Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz has been ruled out of action following a concerning injury sustained during Tuesday night’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, the team announced Wednesday. Stolarz took a puck to the throat in the first period, prompting an immediate stoppage in play and a visit to the dressing room. The incident occurred after a Tampa Bay player unleashed a slapshot from the blue line, which found its mark and forced the goaltender to exit the game.
The 29-year-old netminder, acquired by Toronto in a February trade deadline deal, was replaced by backup goalie Joseph Woll, who stepped in to stop 31 of 32 shots in a 3-2 overtime victory for the Maple Leafs. Medical evaluations confirmed that Stolarz suffered a throat contusion, though initial reports suggest no fractures or internal bleeding were detected. The team has placed him on injured reserve while he undergoes further assessment and recovery.
Stolarz’s absence adds to a growing list of injury concerns for Toronto’s goaltending corps. Woll, who has appeared in six games this season, will likely start in net when the Maple Leafs face the Ottawa Senators on Thursday night, pending Stolarz’s recovery timeline. The team has not yet provided a definitive return date for Stolarz, leaving the door open for reassessment in the coming days.
The Maple Leafs organization expressed gratitude for the support shown to Stolarz, stating in a release that the goaltender was in good spirits following the incident but would continue to be monitored closely. The injury underscores the inherent risks of the position, particularly in a high-tempo game against a potent offensive team like the Lightning.
For now, Toronto’s coaching staff will rely on Woll to stabilize the crease as the team navigates a stretch of critical games. The Maple Leafs currently hold a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference but will need to address their goaltending depth to maintain momentum down the stretch.
Original Source: Read original article