Skip navigation
Favorites
Sign up to follow your favorites on all your devices.
Sign up

Bernier was ‘miserable’ in Los Angeles

Jonathan Bernier

Los Angeles Kings’ Jonathan Bernier looks on during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Minnesota Wild in Los Angeles, Thursday, April 4, 2013. The Kings won 3-0. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

AP

Toronto goaltender James Reimer previously admitted that the Maple Leafs’ decision to bring in another promising young netminder in Jonathan Bernier made him feel “doubted.”

Now it sounds like he just feels determined.

“I don’t plan on giving up the net,” Reimer told TSN.ca. “I don’t plan on giving up that starters’ spot right now, not to be a jerk about it obviously.”

Reimer’s had some time to step back and reflect on what this means and thinks this new challenge will make him a better goaltender.

“I’m sure Bernier’s coming in wanting nothing but that starting job,” Reimer said.

That’s a safe bet. Bernier was stuck behind Jonathan Quick in Los Angeles and now he has a real opportunity to prove that he’s capable of serving as a number one goaltender.

“I was pretty miserable in L.A.,” Bernier told 590 the Fan, according to the Toronto Sun. “It was really hard. I play hockey to play games, not only practice.”

Bernier certainly has the potential to become a starter in the NHL, but Reimer is coming off of a strong season. Both will likely get chances early in 2013-14 as they each attempt to gain an edge over the other.