Matt Murray has been recalled by the Toronto Maple Leafs, while fellow goaltender Dennis Hildeby has been sent to the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, the Maple Leafs confirmed Thursday.
Murray made his start in 20 months in a 6-3 victory over the Buffalo Sabres on December 20, recording 24 saves. He underwent bilateral hip surgery and did not play in the NHL during the 2023-24 campaign, while making three starts for the Marlies.
“It was a busy day, a lot of emotions,” Murray said after the victory. “I tried to keep them in check for the most part, because obviously there’s a game to play. But I was able to take a moment there in warmups and during the anthem and just kind of look around and appreciate the long journey that it’s been and think of all the people who helped me get here.”
The 30-year-old was returned to the Marlies on December 21, in a transaction that would effectively extended Murray’s waiver exemption — he is exempt from waivers for 30 days cumulatively, while the Maple Leafs aim to have some flexibility at the goaltender position, with Anthony Stolarz on injured reserve, recovering from a procedure to remove a loose growth in his knee. Stolarz is expected to return in late January.
Hildeby has played in three games for the Maple Leafs, posting a 2-1-0 record with a .875 save percentage and 3.68 goals against average. The 23-year-old has also played in six games for the Marlies, recording a 2-2-2 mark with a .897 save percentage at the AHL level. It’s clear that Hildeby is better suited for an AHL role, but can start against weaker NHL teams to offset some of Joseph Woll’s workload. Woll is operating as Toronto’s uncontested No. 1, while Stolarz recovers from injury.
Toronto resumes its schedule Friday against the Detroit Red Wings, and will host the Washington Capitals on Saturday.
Join us for the first-ever TLN Nation Vacation!
Alright, hockey fans, this isn’t just a trip—it’s the Nation Vacation, and we’re heading to the Music City from March 20th to 23rd! Get ready to watch Toronto take on Nashville in their own barn, soak up the honky-tonk vibes, and make unforgettable memories with the Nation crew. Whether you’re all in for a flight package or prefer a non-flight option, we’ve got you covered. Just don’t wait—spots are limited, and this trip is going to be electric. Book your spot NOW at nationgear.ca. Let’s go, Toronto! Nashville is calling!