Leafs' Brandon Carlo Explains Why He Didn't Go After Bennett in Response to Cheap Shot on Stolarz

The Toronto Maple Leafs are riding a high after an exciting 5-4 win over the Florida Panthers in Game 1. However, the victory was overshadowed by a concerning injury to goaltender Anthony Stolarz.

The incident occurred when Panthers forward Sam Bennett, known for his physical and often controversial style of play, appeared to elbow Stolarz while driving the net.

The play went unpenalized, and the NHL has not issued any supplementary discipline, citing insufficient evidence to warrant a suspension.

One moment that caught fans' attention was the lack of response from Maple Leafs players, including defenseman Brandon Carlo, who was on the ice and near the incident when it happened. Carlo has addressed the situation, as reported by Luke Fox on X:

Carlo's explanation helps clear the air, as many were puzzled by the lack of inaction at the time. Meanwhile, Bennett has maintained that the elbow was unintentional and that he was unaware that Stolarz was injured until after the play.

The good news for Toronto is that Stolarz has since been released from the hospital. He briefly saw Carlo and other teammates and was reportedly smiling -- an encouraging sign that the injury may not be as serious as initially feared.

In Stolarz's absence, Joseph Woll will take over goaltending duties. While Woll is a strong netminder in his own right, it will be a challenge to match the excellent form Stolarz has shown down the stretch.

The Maple Leafs are set to face the Panthers again at home on Wednesday. Whether there will be any retribution for Bennett's actions remains to be seen.