Maple Leafs and Anthony Stolarz seal $3.75M deal

The Toronto Maple Leafs have extended Anthony Stolarz's contract for four years, starting in the fall of 2026, with a $3.75 million cap hit, as confirmed by a league source on Sunday.

Stolarz had an impressive performance last season, leading the NHL with a .926 save percentage in the first year of his two-year deal with the Leafs. He played 34 games, setting a new career-high, and became the team's top goaltender in the postseason.

Although Stolarz has limited NHL experience with 142 games played over almost a decade, his effectiveness is evident with a .919 save percentage in 116 games since 2020.

By securing the extension now, the Leafs avoid potentially higher costs next summer when the salary cap increases. Stolarz may have an increased role early this season due to Joseph Woll's absence for personal reasons.

The combined cap hit for Stolarz and Woll will be over $6 million this season and $7.42 million when Stolarz's new contract begins. With Woll starting his three-year extension this season, the Leafs have solidified the Stolarz-Woll goaltending duo for the future.

For Stolarz, the extension provides security after a career journey through multiple NHL teams and minor league stints. Health remains a key factor for Stolarz, who has faced various injuries, including missing 24 games last season due to a knee issue.

The outcome of this deal will likely hinge on Stolarz's ability to maintain his health and high performance level throughout the upcoming season.