The Toronto Maple Leafs played Game 2 of their postseason series against the Florida Panthers with backup goalie Joseph Woll. To his credit, Woll did put together a strong game for Toronto and helped them grab the victory.
But the Maple Leafs were forced to use Woll due to a scary injury to starting goalie Anthony Stolarz. Stolarz was in a collision with Panthers forward Sam Bennett during Game 1 and was forced off the ice on a stretcher.
Advertisement
Stolarz went to the hospital, but was discharged. Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said that he was recovering ahead of Game 2.
Now, Berube has given a new update on the potential game status of Stolarz for Game 3.
“I doubt it,” Berube said Thursday. “Not right away.”
Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz (41) grimaces after a collision with Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett (not pictured) during the second period.John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
If Stolarz can’t go, which seems to be the direction this is heading, Woll will be given another start in the net. The Maple Leafs have faith in Woll, especially after his strong performance in Game 2.
Woll discussed the situation and how he has been staying ready amid the uncertainty.
“It’s something I had to focus on and come up with a plan to stay ready as well as I can,” Woll said. “It’s a different challenge from the one where you play every night but a challenge, nonetheless. And I think I’ve done what I’ve needed to do to prepare to be in this spot.”
Advertisement
Game 3 of this series will see the scene shift from Toronto to Florida. Puck drop is scheduled for Friday, May 9, at 7 p.m. ET.
Related: Ducks’ Joel Quenneville Releases Statement After Coaching Announcement