The Toronto Maple Leafs, led by Auston Matthews, entered training camp surrounded by plenty of optimism, but one storyline looms larger than most — the contract status of goaltender Anthony Stolarz. After a breakout year that solidified him as a key piece of Toronto’s future, his next deal has become one of the most important negotiations for the franchise.

Stolarz, 30, emerged as a stabilizing force in the crease last season, posting a 21-8-3 record with a 2.14 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage. Alongside rising netminder Joseph Woll, he has given Toronto something it has lacked for years: a dependable tandem. Yet his contract, set to expire at the end of this season, has quickly become a topic of speculation.

Reports surfaced this week suggesting the two sides are still

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