3 Reasons Why the Toronto Maple Leafs Should Use Joseph Woll as their Starter

Three Reasons Why Joseph Woll Should Be the Maple Leafs’ Starter Next Season

#1: Woll Inspires Confidence

Despite his age, Woll inspires confidence in his Toronto Maple Leafs teammates. Several teammates have spoken about how much Woll inspires confidence in them. Sportsnet captured the following comments from Matthew Knies:

"I feel pretty safe when he’s in net. He sees the ice well, and I trust him a lot."

- Matthew Knies

In the same story, John Tavares echoed Knies' sentiments, expressing admiration for his calm demeaner.

#2: Woll Has Responded in the Playoffs

With the Leafs down 3-1 in their first-round series against Boston this postseason, former coach Sheldon Keefe turned to Woll for Game 5. Woll responded, keeping Toronto in the game, as the Leafs pulled out a 2-1 OT victory.

Then, Woll followed that performance up with another 2-1 win in Game 6. With the series even at three games apiece, Woll suffered an injury, forcing the Leafs to turn to Ilya Samsonov in Game 7.

While Samsonov did not play poorly, the Leafs lost a heartbreaking 2-1 game in OT.

The year before, Woll came in and played a huge role in the postseason. He made four appearances, posting a 2.43 GAA and a solid .915 SV%. Despite going 1-2, Woll proved he could be trusted in big-game situations.

That being said, Woll tends to get hurt consistently. That is why there may be some hesitance about riding Woll. That is why a competent backup can solidify the Leafs goaltending situation.