Decision looms for Leafs on Jonathan Bernier's contract

By foxsports
Published

One of the key decisions the Leafs need to make this summer is whether to stick with Jonathan Bernier in goal. Toronto fan website Pension Plan Puppets acknowledged that, if a great trade comes along, Toronto should consider trading Bernier, but Pension Plan Puppets focused instead on what type of contract the Leafs could offer the embattled goaltender.

Bernier played well at times for the Leafs this season, but he struggled greatly at other times. Despite the terrible team in front of him, however, Bernier finished the season with a .912 save percentage, and at 26 years old, Bernier's best days could still be ahead of him. 

But Pension Plan Puppets acknowledged that Toronto's strategy regarding Bernier's contract is difficult to determine.  

"The Leafs are obviously a better team with Bernier than without him, and a big part of determining the goalie's future will hinge on their rebuild strategy," wrote Pension Plan Puppet's JP Nikota. "Are they going to 'not not tank'? In that case, they might as well spend less on [backup goaltender] James Reimer and move Bernier for whatever they can get. If they intend on remaining competitive, they'll be best served by keeping him, and trading James Reimer."

(h/t Pension Plan Puppets)

Photo by Tom Szczerbowski - USA Today