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Anthony Stolarz Development Emerges Before Leafs-Panthers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit Kumar | Last updated Jan 6, 2026 12:18 PM ET

The Toronto Maple Leafs received a positive sign ahead of Tuesday’s matchup against the Florida Panthers.

Goaltender Anthony Stolarz was back on the ice, skating before practice for the first time in weeks. NHL reporter Nick Barden shared video of the session, noting Stolarz had been listed as out indefinitely.

"Anthony Stolarz (upper body) and Dakota Mermis (lower body) skated before Maple Leafs practice," Barden shared. "Mermis has been on IR since Dec. 8 with a timeline of a month, while the last we heard on Stolarz was that he’s out indefinitely."

Stolarz has not played since Nov. 11 due to an upper-body injury. While his return to skating marks progress, there is still no timetable for game action. Through 13 appearances this season, Stolarz holds a 6-5-1 record with a 3.51 goals-against average and .884 save percentage. The Leafs remain cautious as he continues his recovery.

Anthony Stolarz (upper body) and Dakota Mermis (lower body) skated before Maple Leafs practice.

Mermis has been on IR since Dec. 8 with a timeline of a month, while the last we heard on Stolarz was that he’s out indefinitely. pic.twitter.com/h0Ixs5LAtH
— Nick Barden (@nickbarden) January 5, 2026

With Stolarz sidelined, Joseph Woll has taken over as the primary starter. Barden reported Woll was in the home net during the optional morning skate and is expected to make his fourth straight start. Dennis Hildeby continues to serve as the backup. Once Stolarz is cleared, Hildeby is expected to return to the minors.

Joseph Woll is in the home net at the Maple Leafs’ optional morning skate.

He’s projected to get his fourth-straight start tonight as Toronto takes on the Panthers. pic.twitter.com/HDxj1j5Etk
— Nick Barden (@nickbarden) January 6, 2026

Toronto also received a lineup boost on defense. Head coach Craig Berube confirmed Brandon Carlo will return against Florida. His presence could help stabilize a blue line that has struggled in recent games.

The Maple Leafs enter the night at 19-15-7, still fighting for position in the Atlantic Division. Offense has not been the issue, with Toronto ranking among the league’s top scoring teams. Defensive breakdowns and inconsistent goaltending have been more costly.

The Panthers arrive at 22-16-3 and are tough to beat when scoring three or more goals. Toronto won the first meeting 4-1, but this rematch carries added urgency.

With Woll in form and Stolarz inching closer, the Leafs hope momentum finally turns their way in the second half of the season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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