Anthony Stolarz Projected Return Timeline Revealed by NHL Insider Darren Dreger
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Anthony Stolarz has been absent for awhile now and while there's no definitive return date, one NHL Insider provided a good idea of what to expect going forward.
Having been injured for a month after suffering an injury during a game against the Anaheim Ducks, Anthony Stolarz is expected to miss a few more weeks as concerns grow given the team needs as much goaltending help as possible come playoff time.
Undergoing a procedure on his knee, there was no real way to gauge how Stolarz will recover or if there would be any setbacks.
His appearance during the Maple Leafs' mentor practice was a positive sign, and at least him walking and standing without any visible discomfort was a great step forward.
But he's still out for weeks, but NHL Insider Darren Dreger has done his best to narrow down the prospective timeline for when Stolarz will be back on the ice.
Darren Dreger Predicts February As A Likely Return Date
Appearing on TSN 1050's FirstUp, Dreger spoke about the initial timeline and what fans can expect due to the circumstances surrounding Stolarz's injury:
"This situation is unique because he underwent a procedure on his knee. The first step is always getting back on the ice, testing the leg, and seeing how it feels before gradually easing into a routine.
Once he can join the practice rotation, it will be a positive sign.
There was hope he might be ready to play by the end of January, but early February could now be seen as more realistic."
Once he can join the practice rotation, it will be a positive sign.
There was hope he might be ready to play by the end of January, but early February could now be seen as more realistic."
It's a positive to see that Stolarz is focused on getting back into the game as soon as possible, and getting some individual ice time to gauge his readiness will be a huge test.
Toronto has had solid goaltending in his absence but they'd love to have him back soon.
Early February would be a benefit to Stolarz as the team can play Joseph Woll or Dennis Hildeby against the Edmonton Oilers on Feb. 1, and since they have two days off can give either Woll the start again, or try Stolarz against Calgary.
They also have a 13 day break due to the 4 Nations Face-Off, which is plenty of time for Stolarz to get back into game shape and take any needed reps.
Stolarz signed with the Maple Leafs this offseason to the tune of a two-year, $5M and has played above and beyond expectations.
He has a 9-5-2 record with a 2.15 GAA and .927 SV% while registering one shutout as well and is coming off a Stanley Cup win with the Florida Panthers in 2023-2024.
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