Three Goalies, One Roster: Toronto’s Tough Decision

In my last Leafs blog, I posed the question of what I would do if I were GM when Stolarz returns. I asked the question, but I chickened out of answering it, so I thought I would address it today. What solution do we have for the three goalies? Everyone I have met hates the three-headed monster. I like all three goalies; they're all NHL-quality.

Dennis Hildeby

Dennis has done everything he was asked to do. He is so cool under pressure, and he keeps his composure. He had an excellent glove hand; he has been outstanding. He has proven worthy of being called an NHL goalie.

Joesph Woll

An agile goalie who overcame a lot this season to get back to the NHL. This speaks volumes to his character and stamina. He has been great at times, holding the Leafs in games. His reflexes are among the best in the league. He will rebound from his last start.

Anthony Stolarz

Anthony's greatest weakness is not his fault. I speak of his health. There is no doubt that Anthony was outstanding, posting the league's best save percentage at times last year. Most people have argued that the Leafs would have won the series if he had not been injured in the Panthers series. He has been the number one in the past, and I am confident he could be again.

The stats between Woll and Hildeby are crazy close. Both goalies have a 2.90 average. Hildeby has a save percentage of .912, and Woll has a .910 save percentage. Goaltending has not been a problem. Then there is Stolarz, who was the man last season.

So, who stays or goes?

As I see it, there are three options

First, we could trade Anthony and collect more assets. No doubt the Maple Leafs could get a solid defender or a top-six forward in return. Anthony is still considered a quality starter.

Secondly, we could go with the three-headed monster. The Leafs could keep all three on the roster. If the Leafs use this selection, it is a headache; it rarely works. You cannot keep all three happy. Sooner or later, one of them will ask for a trade.

Third is sending Hildeby down, since he does not have to clear waivers. The third choice is the easiest. I do not like this option, but it will most likely be the Leafs' choice.

I just do not think that Anthony gets traded. Trading him is too much of a gamble. We need a veteran goalie going down the stretch.

Final word

The Leafs have a problem that 31 other teams would love to have. I love having insurance in case one goes down. They need to have solid goaltending down the stretch.

Randy