Sergei Bobrovsky’s first few weeks in Toronto have already pushed the Maple Leafs into a familiar goalie conversation, and general manager John Chayka isn’t treating the early numbers like a problem.
Bobrovsky is projected to start Monday night in Calgary, giving him another chance to smooth out a line that has drawn attention: a 3.10 goals-against average and an .895 save percentage through eight games in his first season with the Leafs. Chayka, who signed the veteran to a three-year, $21 million contract, told Sportsnet that Bobrovsky has a history of starting slowly.
“We were looking at it the other day. He’s historically a slow starter. I think this is his best start - if you look at some (data) adjustments in the last four to five years,” Chayka said.
He also made clear why Toronto brought Bobrovsky in. “You need to win points and you need to have a good start to the season.
But Sergei, we brought him in to be there when the pressure ramps up and we need a rock back there.” Chayka added that Bobrovsky is moving well and pointed to his presence, preparation, and approach in the locker room.
The Leafs are also staying flexible with the crease. Chayka said the team is still sorting out how to divide the workload between Bobrovsky and Stolarz, emphasizing that it’s a long season and most goaltenders benefit from rest. Toronto has already experimented with different setups, including leaving Bobrovsky at home on a short road trip.
If that route doesn’t solve everything, Chayka said the organization feels good about Artur Akhtyamov with the Marlies as well.
“We feel like we have a bit of a luxury to be thoughtful and look at all different options,” Chayka said, while stressing the larger goal of keeping players fresh and healthy.
Bobrovsky’s résumé is already well known. He started with the Philadelphia Flyers, spent several seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets, and then signed a seven-year deal with the Panthers in 2019. He helped Florida reach three straight Stanley Cup Final appearances, losing to Vegas before beating Edmonton in consecutive years.
Still, the early defense of Bobrovsky has sparked some debate. Nick Kypreos said on his show today that Anthony Stolarz has been a better goalie than Bobrovsky, and Justin Bourne agreed. Bourne also said that if this carries on, Toronto could face a tough call once the postseason arrives.
For now, though, the Leafs seem willing to let the season breathe. If Bobrovsky settles in and Stolarz keeps playing well, Toronto may end up with exactly the kind of crease problem every team wants: one goalie heating up, another already steady, and a front office comfortable with the options in front of it.
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