THE INSIDER’S PULSE
Leafs “Nervous” After Joseph Woll Injury as Goaltending Depth Tightens
Joseph Woll’s exit in Carolina has raised internal concern, with the Leafs now awaiting imaging results while Anthony Stolarz remains unavailable.
What We’re Hearing
The Maple Leafs’ most convincing road performance of the season ended with their most pressing question.
Joseph Woll did not return for the third period Thursday in Carolina, and according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman,
the organization is “nervous” as it awaits the results of medical imaging scheduled for today.
Woll had been a stabilizing force during Toronto’s recent surge, and his absence immediately shifted the tone around the team.
Woll’s Momentum Interrupted
Woll’s progress this season has been notable, offering consistency in a role long marked by uncertainty for Toronto.
His workload over the past two weeks—multiple starts, high-pressure minutes, and limited rest—was observed internally as demanding,
but manageable given his form.
“He’s not built to play that much in a row… you can’t ride him like this,” Friedman said.
While the severity is not yet known, the medical history attached to Woll is part of why the Leafs are proceeding cautiously.
Stolarz Not Skating: Depth Under Strain
The situation is complicated by Anthony Stolarz’s status. The veteran goaltender remains off the ice and unlikely to be available
on Saturday against Montreal.
If neither Woll nor Stolarz can dress, Toronto’s expected tandem becomes:
• Dennis Hildeby • Artur Akhtyamov
Both are promising young goaltenders, but neither has carried sustained NHL workloads. It’s a scenario the Leafs hoped to avoid at this stage of the season.
• Dennis Hildeby • Artur Akhtyamov
Both are promising young goaltenders, but neither has carried sustained NHL workloads. It’s a scenario the Leafs hoped to avoid at this stage of the season.
Coaching Staff Reaction
Head coach Craig Berube kept details minimal post-game, noting only that the team would “know more tomorrow.”
Friedman pointed out that Berube’s tone reflected a broader frustration with the season’s uncertain medical timelines.
“You could tell they were concerned… Berube wasn’t going there until they get the testing done.”
Team Playing Its Best Hockey — But Vulnerability Remains
The timing of Woll’s injury is particularly challenging. Toronto has looked more composed, structured, and connected
over the past week, earning four wins during a difficult road stretch.
Friedman described the Leafs’ recent play as “coming back to life,” but acknowledged the fragility at the position
most critical to sustaining momentum.
What Happens Next
The Leafs will base all immediate decisions on today’s imaging, but the priorities are clear:
1) Protect Woll from re-injury.
2) Clarify Stolarz’s availability.
3) Prepare for a short-term rookie tandem if needed.
Depending on the diagnosis, Toronto may also evaluate external options.
1) Protect Woll from re-injury.
2) Clarify Stolarz’s availability.
3) Prepare for a short-term rookie tandem if needed.
Depending on the diagnosis, Toronto may also evaluate external options.
Pulse Takeaway
The Leafs have taken a meaningful step forward in their overall play, but their most uncertain position has resurfaced as a major storyline. Woll’s imaging will determine whether this becomes a brief interruption or a deeper challenge to Toronto’s early-season progress.
Quotes have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Source:
32 Thoughts — Sportsnet (Full Episode)
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