Stolarz or Woll: The Maple Leafs’ Goaltending Debate Reaches a Crossroads

2 days ago  /  NHL Trade Rumors  /  Read Time: 1 minute 36 seconds

The Maple Leafs secured a crucial 3-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, thanks to a two-goal outburst from John Tavares and a stellar performance from goaltender Anthony Stolarz. The win was a much-needed boost for Stolarz, who has had his struggles lately, and it couldn’t have come at a better time—with Toronto’s playoff goaltending situation still up in the air.Now, as the Leafs prepare for the second leg of their back-to-back against the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday, the big question is: Who gets the start?Should the team ride the hot hand and give Stolarz another chance after his strong showing? Or should Joseph Woll get the nod, offering him a shot at redemption?Unsurprisingly, the debate is heating up among fans and analysts alike, with no clear consensus in sight.Stolarz vs. Woll: The Great Goaltending DebateTo say the decision is divisive would be an understatement. Both netminders have made cases for the playoff starter role this season—and both have also raised doubts about their ability to handle the pressure.For some, this discussion won’t end until the Leafs’ playoff run does (whenever that may be).While many are firmly aboard the Stolarz train...I actually agree with Simpson wholeheartedly: Keep Stolarz in net tomorrow night. He’s our best goalie and there’s no reason to make him sit.— Vive le Canada 🇨🇦 (@PatCSportsFan) March 30, 2025others are less than entertained by the idea of starting the goalie two times in a row:   Yeah, no, don't play Stolarz tomorrow. Give him Florida.— James Mirtle (@mirtle) March 30, 2025 I'm sorry but is Craig Simpson smoking crack??? Why the fuck would you play stolarz tomorrow against fucking Anaheim Fuck no, he already had a surgery on his knee No reason to fucking play him on a back to back Woll needs to find his game— KEONGOATMAN (@KeonGOATman) March 30, 2025On paper, giving Woll a shot against a weaker Anaheim team (instead of, say, the Panthers) makes sense. But his recent performances against lower-tier opponents haven’t inspired much confidence: five goals allowed to San Jose, four to Nashville, five to Pittsburgh. In fact, he’s held opponents to two goals or fewer in just four of his last 11 games.That said, Woll’s overall numbers aren’t terrible—a 24-13-1 record with a 2.80 GAA and .905 SV%, plus one shutout. But Stolarz, despite not being flawless, has been more reliable. His 15-8-3 record, 2.40 GAA, and .917 SV% (with one shutout) are stronger—though there’s a catch: his last injury came against Anaheim, the very team he’d face Sunday.So Who Gets the Net?The debate rages on. While Stolarz seems like the safer choice moving forward, nothing’s set in stone. The ideal scenario? Both goalies find consistency, giving the Leafs the luxury of two dependable options—freeing up the offense to play aggressively, knowing the crease is secure. Image - Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn  ...

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