Joseph Woll’s Absence Forces Maple Leafs to Seek Goalie Solution Against Canadiens
The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up for their season opener against the Montreal Canadiens on Wednesday night, but they will do so without one of their key players in goal. Joseph Woll’s unexpected absence has thrust Anthony Stolarz into a prominent role, as the team navigates this early season challenge.
Woll’s Leave of Absence
Joseph Woll will not be available as he takes a leave of absence to address a personal family matter. This announcement came from the Maple Leafs earlier this week, just days before the season’s start. Despite being included on the team’s opening night roster by the Monday deadline, Woll’s situation has left the franchise scrambling for solutions.
To fill the void during Woll’s absence, the Maple Leafs made a strategic move by claiming goalie Cayden Primeau off waivers. This decision aims to provide Stolarz with support as he steps into the primary goaltending role.
General Manager’s Insight
General Manager Brad Treliving addressed the situation on Tuesday, expressing cautious optimism about Woll’s progress. “We think things are progressing well, but I can’t give you a timeframe right now,” Treliving stated, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding when Woll might return to the ice.
Woll’s Performance and Importance
Woll, now in his fifth NHL season, had a standout year in 2024-25, showcasing his potential as a reliable goaltender. He finished the season with a record of 27 wins, 14 losses, and 1 overtime loss, complemented by a save percentage of 90.9 and a goals against average of 2.73. His size and skill—standing at 6-foot-3 and catching left-handed—make him a crucial component of the Maple Leafs’ strategy this season.
As Woll addresses his personal matters, the team’s hopes will rest heavily on Stolarz’s ability to perform under pressure. The Maple Leafs are prepared for a challenging start to the season, but with a solid backup in Primeau, they aim to navigate these turbulent waters effectively.
Looking Ahead
While the absence of Woll is undeniably a setback, the Maple Leafs are keen on ensuring their goaltending situation remains stable. As the team prepares for the high stakes of the season opener, all eyes will be on Stolarz to deliver in a critical moment, while fans await Woll’s return to the crease.
