Recent developments surrounding Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz have raised questions about the team's decision to bring him back into game action sooner than anticipated. Stolarz, who had been sidelined since November 11 due to an upper-body injury described as a nerve issue, made his return against the Vegas Golden Knights on January 23. However, an NHL insider suggests the team was initially hesitant to rush him back.

According to NHL insider Darren Dreger, speaking on First Up, the Maple Leafs were being particularly cautious with Stolarz's return. Dreger emphasized the critical role of practice time for goaltenders recovering from injuries, and the team's reluctance to play Stolarz without sufficient preparation. Dreger had initially stated the team hoped Stolarz would be available closer to the end of January, depending on how he responded to practice.

Despite these initial reservations, Stolarz was given the start against the Golden Knights. The game did not go as planned, with the Maple Leafs losing 6-3. Stolarz allowed 5 goals on 26 shots before Stone sealed the victory for Vegas with an empty-netter.

Several factors may have contributed to the decision to play Stolarz despite apparent concerns. The Maple Leafs have struggled defensively in recent games, leaving their goalies exposed. Coach Craig Berube acknowledged Stolarz had been working hard and was ready to play. The team may have felt pressure to get Stolarz back in the lineup to alleviate the workload on other goaltenders, especially with a challenging stretch of games against Vegas, Colorado and Buffalo. Prior to his return, Stolarz had been participating in practices and even traveled with the team on a recent road trip. To get some additional practice, the Leafs assigned Stolarz to the AHL's Toronto Marlies on a conditioning loan before his return to the lineup.

Ultimately, the decision to bring Anthony Stolarz back into game action appears to have been a calculated risk, balancing the need to ease the pressure on the team's other goalies with the potential for further injury.