Pressure Mounts as Leafs Face Senators in Game 6

In a pivotal Game 6 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Toronto Maple Leafs are on the brink of victory against the Ottawa Senators, holding a 3-2 series lead. However, after a disheartening 4-0 defeat in Game 5, the atmosphere around the team has shifted dramatically.

This marks the 15th time since 2018 that the Leafs have had the chance to clinch a playoff series. Will they be able to escape their playoff demons and advance to the second round for only the second time since 2004?

Changes Ahead: What to Expect in the Lineup

According to Coach Craig Berube, it's all hands on deck, urging that the responsibility of winning doesn’t rest only on their star players—Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and John Tavares. The team will see some alterations in the lineup for Game 6.

The proposed lines feature:

- Knies — Matthews — Marner - Pacioretty — Tavares — Nylander - McMann — Holmberg — Domi - Lorentz — Laughton — Järnkrok

One notable adjustment is Max Pacioretty moving to the left wing on the second line, addressing a position that has caused headaches for the Leafs throughout the series.

Key Questions Facing the Leafs

As Game 6 approaches, several critical questions loom large: 1. **Can the Stars Shine When It Matters?** Despite their talent, Matthews and Marner have often struggled in elimination games, combining for only 14 points in such situations over their careers. Their lackluster performance in Game 5—both finishing at minus-4 without any points—raises concerns about their ability to deliver in crucial moments.

2. **Will the Power Play Deliver?** The effectiveness of the power play could determine the outcome. After a strong start in the series, the Leafs faltered, failing to score on the power play in the last two games. They need to regain that momentum to put the Senators on the back foot.

3. **Is Stolarz Back on Track?** Goaltender Anthony Stolarz has seen a decline in performance, with his save percentage dropping significantly in recent games. After a stellar start, he needs to find his rhythm again if the Leafs hope to claim victory.

Game Day Essentials

With the puck set to drop at 7 p.m. ET in Ottawa, fans can catch the action across multiple networks including Sportsnet, CBC, TVAS, and TBS. The stakes couldn’t be higher as the Maple Leafs look to silence their critics and finally push past the first round.

Will this be the night the Leafs conquer their playoff ghosts? Tune in to find out!