Insider exposes the Maple Leafs' plan B after missing out on Jacob Markstrom

As the Stanley Cup Playoffs draw to a close, the spotlight intensifies on Toronto's need for a reliable presence between the pipes, particularly following their early playoff exit which placed Mitch Marner in the harsh glare of the rumour mill.

Despite being tagged as the primary scapegoat post-playoffs, the actual urgency lies not with the skaters but with securing a competent goaltender, especially after Markstrom's recent commitment to the New Jersey Devils.

The available market, however, is thin, lacking in both established starters and dependable 1A options. While the Boston Bruins scout the trade scene for Ullmark, his extensive no-trade clause diminishes his availability for Toronto. Meanwhile, whispers of interest in Juuse Saros have gone unanswered by the Nashville Predators, leaving Toronto to eye the secondary market—a scenario that might not be as bleak as it sounds.

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman highlighted on his "32 Thoughts" podcast that Toronto's strategy might pivot towards acquiring a solid backup to form a robust tandem with Joseph Woll. Potential candidates like Laurent Brossoit or Anthony Stolarz are on the Leafs' radar.

Brossoit, often overlooked, has maintained a commendable track record over recent seasons. Despite limited appearances due to his backup role—72 games comprising 64 starts over four seasons—he has managed a 38-20-8 record. His tenure with teams like the Vegas Golden Knights and Winnipeg Jets showcased a 2.39 GAA and a .915 SV%. In the 2023-24 season alone, Brossoit impressively recorded a .927 SV% and a 2.00 GAA across 22 games.

Conversely, Stolarz has experienced a resurgence after a rocky start to his NHL career. With the Anaheim Ducks and Florida Panthers since 2019, he's appeared in 83 games, boasting a .917 SV% and a 2.59 GAA. His performance in the current season further cements his capability, tallying a .925 SV% and a 2.03 GAA.

Neither goaltender has been a regular starter, typically appearing in no more than 28 games per season. However, their records suggest that either could effectively complement Woll as a 1B option.

This approach could be particularly cost-effective compared to pursuing high-profile names like Markstrom or Ullmark, which would demand significant trade resources and cap space. Brossoit, for instance, is approaching free agency after a $1.75 million contract, while Stolarz's contract concluded at $1.1 million.

As the Leafs face the 2024-25 season, they could establish a confident goaltending duo for less than $3 million combined, presenting a strategic, budget-friendly alternative to the more costly pursuits. Their approach exemplifies a prudent shift towards fiscal and athletic prudence, aiming to balance performance with payroll in their ongoing quest for playoff success.