The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a mix of injury concerns and roster decisions as they resume their season after the holiday break. Here's the latest on goaltender Anthony Stolarz, rookie forward Easton Cowan, and defenseman Brandon Carlo:
Stolarz's Status 'Indefinite'
The team's uncertainty in the net continues to grow as head coach Craig Berube has announced that there is no clear timeline for Anthony Stolarz's return. The goaltender has been sidelined since November 11 after a game against the Boston Bruins. Stolarz's injury is reportedly not concussion-related, but he has been consulting with a specialist. Berube last commented on Stolarz's condition on December 16, stating that he "is not making the progress that we thought he would".
TSN's Tony Ambrogio reported that Berube shared the update on Saturday, revealing that Stolarz is not close to returning to the ice and should be considered out indefinitely. With Stolarz's absence potentially extending for a significant period, the Maple Leafs will likely rely on their goaltending tandem of Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby.
Stolarz, who signed a four-year, $15 million extension that begins in the 2026-27 season, has had a troubling season, recording a 6-5-1 record with a .884 save percentage and a 3.51 goals-against average in 13 starts. This is a stark contrast to his performance last season, where he posted a league-best .926 save percentage and a 2.14 GAA.
Cowan Remains Sidelined
Rookie forward Easton Cowan will be a healthy scratch for the third consecutive game. Berube addressed the decision, stating, "The conversations with him (have been) we won last game, just be patient. We definitely do not want him sitting out too long... It's not good for his growth. I think he helps us". He also added, "I think he's a good player, and he's only going to get better". Cowan has four goals and seven assists in 26 games this season.
Carlo's Recovery Progresses
In positive news for the Leafs, defenseman Brandon Carlo has resumed skating after undergoing foot surgery on December 3. Carlo had been out of the lineup since November 13 after suffering a lower-body injury against the Los Angeles Kings. He participated in a side session before practice on Saturday, marking his first time on the ice since the surgery. Carlo even stayed on for the team's full practice. Although there is no official return date, his return to the ice suggests that he could be nearing a return to the lineup. The team traded for Carlo at last season's trade deadline. In 38 games with the Maple Leafs, Carlo has five assists, 72 blocks and 38 hits.
