With the Toronto Maple Leafs taking on the Montreal Canadiens and the New Jersey Devils this weekend, a critical goaltending move has been made.
Just moments ago, the Toronto Maple Leafs confirmed that they would be bringing in Artur Akhtyamov this weekend as the team takes on the Canadiens and the Devils on back-to-back nights.
This is being done to give Stolarz and Bobrovsky a night off from being the backup. It's a smart move and one that could lead to some playing time for the 25-year-old.
-
Tonight against the Montreal Canadiens, Bobrovsky is expected to be the starter. Against the Devils, it is likely to be Anthony Stolarz.
Goaltending has proven to be an issue for the Maple Leafs so far this season, and there is no doubt that something has to give.
Bobrovsky has been described as a slow starter. Meanwhile, Stolarz has been solid but there have been games that have frustrated the fanbase.
Maple Leafs look to bounce back after three days off
The last time the Maple Leafs were on the ice, they were playing the Utah Mammoth, and they lost by a score of 3-2 in what should have been a winnable game.
Now, John Tavares is returning to the lineup and is taking his spot on the top power-play unit, while Gavin McKenna is being demoted to the second.
It is a big return for the Leafs, who need lots of help offensively as their defense and goaltending continue to be one of their biggest weaknesses.
Tonight is a pivotal game against a division rival, and fans are hopeful that the Maple Leafs can manage a win against one of the Atlantic Division's best teams.
This will be a dog fight from start to finish, and if the Maple Leafs can't get it done, there are going to be some angry fans.
Do you believe Artur Akhtyamov should get a start this weekend?
Also read on Hockey Patrol :
Elvis Merzlikins gives the Toronto Maple Leafs an ultimatum