SHOCKING: Anthony Stolarz Shuns Maple Leafs Extension, Signs with Edmonton Oilers in Surprising NHL Offseason Move
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NHL offseason, goaltender Anthony Stolarz has officially inked a deal with the Edmonton Oilers, choosing the Western Canadian franchise over a reported two-year contract extension offered by the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 30-year-old netminder, known for his steady presence in the crease and towering 6-foot-6 frame, made headlines over the weekend with a bold and emotional statement confirming his decision — one that has both puzzled and excited fans across the league.
“It’s been a dream of mine since I was a kid to wear the Oilers jersey,” Stolarz said in a statement released via social media and through the team’s official channels. “From watching old footage of Grant Fuhr to idolizing the grit and passion of Oilers goaltenders over the years, Edmonton has always held a special place in my heart.”
A Standoff in Toronto
Stolarz’s time with the Maple Leafs, though short, was impactful. He served as a dependable backup and occasional starter, helping to stabilize Toronto’s crease amid injuries and inconsistent play. His calm demeanor and ability to step up in high-pressure games earned him the respect of both teammates and fans.
According to sources close to the negotiation process, the Maple Leafs offered Stolarz a two-year extension worth approximately $4.2 million total. The offer was described as “competitive” by several insiders, particularly given the goalie’s role as a 1B or backup option behind the team’s young starter, Joseph Woll. However, Stolarz declined the offer earlier this month, opting instead to test the open market.
It was initially speculated that Stolarz might land with a rebuilding team looking for veteran leadership. Few anticipated that his next destination would be Edmonton, a franchise hungry for goaltending stability as they aim to extend their Stanley Cup window behind stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Edmonton’s Goaltending Gamble
The Oilers have struggled in recent years to find consistent goaltending. With Jack Campbell’s tenure marred by inconsistency and Stuart Skinner showing promise but needing support, Edmonton has been actively seeking a reliable, experienced netminder who could share the load or even take over in crunch time.
Stolarz fits the bill.
Last season with Toronto, he posted a .917 save percentage and a 2.48 goals-against average in 24 appearances — a strong showing for a goaltender in a backup role. In Edmonton, Stolarz will likely begin the season in a tandem with Skinner, but insiders suggest the Oilers view him as a legitimate option to start more games, especially if his preseason form stands out.
“He’s a big body, reads the game well, and he’s been through a lot in his career,” said Oilers GM Ken Holland. “We believe Anthony brings experience, stability, and a burning desire to win — all qualities that are essential in our locker room right now.”
The Emotional Decision
Stolarz’s decision wasn’t just a hockey move — it was deeply personal.
Born in Edison, New Jersey, Stolarz grew up far from the hockey hotbeds of Canada but was always drawn to the history and legends of the Edmonton Oilers. His childhood bedroom, as he revealed in his press conference, was filled with posters of Wayne Gretzky, vintage Oilers gear, and even a worn-out VHS copy of the team’s 1988 Stanley Cup Final.
“This isn’t just a paycheck for me,” he said. “This is a full-circle moment. I’m not just coming here to play — I’m coming here to win and to honor the passion I’ve carried since I was a kid.”
That emotion is likely to endear him quickly to Edmonton’s passionate fan base, which has been craving goaltending heroes since the days of Fuhr and Cujo.
Fallout in Toronto
The Maple Leafs now face new questions about the stability of their goaltending depth chart. With Stolarz gone and Ilya Samsonov reportedly exploring free agency, much of the pressure will fall on Joseph Woll, who has shown flashes of brilliance but remains unproven over a full season.
Leafs GM Brad Treliving issued a brief statement on the matter: “We thank Anthony for his professionalism and contributions during his time with our organization. We wish him and his family all the best in Edmonton.”
However, fans in Toronto were quick to express their frustration online, many questioning the team’s inability to retain solid goaltending depth and others expressing disappointment that a strong veteran presence was allowed to walk.
What’s Next?
Stolarz’s move to Edmonton adds yet another layer of intrigue to what has already been a busy NHL offseason. While the Oilers may have snagged a crucial piece in their championship puzzle, the ripple effect of this signing is likely to influence roster decisions in both conferences.
For now, though, Anthony Stolarz is heading west — not just as a goalie looking for a new opportunity, but as a dreamer stepping into the very reality he envisioned as a child.
And in a league full of cold transactions and calculated moves, that kind of story still resonates.