The Toronto Maple Leafs are navigating significant goaltending adjustments during a busy Hockey Hall of Fame weekend that has the hockey world's attention focused on their home city.
Goaltending Carousel Continues
Joseph Woll is set to join the Toronto Marlies on a conditioning stint as he works his way back from an extended absence for personal reasons. The development comes as fellow netminder Cayden Primeau has been placed on waivers after appearing in three games for the Leafs.
Primeau's inconsistent performance, highlighted by an .838 save percentage, made this move necessary. Had he shown more stability, Woll's conditioning assignment might not have been as urgent. The timing creates uncertainty for Sunday's game against the Carolina Hurricanes, where Primeau was expected to start.
Roster Implications and Suspension
If Primeau is claimed by another team by Saturday, the Maple Leafs may need to call up either Dennis Hildeby or Artur Akhtyamov from the farm system to face the Hurricanes. Meanwhile, Anthony Stolarz continues to shoulder the workload, having appeared overworked during October when the team struggled in front of him.
In another organizational development, the team confirmed that demoted centre David Kampf is under suspension for failing to report to the Marlies on their current road trip. The veteran was scheduled to make $1.075 million this season, and both parties are working toward an amicable resolution, potentially through a trade or financial settlement.
November Resurgence and Upcoming Challenges
The Maple Leafs have started November strong with a 3-0 record, though they remain just three points from both first place and the bottom of the Atlantic Division as of Friday. This sets up a critical divisional matchup against the Boston Bruins on Saturday.
Goaltender Anthony Stolarz attributed the recent success to improved chemistry, noting that the style of hockey in the past three games reflects their winning record. William Nylander offered a more lighthearted theory, joking about the team's Halloween party in Philadelphia where he purchased a last-minute Darth Vader costume.
Defence remains a concern with Chris Tanev still sidelined by an upper-body injury. Since his initial concussion in October, Toronto has allowed at least three goals in all but one game.
The team also faces special teams challenges, ranking 30th in power-play success (11.8%) and 31st in power-play opportunities. Head coach Craig Berube acknowledged the discrepancy while emphasizing the need for better execution with the chances they do get.
Saturday's game will feature the Leafs' annual Remembrance Day observance, while Sunday's matchup against Carolina will serve as the official Hall of Fame Game, honoring inductees including former Bruins captain Zdeno Chara.
