In a surprising move during the NHL offseason, goaltender Anthony Stolarz has officially signed with the Florida Panthers after rejecting a two-year contract extension from the Toronto Maple Leafs. The decision, announced on Monday, sent ripples through the league and left Maple Leafs fans stunned.
The 30-year-old netminder, known for his solid backup performances and towering presence in the crease, had been in discussions with Toronto over the summer. However, sources confirm that Stolarz turned down a deal reportedly worth just over \$2.5 million annually, opting instead to ink a one-year contract with Florida at slightly less value.
In a public statement, Stolarz shared the reasoning behind his bold decision: “Playing for the Florida Panthers has always been a personal dream of mine. It’s not just about money or playing time—it’s about being part of something I’ve envisioned for years. This is where I want to be.”
The Panthers, fresh off a deep playoff run and looking to bolster their goaltending depth behind starter Sergei Bobrovsky, see Stolarz as a reliable and experienced addition. His career includes stints with the Anaheim Ducks, Philadelphia Flyers, and Edmonton Oilers, with a career save percentage of .915 in limited starts.
Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs are left scrambling to adjust their goaltending plans. With Ilya Samsonov’s future still uncertain and Joseph Woll gaining momentum, Stolarz’s departure adds another wrinkle to Toronto’s offseason challenges.
As the new NHL season approaches, all eyes will be on Stolarz and whether his move to Florida helps fulfill his dream—or if it becomes one of the offseason’s most controversial gambles. One thing is certain: he’s betting big on the Panthers, and only time will tell if the decision pays off.
