Toronto Maple Leafs Rely on Backup Goalie After Joseph Woll’s Injury
As the Toronto Maple Leafs prepare to kick off their 2024-25 NHL season, they’re already facing a significant obstacle: starting goaltender Joseph Woll will be sitting out the season opener due to a lower-body injury. In an unexpected twist, backup goalie Anthony Stolarz is being thrust into the starting position ahead of the highly anticipated match against the Montreal Canadiens.
Stolarz, who recently signed with the Maple Leafs on a two-year deal worth $2.5 million annually, will make his debut for the team earlier than expected. A seasoned backup goaltender with seven years of NHL experience, Stolarz comes fresh off a Stanley Cup-winning season with the Florida Panthers. His impressive record during his stint with the Panthers included a 16-7-2 win-loss record, a stellar .925 save percentage, and a 2.03 goals-against average. With numbers like these, the Leafs will be looking to Stolarz to hold down the fort while Woll recovers.
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Woll, who was anticipated to be the Maple Leafs’ primary goaltender this season, saw limited action during the preseason, playing only a game and a half before his injury. According to reports, Woll is dealing with tightness in his lower body, and the team’s medical staff, along with head coach Craig Berube, opted to keep him out as a precautionary measure. It’s uncertain how long Woll will be sidelined, but it’s clear the Maple Leafs are taking a cautious approach to ensure his health over the long season ahead.
To fill the backup role behind Stolarz, top goalie prospect Dennis Hildeby is expected to travel with the team to Montreal. Hildeby, who has yet to make his NHL debut, is an exciting prospect for the organization, though fans will likely be eager to see how Stolarz handles the early season pressure.
The goalie situation is certainly an unexpected challenge for Toronto, but with Stolarz’s proven reliability and the potential of Hildeby waiting in the wings, the Maple Leafs may still be in solid shape. The starting goaltender for their next game against the New Jersey Devils remains undecided, adding another layer of suspense for the team and its fans. As the season unfolds, the Leafs will be counting on Woll’s quick recovery and Stolarz’s ability to step up in this crucial moment.
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