Anthony Stolarz Reflects on Maple Leafs’ First Home Ice Win – Hockey Writers – Maple Leafs Goaltending

After getting his first career win with the Toronto Maple Leafs, goaltender Anthony Stolarz sat down with Kyle Bukauskas to reflect on the special moment. Stolarz, a veteran coach who joined the Maple Leafs this season, had what he called an electrifying start to the home opener.

His 4-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins and the great Sidney Crosby Hockey Night in Canada gave him a memorable start with the team, and shared details about his journey, preparation, and attitude over the past few days. You can see and hear this conversation in the video below:

Stolarz’s First Appearance After Win Against Penguins

Stolarz was visibly moved when asked what getting his first win with the Maple Leafs meant to him. He expressed his excitement about playing in front of a passionate Toronto crowd. As he commented in the video, “It’s special, I mean doing it on home ice, opening at home, in front of this crowd. The atmosphere was electric and like a catalyst behind us, giving us that little extra spark. So it was nice to get a first and hopefully the first of many.”

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Stolarz made it clear that the intensity on the court helped fuel the team’s performance, and it was a memorable experience to start his journey with the Maple Leafs on such a high note.

Stolarz Reflects On The Last Few Days Since The Regular Season Started

Bukauskas asked Stolarz what he thought about the storm that started the team’s first few games, including the home opener. For Stolarz, this uncertainty is nothing new: “It’s something I’m used to, especially as a backup in the last few years in Anaheim and Florida. You never really know what to expect, so I just prepare the same and always be ready because you never know when your name will be called.”

His answer highlights the expertise and readiness required of NHL backups, who must remain sharp no matter how often they are called upon.

Stolarz Learned Some Lessons During His Time in Florida

Bukauskas turned the conversation around Stolarz’s time with the Florida Panthers, asking what lessons he learned from playing with a Stanley Cup-winning team. Stolarz emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability: “You will face difficulties, ups and downs, and last year in particular there were a few times when the start was a bit slow. You just have to stay sharp and ready.”

Stolarz revealed that one of the reasons he came to Toronto was the opportunity to compete, and he is determined to make the most of every opportunity. So far, so good.

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Stolarz also spoke about his desire to work with Joseph Woll, the Maple Leafs’ starting goaltender, noting that healthy competition between them will improve both of their performances: “I will support Wally (Woll), and we will fight every day. We’ve got a good core of goals here, so it’s exciting, and we’re going to make each other better.”

Stolarz Learned the Importance of Hockey Night in Canada’s Towel

In a cool moment, Bukauskas asked Stolarz, who hails from New Jersey, if he knew the welcoming culture. Hockey Night in Canada towel after winning. Stolarz admitted that it was a new but valuable experience for him: “Being from the States, you don’t see much of it. I didn’t really notice it when I was playing in London (Ontario), but you watch the games and you see guys throw the towels back, especially in the playoffs. So to have this for the first time, it’s special.”

Bottom line: New Map Leaf Goalie Grateful and Humble

In his postgame interview, Stolarz expressed gratitude and humility after getting his first win with the Maple Leafs. From embracing the energy of the home crowd to considering the unpredictability of his career, Stolarz has displayed an attitude that has helped him stay prepared throughout his journey.

With respect to the team’s versatility and competitive spirit, Stolarz looks poised to contribute to Toronto’s success this season. For him, i Hockey Night in Canada the towel was the perfect symbol to mark this special occasion.