Just a day after Anthony Stolarz made a case for starting in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Joseph Woll responded with an impressive performance in goal during their game in Raleigh.
The Maple Leafs are now in an enviable position with their goaltending. They face the decision of choosing between two reliable and consistent goalies to start when the playoffs begin. Stolarz has recently strengthened his argument, achieving his seventh consecutive win and a shutout on Saturday night.
However, on Sunday in Raleigh, Woll, typically the team`s second choice, demonstrated his capability to be a primary goaltender.
Woll quickly established his readiness to compete. In the first period against Carolina, the Hurricanes dominated, registering 11 of the game`s initial 12 shots. They pressured Toronto intensely and appeared to be the dominant team. Yet, Woll consistently thwarted their attacks, providing composure and keeping Toronto in contention.
Thanks to Woll`s solid play, the Maple Leafs avoided entering the first intermission with a significant deficit. Instead, despite Carolina`s pressure, Toronto took the lead late in the period with a goal from Pontus Holmberg on a rebound.
