"Bob is a guy that has done so much for our organization and we continue to evaluate every single day," Zito said.
"Until doors close, you never know."
Maple Leafs Evaluate Goaltending Depth
Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager John Chayka acknowledged the internal discussions regarding the team's goaltending depth, which currently features Anthony Stolarz, Dennis Hildeby, and Arturs Akhtyamov.
"We've got this really interesting goalie pipeline," Chayka said.
Chayka explained that the front office is balancing the development of young prospects against established NHL talent.
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"Part of our evaluation is the young guys (that could soon include 2021 draft pick Slava Peksa) and what they've shown.
We're trying to balance that and Anthony, who by our models has been our top goalie the past two years," he said.
The general manager noted that durability concerns influenced the recent trade of Woll to Philadelphia. "Obviously health and durability have been the question," Chayka said.
"But you can't guarantee that's going to be different with another goalie we bring in."
The team expanded its goaltending pipeline during the recent NHL draft by selecting European prospects Jusso Ainasto and Patriks Plumins in consecutive rounds.
"It's a high-variance position, so you have to place your bets," Chayka said.
Chayka credited the goaltending development staff for navigating the draft board strategically. "Curtis McElhinney (director of goalie development) oversees that.
I thought he was very judicious in how he laid out the draft and where he thought the opportunities were.
