Anthony Stolarz's Emotional Words Prove His Maple Leafs Story Isn't Finished Yet
Photo credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images
Anthony Stolarz appeared on Toronto Sports Rush and declared that he's been working hard to ensure he is healthy enough to prove his doubters wrong this season.
Last season, when the Toronto Maple Leafs signed Anthony Stolarz, he was viewed as a great backup option for Joseph Woll, as it provided a stable veteran presence behind him.
But what we didn't expect was Stolarz to take the reins and run with them. He undoubtedly staked his claim as a starter in the NHL and was instrumental in helping the Maple Leafs secure the Atlantic Division title.
How Stolarz's Journey Shapes His Role in Toronto
However he was injured in the playoffs, and he could have been a huge reason Toronto might have been able to sneak by Florida, but it wasn't the case.
But Stolarz isn't deterred from this upcoming season, and is doing his best to be as healthy as possible. Speaking as a guest on Toronto Sports Rush, Stolarz explained that he was doing his best to be healthy for the team; and prove his doubters wrong:
The biggest thing I've been focusing on this summer is getting as much cardio and strength into my body as I can. It's not ideal, but at the end of the day, I think it's made me a stronger person mentally; just being able to overcome that adversity.
Five or six years ago, people were counting me out, and maybe I was counting myself out at that time. Just being able to overcome that and be in the position I'm in now, I'm extremely grateful for that.
Five or six years ago, people were counting me out, and maybe I was counting myself out at that time. Just being able to overcome that and be in the position I'm in now, I'm extremely grateful for that.
His need to overcome the adversity he found early on in his career is clearly a motivating factor for Stolarz and he already proved he can be a reliable starter who keeps opponents on their toes.
Why the Leafs Still Need Stolarz in Their Goaltending Picture
Even if there are still concerns about Stolarz's injury history, fans should still be looking forward to what he can offer in the net. Along with Joseph Woll, the Leafs finally have a solid 1/2 tandem who can step in on any given night.
Is Woll a bit unpolished still? Sure, but he's slowly becoming one of the better netminders in the league, and having Stolarz mentor him can only benefit the team.
Plus, you can't expect Woll (nor Stolarz) to start 50 games for the team, that's a very tough ask for two goalies who have a history of getting hurt. But if they are able to weather the storm of a 35-40 game slate with perhaps Dennis Hildeby or someone else to give them a break; it might work out in spades.
Matt Murray left, so Toronto's only veteran presence is Stolarz and he is crucial for the development of Woll as they keep working together, so re-signing him is imperative for GM Brad Treliving.
If we are getting more of the same from Anthony Stolarz as we did last year, the team is in very good hands.
Let's just hope his body can hold up.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 23 | 1354 ANSWERS Anthony Stolarz's Emotional Words Prove His Maple Leafs Story Isn't Finished Yet Do you think Anthony Stolarz can start 40+ games this season for Toronto? | ||
| Yes | 1121 | 82.8 % |
| No | 233 | 17.2 % |
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