Maple Leafs' Goaltending Depth Depleting Fast Following Latest Injury
The Leafs' goaltending depth has taken another hit, with prospect Artur Akhtyamov sustaining an injury that may create a bit of a problem for the organization.
Throughout the season, the Toronto Maple Leafs have faced numerous challenges in net due to injuries, underscoring the importance of goaltending depth. So far, four different goalies have started for the team this year.
An injury to Anthony Stolarz, who had been performing well, prompted the team to recall Dennis Hildeby from the AHL with the rookie goalie playing in a backup role with the big club.
Veteran Matt Murray also saw some starts for the Leafs this season, after being on the shelf for 628 days.
Now, first-year AHL netminder Artur Akhtyamov has been added to the injury list. The 2020 fourth-round pick was forced to leave the Toronto Marlies' 6-3 loss to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton after suffering a lower-body injury in the first period.
As per Nick Barden on X:
"It's just lower-body, day-to-day. Haven't got any updates on his condition," head coach John Gruden said.
Despite the injury, Akhtyamov has had a decent season so far with the Marlies, posting a 9-3-1 record with a 2.65 GAA and a .903 save percentage.
With Akhtyamov sidelined, the Marlies will rely on the oft-injured Matt Murray as their starting goalie for the foreseeable future, with Hildeby on a tour of duty in the NHL.
The organization is hoping for a speedy recovery for Akhtyamov, as the goalie depth in both the Leafs and Marlies systems is stretched thin at the moment.
