Latest Maple Leafs update on Joseph Woll leaves fans in a panic

Joseph Woll departed from Toronto Maple Leafs training camp last month, and since then, the team has leaned heavily on Anthony Stolarz in net. Stolarz, who started five of the first six games this season, hasn’t shied away from speaking his mind. As you may know, after Saturday’s overtime loss to the Seattle Kraken, he openly criticized the team for inconsistent effort, specifically calling out William Nylander for the game-winning goal.

Before last night’s matchup against the New Jersey Devils, Stolarz and Nylander reportedly cleared the air, focusing on putting the Kraken game behind them. But a 5-2 loss to the Devils only reignited questions about Toronto’s early-season struggles and the goaltending situation.

Fans immediately turned to social media, wondering when Joseph Woll might return and if he could be the stabilizing presence the team desperately needs. Those questions reached head coach Craig Berube following Wednesday’s optional skate as reporters also wanted to get the latest update on the absent goalie.

Berube offered little clarity, saying only, “When he’s back he’s back.” Asked if Woll had been skating, he repeated the same line.

Toronto sits at 3-3-1, despite playing five of their first six games at home and facing only one playoff team from last season. With Woll away on personal leave, Stolarz carries the pressure of starting the majority of games while the team searches for consistency.

For now, Maple Leafs fans can only speculate on the timing of Woll’s return and hope that when he does, he can help turn around a team struggling to find its early-season form.