Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz has been sidelined for nearly a month following a knee injury sustained during a game against the Anaheim Ducks on Dec. 12. Initially, Stolarz was expected to be out for four weeks, placing his return within the next few weeks.
Coach Craig Berube shared an update on Stolarz’s condition after Saturday’s morning skate. According to Berube, while progress has been made, Stolarz still has steps to take before he can rejoin his teammates in practice.
“I think Stolarz will be on his own for a bit (on the ice), but I expect that soon, like maybe this week, I hope that he can get on the ice and do some things. With us, I don’t know yet,” Berube said.
Although the comments reflect optimism, the timeline for Stolarz’s return remains uncertain. It’s unlikely fans will see him in net for another week or two. Once he resumes practicing with the team, a clearer return date will emerge.
The 30-year-old Stolarz made a strong start to his stint with the Maple Leafs this season. In his first 17 games, he posted a 9-5-2 record, a stellar 2.15 goals-against average, a .927 save percentage, and one shutout. When healthy, his performance has been a key asset to the Leafs. His eventual return will undoubtedly bolster the team’s goaltending depth.
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Joseph Woll Steps Up During Stolarz’s Absence
With Stolarz unavailable, his counterpart Joseph Woll has taken over the starting duties and performed admirably in his absence. The 26-year-old has started 11 games since Stolarz’s injury, earning a 7-4-0 record. During this stretch, Woll has recorded a 2.94 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage.
For the season as a whole, Woll’s numbers are solid. He boasts a 14-7-0 record, a 2.58 goals-against average, a .912 save percentage, and one shutout. His durability has been a significant factor in the Leafs’ success this season. As of now, Woll has made 21 appearances, nearing his previous career-high of 25 appearances in the 2023-24 season.
Woll’s consistency and availability have been crucial for the Maple Leafs as they navigate Stolarz’s absence. His performance has reinforced the old adage that “availability is the best ability.” Without their $5 million offseason acquisition in the lineup, the team has relied heavily on Woll to maintain stability in the crease.
As the Maple Leafs prepare for their Saturday matchup against the struggling Vancouver Canucks, Woll will get some rest. Backup goaltender Dennis Hildeby will start in net for Toronto. The game is set to begin at 7 p.m. EST at Scotiabank Arena.
