The Toronto Maple Leafs have battled a multitude of injuries this season, and it appears their roster challenges aren’t ending anytime soon. The team took to their X account this morning to announce that goaltender Joseph Woll has been placed on injured reserve, retroactive to December 4th.

The Maple Leafs have recalled G Artur Akhtyamov from the Toronto Marlies (AHL).

G Joe Woll (lower body) has been placed on injured reserve retroactive to December 4.

— Leafs PR (@LeafsPR) December 6, 2025

Woll exited Thursday night’s game against the Carolina Hurricanes following the second period. The injury appeared to occur after he made a pad save, and he was visibly seen trying to shake off the discomfort on the ice.

Testing Toronto’s Depth in Net

Following his exit, Woll was spotted with the team massage therapist and osteopathic practitioner, leading to speculation that the issue is muscular in nature. If Woll is expected to miss extended time, this will severely test the Maple Leafs’ depth in net.

With Anthony Stolarz already sidelined and unable to practice, the Leafs are forced to turn to Dennis Hildeby. Options are limited, particularly after Cayden Primeau was reclaimed off waivers by the Carolina Hurricanes last month.

Youth Movement: Akhtyamov Recalled

To address the immediate vacancy, the Leafs announced today that they have recalled Artur Akhtyamov from the Toronto Marlies. He is expected to serve as the backup tonight against the Montreal Canadiens. In 12 games with the Marlies this season, “AA” holds a 7-5-0 record, a .894 save percentage, and a 3.04 goals-against average.

Entering the season, the Leafs felt their goaltending was an area of significant strength. That strength is now being put to the test as the team implements a forced youth movement in the crease. Fortunately, Dennis Hildeby has been solid this year; in 7 appearances, he boasts a 2.86 goals-against average and a .891 save percentage.

The Road Ahead

Having recently tightened up their defensive play, the Leafs cannot afford to fall into old habits. Their young goaltenders are going to need significant support over the coming games. Hopefully, for the team’s sake, the prospects can find their game quickly, or one of the veterans can return to full health sooner rather than later. 

This injury also presents a unique opportunity for the Leafs to showcase their goalies, who have drawn interest from around the league. If Hildeby can show some flashes of brilliance it could help the Leafs as they near the trade deadline, with surplus value in a potential trade. Alternatively this could allow the Leafs to potentially move either Woll or Stolarz, if they feel they’ve found a more cost effective option in goal.Â