Leafs Make Unexpected Starting Goalie Announcement Following Matt Murray Recall
The Maple Leafs made a surprising announcement following Friday's morning skate in Buffalo regarding their starting goalie after Joseph Woll did not take part.
The Leafs were in a precarious position after Anthony Stolarz was injured in the first period against the Anaheim Ducks on December 12th.
Initially, the prognosis was 'day-to-day', but as we have learned with the Leafs this season, 'day-to-day' means at least a couple of weeks.
On Tuesday, GM Brad Treliving shared that Stolarz will be out 4-6 weeks after having knee surgery. The news came as a bit of a shock considering the initial 'day-to-day' prognosis, but fueled speculation that Matt Murray may finally find his way back to the NHL.
After 628 days, Matt Murray, who shockingly re-signed with the Leafs in July, was recalled by the club on Friday and was announced as the starter for Friday's game against the Buffalo Sabres.
Murray, who recently rejoined the Marlies after recovering from a very minor injury, posted a shutout on Wednesday, stopping all 27 shots he faced, proving that he is ready to return to NHL action. In 8 games with the Marlies, Murray has been outstanding, posting a 4-1-2 record with a stellar .931 save percentage and 1.85 GAA.
With two Stanley Cups and 272 regular season NHL games under his belt, the experience he provides the Leafs is a major reason for his recall. The demotion of Dennis Hildeby was just an unfortuante byproduct.
With Joseph Woll's injury issues, Murray starting Friday shouldn't come as a surprise with the Leafs entering a back-to-back and playing three games in four nights before the Christmas break.
