Toronto Maple Leafs

Time for Maple Leafs to Showcase Matt Murray

Stanley Cup winning goalie Matt Murray is in the Toronto Maple Leafs system. Will the Maple Leafs use Murray to take Anthony Stolarz place?

by
Old Prof
December 18, 2024

One name that has quietly flown under the radar for the Toronto Maple Leafs this season is Matt Murray. A two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Murray’s pedigree as a postseason performer cannot be understated. However, despite his accomplished career, he’s mostly overlooked in the goalie conversation. The spotlight has fallen on Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll.

However, as the season progresses, Murray’s performance with the Toronto Marlies may present a unique opportunity for the Leafs. That’s especially true with the current goaltending situation.

The Case for Giving Murray a Shot with the Maple Leafs

Murray’s performance with the Marlies has been impressive enough to suggest a closer look. Although he has not seen significant NHL action this season, Murray has been strong in his limited AHL appearances. Having recently returned from a minor injury, he’s looked solid in the crease. He’s shown flashes of the form that made him a two-time Cup winner. His experience in high-pressure situations could provide valuable depth for the Maple Leafs if called upon. He could help the team solve the struggles of Stolarz’s current injury.

Dennis Hildeby has been inconsistent in recent starts. That includes a shaky performance in the Sabres win. The question arises: what do the Maple Leafs have to lose by giving Murray a shot? Woll’s play has been promising. But the young goalie can’t do it alone. Murray could jump in to help.

Murray Could Become a Potential Trade Asset

Should Murray impress in his NHL return, he could also become a valuable trade chip. With his postseason success, teams looking for experienced goaltending depth for a playoff push might find Murray an attractive option. If he can stay healthy and prove he’s capable of being an impact player, the Maple Leafs could use him as a trade asset. That would further bolster their roster, whether it’s for a future playoff run or additional depth in other areas.

The Maple Leafs’ goaltending depth has become a key strength of the team. However, with Stolarz sidelined for the next 4–6 weeks due to a knee injury, Murray’s potential return offers a layer of depth between the pipes. Murray could significantly strengthen the team’s goaltending trio, offering the team options for the rest of the season. With Woll and Stolarz already contributing solid play, having Murray available could be an advantage as Toronto positions themselves for a deep playoff run.

What’s Next for Murray?

In an interesting update, TSN’s Chris Johnston recently noted that the Maple Leafs will likely give Murray a shot in the NHL. Murray could be on the verge of returning to the NHL after 625 days away. He’s already slated to start for the Marlies on Wednesday. So, assuming all goes well, this could be the opportunity he needs to return to the NHL. For a Maple Leafs team with playoff aspirations, having a proven goaltender like Murray could be the X-factor they need.

Taking a chance on Murray is a low-risk, high-reward move. If he can regain his form, he will strengthen their goaltending depth. He could also become a valuable trade asset, helping the team in the short and long term.