Toronto, ON – Anthony Stolarz, the newest addition to the Toronto Maple Leafs, is ready to take on the challenge of being the team’s starting goaltender. The 27-year-old netminder, who was acquired by the Leafs in a trade with the Anaheim Ducks, is relishing the opportunity to prove himself as a reliable and consistent presence in the crease.
Stolarz, who has played for four different NHL teams in his career, understands the pressure that comes with being a starting goaltender in a hockey-crazed city like Toronto. However, he is embracing the challenge and is determined to make the most of his chance with the Maple Leafs.
“I’m excited for the opportunity,” Stolarz said in an interview with CTV News. “You want to be the guy that the team can rely on to make the big saves and help the team win games.”
The Maple Leafs have been searching for a reliable backup goaltender to support starter Jack Campbell, and Stolarz could be the answer they have been looking for. In his limited playing time with the Ducks last season, he posted a 2.20 goals against average and a .926 save percentage, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level in the NHL.
Stolarz’s journey to the Maple Leafs has been a long and winding one. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2012 and spent several years in their minor league system before making his NHL debut in 2016. He has since bounced around the league, playing for the Edmonton Oilers, Philadelphia Flyers, and Anaheim Ducks before landing in Toronto.
Despite the challenges of constantly moving from team to team, Stolarz has remained focused on his ultimate goal of becoming a starting goaltender in the NHL. Now, with the Maple Leafs, he has the opportunity to make that dream a reality.
“I’ve learned a lot from my experiences with different teams,” Stolarz said. “But now, I’m just focused on being the best goaltender I can be for the Maple Leafs.”
Stolarz’s determination and work ethic have not gone unnoticed by his new teammates and coaches. Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe has been impressed with Stolarz’s performance in training camp and believes he has the potential to be a valuable asset to the team.
“He’s a big guy, he moves well, and he’s got a good presence in the net,” Keefe said. “We’re excited to see what he can do for us this season.”
As the Maple Leafs gear up for the start of the regular season, Stolarz is ready to prove himself and earn his spot as the team’s backup goaltender. With his talent, determination, and support from his new team, he is poised to make a significant impact for the Maple Leafs this season.
