Bernier can't buy win as Leafs fall to Lightning in OT
The NHL is a different can of worms.
After going nearly perfect in the American Hockey League, Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Jonathan Bernier had a rude awakening in his return to the big club, dropping a 5-4 overtime contest to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Bernier entered the start after a productive 10-game conditioning stint with the Toronto Marlies, where he went 3-0-1 with three shutouts.
Jonathan Bernier drops to 0-8-2 this season. More than eight months since last win.
— Jonas Siegel (@jonasTSN1050) December 16, 2015
The Maple Leafs looked to be in control of the game leading 3-2 heading into the third, but Mike Blunden and Jonathan Marchessault tallied twice in 36 seconds to put Tampa on top. Daniel Winnik knotted the game at four to force overtime.
Just over two minutes into the extra period, Vladislav Namestnikov whipped a sizzling wrist shot over the blocking glove of Bernier for the win.
Mike Babcock says he'll need to review game-tape before determining if Jonathan Bernier will start again on Thursday.
— Jonas Siegel (@jonasTSN1050) December 16, 2015
After making headlines before the game, Lightning captain Steven Stamkos went pointless in the win and saw his goalless streak hit 10 games - the longest drought since his rookie season.