The Toronto Maple Leafs have finally revealed when we can expect goaltender Anthony Stolarz to make his return to the Leafs' lineup following recovery from surgery.
On Tuesday, Leafs head coach Craig Berube was asked point blank about Stolarz's expected return date. When asked if the 31-year-old would return ahead of the 4 Nations Face-Off, Berube suggested that, if everything goes according to plan, we'll see Stolarz back before the 4 Nations.
Stolarz also had a chance to speak with the media this week, confirming that it's difficult, mentally, when you're not playing. He also spoke about his ongoing conditioning, pointing out that nothing can prepare you for game play quite like actually playing in games.
"Obviously, it kind of sucks not playing. We were playing pretty well when I went down, so just being able to get back out there, practice with the guys again, and be around the group has been a lot of fun so far There's no cardio like playing hockey in a real 60-minute game-especially as a goalie. I feel good; it's just about getting that cardio back."