The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering Game 2 of their second-round playoff series against the Florida Panthers without their starting goaltender, Anthony Stolarz, who was ruled out due to injury. Stolarz suffered a significant blow during Game 1, which took place on May 5, 2025, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. After being struck in the mask by a shot from Sam Reinhart, he was later elbowed in the head by Panthers forward Sam Bennett. The incident left Stolarz visibly shaken, and he was seen vomiting on the bench before being taken to a local hospital on a stretcher for evaluation.
Head coach Craig Berube confirmed that 26-year-old Joseph Woll will take over as the starting goaltender for Game 2, scheduled for May 7, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET. Woll stepped in for Stolarz during Game 1, stopping 17 of 20 shots to help the Leafs secure a narrow 5-4 victory. "We've got a lot of confidence in him," said Leafs captain Auston Matthews regarding Woll. "He's extremely focused and does all the right things."
Stolarz, who played a crucial role in the team's previous playoff series against the Ottawa Senators, leading the NHL with a .926 save percentage during the regular season, is now recovering from the injuries sustained. Berube stated on Wednesday morning that Stolarz is doing well but did not provide a timeline for his return. "He's fine, he's recovering," Berube said.
In Stolarz's absence, veteran goaltender Matt Murray will serve as Woll's backup. Murray, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, has spent most of the season in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Toronto Marlies, where he had an impressive .934 save percentage and a 1.72 goals against average (GAA). Murray’s experience is expected to be valuable as the Leafs navigate the playoffs.
Woll's postseason experience is also noteworthy. He has a solid playoff record, boasting a .950 save percentage in four career playoff starts. In the 2023 playoffs, he played a pivotal role in helping the Leafs stave off elimination against the Panthers after starting goaltender Ilya Samsonov was injured. Woll’s confidence and performance under pressure make him a suitable replacement for Stolarz.
As for the Panthers, they will welcome back defenceman Aaron Ekblad, who missed the previous two games due to a suspension for a headshot on Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brandon Hagel. Ekblad expressed remorse for the incident, stating, "I was aiming for his chest and I caught him in the chin. I'm never out to hurt anybody on the ice. It's unfortunate the way that the outcome happened."
The Panthers, who are known for their aggressive style of play, will be looking to capitalize on the absence of Stolarz. They have a solid roster and will aim to bounce back after losing Game 1. In that match, despite trailing 4-1 at one point, the Panthers made a strong push, scoring three goals but ultimately falling short.
In Game 1, William Nylander was a standout performer for the Leafs, finishing with two goals and three points, while Matthew Knies scored the game-winning goal, contributing to the team's overall success. The Leafs are expected to maintain the same lineup for Game 2, with the only change being Woll starting in goal.
As the teams prepare for Game 2, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The Leafs are focusing on their game plan rather than seeking retribution against Bennett for the incident that sidelined Stolarz. Forward Scott Laughton emphasized the team's goal is to take a 2-0 lead in the series, stating, "Win. That's how you get 'em."
With the stakes high and emotions running strong, Game 2 promises to be an intense matchup. Both teams are eager to assert their dominance, and the absence of Stolarz adds an extra layer of intrigue to the contest. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. ET, and fans can catch all the action live on Sportsnet.
