The first-round playoff encounter of the Stanley Cup between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Ottawa Senators will take place on April 23 at the Scotiabank Arena. The series score stands at 1-0 in favor of Toronto. Toronto vs. Ottawa: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Craig Berube's team secured a 6-2 victory in the first home game of the series. Toronto scored six goals from just 24 shots, converting three power plays. Mitchell Marner was the standout performer for the club, contributing three points (1 goal, 2 assists). At the start of the Stanley Cup playoffs, Toronto ranks among the leaders in power play efficiency (50%) and is one of the best in penalty killing (100%). Additionally, the team is among the highest-scoring in this playoff round, with six goals.
- Toronto has won in regulation time in 6 of their last 8 NHL home games.
- The team has scored at least three goals in 60 minutes in 5 of their last 6 home league games.
- No more than six goals have been scored in regulation time in 10 of Toronto's last 11 NHL matches.
Ottawa Senators
Travis Green's squad suffered their third consecutive away defeat in the current championship, losing the opening game of the series. Notably, the team accumulated almost 40 penalty minutes in the first game of the series. At the start of the Stanley Cup playoffs, Ottawa is the league's most conceding team, allowing six goals, and also has one of the worst penalty kill percentages (50%).
- Ottawa has scored at least two goals in regulation time in 10 of their last 11 away league games.
- The club has not lost in regulation time in 7 of their last 9 NHL matches (5 wins, 2 draws).
- At least six goals have been scored in regulation time in Ottawa's last six league games.
Toronto vs. Ottawa: Match Prediction
Craig Berube's team dominated the first game of the series and looked very convincing, even with low shot activity. The outcome was decided by the main leaders, while Ottawa's top line of Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, and Claude Giroux failed to make a significant impact.
Despite the increased tension at the end of the last match due to scuffles and numerous penalties, Toronto currently has a psychological and tactical edge over their opponent. I believe Ottawa has a chance to make a comeback, but it's unlikely to happen soon. At home, Craig Berube's team will not allow their opponent to feel comfortable, especially since they have an 8-game winning streak on home ice in the NHL, winning six of those in regulation time. Ottawa, on the other hand, has lost their last three away league games (1 in OT).
I don't see how Ottawa plans to surprise their opponent, as they couldn't withstand the pressure in the first game, and their leaders didn't perform well. Everything points to Toronto strengthening their lead in the series.
My prediction: Toronto Maple Leafs to win
