The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing uncertainty as key players' statuses remain unclear. Coach Craig Berube addressed the media on Saturday, December 27, 2025, offering updates on goaltender Anthony Stolarz and forward Easton Cowan.

The news regarding Stolarz is concerning. Stolarz, who has been out since November 11 with an upper-body injury sustained in a game against the Boston Bruins, has no definite return timeline. Berube stated that there is "not really" any clarity regarding Stolarz's return, adding that his absence remains "indefinite as of right now". Berube had previously mentioned on December 16 that Stolarz was not progressing as hoped. The team is operating without a clear picture of when that might change. There is major concern because of the secrecy around Stolarz's injury. Stolarz is seeing a specialist to address the injury. He has not resumed skating.

This "indefinite" status raises concerns among fans, especially considering Stolarz's importance to the team. Before the injury, in 13 games this season, Stolarz had a 6-5-1 record with a .884 save percentage. Last season, Stolarz posted a 21-8-3 record with a league-best .926 save percentage and a 2.14 goals-against average, even garnering a Vezina Trophy vote. With Stolarz sidelined, the Maple Leafs will continue to rely on Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby. Woll has a 6-4-1 record with a .920 save percentage in 11 starts, while Hildeby has a 2-5-3 record with a .908 save percentage in 9 starts and 13 appearances. Some believe it would be best if the team found a dependable backup.

In contrast to the Stolarz situation, the Cowan situation appears to be a short-term issue. Despite excitement around Cowan, Berube confirmed he would sit for a third straight game. The coach's reasoning is that the Maple Leafs won their last game, and he doesn't want to make changes to a winning lineup. Berube acknowledged the need for patience with Cowan, stating that sitting out too long isn't helpful for a young player's development. Berube believes that Cowan is a good player who helps the team and will only get better.

Easton Cowan is a 20-year-old Canadian professional ice hockey forward. The Maple Leafs drafted Cowan in the first round, 28th overall, in the 2023 NHL entry draft.

While the team awaits further updates on Stolarz, they are managing Cowan's development with a patient approach. The Maple Leafs are close to getting veteran defenseman Chris Tanev back in the lineup.