Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Joseph Woll (60) stops a shot from Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon (29) as Oliver Ekman-Larsson (95) helps defend during the third period of an NHL game in Toronto on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christopher Katsarov)
Joseph Woll is proving his worth as the Toronto Maple Leafs' go-to goaltender with a series of impressive performances. The 26-year-old netminder delivered another stellar outing on Wednesday night, stopping 38 of 39 shots in a 2-1 victory over the Colorado Avalanche. As the playoffs approach, Woll is making a strong case to be the team’s starter in the postseason.
Stepping Up When It Matters
Woll has built a reputation for rising to the occasion. In the 2023 playoffs, he was thrust into action when the Leafs trailed 3-0 against the Florida Panthers. His resilience helped Toronto win Game 4 before they were eliminated in overtime in Game 5. A year later, he found himself in a similar position against the Boston Bruins, helping the Leafs push the series to Game 7 before an unfortunate injury forced him out.
Despite splitting time this season with offseason acquisition Anthony Stolarz, Woll has recently gained momentum. Over his last three starts, he has blocked 92 of 98 shots, while Stolarz has struggled, allowing three or more goals in each of his last three appearances.
Woll’s Consistency Impresses Teammates
Auston Matthews, who scored his fourth goal in three games, praised Woll’s mentality. "No matter how the game is going, he stays locked in. That focus makes a big difference," Matthews said. Forward Steven Lorentz echoed this sentiment, crediting Woll’s steady presence for allowing the team to play with confidence.
Head coach Craig Berube, who will soon have to decide on his playoff starter, acknowledged Woll’s form. "He's been excellent the last three games. We’ll figure everything out soon," Berube said.
Proving His Worth
Woll’s stats this season speak volumes. With a record of 24-12-0, a .908 save percentage, and a 2.70 goals-against average, he has demonstrated reliability. On Wednesday, he showcased his reflexes by denying Colorado’s Nathan MacKinnon and later robbing Brock Nelson with a clutch glove save in the third period.
The Leafs, currently battling for the top spot in the Atlantic Division, have 13 games left in the regular season. With key matchups ahead, including a showdown with the New York Rangers, Woll’s performance could determine whether he takes the starting job full-time.
A Lucky Break Leads to the Game-Winner
Toronto took the lead in the third period in a bizarre sequence. Leafs defenseman Simon Benoit attempted to clear the puck on the penalty kill, but it struck the referee, leading to an unexpected scoring opportunity for Lorentz. The winger took full advantage, firing a shot past Colorado’s Mackenzie Blackwood. "I've had bad bounces before, so I’ll gladly take this one," Lorentz said.
With Woll standing tall in the net and momentum on his side, the Maple Leafs may have found their playoff backbone. If he continues at this pace, it will be hard to deny him the starting role when the postseason begins.
