- 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs
TORONTO — Penalty calls are a key topic as the Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs prepare to face off. Even before the puck drops, the conversation is centered on how the referees might influence the game.
A significant difference between the Senators and Maple Leafs, besides playoff experience, is how often each team draws penalties.
This season, the Ottawa Senators were unmatched in drawing penalties, totaling 349. Their net penalty differential of plus-41 was the best among all playoff-bound teams.
In contrast, the Maple Leafs were lower in the league rankings, placing 22nd for penalties drawn (268) and 23rd in net penalties drawn (minus-17). This means their potent power play unit hasn`t had as many opportunities as they would prefer.
Senators` ability to get calls has been a point of emphasis for Coach Craig Berube as his team gets ready for Sunday`s game.
“Ottawa is at the top of the league in penalties drawn. Stützle is particularly good at drawing them. We’ve reviewed this extensively and discussed it with the team. Discipline is crucial, but we also can’t be overly cautious,” Berube stated. “We need to maintain our physicality and manage the game effectively. Penalties often result from stick infractions and being poorly positioned against opponents. We must be disciplined, play smart, and compete hard between the whistles.”
Tim Stützle is indeed a player to watch. He not only led Ottawa in scoring with 79 points but also tied for the league lead in drawn penalties with 38, along with Nazem Kadri.
Since his NHL debut in 2020-21, Stützle ranks fourth in penalties drawn (181). His teammate, Brady Tkachuk, leads this category with 193 drawn penalties over the same period.
Berube commented on Tkachuk, “He’s very effective at disrupting plays. It’s a significant aspect of his game, and he’s skilled in gamesmanship. We need to play him tough.”
“We are aware of their tactics, and our focus is on staying disciplined and not reacting negatively to their actions. Tkachuk often positions himself near the net, which is where many penalties occur. He excels at creating net-front situations that draw penalties, so we must be strong defensively in that area.”
