Toronto Maple Leafs Welcome Back Goaltender Anthony Stolarz After Extended Injury Absence
The Toronto Maple Leafs are poised to receive a significant reinforcement as goaltender Anthony Stolarz prepares to return to the nets following a prolonged absence due to an upper-body injury. This development comes as a welcome boost for the team, which has been navigating recent challenges without their key netminder.
Coach Confirms Stolarz's Return Against Vegas Golden Knights
Toronto Maple Leafs head coach has officially confirmed that Anthony Stolarz will get the starting nod in the upcoming matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights at Scotiabank Arena. This marks Stolarz's first NHL start in more than two months, with his last appearance dating back to November 11, 2026.
"It's a huge boost," coach Craig Berube told reporters after Friday's morning skate. "He's been working hard, and he's ready to go, so we gotta get him in there at some point. He's good to go, and we're very happy he's back."
Injury Timeline and Recovery Process
Stolarz has been sidelined since November 11, 2026, with an upper-body injury that was initially believed to be a short-term issue but ultimately required extended recovery time. The goaltender last played against the Boston Bruins more than two months ago, exiting the game early due to what was later described as a nerve issue.
The recovery process encountered setbacks, with Stolarz not skating for over a month after suffering complications. He consulted with specialists before gradually working his way back into practice sessions through a carefully managed rehabilitation program.
Conditioning Stint and Recent Preparations
In preparation for his return, the Maple Leafs assigned Stolarz to the American Hockey League's Toronto Marlies on Tuesday for a conditioning stint. This move provided the goaltender with additional practice opportunities before rejoining the NHL lineup.
During recent weeks, Stolarz has been actively participating in various practice sessions and even traveled with the team during their Western road trip, indicating his progressing readiness for game action.
Season Performance and Team Context
Before his injury, Stolarz had compiled six wins in 13 games played this season, recording a 3.51 goals-against average and an .884 save percentage. His return comes at a crucial time for the Maple Leafs, who currently sit sixth in the Atlantic Division with a 24-17-9 record, having lost their last two games and trailing the Boston Bruins by three points.
The Vegas Golden Knights, their upcoming opponents, have also dropped their last two games but maintain first place in the Pacific Division with a 24-13-12 record, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup between teams seeking to regain momentum.
Significance of Stolarz's Return
The return of Anthony Stolarz represents more than just personnel reinforcement for the Toronto Maple Leafs. It provides:
- Enhanced goaltending depth and options for the coaching staff
- Psychological boost for teammates during a competitive stretch
- Potential stabilization of defensive performances
- Opportunity to build consistency in net as the season progresses
As the Maple Leafs prepare to face the Vegas Golden Knights, all eyes will be on Stolarz as he makes his long-awaited return to NHL action, bringing both skill and resilience back to Toronto's crease after overcoming significant injury challenges.
