For the first time since 2017, the Ottawa Senators will host a playoff game tonight.

Well, the Maple Leafs are hoping to rain on that proverbial parade.

Leafs Morning Take is coming at you on location from the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa the next couple of days. We kicked off the show by giving our initial thoughts on Game 3 as the Leafs look to take a 3-0 series stranglehold. As I reported earlier in the way, we dissected the Max Pacioretty news. The former Montreal Canadiens captain will make his Maple Leafs playoff debut in favour of Nick Robertson, who will draw out of the lineup. We talked about what Pacioretty could potentially bring to the table.

Brought to you by RVezy, we offered up an all-encompassing game preview. As mentioned, Pacioretty will draw in. Meantime, the crease battle will be fascinating to document. Anthony Stolarz has been impeccable, it’s been a mixed bag for Linus Ullmark so far. The other thing will be discipline. Ottawa will be desperate, but can they keep their composure? If not, the Leafs could burn them royally. Toronto’s 4-for-7 in the series on the power play. After that, we talked x-factors. I picked Bobby McMann, who’s had a very up and down season. Recently, it’s been the latter as the winger’s currently mired in a 13-game goalless drought. Well, tonight would be a good time to end that. Also, we talked about the Core Four, but most specifically Auston Matthews. The Leafs need a signature performance from their captain. Why not tonight? Through two outings, Matthews has three helpers. He’s still looking for his first goal.

At any rate, make sure you join us for the Friday edition of Leafs Morning Take (11 AM ET). In addition to recapping Game 3 of the Battle of Ontario, AEW wrestler/WWE Hall of Famer/big-time Leafs fan Adam ‘Cope’ Copeland will drop by the show to dish on the series.

You can subscribe to TheLeafsNation (TLN) YouTube channel HERE. Additionally, we’re available in podcast form, too —wherever you get your podcasts. While you’re at it, be sure to leave us a 5-star review!