Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz has been released from hospital and was back at the team facility on Tuesday morning, just one day after a frightening incident in Game 1 of the second-round series against the Florida Panthers. While head coach Craig Berube has not ruled him out for Game 2 on Wednesday, Stolarz’s exact status remains unclear, with no confirmation yet on whether he’s dealing with a concussion.
The incident occurred during the second period when Panthers forward Sam Bennett made contact with Stolarz near the crease. Though Stolarz initially stayed in the game, he was visibly shaken, and ultimately vomited on the bench before being stretchered out and taken to a local hospital. He was replaced by Joseph Woll, who helped close out a 5–4 Leafs win.
Bennett, who said he did not intend to make contact and did not realize it had happened until afterward, is not expected to face any supplemental discipline. The hit — an apparent elbow to the head — was criticized postgame by Berube and winger Matthew Knies, who referenced a previous playoff concussion caused by Bennett.
The situation is emotionally charged given that Stolarz was a member of last season’s Stanley Cup-winning Panthers team. Panthers head coach Paul Maurice defended Bennett, while acknowledging the team’s fondness for Stolarz: “We love that guy… I just didn’t think it happened.”
With Game 2 on the horizon, Stolarz’s availability remains uncertain. Woll, who came up big in relief, may be called upon again depending on Stolarz’s condition.
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