Maple Leafs’ Stolarz to Make Playoff Debut Against Senators

In a move that has been the talk of Toronto, coach Craig Berube has confirmed that goaltender Anthony Stolarz will make his postseason debut, starting in net for the Maple Leafs in Game 1 against the Ottawa Senators. The announcement, made on the heels of NHL.com, brings an air of intrigue to the first round of the playoffs, with many questioning the decision to start the largely untested netminder over the more experienced Jack Campbell.

“I don’t know if it’s a challenge,” Berube said, addressing the media. “I think it’s a good thing that we have two guys capable of doing the job. That’s a good situation to be in.” Maple Leafs Hotstove

Preparing for the unknown

Stolarz, 27, has spent the majority of the season backing up Campbell, tallying a modest 8-6-2 record in 17 starts. While he sports a respectable 2.26 goals-against average (GAA) and a .913 save percentage (SV%), the Queens, N.Y., native has never suited up for a playoff game.

“He’s up for the task,” said Berube, who expressed confidence in his decision. “He’s been preparing for this all season long.”

Voicing support

Despite Stolarz’s lack of playoff experience, general manager Brad Treliving has thrown his support behind the decision. Treliving shrugged off Stolarz’s lack of playoff experience, telling reporters, “Playoff hockey is a skill, not a secret.”

Did you know?

Only once in the last decade has Toronto started a goaltender in his postseason debut in the first round (James Reimer in 2013).

The verdict

While Campbell’s resume may seem more impressive on paper, the opportunistic Stolarz has proven himself a capable netminder throughout the season. Berube’s decision to go with the hot hand should not come as a surprise to fans, who will have to wait until Wednesday night to see if it pays off when the Maple Leafs face off against the Senators.