Toronto Maple Leafs given an ultimatum involving Artur Akhtyamov

Artur Akhtyamov is a goaltender whom the Toronto Maple Leafs are in the midst of developing; however, they risk losing him for absolutely nothing.

This season, the Toronto Maple Leafs have a solid goaltending tandem in Anthony Stolarz and Sergei Bobrovsky. The latter signed a three-year deal with the Leafs this Summer.

However, they have a third goaltender who is developing in the AHL, and he has a ton of potential. Of course, that netminder is Artur Akhtyamov, who Leafs fans believe can become the starter someday.

Unfortunately, the Leafs are already being forced into a difficult decision involving Akhtyamov, and time is running out before the Leafs lose a prospect for nothing.

According to hockey writer Chris McCluskey, Akhtyamov will not be waiver-protected next season. That means if the Leafs decide to go with Bobrovsky and Stolarz again, Akhtyamov would need to be placed on waivers.

-

Given his talent, there is no doubt that a team would be licking its lips for an opportunity to snatch away a goaltender without giving up any assets.

As McCluskey suggests, the Leafs need to find a way to give Akhtyamov some NHL starts this season, as this will be their test to see if he is NHL-ready and worth keeping around. If not, then a trade before next season would be ideal.

Anthony Stolarz or Akhtyamov?

Going into next season, the Leafs will need to decide if they want to stick with Stolarz alongside Bobrovsky, or if they want to go with Akhtyamov instead.

Regardless of the decision they make, it is likely going to end with someone getting traded. That goalie could be Stolarz, who would be valuable around the league. However, an Akhtyamov trade could also be of great value to the Leafs.

This is why getting Akhtyamov some NHL starts is so important this season. Even if it is only possible via injury to the Leafs' tandem, something has to happen.

These next 12 months will be fascinating to watch. Whether or not Akhtyamov becomes a realistic solution is something that still remains to be seen.

Also read on Hockey Patrol :
Former 8th overall pick hits the trade market, and the Maple Leafs are interested