Maple Leafs Coach Issues Anthony Stolarz's Tentative Return Timeline

The Toronto Maple Leafs will be without goaltender Anthony Stolarz as they head to Sunrise for Games 3 and 4 of their second-round series against the Florida Panthers.

Stolarz remained in Toronto this week, still recovering from an injury sustained in Game 1.

Stolarz exited midway through the second period Monday after taking a hit to the side of the head from Panthers forward Sam Bennett.

He was seen vomiting near the bench and was taken out on a stretcher before being evaluated at a local hospital. No penalty was issued on the play, and the NHL Department of Player Safety did not review it.

The Leafs have not confirmed if Stolarz is in concussion protocol, and head coach Craig Berube confirmed Thursday that Stolarz would not make the trip to Florida.

“I doubt it,” Berube said. “Not right away.”

Berube also revealed that he hadn’t seen the goaltender that morning at practice and declined to elaborate on his medical status. That said, when asked about a potential return later in the series, Berube left the possibility open.

“Well, anything’s possible,” Berube said. “I mean, I don’t have an answer for ya for that right now.”

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz (41) goes to adjust his helmet during a stoppage of play at Scotiabank Arena.John E&period; Sokolowski-Imagn Images

In his absence, Joseph Woll made his first postseason start Wednesday in Game 2 and stopped 25 of 28 shots in Toronto’s 4-3 win over the Panthers.

“It’s a different challenge than playing every night,” Woll said. “But a challenge nonetheless.”

Berube, meanwhile, praised Woll’s performance.

“Calm and cool,” Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube said. “On his toes and fighting through traffic. Very impressed.”

Toronto leads the best-of-seven series 2-0, with the series shifting to Florida for Games 3 and 4. Game 3 is scheduled for Friday at Amerant Bank Arena, with puck drop at 7 p.m. ET.

Maple Leafs Coach Issues Anthony Stolarz’s Tentative Return Timeline

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