Breaking News: Maple Leafs’ Goalkeeper Joseph Woll Returns for Crucial Game 2 After Anthony Stolarz’s Injury; Ekblad Back for Panthers Following Suspension

Woll Steps Up as Maple Leafs Rely on Reliable Backup in Game 2

Toronto Maple Leafs fans can breathe a sigh of relief, as goaltender Joseph Woll is set to take the reins in Game 2 of the team’s second-round Stanley Cup playoff series against the Florida Panthers on Wednesday. Woll’s composure under pressure has been a beacon of hope for the Leafs in the past, and as starter Anthony Stolarz recovers from injury, the 26-year-old netminder is ready to shine once again.

Woll: A Steady Presence in the Crease

The Leafs have high hopes for Woll, who they drafted in the third round in 2016. Captain Auston Matthews praised Woll’s calm demeanor and focus, saying, “He’s extremely focused, does all the right things.” Head coach Craig Berube echoed this sentiment, opting for Woll’s experience over rookie Dennis Hildeby as backup in Game 1.

Woll entered Game 1 midway through the second period after Stolarz took an elbow to the head from Sam Bennett. Despite the high-pressure situation, Woll held strong, stopping 17 of 20 shots to help the Leafs secure a thrilling 5-4 overtime victory. His .910 save percentage in 78 regular-season games and .950 in four playoff starts (including the 2023 playoffs) speak to his reliability.

Stolarz Injury and Concussion Concerns

Stolarz was injured in the second period of Game 1, taking an elbow to the head from former Panthers teammate Sam Bennett. After initially attempting to continue, Stolarz vomiting on the ice and was taken to hospital for evaluation. Concussion specialist Chris Nowinski expressed concern about the situation, stating that Stolarz displayed possible concussion signs but was not removed for assessment.

This incident has raised questions about the NHL’s concussion protocol. Stolarz rejoined his teammates the next day, but his status for Game 2 remains uncertain. Berube left the door open for Stolarz to play, but veteran Matt Murray will serve as Woll’s backup, providing valuable playoff experience.

Panthers’ Aaron Ekblad Returns from Suspension

As the Leafs’ goalie situation unfolds, the Panthers will welcome back defenceman Aaron Ekblad after serving a two-game suspension for an illegal check to the head of Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brandon Hagel. Ekblad, the first overall pick in 2014, expressed remorse for the incident and vowed to move on from the “whirlwind” of a season.

Did you know? Woll’s Resilience in the Postseason

“He’s just mentally very resilient, very strong,” Matthews said of Woll. In 2023, Woll helped the Leafs stave off elimination in the second round against Florida, posting a .941 save percentage in the decisive Game 5 loss. Last season, he started two games against the Boston Bruins with stellar performances, posting a .929 save percentage.

Pro tip Importance of Depth in net

Having reliable goaltending depth can be the catalyst for a team’s playoff run. Woll’s performance in Game 1 is a testament to that. Here’s how the Leafs’ depth chart compares to other recent Stanley Cup winners:

• 2021 Tampa Bay Lightning: Andrei Vasilevskiy, Curtis McElhinney
• 2020 Tampa Bay Lightning: Andrei Vasilevskiy, Keith Kinkaid/Curtis McElhinney
• 2019 St. Louis Blues: Jordan Binnington, Jake Allen/Chad Johnson
• 2018 Washington Capitals: Braden Holtby, Philipp Grubauer

FAQ

Will Anthony Stolarz play in Game 2?

As of now, Craig Berube has left the door open for Stolarz, but Matt Murray will serve as Woll’s backup.

How has Joseph Woll performed in the playoffs?

Woll has a .950 save percentage in four career playoff starts, posting solid numbers in key situations for the Maple Leafs.

Looking Ahead: Woll’s Opportunity to Shine

With the 2023 playoffs shaping up to be another grueling test, the Maple Leafs will rely on Woll’s steadfastness in the crease. As the only Leafs goaltender with a winning record in the playoffs, Woll’s ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments could be the missing piece in Toronto’s quest for the Stanley Cup.

Final Thoughts and Call-to-Action

What do you think, hockey fans? Will Joseph Woll continue his impressive playoff run in Game 2? Can the Maple Leafs rely on their depth in net to secure a victory against the Panthers? Share your thoughts and predictions below, and stay tuned for more breaking news and analysis from 247Sports!