Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz set to take the reigns as number 1 goalie in Toronto?
When Stolarz struck a deal with the Maple Leafs at the start of free agency, the common perception of the deal was that he’d be coming to Toronto as sophomore goaltender Joseph Woll’s number two. However, Panthers star forward Sam Reinhart revealed this week that it’s just as reasonable to think that Stolarz can come in and not only press Woll for starts, but actually become the Leafs’ number one goaltender.
“[Stolarz] has a good chance to be that goalie for that organization that they’ve needed,” said Reinhart this week, insinuating that he could be the starter this season.
Reinhart also spoke of Stolarz’s contributions to the Panthers on their Cup run and his high quality character, which should fit in very well in a tight-knit Leafs locker room. In addition, he delivered a little jab towards his friend and former goaltender.
“He was unbelievable. One, his personality off the ice is top-notch. It’s something that anyone would want in their room So I’m excited to see (that happen) for him as a person. Obviously, I hope he doesn’t do too well, against us at least. But I wish nothing but the best for him and that opportunity. It’s something that’s deserved through a lot of hard work.”
Whether Stolarz can maintain his tremendous play across a larger number of games in Toronto remains to be seen, but if he can produce numbers comparable to the ones he posted last season, a 16-7-2 record with a .925 SV% and a 2.03 GAA, then perhaps we will see Stolarz getting the lion’s share of the starts in Toronto in 2024-25.
