Toronto Maple Leafs received a timely boost on the injury front as head coach Craig Berube delivered encouraging updates ahead of Saturday night’s Hockey Night in Canada matchup against the Vancouver Canucks.
With Toronto continuing a strong midseason surge, the status of several key players has become a major storyline heading into puck drop at Scotiabank Arena.
Positive progress for Anthony Stolarz
Goaltender Anthony Stolarz has not appeared in a game since sustaining an injury during a November 11 loss to the Boston Bruins, and his recovery timeline has extended longer than initially expected.
However, Berube confirmed that the veteran netminder is trending in the right direction and nearing a full return to team activities.
“He's coming along well,” Berube said after the morning skate, per NHL.com. “He's been skating for a bit now. I think it's close where he will be with us full-time.”
Stolarz was on the ice prior to the team’s morning skate, facing shots from Toronto’s development staff. While he will not suit up against Vancouver, Berube indicated that the 31-year-old is expected to travel with the team on its upcoming four-game road trip, which begins Monday in Denver against the league-leading Colorado Avalanche.
Goaltending stability despite absence
In Stolarz’s absence, Toronto Maple Leafs have relied on a Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby tandem. The duo has provided steady performances in recent weeks, helping Toronto remain competitive while awaiting reinforcements in net.
Although Stolarz will not make his first appearance of 2026 just yet, Toronto’s goaltending depth has allowed the team to maintain momentum during a demanding stretch of the schedule.
William Nylander set to return
The most impactful news ahead of the Canucks clash centers on William Nylander. The star winger is set to return after missing six games with a lower-body injury suffered late last month against the Ottawa Senators.
Despite the absence, Nylander remains Toronto Maple Leafs’ leading scorer with 41 points in 33 games. He was seen skating alongside Matias Maccelli and John Tavares during the morning skate, signaling his readiness to resume a top-six role.
“He's obviously a great player, skill, speed,” Berube said, per NHL.com. “He adds offense and he adds in a lot of areas. It's great to have him back.”
Jake McCabe nearing game-time decision
Defenseman Jake McCabe could also bolster the lineup. After missing two games with a lower-body injury, McCabe was a full participant in the morning skate and is listed as a game-time decision.