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 | As the NHL Trade Deadline approaches on March 2nd, we asked the HometownHockey.ca Toronto columnists to give their opinion on the trade value of various Toronto Maple Leafs. Today, in part two of our five part series we will discuss Jonathan Bernier. | | Windsor - February 27, 2015 - As the NHL Trade Deadline approaches on March 2nd, we asked the HometownHockey.ca Toronto columnists to give their opinion on the trade value of various Toronto Maple Leafs. Today, in part two of our five part series Tim Cornett, Will Cornett, Rob McPhee and Chris Savard will discuss Jonathan Bernier.
For each player, our columnists were asked - Would you trade him? If so, for what price? If not, why not? Then provide your prediction on what will actually happen.
T. Cornett - Jonathan Bernier is not the reason for the Leafs’ troubles. With a GAA of 2.71 in 42 games played his record is 18-18-5 and he has a .916 save percentage. Last season his GAA was nearly identical at 2.70 and his SV % was .920 so if anything, he’s consistent. He’s won a game or two on his own for the Buds, but he’s also allowed some goals that have had an aroma to them. He has, however, doubled his shutouts compared to last season. I know it’s only two, but it’s still double.The Leafs number one netminder has an annual salary of $2.9 million, so he is a bargain compared to other teams’ number one goalies. I predict he will also stay.
W. Cornett - Jonathan Bernier will be in the Leafs’ net at least until the end of the regular season. I believe James Reimer should be the goaltender moving forward, and I expect Bernier to be moved before next season. Given the fact that the majority of teams looking at the postseason have depth at the goaltending position, the interest in acquiring Bernier will be low. There is no need to push a trade involving Bernier, because the return will not be worth the move. It makes sense to pursue trading away pieces that no longer fit with the future plans of the organization, including Lupul and Bozak.
(Not So) Bold Prediction: James Reimer replaces Jonathan Bernier as starting goaltender.
McPhee - I don’t see a deal getting done for Bernier, nor do I see the need to try. This Leafs awful start to 2015 and the fact that he is an RFA means that a 3 or 4 year deal should get done this offseason. Also the tandem of Bernier and Reimer wasn’t bad so the Leafs’ might as well go with it for another year. Couple that with the fact that nobody needs a goalie right now and you just won’t get good value for Bernier. Hold on to him and see if he returns to form.
Savard - My hope is that Bernier remains with the team – as it is often said that you need to build from the net out. If not, Bernier than who? He has struggled through parts of this season, but when the team in front of you gives up north of 40 shots on many nights – there is a bigger problem. All that said, he would be of particular interest to a number of teams and if the Leafs are serious about a rebuild, Bernier could go.
Prediction – Bernier and a pick gets shipped to Edmonton for Jordan Eberle and a pick. The Maple Leafs make a deal with the Habs for Zach Fucale. Pipe dream – maybe, but I like it.
What do you think HometownHockey.ca readers – does Jonathan Bernier stay or does he go? You can post your comments below.
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