Overview
- The Ottawa Senators return to the playoffs for the first time since 2017, clinching the Eastern Conference's first wild-card spot.
- This marks the first postseason Battle of Ontario in 21 years, with Toronto having won all four prior playoff series against Ottawa from 2000 to 2004.
- Ottawa's young core, including Brady Tkachuk, Thomas Chabot, and Tim Stützle, will make their playoff debuts under coach Travis Green, supported by veteran additions like David Perron.
- Toronto's Anthony Stolarz, the NHL leader in save percentage this season, will start his first career playoff game in goal, while Ottawa relies on former Vezina Trophy winner Linus Ullmark.
- Ottawa swept Toronto 3-0 in the regular season, setting up a potential upset storyline despite Toronto's higher seeding and strong finish to the season.