Craig Berube, Maple Leafs' coach, suggests Anthony Stolarz could potentially play in Game 2.
Let's Talk About the Toronto Maple Leafs' Predicament
The Toronto Maple Leafs are in a tight spot following Anthony Stolarz's exit during Game 1 against the Florida Panthers. Speculations swirled about the concussion spotter's role, but it turns out there was a different story behind the goalie's sudden departure. Caught on camera, Stolarz was seen heading to the bench during a television timeout, vomiting, possibly due to a head injury. The Leafs promptly whisked him off to the locker room for a quick evaluation[1].
Despite the uncertainty, Craig Berube remains ambivalent about Stolarz's likely participation in Game 2. In his words, "Yeah, I don't know that yet...I'll probably find out today"[1].
The drama didn't conclude with the final buzzer and the Maple Leafs' 5-4 victory. Postgame reports showed that Stolarz was transported from the arena on a stretcher and rushed to a local hospital[1]. Sam Bennett won't face any additional discipline for the incident, and it seems like all parties are moving on, setting their sights on Game 2 Wednesday night[1].
Playing Stolarz in Game 2 might be a roll of the dice
Bennett's silence on the elbow that sent Stolarz to the hospital is deafening. Stolarz's release from the hospital is a relief, but his timeline for return remains vague[1]. Given the controversy surrounding the vomiting incident captured on camera, it's questionable if Stolarz could suit up as soon as Wednesday night if he has any health concerns[1].
Given the high risk of re-injury, it would be sensible to deploy Joseph Woll in Game 2[2]. Woll shone bright for the Maple Leafs during last year's playoff run, and if needed, Toronto would be wise to rely on him[2]. With a 4-2 record, 2.12 GAA, and a .924 SV% in his previous playoff games, Woll is a good bet to step in as the starter[2].
Toronto could do worse than Woll if Stolarz is unable to play. After all, Woll's impressive performance during the postseason might have helped the team advance past the Boston Bruins in the first round[2]. The Maple Leafs will likely tread carefully with Stolarz's return, prioritizing the health and well-being of their goaltender.
[1] - Source: Toronto Sun[2] - Source: Sportsnet[3] - Source: TSN[4] - Source: ESPN
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- The Toronto Maple Leafs' predicament involving goalie Anthony Stolarz's concussion remains uncertain, with Craig Berube unsure if Stolarz will play in the upcoming Game 2.
- Given the questionable state of Stolarz's health after his sudden departure from Game 1, playing him in Game 2 might be a risky move, considering the high risk of re-injury.
- In light of the controversy surrounding Stolarz's vomiting incident during Game 1, it's debatable if Stolarz could suit up for Game 2 if he has any health concerns.
- The Maple Leafs might opt for Joseph Woll as their starter in Game 2, given Woll's impressive performance during the 2021 playoff run, which possibly contributed to their advancement past the Boston Bruins in the first round.
- Stolarz's tough-to-predict recovery timeline and the undeniable value Woll provided during the postseason make it sensible for the Maple Leafs to consider deploying Woll in Game 2, instead of taking a chance with an injured Stolarz.
