The Maple Leafs’ Goalie Problem Just Got Harder To Ignore

The Toronto Maple Leafs are out of excuses when it comes to their goaltending. What was once a mild worry has become a real concern— and Saturday’s loss to the Boston Bruins offered up additional reasons to wonder what’s next. “We all got to be better, including the goalie,” head coach Craig Berube said postgame.

Anthony Stolarz, who earned a multi-year extension after a breakout 2024-25 season, was pulled after giving up four goals on 19 shots. His save percentage has fallen below .890, and his confidence has taken a hit.

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Toronto, which ranked fourth in save percentage last season, now sits near the bottom of the league in goals against per game. There are too many chances against, but Stolarz knows he has to be better. “I got to bear down, make a save. I mean, giving up the first two shots? Not a good way to start the game,” he said.

Related: Maple Leafs Recall Dennis Hildeby After Losing Goalie to the Hurricanes

Stolarz then apologized to backup Dennis Hildeby, who was unexpectedly called upon to take over in goal when Stolarz got pulled. “He was awesome. I mean, I put him in a s— situation,” Stolarz said. “But he came in and handled it like a true pro and played well.”

So what now? While the Leafs wait for Joseph Woll to return, Berube suggested Stolarz was starting to show signs of fatigue. If he can’t be relied upon to take on additional starts, where do the Maple Leafs turn?

Woll’s upcoming return should help — but there are no guarantees there. Woll has battled consistency and injuries, and there is a serious risk of overreliance on him. Hildeby might see more backup time, but that means running with three goalies and asking him to take on too much too soon comes with risks as well.

Do The Maple Leafs Look for Help Somewhere Else?

That leaves GM Brad Treliving in a familiar spot: looking for help. The waiver wire hasn’t offered much, and with Cayden Primeau lost to Carolina, Toronto’s depth has thinned even more. Don’t be surprised if the Leafs quietly check in on a short-term veteran.

It’s early, but the warning signs are starting to appear. Stolarz might get another chance, Woll might steady the crease, but Treliving, who has a reputation as one of the most active GMs in the NHL, has to be picking up the phone and making calls behind the scenes.

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