Maple Leafs made the right move by extending Anthony Stolarz

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on Sunday the contract extension of goaltender Anthony Stolarz for four years, valued at $15 million. The deal has a $3.75 million AAV.

This is a positive agreement for Toronto, as the price is below the typical range for a starter of around $5M AAV, and guarantees elite numbers based on the goalie's recent performance.

Stolarz, 31, was set to compete for the starting position with Joseph Woll, but Woll is now out indefinitely for personal reasons. If Stolarz avoids injury, he will likely be the goalie with the most minutes this season, or at least in the first half.

Why extending Anthony Stolarz's contract is the right move for the Maple Leafs

This move provides immediate stability in the goal for the Leafs. Considering Woll's situation and the signing of James Reimer to a PTO, the extension changes an uncertain landscape into a clearer structure for who will get more minutes, without ruling out competition.

Furthermore, Stolarz's profile fits coach Craig Berube's demands. He is a goalie with good rebound control and reads in traffic, which suits systems that protect the middle slot, something Toronto is trying to establish. Berube's team will rely less on spontaneous reflexes.

The Maple Leafs often struggle when opponents attack with speed and crowd the front of the net. If Stolarz maintains good numbers on dangerous shots and counterattacks, he addresses a key team weakness. When the play breaks down, he supports the team more than usual.

Of course, this assumes Stolarz repeats his performance from last season, but we cannot ignore that he is 31 and his physical decline could be near. This is where Berube's management of minutes and roles will be crucial. But overall, the front office's decision to extend Stolarz's contract is a good one.