The 1948-49 Maple Leafs had plenty in their drive for an unprecedented third consecutive title. They lost three key players: Captain Syl Apps and center Nick Metz retired, and defenseman Wally Stanowski was traded to the New York Rangers. All three had been on multiple Cup-winning teams.

The Battle of Ontario returns after a 20-year gap as the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators meet in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, starting Sunday night.

Larsson, 33, a veteran free-agent signing from the Florida Panthers this past offseason, is expected to be ready for the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, coach Craig Berube told reporters Tuesday.