Bernier's renaissance helping Ducks challenge for 1st in Pacific

Jonathan Bernier is flipping the script by putting the Ducks on the hunt.

In the month of March, and while filling in for the injured John Gibson, the Anaheim goalie has posted a record of 7-1-1 while stopping 272 of 287 shots against for a sterling save percentage of .948.

With Wednesday's win over the Edmonton Oilers, the Ducks now sit in sole possession of second place in the Pacific Division and only two points back of the San Jose Sharks.

Bernier's recent stretch marks some of the best hockey of his career, albeit in a small window. But after a poor showing with the Toronto Maple Leafs and an AHL demotion last season, it's an important resurgence, especially as he's set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer.

"I hope people understand that there was always a very good goalie there," Ducks' goalie coach Sudarshan Maharaj told Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register. "And I don’t want to use the word resurrection but I believe and I hope that what he has done has certainly drawn the attention of the people that are paying attention. Because he deserves it."

For his part, Bernier is happy to be a meaningful and consistent contributor to a winning team.

"It’s been a nice stretch just to play a lot of games and feel good about yourself and the work that you put in, that you get rewarded."

The Ducks, too, are also reaping the rewards.