As the Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves 11 points shy of a wild-card spot with just 14 games left in the 2025-26 NHL season, their playoff dreams are fading fast. With an eye on the offseason, the Leafs' management faces some pivotal decisions, particularly concerning their goaltending lineup for the 2026-27 season.
At first glance, sticking with Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll as the primary duo, with Dennis Hildeby stepping in occasionally, might seem straightforward. However, Hildeby's waiver exemption will expire after this season, complicating matters if the team retains all three netminders.
Let's dive into the possible paths the Leafs might take regarding their goalie situation.
Youth Movement
There's talk of Toronto possibly embarking on a rebuild, focusing on a younger core. If this is the direction, veteran goalie Anthony Stolarz, at 32, might be the odd man out.
Hildeby, 24, and Woll, 27, represent the future. Stolarz's departure would likely elevate Woll to the No. 1 spot, with Hildeby as backup.
Hildeby has shown promise, posting a 2.90 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage in 19 games this season, stepping up during injuries to both Stolarz and Woll.
Financially, trading Stolarz would clear significant cap space. His upcoming four-year contract extension carries a $3.75-million AAV, compared to Hildeby’s $841,667 and Woll’s $3.66-million AAV deals. With Stolarz’s injury history and the team’s uncertain future, moving on could be wise.
Artur Akhtyamov, a 24-year-old from the Toronto Marlies, could step into the tertiary goalie role. He's had a solid season in the AHL and recently inked a three-year deal with the Leafs.
Sticking with the Current Roster
There’s also merit in keeping the current lineup intact. Stolarz, despite a tough season, had a standout year in 2024-25 with a 2.14 GAA and a .926 SV%.
Woll has consistently maintained a save percentage above .900. Together, they were a formidable pair last season, ranking eighth in goals allowed per game.
However, both have faced injury challenges. If they can stay healthy, this duo could rebound effectively.
In this scenario, Hildeby would need to be traded, as he wouldn’t clear waivers. Akhtyamov, with two years of waiver exemption left, would step into the third spot.
Going All-In
If GM Brad Treliving decides to make a bold move with the core of Matthews, Nylander, and Tavares, the goaltending situation could also see a shake-up.
One option might be trading for Jordan Binnington from the St. Louis Blues.
Despite a rocky 2025-26 season, Binnington has been a reliable presence for the Blues, highlighted by his 2018-19 Cup-winning performance. He’s also a cost-effective choice, entering the final season of a $6-million AAV contract in 2026-27.
Alternatively, the Leafs could enter the Sergei Bobrovsky sweepstakes. Bobrovsky, though 37 and coming off a challenging season, has the potential for high reward. He was instrumental in the Florida Panthers' back-to-back Stanley Cup victories.
While Binnington seems more feasible, Bobrovsky offers a tantalizing, albeit risky, option. The Leafs have some tough choices ahead in their quest to solidify their goaltending future. What’s your take on how they should proceed?