Artur Akhtyamov Set for First NHL Start as Anthony Stolarz Sidelined
The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a sudden shake-up in net. Following a disappointing 4-0 loss to the Washington Capitals on Wednesday, head coach Craig Berube confirmed that 24-year-traditional goaltender Artur Akhtyamov will make his first career NHL start on Thursday when the Maple Leafs visit the Fresh York Islanders.
The move comes as a necessity after veteran Anthony Stolarz suffered a lower-body injury early in the first period against Washington. Stolarz, who was ruled out during the first intermission, left the game after stretching to make a pad save. While Berube has not provided a specific timeline for his return, there is uncertainty regarding whether the 32-year-old will feature in any of the team’s remaining four games.
Who is Artur Akhtyamov?
Akhtyamov is not a complete stranger to the NHL, having made his debut on December 13 in a relief appearance for Dennis Hildeby against the Edmonton Oilers, where he recorded five saves. However, this Thursday marks his first time stepping into the starting role.
Selected 106th overall in the 2020 NHL draft, the Russian netminder has spent the 2025-26 season establishing himself with the Toronto Marlies. His performance in the AHL has been impressive, posting a 20-12-4 record with a .903 save percentage and a 2.90 goals-against average over 36 games. His rise within the organization was highlighted by a selection to the 2026 AHL All-Star Classic and a three-year contract extension signed in March worth $900,000 annually.
Coach Craig Berube has been vocal about his confidence in the young goalie, praising his “fast reflexes” and describing him as “competitive as hell.” This sentiment is shared by teammate Benoit-Olivier Groulx, who noted Akhtyamov’s mental toughness and ability to remain unfazed after conceding goals.
A Wave of AHL Call-ups
The injury to Stolarz isn’t the only blow to the Leafs’ roster. The team also lost forward Dakota Joshua to an upper-body injury and defenseman Brandon Carlo to a lower-body ailment during the contest with the Capitals.
To fill these gaps, the Maple Leafs are recalling additional talent from the Toronto Marlies. Along with Akhtyamov, center Luke Haymes and defenseman William Villeneuve are slated to make their NHL debuts on Thursday. Haymes, a 22-year-old who has recorded 17 goals and 32 points in the AHL this season, may be auditioning for a more significant role in the 2026-27 campaign.
The Bigger Picture: Goaltending Future
This transition comes at a bleak moment for the franchise, as Toronto is set to miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016. However, the emergence of Akhtyamov may signal a shift in the team’s long-term strategy.
Industry analysis suggests that Akhtyamov’s recent extension could put current netminders Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll on the trade block this offseason. With the front office potentially losing patience with the veteran era, the organization may appear to recoup assets by moving one of its primary goaltenders to make room for younger talent like Akhtyamov or Dennis Hildeby.
Key Takeaways: Maple Leafs Roster Update
- Starting Goalie: Artur Akhtyamov makes his first NHL start vs. The New York Islanders (April 9).
- Injury Report: Anthony Stolarz (lower-body), Dakota Joshua (upper-body), and Brandon Carlo (lower-body) are all sidelined.
- New Faces: Luke Haymes and William Villeneuve will also make their NHL debuts.
- Akhtyamov Stats: 20-12-4 record with a .903 SV% in 36 AHL games during the 2025-26 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Anthony Stolarz get injured?
Stolarz suffered a lower-body injury during the first period of the Maple Leafs’ game against the Washington Capitals on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
What is Artur Akhtyamov’s contract status?
Akhtyamov signed a three-year extension in March 2026 worth $900,000 per year. The first year of the deal is a two-way contract, providing the team with flexibility regarding his assignment between the NHL and AHL.
Who else is making their NHL debut with the Leafs?
In addition to Artur Akhtyamov, center Luke Haymes and defenseman William Villeneuve are scheduled to make their NHL debuts on Thursday.