The Toronto Maple Leafs are reeling from the loss of starting goalie Anthony Stolarz, who will be sidelined for four to six weeks after undergoing knee surgery. In response to this devastating news, one creative trade proposal has surfaced through PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, suggesting the Leafs acquire veteran goalie Alex Lyon from the Detroit Red Wings.
The proposed deal would see the Leafs send young forward Nick Robertson to Detroit in exchange for Lyon, who has proven himself as a reliable NHL starter. Lyon, in the final year of his two-year, $1.8 million contract, would bring stability and depth to Toronto’s goaltending after Stolarz’s injury, complementing Joseph Woll while coming at a bargain price.
Lyon has posted solid numbers this season with a 4-4 record, 2.74 GAA, and .911 SV%, continuing his career trend of steady play. Meanwhile, Robertson, once a promising second-round pick for the Leafs, has struggled to make an impact this season, tallying just 4 points in 24 games. A change of scenery in Detroit could offer him the bigger role he’s seeking.
Toronto GM Brad Treliving addressed the Stolarz injury, noting the MRI revealed no structural damage, just a “loose body” requiring removal. While the Leafs’ depth in goal, including Dennis Hildeby and Matt Murray, offers some comfort, the team could benefit from Lyon’s experience to navigate the coming weeks without Stolarz.
As the Leafs return to action on December 18 against the Dallas Stars, all eyes are on this potential move to bolster their goaltending for the stretch ahead.