Anthony Stolarz has spent much of his career in supporting roles. After a junior career where he often shared the net, the goaltender spent a decade in the American Hockey League and on NHL benches.
Stolarz saw an opportunity when he signed with the Maple Leafs in free agency last summer. He has made the most of his chance and is now starring on centre stage. The 31-year-old has stopped 57 of the 61 shots he’s faced in two Toronto victories to open the club’s first-round playoff series with the Ottawa Senators.
He had to be sharp when the score was close in a 6-2 triumph in Game 1. He then held the fort after his team blew an early 2-0 lead before securing a 3-2 overtime decision in Game 2. Stolarz finished the regular season with a 21-8-3 record, a .926 save percentage, a 2.14 goals-against average, and five shutouts. He had just under 35 minutes of NHL playoff experience before this spring.
Before joining the Maple Leafs, Stolarz was with the Florida Panthers, where he was the backup during their run to the Stanley Cup title last June. He learned a lot from the experience. He also had a .925 save percentage with Florida.
Before landing with the Panthers, the six-foot-six, 243-pound netminder had bounced around after being selected in the second round of the 2012 draft by the Philadelphia Flyers. Stolarz shared Toronto’s crease with Joseph Woll for much of the regular season before separating himself down the stretch with eight straight victories, including shutouts in three of his final four starts, along with a .950 save percentage and a 1.40 GAA.
Leafs winger Max Domi, who scored the OT clincher in Game 2, was teammates with Stolarz in junior. Toronto centre John Tavares said there are lessons in Stolarz’s path. Stolarz also isn’t shy about standing his ground.
Leafs head coach Craig Berube was in Philadelphia when Stolarz was just getting his feet wet at the pro level. Leafs defenceman Morgan Rielly said the group can play even better in front of their netminder.
Stolarz has waited a long time to be in this position. He’s enjoying the ride and isn’t about to let the opportunity slip.
6 Comments
Matzomaster
Game 2 was a masterpiece, especially in overtime! Stolarz has what it takes to lead the Leafs.
Karamba
It's exciting to see a player finally get a moment to shine after being overlooked for so long!
Rotfront
His stats speak for themselves! He proved that he can be a top-tier goaltender when given the opportunity.
Karamba
I believe in Stolarz! His experience with the Panthers is definitely showing through in his play.
Rotfront
Sure, he had some good stats, but he played behind a strong team. Can he handle the spotlight alone?
moshiurroney
Stolarz has finally found his rhythm! It’s amazing to see him shine after all those years in the shadows.