Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz was removed from Scotiabank Arena on a stretcher and taken to a local hospital after sustaining an injury during Game 1 against the Florida Panthers on Monday. The Maple Leafs defeated the Panthers 5-4 to secure a 1-0 lead in the second-round series.
Stolarz exited the game at the 10:14 mark of the second period. The team later announced he would not return and was undergoing evaluation.
Panthers forward Sam Bennett made contact with Stolarz's head as the goaltender moved across the crease earlier in the second period. Stolarz remained in the game for a short time after the play but later doubled over on the bench and appeared ill before being replaced.
Joseph Woll entered the game to replace Stolarz in net.
Head coach Craig Berube commented on the play after the game, stating it was an "Elbow to the head, clear as day." Forward Matthew Knies expressed hope the league would review the contact to protect players.
Anthony Stolarz made eight saves before being forced out of the contest. Woll finished the game, making 17 saves on 20 shots faced.
The Toronto Maple Leafs held on for the victory in the opening game of the Panthers vs Maple Leafs series.
