In a crucial stretch of the playoffs, the Toronto Maple Leafs are facing an uphill battle with the potential absence of their starting goaltender, Anthony Stolarz, becoming increasingly apparent.

Following a possible concussion sustained in Game 1 against the Florida Panthers, Stolarz hasn’t yet taken to the ice. Leafs coach Craig Berube delivered the disappointing update after the team’s heart-wrenching 5-4 loss in Game 3. "(Stolarz) has not skated yet," Berube confirmed, dampening hopes of an early return.

Although Berube noted that Stolarz is "progressing in the right direction," the lack of skating casts a shadow over his availability as the series heats up, with Game 4 looming just around the corner.

Stolarz left the ice during Game 1 after being elbowed in the head by Panthers center Sam Bennett. He managed to stay in the game for a brief period but was soon seen skating to the bench and later vomiting during a timeout—a clear sign of distress.

While Berube has been tight-lipped about the specifics of Stolarz's condition, it’s crucial to consider the NHL's return-to-play protocol for concussions, which typically spans over a week. This includes a six-step evaluation that carefully increases physical stressors to ensure the player's health.

As the Leafs fight for a pivotal victory—currently leading the series 2-1—the absence of Stolarz raises concerns about their goaltending. Backup Joseph Woll has stepped in with mixed results, securing two wins but allowing 11 goals across two-and-a-half games and posting an .869 save percentage.

Berube emphasized the pressure on Woll, stating, "(The Panthers) are coming hard. Woll is going to have to move it quick, make a decision quick and move it. That’s the bottom line." The Maple Leafs will need to rally together if they hope to keep their playoff dreams alive as uncertainty surrounds their star goaltender's return.