Maple Leafs Confirm Demotion for Veteran Goaltender Ahead of Clash with Kraken

The Toronto Maple Leafs have managed to stay afloat in the absence of Anthony Stolarz, but it's no secret that the goaltending hasn't been nearly as crisp as it was prior to Stolarz's injury.

Not only has Joseph Woll been overworked, having started the second most games in the NHL since Stolarz underwent his surgical procure -- second only to Winnipeg's Connor Hellebuyck -- but Matt Murray and Dennis Hildeby left a lot to be desired when they did see NHL action during Stolarz's layoff.

Last month, Murray really rebounded in the American Hockey League, posting 4 straight wins for the Toronto Marlies, including back-to-back shutouts, which earned him another NHL recall. Unfortunately, the Thunder Bay, Ontario native did not see any action during his call-up, and has officially been sent back to the AHL.

In a corresponding move, the Leafs also officially activated Stolarz from injured reserve. The 31-year-old is already confirmed to be starting against the Seattle Kraken on Thursday. This will be the first game back for Stolarz since undergoing a surgical procedure to have a pebble removed from his knee back in December.

As for Murray, he'll now go back to competing for starts in the American league with Leafs rookie Dennis Hildeby and Marlies rookie Artur Akhtyamov.

Since Murray has not played 10 games or spent 30 days on the NHL roster since last clearing waivers, he does not have to pass through waivers before being returned to the AHL.