Maple Leafs' Goaltending Decision Ahead of Game 2 May be a Controversial One

Thanks in large to a sensational performance from Anthony Stolarz in Game 1 of the Battle of Ontario, the Maple Leafs hold a 1-0 series lead over the Ottawa Senators.

The win was not without its controversy, however, as Sens coach Travis Green critized the referees for what he believed was questionable officiating in the matchup. There was also a high-stick on John Tavares and a collision with Anthony Stolarz, both involving Sens forward Ridly Greig that drew a lot of attention.

The collision with Stolarz was a concerning one, with Leafs legend Ed Belfour taking exception to the reckless play from Greig, suggesting that perhaps Stolarz should have retaliated to send a message. However, Stolarz appeared to be okay on the play.

While Stolarz finished the game, there was a great deal of concern when the veteran netminder didn't show up for practice on Monday. Craig Berube told the media that he simply wanted his top netminder to take some rest, but it didn't stop fans and members of the media from worrying about his status.

Thankfully, it has been confirmed that Stolarz is in line to start tonight against Ottawa for Game 2, which should put any concerns to rest.

There are some who are still concerned that perhaps the collision with Greig did leave Stolarz a little bit banged up. After all, we are at that point of the year where teams are not exactly transparent about the health of their top assets and players are exercising their toughness and battling through injuries.

If that's the case, there is certainly some risk associated with starting Stolarz in Game 2 -- and if the Leafs lose the game and Stolarz doesn't perform well, the decision by Berube and the coaching staff may be viewed as a costly mistake.

Naturally, we won't know whether or not it was a good decision or a bad one until tonight's game has played out. All we can do now is simply hope for the best and trust that the Leafs know what they're doing.