Anthony Stolarz injury update: Goaltender injury raises red flags as NHL expert warns of symptoms 'more serious than a concussion'

As the Toronto Maple Leafs prepare for a critical Game 5 in their second-round playoff clash against the Florida Panthers, attention has shifted to the troubling injury situation surrounding goaltender Anthony Stolarz. Sidelined since suffering an upper-body injury in Game 1, the 31-year-old netminder’s status remains uncertain—and now, an NHL analyst is sounding the alarm on the nature of his symptoms.Anthony Stolarz sustained the injury during Toronto’s 5-4 Game 1 victory on May 5, following what appeared to be two separate hits to the head: a blistering shot from Sam Reinhart and a forearm to the side of the head by Sam Bennett. While the team has not confirmed the exact cause, the visible effects raised immediate concern.Speaking on TSN’s “First Up,” NHL analyst Dave Feschuk highlighted the gravity of Stolarz’s condition. “The problem is... vomiting on the bench after a head hit, or potentially two head hits... That’s not normal concussion symptoms,” said Feschuk. “It could mean it was a more serious thing that we don't know what it is.”Citing conversations with concussion specialists, Feschuk emphasized that vomiting post-impact isn’t commonly associated with standard concussion cases.“These guys... were very concerned that the vomiting thing, you know, it could indicate something more serious than a concussion. And obviously, a concussion is very serious, so who knows where Anthony Stolarz is at.”Despite the alarming concerns, there was a sliver of optimism when Anthony Stolarz returned to the ice for light activity before team practice on Tuesday. Head coach Craig Berube provided a cautious update: “He’s doing much better,” Berube said. “But no timeline for his return.”Stolarz is in his first season with the Leafs after signing a two-year, $5 million contract in the offseason. While his presence has been missed in net, the team continues to move forward as they face the Panthers on Wednesday night in what could be a series-defining Game 5.Also Read: NHL Rumors: Edmonton Oilers rumored to be a potential landing spot for $60M star defenseman Aaron Ekblad in free agencyFor now, both fans and teammates are left hoping for a full recovery—not just for the team’s playoff hopes, but for Stolarz’s long-term health.