3 Reasons Maple Leafs Should Be Confident in Their Goalies

As the Toronto Maple Leafs gear up for the postseason, one of the most important storylines will be their goaltending situation. Last night, Anthony Stolarz helped his team beat the New York Rangers. Just the night before, Joseph Woll helped his team beat the Colorado Avalanche.

Both goalies put up impressive games. As a result, the Maple Leafs have reason to be confident in their netminders. With a month left in the regular season, here are three reasons why the Maple Leafs should be optimistic about their goalies heading into the playoffs.



1. The Maple Leafs Have Goaltending Confidence

Both Stolarz and Woll have shown they can handle the pressure. That, in itself, is a key heading into the postseason. With his 14-8-3 record, 2.42 GAA, and .918 save percentage, Stolarz has consistently played well when put in the crease. His 4-3 win over the Rangers included making 27 saves and helping hang onto the win despite some tough goals. Fact is, he’s proved that he can step up in crucial moments.

Meanwhile, Woll has been solid all season long. He can potentially be the team’s first choice during the postseason. But who knows? And that’s just the point. With both goalies able to handle the pressure, the team has two solid options between the pipes.

2. The Goalie Battle Between Stolarz vs. Woll Is Close

The competition for the starting role between Stolarz and Woll has kept things interesting for the Maple Leafs. Even during a challenging stretch, Stolarz’s reliable play has kept the door open for his remaining in the conversation for postseason starts. He has been steady and consistent. Even if he’s not the starter in the playoffs, he gives the team valuable depth.

Woll has proven himself with strong performances throughout the season. But in a small sample size during previous postseasons, he’s been even better. Due to his contract situation and recent play, he’s a solid option for the postseason. This battle for the starting spot is healthy competition; whichever goalie grabs the crease might not matter. Both are confident that they have been pushed to perform at their best.

3. The Maple Leafs Have Depth and Flexibility at the Goalie Position

One of the rare luxuries the Maple Leafs have is the ability to choose between two strong goalies as they head into the playoffs. This depth gives the team a kind of flexibility few teams have.

The Maple Leafs have options. They can rely on Stolarz’s steady presence or allow Woll to grab the crease and see how far he can take the team. His small postseason experience has been positive. And Stolarz was part of a Stanley Cup winner last season. In short, having two reliable goalies allows the team to stay fresh and adjust as needed during the intense playoff run.

Can Joseph Woll lead the Maple Leafs in the postseason?

The Bottom Line for the Maple Leafs

With both Stolarz and Woll showing they can perform under pressure, the Maple Leafs have two strong netminders to lean on heading into the postseason. Their ongoing competition only adds to the team’s depth and flexibility, ensuring that the Maple Leafs are ready in the crease when the playoffs arrive.

The team enters the postseason knowing their goalie situation is in good hands. That doesn’t mean the team will win, but it sure gives them a pad up on other teams.

Related: Maple Leafs Topple Avalanche 2-1 in Hard-Fought Victory

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