Toronto Maple Leafs

Devils’ Say Maple Leafs “Stolarz” Win as Matthews Scores In OT

Last night, the Toronto Maple Leafs won a game they should’ve lost against the New Jersey Devils. How did Anthony Stolarz lead the team?

by
Old Prof
December 11, 2024

Anthony Stolarz stole the spotlight on Tuesday night, delivering a jaw-dropping performance in the Toronto Maple Leafs’ 2-1 overtime win against the New Jersey Devils. The Devils dominated play from the opening puck drop, but Stolarz was up to the challenge. He made 38 saves and gave the Maple Leafs a chance to grab two points in a game they had no business winning.

Stolarz Puts Up a Hometown Game for the Ages

For Stolarz, a New Jersey native born in Edison, this wasn’t just another game. With around 40 family members and friends in the stands, the 29-year-old netminder rose to the occasion in front of his home-state crowd. The Devils came out firing, registering seven shots in the first five minutes and 15 in the opening period alone. Stolarz remained unfazed. He showed his quick reflexes and calmness under pressure.

His ability to track the puck through traffic and handle high-danger opportunities was apparent throughout the game. Perhaps his most memorable moment came during the third period when Maple Leafs defenseman Conor Timmins accidentally deflected a clearing attempt toward the Toronto net. Stolarz’s lightning-quick reaction prevented what could have been a disastrous own goal.

Stolarz Gets Praise from Former Maple Leafs Coach Sheldon Keefe

Even Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe couldn’t help but admire Stolarz’s performance, saying after the game, “They [Toronto] have the best goaltending in the league.” Coming from an opponent who watched his team generate 4.53 expected goals and outshoot Toronto 39-12, it was high praise indeed.

Stolarz of the Maple Leafs picks up a win over the Devils.

The Devils threw everything they had at Stolarz, from point-blank chances to scrambles in the crease, but he held his ground. His performance epitomized poise under pressure, as he repeatedly bailed out the Maple Leafs’ defensive lapses.

Stolarz made 38 saves, including 16 in the first period and several game-saving stops late in regulation. Toronto wouldn’t have reached overtime without his heroics. Without him, it would have been another loss for Blue and White. He, almost alone, secured the win.

What’s Next for Stolarz and the Leafs?

Tuesday’s game could mark a turning point in Stolarz’s season. He’s shown flashes of brilliance in previous outings, but this performance solidifies his role as a key leader for the Maple Leafs. With Toronto’s defensive play still a work in progress, the team will rely heavily on their goaltenders. Good on Stolarz; he’s proved he’s more than up to the task.

The Maple Leafs return to action on Thursday night, hosting the Anaheim Ducks. With the Maple Leafs struggling to find consistency in other areas of their game, having two solid goaltenders—Joseph Woll has been equally impressive—capable of stealing games is invaluable.