The Toronto Maple Leafs’ Goaltending Update
The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a mix of positive and concerning developments in their goaltending department.
Joseph Woll is set to return to the net and start against the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday, as confirmed by head coach Craig Berube.
Woll’s last appearance was on Dec. 3 against the Carolina Hurricanes, where he left the game during the second period due to a lower-body injury. Dennis Hildeby stepped in for Woll and helped secure a 5-1 victory for the Leafs.
During Woll’s absence, 24-year-old Hildeby has performed admirably, showcasing his skills by stopping 33 of 34 shots in a close 2-1 shootout loss to the Montreal Canadiens and achieving a solid 29-save shutout against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Woll had been delivering impressive performances before his injury, boasting a .928 save percentage and a 2.44 goals-against average in eight games this season leading up to the matchup with the Blackhawks.
Hildeby will assume the role of Woll’s backup on Tuesday, with expectations of starting one of the upcoming back-to-back games this weekend.
Additionally, an update on Anthony Stolarz was provided by Berube, revealing that Stolarz, who has been sidelined since Nov. 11 due to an undisclosed ailment, has yet to return to the ice in any capacity. Berube clarified that the injury is unrelated to a concussion.
Despite high hopes for Stolarz’s recovery, Berube expressed concern over the lack of progress with his condition, stating that the goaltender is currently consulting another specialist.
Stolarz faced a setback during the mid-November game against the Boston Bruins, where he was removed after the first period. The 31-year-old had taken on significant responsibilities at the start of the season, starting 13 of the Leafs’ 17 games while Woll handled a personal matter.
Injuries have plagued Stolarz in the past, with a previous concussion during the playoffs and a knee injury that sidelined him for over a month in the 2024-25 regular season.
As the Leafs prepare to take on the Blackhawks, they find themselves second to last in the Atlantic Division with 33 points, having lost their last two games.