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Elliotte Friedman reveals the truth behind Anthony Stolarz's premature return


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Alexander Cole
January 26, 2026  (12:53)
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Jan 23, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Vegas Golden Knights right wing Braeden Bowman (42) battles in front of Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz (41) with defenseman Troy Stecher (28) during the second period at Scotiabank Arena.
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Anthony Stolarz made his return on Friday, and after being lit up, Elliotte Friedman has the latest on the decision to bring him back.

Anthony Stolarz got completely lit up against the Las Vegas Golden Knights on Friday, and there was some debate about the goaltender's start.
Plenty of pundits and fans felt as though his return was too soon and that he should have at least played in the AHL first.
When asked about the situation, Leafs head coach Craig Berube said it wasn't his choice, and in the process, made it seem like it was Brad Treliving's fault.
This led to a lot of confusion, although it appears as though Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman knows the real truth about what happened.

Who is to blame for Anthony Stolarz?

Essentially, Anthony Stolarz was given a choice. He could either stay in the AHL for longer with the Toronto Marlies or he could start against the Las Vegas Golden Knights.
In the end, the netminder chose his own destiny and made it abundantly clear that his choice was to actually play with the Maple Leafs.

Whether or not this was the right choice is something that Brad Treliving is going to have to consider for a long time.
Stolarz himself is going to be left wondering about it, especially when you realize how the Maple Leafs are currently in the midst of a tough season.
They need wins right now, and a goaltender looking to find his way isn't going to be what takes the Maple Leafs to the promised land.
Ultimately, this is going to be a fascinating situation, especially with the Buffalo Sabres up next on Tuesday.
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Elliotte Friedman reveals the truth behind Anthony Stolarz's premature return

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