What's Happening?
Dennis Hildeby, a goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs, is set to start in the team's preseason finale against the Detroit Red Wings. This decision comes as Joseph Woll, another goaltender for the team, is currently unavailable due to personal reasons with no set timetable for his return. As a result, Hildeby is positioned to potentially begin the regular season as the backup to Anthony Stolarz. During the 2024-25 season, Hildeby played six regular-season games for the Maple Leafs, achieving a record of 3-3-0 with a goals-against average (GAA) of 3.32 and a save percentage of .872. James Reimer, who is attending the Maple Leafs' training camp on a professional tryout agreement, is expected to play the second half of the game against the Red Wings.
Why It's Important?
The decision to start Dennis Hildeby in the preseason finale is significant for the Toronto Maple Leafs as they finalize their roster for the upcoming NHL season. With Joseph Woll's absence, Hildeby has the opportunity to solidify his position as a reliable backup goaltender. This situation highlights the importance of depth in the goaltending position, especially as teams prepare for the long and demanding NHL season. The performance of backup goaltenders can be crucial in maintaining a team's competitive edge, particularly if the primary goaltender faces injuries or other absences. For Hildeby, this game serves as a critical opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities and earn a more permanent role on the team.
What's Next?
Following the preseason finale, the Toronto Maple Leafs will need to make final decisions regarding their goaltending lineup for the regular season. If Hildeby performs well, he could secure the backup position behind Anthony Stolarz, at least until Joseph Woll returns. The team's management will closely monitor Hildeby's performance, as well as that of James Reimer, to determine the best fit for the team's needs. The outcome of these decisions will impact the team's strategy and performance in the early part of the NHL season.
