NHL: Chicago Blackhawks at Toronto Maple Leafs - Source: Imagn — Darren Dreger draws similarities between Auston Matthews and Anthony Stolarz’s ‘extent of injury’ (Imagn)

“What’s the point of saying day-to-day if you're going to be extraordinarily patient”: Darren Dreger on Auston Matthews and Anthony Stolarz's injuries

Modified Dec 16, 2024 18:32 GMT

Anthony Stolarz is considered day-to-day on injured reserve for the Toronto Maple Leafs. It was a crushing blow for a team playing well in the net. Hockey analyst Darren Dreger isn't sure that Stolarz will be back in short order.

On Monday's edition of "First Up," Dreger said:

"We know that Stolarz is placed on injured reserve. We know that he tweaked something lower body, leg, right? You can all see that based on the video replays that have been supplied. But I don't think the Maple Leafs have a full grasp on the extent of the injury."

The NHL insider went on to say he's not necessarily talking about the damage but the designation:

"I'm going to be curious to see if he's back on the ice for practice as early as tomorrow, and if he's not out there, then perhaps his situation drags a little bit longer. I also don't think that that speaks to the severity of the injury, more to the patience and the approach of the Maple Leafs with all the players this year."

He compared it to Auston Matthews' injury, where a day-to-day designation turned out to last weeks with seemingly no end:

"What's the point of saying day to day if you know you're going to be extraordinarily patient? Make sure the players have an opportunity to rest."

Dreger pointed out that Stolarz can come back on Friday but that his practice habits will tell the story of when he will be back on the ice.

Maple Leafs head coach expects Anthony Stolarz back soon

Anthony Stolarz is going to be out for an undisclosed amount of time. The Toronto Maple Leafs goalie has a lower-body injury that could cost him a few more games. Head coach Craig Berube isn't as concerned, though.

Anthony Stolarz is expected back sooner rather than later (Imagn)

Via TSN, he said on Friday:

"We got good news on him. Day to day right now. Didn't go on the ice, but we'll see tomorrow if he can get out there."

He remained adamant that it all depends on when Stolarz can get back on the ice, but he reiterated that he expects the player to be back sometime next week if things go well.