Unexpected Turn of Events for Two Maple Leafs Stars Ahead of Matchup vs. the Kraken
The Toronto Maple Leafs are missing two of their key players as they head into Seattle on Thursday. But new reports show they may be making their big return.
It was a great turnaround for the Maple Leafs on Tuesday as they came into Alberta and took out the Calgary Flames backed by a hat-trick from William Nylander who ended up giving the team a much needed break thanks to his efforts.
But questions still surround their injured players, however a new report signals that their return may be right around the corner.
According to David Alter, Craig Berube believes that not only Mitch Marner is close to returning, but so is Anthony Stolarz.
Craig Berube Comments On Mitch Marner And Anthony Stolarz's Injury Return
The head coach was very optimistic regarding Marner's return for Thursday's game against Seattle, though it's a bit of a wait and see still:
It's a massive boost if the Maple Leafs can get their team MVP back, as Marner has been lights out this season.
In 52 games, the superstar winger has 16 goals and 54 assists. Even though his name has been thrown around in contract talks all year, he hasn't let it bother him and looks focused solely on helping Toronto win.
In terms of Stolarz, it was just as good news as the Maple Leafs goaltender hasn't played since mid-December. He underwent a procedure to remove a loose body in his knee, and has been on the road to recovery ever since.
Berube commented:
That's fantastic news for a Maple Leafs team who has had to rely heavily on Joseph Woll who could use a break from making highlight reel save after highlight reel save.
Berube was then asked about if Thursday night was going to be the return of Stolarz and while non-committal, was positive towards coming back:
Stolarz was enjoying a fantastic season before injuries derailed his season. He signed a two-year, $5M contract this summer and has completely blown away expectations.
He holds a 9-5-2 record this season with a 2.15 GAA and .927 SV% and was a potential Vezina Trophy candidate before going down.
It would be a fantastic sign to see either player back on the ice for the Maple Leafs, but the potential to get both Marner and Stolarz back is a huge boost to a team that needs to make a statement ahead of a crucial two-week break.
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