Joseph Woll is ready to go whenever the Maple Leafs call on him

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll is back in the conversation for starting games.

It’s been a tough start to the season for Woll, who missed the first month and a bit due to a personal matter, but after a brief stint with the Toronto Marlies to get back into a game day routine, he’s ready to play for the Maple Leafs again. It comes amidst some dire circumstances for the Maple Leafs, who have lost four in a row and haven’t had close to the same consistent goaltending they did last season.

Although Anthony Stolarz has been the focal point of the struggles in that regard, he’s day-to-day with an upper-body injury that he sustained on Tuesday night in Boston. Woll was asked if he was happy to be back at a time when the team needs him the most, to which he said that he was just looking forward to playing no matter what the circumstances are.

“I don’t know if I would necessarily phrase that like I’m excited that this opportunity is here because somebody’s hurt,” Woll clarified. “But, I’m excited to be back in net and with the team.”

When asked about the team’s struggles, he said that he’s going to carry the same mindset he always does into games.

“Regardless of what situation I come into, I’m gonna have the same mindset, whether it’s game one or the Stanley Cup Final, it doesn’t matter. I think, you know, I’ve realized the importance of consistency in that way and I’m just going to come out and do my best, stick to my routine and things I know.”

William Nylander, who has arguably been the brightest spot in an otherwise ugly start to the season, said that it’s great to have a familiar face around the dressing room.

“He’s been looking great, today he was unreal. So, he’s been looking really good and it’ll be nice to have him back.”

Head coach Craig Berube echoed Nylander’s sentiments, reflecting on the familiarity Woll brought to the room and saying that his return will be a big addition to the dressing room.

“It means a lot to the team,” Berube said. “Obviously, him leaving at that time, you know, catches everybody off guard, but he was a big part of our team last year.”

Berube wouldn’t confirm a starter for Saturday night’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks, but Woll appears set to return should the Leafs call his number.