Maple Leafs News & Rumors: Kampf, Holmberg, Timmins & Stolarz – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

In this edition of Toronto Maple Leafs News & Rumors, I will share three important topics: how the three Maple Leafs performed at the IIHF World Championships, the possible return of right-handed defenseman Conor Timmins next season, and the possibility of finding a reliable player. backup goaltender to support Joseph Woll.

First thing: Three Leafs Players Stand Out at World Series

Three Maple Leaves make a splash in Prague. First, center David Kampf was instrumental in helping Czechia secure its first gold medal since 2010. The Czechs won the championship with a 2-0 win over Switzerland, with Kampf scoring an empty netter in the final seconds. Kampf's play was outstanding throughout the tournament, recording seven points in nine games, his best result in his second tournament. This gold medal is Kampf's first in an International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) competition. Former Maple Leafs player Ondrej Kase also represented the Czech team in this victorious campaign. It's great to see him playing again.

Second, Pontus Holmberg helped Sweden get a bronze medal with a comeback win against Canada. When Canada took a 2-1 lead early in the third period, Holmberg and his Swedish teammates rallied to win 4-2. Holmberg finished the tournament as one of Sweden's top scorers, with six assists. The bronze medal is the first for the Swedish national team, and marks Sweden's first medal since back-to-back golds in 2017 and 2018. His performance could help him get more ice time next season with the team.

In the end, Maple Leafs captain John Tavares was instrumental in Canada's run to the bronze medal game. Against Sweden, Tavares assisted Pierre-Luc Dubois, giving Canada a 2-1 lead early in the third period. Despite his strong performance, Canada ultimately fell short. Tavares' contributions throughout the tournament were significant, but the loss ended Canada's four-year run at the World Championships. The Maple Leafs captain still has some bounce in his game.

Item Two: Will Conor Timmins Be Moved This Off-Season?

Unfortunately for Conor Timmins, he dealt with health problems last season and found himself in good health during the playing season. As a result, he was passed over on the Maple Leafs defensive depth chart by Simon Benoit and (probably) last season's signee Cade Webber. Timmins is 25 years old and signed for about $1.1 million through the 2024-25 season, and his future with the team appears uncertain.

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Despite his strength, Timmins is considered the team's deepest player. Given his struggles on the defensive end, it's unlikely he'll break into Toronto's six-man defense next year. This situation begs the question: Is Timmins the type of rookie Craig Berube prefers?

Berube likes tough, physical players who excel at both ends of the ice. Timmins has offensive talent but has had issues with his defensive integrity and physical play. It is not clear whether he agrees with Berube's vision for the team. For a player of his ability, a move to a club that offers more opportunities at the back could be beneficial.

General manager Brad Treliving may want to trade Timmins, who may receive a low draft pick. That would free up valuable space and give Timmins a fresh start elsewhere. His main concern is whether he will start the season as a healthy scratch, in the American Hockey League (AHL), or with a new team. A trade seems possible, given the roster, coaching philosophy, and salary cap considerations.

Thing Three: The Maple Leafs Should Identify An Affordable Backup Goaltender To Keep Joseph Woll

I've tried to consistently push for the Maple Leafs to give their youngsters more opportunities to make the roster. That's especially true on the web. The team is looking to strengthen its goalscoring form; however, I don't believe it should try to replace Woll as its main goalkeeper. Instead, the organization must find a reliable and affordable backup to support Woll and allow him to thrive. Instead of spending big on a quality goalkeeper, why not try to re-sign Martin Jones? Then, adding another capable backup would be a sound strategy.

Related: Maple Leafs Conor Timmins: Odd Man Out

Florida Panthers goalie Anthony Stolarz has been a star backup to Sergey Bobrovsky this season. The 30-year-old goalie is big in the crease, at 6-foot-6 and 243 pounds. He signed a one-year, $1.1 million contract through July 1, 2023. That means he could be signed this offseason. He will be a reliable 1B option that will bring solid experience.

In 27 games this season, Stolarz has posted an impressive 16-7-2 record, with a 2.03 goals-against average and a .925 save percentage. These numbers underscore his potential to be an excellent, inexpensive backup for the Maple Leafs. He could represent a competitive and inexpensive option, and his strong season with the Panthers makes him an attractive candidate who could play a significant role beyond his contract value.

If the team were to sign Stolarz – and it may not be easy given that he is American and perhaps appreciates the tax benefits for players in Florida – the Maple Leafs could ensure strong support for Woll. However, given Woll's injury history, Stlarz may be interested in playing more games. He would allow young Woll to develop and flourish next season.

What's Next for Maple Leaves?

Until now, fans have not heard anything about the support staff for Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube. Who will be coming? It seems that one person is Marc Savard. Shortly after the Maple Leafs hired Berube as their new coach, the Calgary Flames and Savard, who had worked with Berube in St.

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Maybe it's just a coincidence, but the Maple Leafs should be in the market for assistant coaches after struggling on both special teams. The connection with Savard makes sense, making him a subject worth considering to bolster their coaching staff.