True to the theme of the first eighteen games of their 2015-16 season, there was a lot to like about the Leaf loss last night.
Jonathan Bernier is the popular whipping boy today and, to an extent, rightfully so.
If we’ve learned anything, though, it’s that nothing is ever final with this goaltending situation — that’s not unique, as there are only a handful of goaltending situations in the League that are set in stone. Reimer was the castoff in 2013-14 after struggling following Bernier’s injury and the 18-wheeler subsequently flying off the cliff. Many thought he was as good as gone, had asked for a trade, and was pretty much done in Toronto at various points in the past two-plus seasons.
So, in summary, settle down. It’s Reimer’s net for now, and good on him given the context of what we just outlined above. That’s about all that can be said for the time being.
James Reimer named NHL's third star of the week.
— James Mirtle (@mirtle) November 16, 2015
Monday Links
- Jonas Siegel: Reimer’s path clear as Bernier struggles (TSN)
The door has swung wide open for James Reimer after his latest performance. Reimer had already run with opportunity in his absence, starting seven straight for the first time since 2013 while compiling a 4-1-2 record and fiery .945 save percentage.
I - David Alter: Maple Leafs goaltender Jonathan Bernier’s struggles a bit of a mystery (National Post)
It was hardly an endorsement from the new general manager. But, with Bernier experiencing early struggles, this slow start could have been toxic to a goaltender in his final year of his contract. Instead it is Reimer who has been lights out in his final year of his current deal.
I - James Mirtle: Maple Leafs’ hot streak wasn’t so bad for the rebuild (The Globe and Mail)
There have been other positives. The goals have started to come, from throughout the lineup, with three different scorers (Peter Holland, Joffrey Lupul and Dion Phaneuf) again in New York.
I - Ian Oland: Andrew Gordon: Why I Gave Up My NHL Dream For European Hockey (Russian Machine Never Breaks)
Being here in Sweden is not a mark of failure. Hockey here is thrilling, and I’m enjoying it more than I have since I was 24. That’s another small success. By enjoying myself at every stop on my tour (12 cities/teams and counting since leaving home in 2002), I’m living a life I can be proud of.
