Bernier to start vs. Capitals; Sparks recalled as backup
James Reimer's lower-body injury may be more serious than first believed.
The Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender was absent from the morning skate in advance of Saturday's game against the Washington Capitals, meaning Jonathan Bernier will be pressed into his first start since Nov. 15.
Garret Sparks was recalled from the AHL's Toronto Marlies, and the seventh-round pick from 2011 is expected to serve as Bernier's backup.
Reimer left practice Tuesday with aches and pains, the morning after dropping a shootout decision against the Boston Bruins. Head coach Mike Babcock, however, indicated Friday he expected Reimer to be able to suit up against Washington.
After the morning skate Saturday, Babcock said Reimer isn't feeling as comfortable as he should be in order to play, and he could return to practice as early as Sunday.
He posted a .949 save percentage in 10 November starts, taking over the starting gig from Bernier, who went 0-7-1 with a .895 save percentage to start the season.
Babcock on whether this was an opportunity for Bernier: "Huge I'd say. I'd grab it if I was him."
— Jonas Siegel (@jonasTSN1050) November 28, 2015
With Reimer's status uncertain, the crease belongs to Bernier once again, with the Capitals proving as tough a test as any in the quest for his first win.