Berube: Stolarz Injury Lacks Timetable; Season-Ending Status Uncertain
Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz remains out of action as uncertainty looms over the status of his injury. Head coach Craig Berube stated that it is premature to consider Stolarz’s upper-body injury as season-ending. Though there is no firm timetable for his return, Berube emphasized a cautious approach.
Injury Details
Stolarz suffered the injury during a match against the Boston Bruins on November 11. Since then, he has not participated in any on-ice activities. On November 20, Berube acknowledged the injury was more severe than initially anticipated but expressed hope for Stolarz’s return to skating soon.
Season Performance
This season, Stolarz has played 13 games, accumulating a record of 6 wins, 5 losses, and 1 overtime loss. His goals-against average (GAA) stands at 3.51, alongside a save percentage of .884. The 29-year-old goaltender is in his ninth season in the NHL and has previously played for teams like the Florida Panthers and Anaheim Ducks.
Impact on the Team
Currently, the Maple Leafs are facing a goaltender shortage, as Joseph Woll is also sidelined with a lower-body injury. Woll is making progress and has resumed skating, but he will not participate in the upcoming game against the Edmonton Oilers.
Alternate Goaltenders
- Dennis Hildeby: Recently recalled from the AHL, he has shown impressive form with a record of 2-2-3, a save percentage of .933, and a GAA of 2.25.
- Artur Akhtyamov: Serving as the backup, he has yet to make his NHL debut with the Maple Leafs.
In September, Stolarz signed a four-year contract extension valued at $15 million with Toronto. As the team navigates these injuries, the coaching staff continues to hope for positive updates on Stolarz’s condition.
