Goaltender Anthony Stolarz Will Reportedly Return Later Than the Maple Leafs Originally Planned
Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz is working his way back into the lineup following a procedure on his knee and the process has been no joke.
When Anthony Stolarz went down with a knee injury, Maple Leafs fans were devastated as the goaltender was playing some of the best hockey of his career.
However, he is now set to resume skating this week and this development has led to speculation concerning when he will officially be ready to play.
Anthony Stolarz to return to the Toronto Maple Leafs very soon
According to a new report from Darren Dreger, the hope was that Stolarz would be ready to go by the end of January.
Unfortunately, that is not looking likely. Instead, it is believed that the goaltender will return in early February.
"Anthony Stolarz is progressing well and is expected to start skating on his own soon (per Craig Berube). This situation is unique because he underwent a procedure on his knee.
The first step is always getting back on the ice, testing the leg, and seeing how it feels before gradually easing into a routine. Once he can join the practice rotation, it will be a positive sign.
There was hope he might be ready to play by the end of January, but early February could now be seen as more realistic."
For now, the team is getting passable goaltending from the likes of Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby.
Woll is a potential starter going forward, however, it is clear that Hildeby still needs some work in the minors before becoming a true NHL backup.
As for Stolarz, his 2.15 goals-against average and .927 save percentage have fans believing he will be the guy the Leafs roll with come playoff time.
Hopefully, the goaltender's return to the ice goes smoothly and he doesn't re-aggravate the injury.
Goalies are hard to come by and if this season has proven anything, it is that Stolarz is on the cusp of something great.
POLL |
JANVIER 13 | 342 ANSWERS Goaltender Anthony Stolarz Will Reportedly Return Later Than the Maple Leafs Originally Planned Do you believe Anthony Stolarz will officially become the Toronto Maple Leafs starter? |
YES | 299 | 87.4 % |
NO | 43 | 12.6 % |
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