Toskala, Vesa

Toskala was unable to play in Wednesday's game against the Islanders due to tightness in his groin, reports TSN. He wasn't even able to serve as the backup and the Leafs did not release any further details on his condition. Any prolonged absence is terrible news for the Leafs and Toskala owners as the former Shark has turned his season around in a hurry and has consequently been one of the league's hottest goalies as of late.

After allowing four goals on the first 13 shots he faced, Toskala was yanked by coach Paul Maurice in Monday's blowout loss to the Capitals, reports the AP. Andrew Raycroft came on in relief and was barely better giving up three goals on 17 shots. Toskala seemed to have turned a corner as of late and was the clear go-to guy for the Leafs, but his shaky performance tonight will surely keep Raycroft in the picture. Neither goalie should be starting for any fantasy teams, but Toskala continues to have the better long-range value.

Coach Paul Maurice has yet to announce his starting goalie for Wednesday's season debut against the Senators, reports the Ottawa Sun. Maurice is playing up the situation as if he wants to keep the Senators guessing but the truth of the matter is that neither goalie really stepped up during the preseason. Andrew Raycroft had a pretty average exhibition while newcomer Toskala was even worse. If performance is the name of the game, then Raycroft should rightfully start the year as the team's #1, but if salary and the business side of things gets the upper hand, then it will likely be Toskala. Either way, this goaltending battle figures to linger well into the season.

Toskala has struggled in his preseason debut with the Maple Leafs, reports the Toronto Star. Most recently he suffered a 7-2 loss at the hands of the Buffalo Sabres and is already being ridiculed by the Toronto media. Coach Paul Maurice doesn't seem concerned about his netminder, though he hasn't committed to him as a starter. Most believe that the battle between Toskala and Andrew Raycroft will linger on into the regular season and it's unclear who has the edge right now.