With the 2025 NHL season just around the corner, the Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to solidify their roster and ensure stability in the goaltender position. This time, with Auston Matthews firmly established as the team’s cornerstone, the franchise may now be ready to extend the contract of a former Stanley Cup champion from the Florida Panthers.
Matthews is now the primary reference for the Leafs heading into the upcoming season, and his role will be key to the team’s expectations after falling to the Panthers in the 2024-25 NHL playoffs. Experienced players provide added value to a roster that has struggled to make a deep run in the postseason for some time.
With Mitch Marner’s departure, but the extensions of John Tavares and Matthew Knies, the Leafs now want to secure a long-term goaltender and appear willing to negotiate a significant extension with a player who has impressed during training despite his veteran status.
Which goaltender could extend his deal with the Leafs?
The former Stanley Cup champion who could finalize an extension with the Leafs is none other than Anthony Stolarz, as reported by NHL insider David Pagnotta on The Fourth Period. According to Pagnotta, the franchise has already “initiated talks” regarding a new agreement with the 31 year-old goalie.
The news of Stolarz’s potential extension comes on the heels of Dennis Hildeby’s own contract extension. The 24-year-old goaltender signed a three-year deal on Tuesday, confirming that general manager Brad Treliving intends to secure long-term stability in net.
Stolarz could be a key player
Stolarz has reportedly impressed the Maple Leafs’ management during preparations and is emerging as a key piece in the team’s goaltender rotation. Last season, he played the most games of his career, appearing in 34 contests.