It's Bernier or bust in Toronto after G Sparks knocked out with long-term injury
Toronto Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock no longer has any options left in net, as rookie back-up Garret Sparks will be out long-term with an injury suffered during Thursday's 5-4 overtime loss to the San Jose Sharks. With James Reimer already on the shelf, beleaguered goaltender Jonathan Bernier is the only healthy NHL option left in net for the Leafs.
Bernier came in to replace Sparks at 11:32 in the first period of Thursday's game, and Bernier actually played decently well for the remainder of the night, stopping 26 of 29 shots in the overtime loss. Babcock criticized Bernier after a poor performance Tuesday, but he had kinder words for Bernier following Thursday's game.
Via The Globe and Mail:
There was talk ahead of Thursday's game that the Calgary Flames could be considering taking on Bernier's hefty contract, but all trade plans are likely on hold now that the Leafs have two injured goaltenders. The NHL will also enter a roster freeze from Dec. 19-27 for the holidays, so it looks like it's Bernier or bust for the Leafs for now.
"You would have liked to win that game for Bernie," Babcock told reporters. "He goes in, he’s down 2-0 and he does a good job. And let’s be honest, guys, he never thought he was playing. It’s not like you’re getting ready in his situation right now to come to the rink."
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