Maple Leafs’ Anthony Stolarz Leaves Game 1 Against Panthers After Taking Hits to Head
Stolarz Exits Mid-Second Period; Joseph Woll Steps Up in Relief
The Toronto Maple Leafs secured a thrilling 5-4 victory against the Florida Panthers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Second Round at Scotiabank Arena on Monday. However, the triumph came at a cost as starting goaltender Anthony Stolarz left the game midway through the second period following two significant hits to the head.
Stolarz’ Eventful Night
- Made eight saves on nine shots before departing at 10:14 of the second period.
- Had his mask dislodged on two occasions – first by a shot from Sam Reinhart in the first period, and again by contact with Sam Bennett’s arm in the second.
- Was seen vomiting at the bench during a television timeout, signaling the goaltending change.
“It’s tough to see. You never want to see a teammate not feeling well like that.”
— Joseph Woll
Woll Steps In, Maple Leafs Hold Onto Victory
- Joseph Woll entered the game and made 17 saves, earning his first postseason win since April 17.
- Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube stated that Stolarz was still being evaluated post-game.
- Game 2 of the best-of-7 series is set for Wednesday, 7 p.m. ET, at Scotiabank Arena.
Stolarz’ Stellar Postseason so Far
- Stolarz, who started all seven games for the Maple Leafs in the postseason, went 4-2 with a 2.21 GAA and .901 save percentage against the Ottawa Senators in the first round.
- Defenseman Chris Tanev praised Stolarz: “He’s been our rock all year. I can’t say enough about him.”
Did you know?
Joseph Woll has been a reliable backup goaltender for the Maple Leafs throughout the season. In the regular season, he posted a 27-14-1 record with a 2.73 GAA and .909 save percentage.
Looking Ahead
The Maple Leafs will hope for Stolarz’s speedy recovery as they prepare to face the Panthers again in Game 2. Woll’s strong performance serves as a reassuring backup plan for head coach Craig Berube.
247Sports.News will continue to monitor Stolarz’s condition and provide updates as they become available.
What does this mean for the Maple Leafs?
The Maple Leafs will have to rely on Woll for Game 2, but his performance in relief should give them confidence in their backup plan. Stolarz’s health will be crucial for their postseason run, so fans and the organization will eagerly await updates on his condition.
Stay Tuned!
Catch all the action and updates from Game 2 on CBC, TVAS, SN, and ESPN. Leave your thoughts on Stolarz’s injury and the Maple Leafs’ performance in the comments section below. Let’s keep the conversation going!