Anthony Stolarz injury: HC Craig Berube provides hopeful update on Maple Leafs goalie's return

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz has been out of action for almost a month now after suffering a knee injury in a game on Dec. 12 against the Anaheim Ducks. His original timeline was an absence of four weeks, which would have a potential return in the next few weeks.

Leafs coach Craig Berube provided an update on the netminder's status after Saturday's morning skate. It appears Stolarz still has some hurdles to clear before joining the team at practice.

"I think Stolarz will be on his own for a bit (on the ice), but I expect that soon, like maybe this week, I hope that he can get on the ice and do some things. With us, I don't know yet," Berube said.

Somewhat optimistic yet noncommittal comments from the coach. By the sounds of it, we shouldn't expect to see Stolarz in between the pipes for another week or two. His return date will crystallize once he begins to participate in practice with teammates.

Anthony Stolarz had a tremendous start to his Maple Leafs tenure. In his first 17 starts in the Blue and White, the 30-year-old had a record of 9-5-2, with a 2.15 goals-against average, a .927 save percentage and one shutout. Toronto will certainly welcome his return whenever he gets back to full health.

Joseph Woll has stepped up in Anthony Stolarz's injury absence

In Anthony Stolarz's lengthy injury absence, his partner Joseph Woll has taken charge. The 26-year-old has started 11 games since Stolarz went down, where he's gone 7-4-0 with a 2.94 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage.

Woll's strong play has his overall record up to 14-7-0, with a 2.58 goals-against average, a .912 save percentage and one shutout. The most impressive part of Woll's 2024-25 season has been his durability. The third-round pick back in 2016 has made 21 appearances as we sit at the halfway mark of the season. This will soon surpass his previous career high of 25 appearances in 2023-24.

Without their $5,000,000 offseason signing, the Maple Leafs will continue to rely on Joseph Woll to be available for them. Availability is the best ability.

Woll will have the night off on Saturday as backup goaltender Dennis Hildeby gets the start when the Maple Leafs host the reeling Vancouver Canucks. The puck drops at 7 p.m. EST at Scotiabank Arena.