Maple Leafs goalie adheres to Auston Matthews’ advice after puck accident

The Toronto Maple Leafs avoided a major setback after goaltender Anthony Stolarz recovered from a frightening pregame incident. The veteran took a puck to the throat during warmups before Saturday’s NHL game against the Ottawa Senators, forcing him out of the lineup.

While the moment raised concern, Stolarz has since returned to practice and is expected to be available for upcoming games.

Speaking during a recent media appearance, Stolarz addressed the incident calmly and shared insight into the play. He explained that shots like that are part of a goalie’s reality.

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“No, no. I told him it happens,” Stolarz said, referring to teammate William Nylander, whose shot caused the injury. He added that Nylander consistently targets the same area, but this attempt rose unexpectedly.

“It’s been a hundred and sixty games I’ve had Willie through the last two years, and watching him every game, he, he always goes in the same spot, and he always shoots that, that glove area, and this one just kinda – it was just a riser.”

Stolarz described the situation as routine risk in his position. He made it clear there was no blame, calling it “a one-off” and something goalies must accept.

“It’s something that happens,” Stolarz said. “Pucks bounce, pucks, you know, continue to fly up. So, you know, yeah, he’s good. It’s a one-off and, you know, I’m sure it’ll happen again whether it’s, you know, him or someone else. So like I said, it’s an occupational hazard being a goalie and, just something you start to deal with next time.”

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Stolarz also revealed advice from team captain Auston Matthews following the incident. Stolarz said Matthews told him, “Next time, just keep your chin tucked.”

The goalie acknowledged the tip and added, “I’ll keep that in mind for next time.”

Despite the scare, Stolarz’s return brings stability to a Maple Leafs squad battling inconsistency. Toronto remains outside the playoff picture and needs strong performances down the stretch. With Stolarz back in the mix, the team regains depth in goal.

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