An Anthony Stolarz Trade Might Be a Lot More Likely Than You Think

Anthony Stolarz was phenomenal for the Toronto Maple Leafs last season, and there is no sane person out there who is going to tell you otherwise.

The netminder had a goals-against average of 2.14 and a save percentage of .926. Add in four shutouts and 21 in 34 games, and you have yourself a Vezina candidate.

However, the goaltender is heading into the final season of his contract, and Stolarz will be commanding a hefty price, especially if he has another big season.

Yesterday, we reported on former NHL goalie Carter Hutton making the claim that Stolarz could get upwards of $5 to $6 million on his next contract.

This was a lofty prediction, and it has led to lots of discourse amongst Leafs Nation. With the Leafs boasting two solid goalies in Stolarz and Woll, some are wondering if the team would just be better off trading the 31-year-old.

The goalie market is almost non-existent right now, and with teams like the Edmonton Oilers desperate to acquire a goalie, the Leafs could probably get quite the haul.

Not to mention, the Leafs are desperate for assets right now. They are struggling to make trades because of a lack of draft picks.

However, Stolarz could yield a roster player, which would negate the need for draft picks and other similar assets. Ultimately, it will be a tough decision for general manager Brad Treliving.

Of course, if Stolarz has a mediocre season, then trading him at the deadline isn't going to be such a hardship.

Either way, this whole situation is going to be fascinating to watch over the coming months.