Anthony Stolarz, the 31-year-old goaltender, recently signed a four-year, $15 million contract extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs, securing his place with the team through the 2029-30 season. The deal carries an average annual value of $3.75 million. Stolarz has expressed immense satisfaction with the extension, citing the passionate and loyal fanbase as a major reason for wanting to stay in Toronto.
Stolarz highlighted the unique experience of seeing fans, especially children, wearing his jersey and holding signs in the stands. This connection with the fans has resonated deeply with him, reminding him of his own childhood experiences attending New Jersey Devils practices and watching Martin Brodeur. He stated that the fans' unwavering support and dedication significantly influenced his decision to commit to the Maple Leafs long-term. "It's one of the reasons I stayed is just the passionate fan base,” Stolarz said.
The goaltender's appreciation extends beyond the fans to the Maple Leafs organization itself. He feels the organization showed great faith in him by signing him to a two-year contract the previous summer. Stolarz also values the stability and security that the new contract provides, allowing him and his family to establish roots in Toronto. He is eager to give back to the community and is discussing potential initiatives with the front office and media.
In the 2024-25 season, Stolarz posted a 21-8-3 record with a .926 save percentage in 34 games. His save percentage was the highest in the league among goalies who played at least 25 games. Despite missing time due to a knee injury and a concussion sustained during the playoffs, Stolarz demonstrated his capabilities as a reliable and high-performing goaltender.
Maple Leafs Captain Auston Matthews praised Stolarz as the "ultimate competitor". Stolarz's teammates celebrated his contract extension at practice, underscoring the respect and camaraderie he has within the team.
General Manager Brad Treliving expressed his satisfaction with the contract, noting that the financial terms work well for the team while providing Stolarz with security. Treliving also acknowledged that Stolarz doesn't necessarily need to play 50 games a season, indicating the team's confidence in their goaltending tandem of Stolarz and Joseph Woll.
Stolarz's decision to sign the extension also reflects a possible culture shift within the Maple Leafs organization, with players choosing to stay in Toronto for reasons beyond just financial gain. Factors such as the team's winning culture, the quality of the staff and players, and the desire to win in Toronto are playing an increasingly important role in contract negotiations.
