Anthony Stolarz Isn’t Going Anywhere-And Here’s Why That Matters for the Maple Leafs
If you were wondering whether the Maple Leafs might consider moving Anthony Stolarz as part of a trade package, go ahead and put that thought to rest. A key clause in his contract all but guarantees he’s staying put-at least for now.
Stolarz is currently sidelined with an injury, and there’s no clear timetable for his return. But even from the press box, he remains a significant piece of Toronto’s goaltending puzzle.
While he’s been out, Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby have stepped up and kept the Leafs competitive between the pipes. It’s been a solid showing from the two, especially considering the pressure of filling in for a proven NHL netminder.
Why Stolarz’s Name Was Floating in Trade Talks
There’s been some chatter lately about the Leafs potentially needing to move a goaltender to improve elsewhere on the roster. With several teams around the league-like Edmonton and Winnipeg-actively looking for help in net, Stolarz’s name started to surface. He’s got the résumé: proven experience, strong career numbers, and the kind of presence that could stabilize a playoff-bound team.
Toronto, meanwhile, doesn’t have a surplus of high-end trade chips. So on paper, moving a veteran goalie might seem like a logical way to upgrade other areas. But that theory runs into a hard stop when you look at Stolarz’s contract.
The Contract Detail That Shuts Down Trade Rumors
Here’s the key: Stolarz has a full no-trade clause in his current deal, which runs through the end of this season. That means he holds all the cards-Toronto can’t move him without his permission. And even when his new extension kicks in next year, it shifts to a 16-team no-trade list, still giving him substantial control over his future.
That’s not just a technicality-it’s a signal. Stolarz chose to stay in Toronto when he could’ve chased a bigger payday elsewhere, even with the uncertainty surrounding his health. That decision speaks volumes about his belief in the Leafs’ direction and his place in it.
What This Means for the Leafs’ Goaltending Picture
The Leafs have been searching for long-term stability in goal for years, and with Stolarz in the mix, they might finally have it. Trading him-even if it were possible-would undercut that progress. Yes, Woll and Hildeby have shown promise, but removing a veteran presence like Stolarz from the equation would place a heavy burden on two relatively inexperienced goaltenders.
And while Toronto is clearly looking for ways to improve the roster, especially with the postseason in mind, dealing from a position of newfound strength in net doesn’t make much sense-particularly when the player in question has the contractual leverage to say no.
Bottom Line
Anthony Stolarz isn’t going anywhere, and that’s a good thing for the Maple Leafs. His return date remains uncertain, but when he’s healthy, he’ll be back in the crease-and back to being a key part of Toronto’s plans.
For now, fans can set aside the trade rumors. The Leafs have their goalie, and they’re not about to give him up.