The NHL is currently investigating an incident that occurred during warmups before Game 3 of the Atlantic Division Semifinals between the Ottawa Senators and the Toronto Maple Leafs. On April 24, 2025, Senators forward Nick Cousins shot a puck at Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz while he was going through his warm-up routine. This incident has sparked discussions about player conduct during pre-game activities, especially given the heightened tensions in the playoff series.
According to reports from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the league's inquiry focuses on whether Cousins' actions were merely playful or if they crossed a line into unsportsmanlike behavior. The Senators may face a fine if supplemental discipline is deemed necessary. Senators head coach Travis Green addressed the situation humorously, stating, "It's an active investigation. I'm not sure I should be commenting. It's a game within the game." Green, who has a history with both players, noted that Cousins and Stolarz were teammates last season with the Florida Panthers, where they won the Stanley Cup together.
Following the incident, the mood around the Senators was surprisingly light, with players chuckling about the investigation. Green mentioned that he had spoken with Cousins about the matter, suggesting that it was likely an attempt to rattle Stolarz rather than an act of aggression. "It happens probably a lot more than you think," he added, downplaying the seriousness of the incident.
Stolarz, who has been a standout performer in the series with a .926 save percentage, has faced his share of challenges against the Senators. In Game 2, he engaged in a physical battle with Ottawa forward Ridly Greig, who had previously crashed into him during Game 1. After the Game 3 victory, which saw the Maple Leafs win 3-2 in overtime, Stolarz mentioned he had made a pre-game deal with the officiating crew: "Watch my back, and I'll behave." This statement reflects the ongoing tension between him and the Senators, particularly Greig.
The Maple Leafs' Game 3 win put them ahead 3-0 in the best-of-seven series, putting the Senators on the brink of elimination. The game was marked by another overtime thriller, showcasing the fierce competition between these two Ontario rivals. The Leafs have now secured two consecutive overtime victories, with the latest coming thanks to Simon Benoit’s game-winning goal.
As the teams prepare for Game 4, scheduled for April 26, 2025, at the Canadian Tire Centre, the stakes have never been higher. The Senators are desperate to avoid a sweep and will need to regroup quickly to counter the Maple Leafs’ momentum. Game 4 is set to begin at 7 p.m. ET, and the anticipation is palpable among fans and players alike.
In addition to the investigation surrounding Cousins, the series has been marked by physical play and emotional intensity. Stolarz's clashes with Greig have added an extra layer of drama, with both players becoming focal points in the ongoing rivalry. The NHL’s decision on whether to impose any sanctions on Cousins remains to be seen, but it is clear that the league is taking the matter seriously.
As the playoffs progress, the focus will be on how both teams respond to the pressure. Will the Senators find a way to rally back and extend the series, or will the Maple Leafs continue their march toward the next round? The investigation into Cousins' actions adds another intriguing subplot to an already captivating playoff series.
The Battle of Ontario has always been known for its fierce rivalries and intense competition, and this latest chapter is no different. Fans are eagerly awaiting the next installment, with hopes that their teams can deliver another thrilling performance on the ice.
