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Anthony Stolarz Clarifies the Main Reason Why He Signed an Extension with the Maple Leafs
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro - Imagn Images
Anthony Stolarz clarifies why he signed an extension with the Leafs before the season started and with the free agent market looking very weak next year.
In a summer where the media made it sound like no one wanted to play in Toronto, or Canada altogether, Anthony Stolarz was one of many players who prioritized staying with the Maple Leafs despite how enticing the free agent market looks right now.
Stolarz, who just recently signed a 4-year extension, confirmed that he had thought about going into free agency, especially with how thin and weak the goaltending market will be next year.
Had Stolarz had a similar season, or better, than the one had put together in 2024-25, he could have easily been one of the hottest commodities on the open market in the summer of 2026. However, he chose to stick with Toronto on what looks like a pretty team-friendly deal.
At the end of the day, this is where I wanted to be... if something could be worked out where I could stay long-term and be part of this group, I thought it was a win-win.
So why did Stolarz choose to sign before the season started, especially with the salary cap rising and the goaltending market looking weak? Well, he had a few reasons, but none perhaps more important than wanting to play for a passionate fanbase.
One of the reasons I stayed is the passion of the fan base. It's pretty special to look out in the stands and see people with your jersey on. You know, I thought coming in last year I was kinda the guy that was in the background a little bit. Looking up and being able to see 'Stolarz' jerseys and all the kids that had signs.
He then continued by saying that the fanbase's loyalty played a massive factor and how he can't wait to get back on the ice and prove his value whenever he gets called upon to be in between the pipes.
Their loyalty and passion towards us is obviously a huge part in all this. And I'm looking forward to giving back.
The Leafs are building a different team and one that is built on passion, determination, and loyalty. Hopefully it can translate well onto the ice, which is something that will be proven one way or another when the season starts less than 2 weeks from today.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 29 | 2167 ANSWERS Anthony Stolarz Clarifies the Main Reason Why He Signed an Extension with the Maple Leafs When both are available, who do you think the Leafs should roll with in between the pipes? | ||
| Anthony Stolarz | 1361 | 62.8 % |
| Joseph Woll | 77 | 3.6 % |
| Split the starts evenly | 285 | 13.2 % |
| Ride whoever has the hot hand | 444 | 20.5 % |
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