Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll might make his first start of the season on Tuesday night when the team visits the Columbus Blue Jackets. Woll has been dealing with groin tightness, causing him to miss the first six games. With backup Anthony Stolarz playing well in Toronto’s recent 5-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, it remains uncertain whether Woll will get the nod, though Leafs coach Craig Berube suggested it was “possible.”
Stolarz has been solid in net, making 32 saves in his fifth start, and playing a key role during crucial moments, such as the Lightning’s five-on-three power play in the second period. He also contributed offensively, setting up a power-play goal by Auston Matthews, who sparked a surge of four straight Leafs goals.
Toronto has been rotating between Stolarz and Dennis Hildeby in Woll’s absence. With the Maple Leafs beginning a stretch of five road games in their next seven contests, Woll could provide a boost if healthy enough to play.
The Columbus Blue Jackets, on the other hand, will look to recover from a lackluster performance in a 3-1 loss to the Minnesota Wild. Despite a strong showing from goaltender Daniil Tarasov, who made 31 saves, the Blue Jackets struggled with a slow start. Coach Dean Evason expressed disappointment in the team’s early effort, while defenseman Zach Werenski acknowledged that they must improve their intensity from the opening whistle.
The Blue Jackets are also dealing with several injuries, missing key players like Boone Jenner, Kent Johnson, and goalie Elvis Merzlikins. Despite these challenges, Columbus will aim for a better start and a strong finish to their four-game homestand.
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