Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Anthony Stolarz was taken to the hospital for further evaluation after sustaining a head injury during Monday’s Game 1 against the Florida Panthers. The incident occurred at 7:20 in the second period when Panthers’ forward Sam Bennett struck Stolarz in the head with a forearm, knocking him to the ice. Although play stopped immediately, no penalty was called on Bennett.
According to The New York Times, Stolarz continued to play for over two minutes after the hit before heading to the bench, where he vomited and left for the locker room. He was taken off the ice on a stretcher and transported to the hospital.
According to Athlon Sports, Berube declined to comment further on Stolarz’s condition, only confirming that he was being evaluated. When asked whether the team would push for supplemental discipline for Bennett, Berube said the decision was up to the league.
Leafs coach Craig Berube expressed frustration with the missed call, stating, “Elbow to the head, clearly. Clear as day.”
Florida Panthers’ head coach Paul Maurice defended his player’s actions, stating that the referee, who had a better vantage point, did not see the hit as a penalty. Maurice later dismissed further questions, saying, “You’ll do your thing, the league will do its thing, and I’ll coach the next game.”
Despite the controversy, the Maple Leafs went on to win the game 5-4. Joseph Woll replaced Stolarz and made 17 saves on 20 shots, securing the victory for Toronto. The team will look to continue their momentum in Game 2, set for Wednesday night in Toronto before the series heads to Florida for Games 3 and 4.
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