Jonathan Bernier addresses bitterness of arbitration process
Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Jonathan Bernier has a new deal with the team thanks to arbitration, but the process was not easy or simple.
The goalie was reportedly far apart from the Leafs on what he deemed his ideal salary. It seems like harsh words were also exchanged.
"There's obviously things they say that you don't want to hear, but at the same time I think you grow from those experiences," Bernier told NHL.com. "I won't be sour about it. I know it's part of the business. They're trying to get the best deal possible, we're trying to do the same on our side. I'm just happy right now that we found a deal for the terms that we wanted."
In the end, Bernier and the Leafs agreed to a two-year, $8.3 million contract. The terms of the deal give the Leafs a chance to see how Bernier fits in with the rebuilding team while giving Bernier some security. If Bernier performs well next season, new Toronto GM Lou Lamoriello said a longer deal could be in the works.
"Hopefully he has a year that pushes us, that is the organization, to speak to him next summer and looking for long term," Lamoriello said to NHL.com. "Because the thought process is trying to get a goaltender, and hopefully it's Jonathan, to be the stabilizer for this franchise."
(h/t Toronto Maple Leafs)
