The Toronto Maple Leafs have a solid foundation heading into the 2025-26 NHL season, despite experiencing a major offseason shakeup with the departure of Mitch Marner. Led by captain Auston Matthews, the team still has other key positions secured, and the roster is setting high expectations.
With the extensions of John Tavares and Matthew Knies, combined with Matthews’ leadership, the Leafs ensure a valuable core. Given the high bar that has been set, the Canadian franchise is anticipating a major addition to its offense, along with ongoing rumors about a possible move for defenseman Erik Karlsson.
Amid this atmosphere of change, goaltender Anthony Stolarz will enter his second season with the team and delivered a powerful statement, speaking in depth about his current situation with the Maple Leafs.
Stolarz’s message
“My story with the Maple Leafs is not over. Every day I train with the same mentality: to prove that I can be part of this new identity,” Stolarz said about his future with the franchise in an interview with Toronto Rush Sports.
Anthony Stolarz #41 of the Toronto Maple Leafs gets set for play to resume against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the 1st period in an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on October 12, 2024.The Maple Leafs defeated the Penguins 4-2.
“The biggest thing I’ve been focusing on this summer is getting as much cardio and strength into my body as I can. It’s not ideal, but at the end of the day, I think it’s made me a stronger person mentally; just being able to overcome that adversity,” Stolarz stated.
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NHL News: Big trade between Leafs and Penguins wouldn’t be viable with no deal involving Auston Matthews and Sidney Crosby’s teammates
Stolarz’s key contribution
In his first year with the Leafs, Stolarz earned his place as an NHL starter and played a key role in helping Toronto secure the Atlantic Division title. His strong performance was cut short by an injury in the playoffs, which dealt a painful blow to the Maple Leafs in their series against the Florida Panthers.
