight is still on as they look to finish what they started. The team has been riding high on the momentum of back-to-back 3-2 overtime victories, which have put them on the verge of a historic sweep. The game-winning goals in those matches have come from unexpected sources, with Max Domi stepping up in Game 3 and Simon Benoit rising to the occasion in Game 4.
The Core Four—Mitch Marner, Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and John Tavares—have all played pivotal roles in the postseason, contributing significantly to the Leafs' success thus far. Additionally, defenseman Morgan Rielly has shown increasing confidence, bolstered by the steady presence of his partner Brandon Carlo. However, the standout performer has undoubtedly been goaltender Anthony Stolarz, who has been sensational throughout the playoffs. His stellar play has solidified his position as a key player in the lineup, and there’s no indication he’ll be coming out for Game 4.
As the Leafs prepare for this crucial game, they are likely to dress the same lineup as they did in Game 3. Notably, Max Pacioretty remains in the lineup, having been given a chance to prove himself after scratching Nick Robertson. In Game 3, Pacioretty logged 12 minutes and 24 seconds over 20 shifts but only managed one shot on goal. Despite this, coach Craig Berube seems inclined to give the veteran winger another opportunity to make an impact in the postseason.
“If it ain’t broke don’t fix it,” seems to be the mantra for the Leafs as they head into Game 4. However, fans are eager to see if Berube might shake things up, particularly with Pontus Holmberg currently on the second line. There are whispers that Bobby McMann could be shifted to play alongside Tavares and Nylander, a move that could spark some much-needed chemistry.
Meanwhile, the fourth line has been flying under the radar but could play a significant role in Game 4 as the Senators do everything they can to neutralize the Maple Leafs' top offensive players. With the Senators fighting for their playoff lives, they will undoubtedly bring an intensity that could make for an electrifying matchup.
Game 4 promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the Leafs looking to slay their previous playoff demons and achieve their first series sweep since 2001. The Senators, on the other hand, will be playing with nothing to lose, which could make them a dangerous opponent. As the two teams prepare to face off, the excitement is palpable, and fans on both sides are gearing up for what could be a historic night.
As the puck drops, all eyes will be on the ice to see if the Leafs can finally close out the series and move on to the next round, or if the Senators will manage to force a Game 5 and keep their hopes alive. The anticipation is building, and one thing is for certain: this is a game you won’t want to miss!
