Senators End 8-Year Playoff Drought, Face Leafs

The Ottawa Senators have clinched a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2017, ending an eight-year absence. Captain Brady Tkachuk, sidelined with an upper-body injury, is anticipated to return, which could lead to a historic playoff matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Senators' return has energized Ottawa, with local areas like Sens Mile expected to see economic and social benefits. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres extended their playoff drought to 14 seasons, the longest in NHL history, after being eliminated from contention. In parallel, the Colorado Avalanche are aiming for another deep run with captain Gabriel Landeskog back, and the St. Louis Blues enter the playoffs after a 12-game winning streak, hoping to replicate their 2019 championship success.