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Dennis Hildeby's heroics have Leafs fans asking difficult questions about Anthony Stolarz


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Alexander Cole
December 9, 2025  (1:56 PM)
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Dec 8, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Dennis Hildeby (35) makes a save against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period at Scotiabank Arena
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Toronto Maple Leafs prospect goaltender Dennis Hildeby is the hot hand right now, and it is creating an issue with goalies like Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz.

Last night, Dennis Hildeby got a 29-save shutout as the Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning by a final score of 2-0.
It was an incredible game from Hildeby, who has been absolutely sensational throughout his nine appearances this season.

He has a goals-against average of 2.15 and a save percentage of .936. Sure, it is a small sample size, but it is enough to know that Hildeby has been the real deal.
With Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz out of the lineup with injuries, Hildeby's ascension is very much appreciated, as it is keeping the Leafs in the playoff hunt.

Dennis Hildeby could steal Anthony Stolarz's job?

As for Woll and Stolarz, only the former is expected to return to the lineup anytime soon. Furthermore, Woll has been much better than Stolarz this season, which has created a bit of a conundrum.
Following the game, fans and analysts took to X, where they noted that it might be the time to pull the trigger on a Stolarz trade.
While they signed him to an extension this Summer, it has become clear that Hildeby is an NHL-caliber goalie, and would be much cheaper than paying two starters.
Trading Stolarz could bring back a nice haul, especially from a team that absolutely needs a goaltender, like the Edmonton Oilers.
The Leafs need a first-line right-winger, and they also need a puck-moving defenseman. With that in mind, it might be time to pull the trigger, especially if Hildeby is playing like a stud.
No matter what, Leafs general manager Brad Treliving has some difficult decisions to make going into the trade deadline.
POLL
DECEMBRE 9   |   647 ANSWERS
Dennis Hildeby's heroics have Leafs fans asking difficult questions about Anthony Stolarz

Do you believe the Toronto Maple Leafs should trade Anthony Stolarz and promote Dennis Hildeby?

YES41964.8 %
NO22835.2 %
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