Major setback as Maple Leafs goalie Joseph Woll placed on injured reserve

Earlier today Craig Berube announced that goaltender Joseph Woll would not start in Wednesday's opening game against the Montreal Canadiens due to lower-body injury.

Joseph Woll was supposed to start in goal for the Leafs on opening night of the 2024-25 campaign, but he was forced out of a game against the Montreal Canadiens because of lower body tightness. This injury has been classified as minor, but given that the team wants to establish a goaltending rotation early in the season, the timing of the injury raises some concerns.

Given Woll's history of injuries, it is unclear how serious this most recent setback is based on his current state of health. Now, it's been revealed that the team has indeed placed him on the injured reserve list, and it appears that anxiety has increased a little.

Originally scheduled to start against the New Jersey Devils, Anthony Stolarz will enter earlier than anticipated into action during the game in Montreal. Throughout his NHL career, the 30-year-old Stolarz has primarily played as a backup and has never appeared in more than 30 games in a single season. However, this unforeseen chance might give him the platform he requires. Should Woll's injury prove to be more serious than first thought, Stolarz might see a lot more action than he had anticipated.

The Maple Leafs recalled Dennis Hildeby from the Toronto Marlies of the AHL to provide more depth. Hildeby finished the 2023-24 season with a 2.41 ERA and a.913 save percentage in 41 games for the Marlies. Hildeby will be expected to back up Anthony Stolarz for the time being.

Joseph Woll's injury, which is presently being treated for lower-body tightness, may have an impact on the Leafs' goaltending rotation after the game in Montreal. Since he was put on the injured reserve list today, he will now have to miss a minimum of three games.

The Leafs are hoping that Joseph Woll's lower-body injury is minor and won't require much time away from the game. They will be closely monitoring his recuperation.