Why The Maple Leafs Recalled Dennis Hildeby And Sent Matt Murray Down To The Marlies

The Toronto Maple Leafs have recalled goaltender Dennis Hildeby from the Toronto Marlies, while Matt Murray has been returned to the AHL affiliate. This move comes ahead of the team's practice on Monday afternoon.

Murray made his second NHL start of the season on Saturday after recovering from bilateral hip surgery earlier this year. He made 27 saves on 31 shots in a 5-2 loss against the Washington Capitals. By his own admission, and that of head coach Craig Berube, Murray allowed some goals he would have rather had back.

Related: After Struggling Against Capitals, Is It Time To Send Matt Murray Back Down And Call Up Dennis Hildeby?

In his two starts since returning from injury, Murray posted a 1-1-0 record with an .879 save percentage.

Meanwhile, Hildeby has found his game with the Marlies as of late. He posted a 31-save shutout against the Belleville Senators on Dec. 26 and followed it up with a 35-save performance in a 4-3 victory over Belleville on Dec. 28.

With goaltender Anthony Stolarz still recovering from a procedure to remove a loose body in his knee, the Leafs needed another option beyond Joseph Woll.

Related: Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving Explains Why Anthony Stolarz Will Miss Roughly 4-6 Weeks For A Procedure On His Knee

The Leafs have back-to-back games on Jan. 4 against the Boston Bruins and Jan. 5 against the Philadelphia Flyers. Hildeby will likely get one of those starts.

Hildeby is 2-1-0 with an .875 save percentage with the Maple Leafs this season. Following his third start, the Leafs opted to give Murray another try. But it's clear now that Hildeby is next in line as the team's No. 3 goaltender.

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