OTTAWA — Patience pays off, as hockey fans in Ontario are finally witnessing the revival of the Battle of Ontario in the Stanley Cup Playoffs after 21 long years.
Ottawa Senators coach Travis Green anticipates a thrilling and emotionally charged series against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He believes this playoff matchup embodies everything fans and players desire.
This series pits the Senators, who are returning to the playoffs after an eight-year absence, against the Maple Leafs, who boast a lengthy playoff streak but have only secured one series victory during that span. The Maple Leafs are spearheaded by star players like Auston Mathews, Mitch Marner, John Tavares, and William Nylander, all carrying significant playoff experience, both positive and negative. In contrast, the Senators feature young and dynamic talents such as Tim Stutzle, Brady Tkachuk, and Jake Sanderson, who are entering the playoffs with fresh enthusiasm.
This contrasting dynamic sets the stage for a potentially fierce and captivating playoff battle.
Coach Green, having experienced this rivalry firsthand as a former Maple Leaf in the early 2000s playoff clashes between Toronto and Ottawa, understands the intensity.
Green echoed the excitement of fans upon learning that Ottawa`s playoff opponent would be Toronto, following the Senators` recent overtime loss to the Chicago Blackhawks.
He understatedly described the upcoming series as “exciting.”
Senators owner Michael Andlauer expressed confidence in his team, highlighting the team`s new ownership and direction on a recent broadcast.
Andlauer`s investment has shifted the Senators from the bottom of the league to playoff contenders, enabling General Manager Steve Staios to bring in seasoned veterans like David Perron, Nick Cousins, Michael Amadio, and Linus Ullmark. These experienced players are expected to play crucial roles in supporting Ottawa`s young stars and enhancing their playoff aspirations. This series could mark the beginning of a new chapter in the intense rivalry between these Ontario teams.
Since their last playoff encounter in 2004, the Senators and Maple Leafs have only reached the playoffs in the same season twice, making this matchup even more anticipated.
The rivalry has seen its share of drama. Last season, a controversial empty-net goal by Ridly Greig sparked a reaction from Morgan Rielly, resulting in a suspension. This playoff series is expected to amplify that emotion and intensity significantly.
