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Fan concern at an all-time high after Craig Berube offers update on Leafs goalie Joseph Woll after injury
Photo credit: James Guillory - Imagn Images
After their 5-1 victory over the Hurricanes, Leafs head coach Craig Berube offered an important update on the injured Joseph Woll, leading to a high level of concern.
Despite claiming their third straight victory, it was a somber affair for the Toronto Maple Leafs, who lost their starting goaltender due to a lower-body injury.
Joseph Woll was replaced by Dennis Hildeby to start the third period, where the latter stopped all 9 shots he faced to close out the victory. With Anthony Stolarz still on the mend, everyone in Toronto is holding their breath in anticipation of Saturday's game against Montreal.
After the game, head coach Craig Berube offered an update on the 27-year-old, but as per usual, it wasn't a really informative offering as the bench boss is unaware of the severity of the injury.
Woll had made his way back to the Leafs in the middle of November after missing over a month of NHL action tending to a personal family matter that occurred during training camp. He made a few appearances on a conditioning assignment in the minors before making his season debut.
It has been a solid start to the season, as Woll has posted a 4-3-1 record in 8 games to go along with a 2.30 GAA and a scintillating .927 SV%. The injury from last night's game, coupled with Berube's update, puts the Leafs in a bind, but perhaps this will be Hildeby's chance to shine.
Additionally, Berube had mentioned earlier that Stolarz is not close to making a return either. The 31-year-old had struggled to start the season with Woll away from the team, as he posted a .884 SV% and a 3.51 GAA, but could surely be used at a time like this.
Nevertheless, the Leafs have confidence in Hildeby, who has surprisingly made more appearances in relief this season than actual starts. However, with games against Montreal and Tampa Bay looming, he might be in line to change his fortunes.
On the season, the 24-year-old is 1-2-1 with a .919 SV% and a 2.86 GAA in 7 appearances. Should Woll remain sidelined, Hildeby will be making his first career start against the Canadiens on Saturday. Additionally, the Leafs would have to recall Artur Akhtyamov to serve as the backup, unless they can get their hands on someone else in time.
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