Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
New Leafs acquisition Troy Stecher has made a statement about Joseph Woll that really puts how important he’s been for the team into perspective.
Joseph Woll is back in the spotlight with the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the early signs are promising. After returning to full team activities, he’s showing why the Leafs kept faith in him through the toughest of times.
The goaltender has settled into his net with poise, posting a dominant win on Wednesday in Columbus, and even new arrival Troy Stecher couldn’t help but applaud him.
“I’ve been here four games and he’s been our best player all four.” – Stecher on Woll
The confidence from teammates and coaches isn’t unfounded. Woll has earned a reputation for steady, composed play under pressure, including in playoff scenarios where his calm demeanour helped stabilize the net.
He now gets the chance to carry that as the Leafs’ primary option in goal, backing up the team’s defence when veteran options have struggled for consistency.
Woll’s return may reset Leafs’ goaltending stability
He’s not just breaking even — Woll is making a statement that he belongs. When Anthony Stolarz and other netminders faltered early this season, Woll’s return gave the Leafs a needed reset.
The fact that Stecher, himself new to Toronto’s roster, already ranks Woll as the team’s top performer says a lot about how Woll’s been viewed locker room-wide.
If Woll stays healthy and sharp, he could anchor the Leafs’ season between the pipes. The backing from defence and steady composure in net could make the difference as Toronto fights through a tough stretch and seeks consistency.
Previously on Toronto Hockey Daily