"Despite long-term commitments to two of their veteran goaltenders, the Toronto Maple Leafs may be facing an unexpected shift in their crease plans. Dennis Hildeby's strong and timely breakout performance has quickly changed the team's internal goaltending picture. With the organization short on desirable trade assets, his emergence could force management to rethink who they're willing to move. The stable, top-tier tandem from 2024-25 now looks far more fluid"
"In 2024-25, Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz formed one of the league's best goaltending tandems. Each reached new personal bests in games played, and they became the first pair of Maple Leafs' goaltenders to reach twenty victories in the same season. Stolarz parlayed his stellar first year in Toronto into a four-year contract extension that kicks in next year and runs through 2029-30, his age 35 season."
"Woll is in the first season of a three-year deal that expires in 2027-28. Leading into the 2025-26 season, the Leafs' long-term goaltending situation seemed secure. Then, the injury history of Toronto's incumbents reared its ugly head. Stolarz has been out of action with a mysterious upper-body injury since November 11, with no sign of returning anytime soon. Woll started his season late due to a personal leave, performed admirably in his eight appearances, before being felled by a lower-body injury on December 4."
Dennis Hildeby's timely breakout has altered the Maple Leafs' internal goaltending picture and may change trade priorities given limited desirable assets. Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz delivered a top-tier tandem in 2024-25, each posting career highs and combining for twenty wins apiece. Stolarz signed a four-year extension through 2029-30, and Woll is on a three-year deal through 2027-28. Both veterans have experienced injuries this season, keeping them apart and creating uncertainty about availability. Hildeby's NHL comfort and performances are prompting general manager Brad Treliving to reassess future moves and roster structure.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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