The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a critical juncture early in the 2025-26 season, and the spotlight is firmly on their need to provide better support for goaltender Anthony Stolarz. After a strong 2024-25 season where he posted a 2.14 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage, Stolarz signed a four-year, $15 million extension, solidifying his position as the team's primary netminder. However, the early part of this season has revealed some concerning trends that demand immediate attention.

With Joseph Woll absent due to a personal matter, Stolarz has been carrying a heavy workload. In the first few games, Stolarz has started in the majority of the games. While Stolarz has shown flashes of brilliance, his 2-2-1 record with a 2.79 GAA and .897 save percentage indicates the team isn't doing enough to support him.

Following a recent 4-3 overtime loss to the Seattle Kraken, Stolarz voiced his frustration, stating the team needs to "start going to the cage a little harder, make it harder for their goalies". He also expressed his displeasure with the lack of physicality and support when opponents crash the net. "It's not fun. I don't like having 225-pound guys lying on me so hopefully we learned our lesson here," Stolarz said.

The statistics paint a concerning picture. The Maple Leafs rank near the bottom in the league in offensive zone time and spend a disproportionate amount of time in their own defensive zone. This increased defensive pressure leads to Stolarz facing a high volume of shots and an increased number of high-danger scoring chances. The team is also struggling with defensive zone exits, often getting caught on long changes and exhausting themselves.

The defensive pairings, particularly Morgan Rielly and Brandon Carlo, have struggled, posting a concerningly high goals-against per 60 minutes. The team's inability to consistently clear the puck and prevent opponents from establishing a strong net-front presence is exacerbating the issue.

The absence of Mitch Marner is also impacting the team, leaving a void in the top-line offense and power play. While players like Auston Matthews, John Tavares, and William Nylander are contributing offensively, the secondary scoring has been lacking. The team's over-reliance on its top players makes them easier to defend against, further increasing the pressure on Stolarz.

To alleviate the pressure on Stolarz, the Maple Leafs need to address several key areas. They need to improve their defensive zone coverage, limit turnovers, and generate more consistent offensive pressure to keep the puck away from their own net. The team's depth players need to step up and provide secondary scoring to take some of the offensive burden off the top line. More physicality and net-front presence are needed to deter opponents from taking liberties with Stolarz.

Coach Craig Berube's structured defensive system is beginning to take shape, but the team needs to fully embrace it and demonstrate a greater commitment to defensiveDetails. The Maple Leafs need to rediscover their "pushback" and show a willingness to stand up for each other.

The Maple Leafs have options to bolster their goaltending depth, including Cayden Primeau and Dennis Hildeby. They could also explore the waiver wire for potential short-term solutions. However, the immediate focus must be on improving the team's overall play to support Stolarz and ensure he isn't overburdened. Stolarz himself has signed a 4 year contract and is taking a leadership role with the team.

The Maple Leafs' success this season hinges on their ability to provide Stolarz with the support he needs to perform at his best. If they fail to do so, they risk squandering Stolarz's talent and jeopardizing their chances of making a deep playoff run.