In a strategic move to enhance their goaltending depth, the Toronto Maple Leafs have secured the services of veteran goaltender Anthony Stolarz with a two-year, $5 million contract. The announcement, made by the team on Monday, marks a significant addition to the Leafs’ roster as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season.
Stolarz, 30, joins the Maple Leafs after spending the past two seasons with the Anaheim Ducks, where he showcased his skills with a commendable .915 save percentage and a 2.68 goals-against average over 36 games. The 6’6″ netminder is known for his size, agility, and reliability between the pipes, attributes that the Leafs hope will provide stability and depth to their goaltending lineup.
“We are excited to welcome Anthony to the Toronto Maple Leafs,” said General Manager Brad Treliving. “His experience and performance in the league make him a valuable addition to our team. We believe his presence will strengthen our goaltending corps and contribute to our success in the coming seasons.”
The two-year, $5 million deal reflects the Leafs’ commitment to solidifying their goaltending situation. With Stolarz’s arrival, the team aims to provide more support to their starting goaltender, ensuring consistent and reliable performance throughout the demanding 82-game regular season and into the playoffs.
Stolarz’s NHL journey has seen him play for the Philadelphia Flyers, Edmonton Oilers, and Anaheim Ducks. Originally drafted by the Flyers in the second round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, he has steadily built a reputation for his perseverance and continuous improvement. This latest opportunity with the Maple Leafs represents a significant step in his career.
“I’m thrilled to join the Maple Leafs, a team with such a rich history and passionate fan base,” Stolarz said. “I’m eager to contribute to the team’s success and help in any way I can.”
The signing comes as the Maple Leafs look to rebound from a promising yet ultimately disappointing playoff run. With the addition of Stolarz, the team is positioning itself as a strong contender in the highly competitive Atlantic Division, aiming for a deep playoff push and, ultimately, the Stanley Cup.
As the new season approaches, fans and analysts will be keen to see how Stolarz integrates into the team and impacts their performance. This signing signifies a pivotal move for the Maple Leafs as they strive to achieve greater heights in the NHL.
