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Leafs sign Richter Award nominee Kaskisuo to entry-level deal

Nick Saracino, Kasimir Kaskisuo

Providence left wing Nick Saracino (18) handles the puck but cannot score against Minnesota-Duluth goalie Kasimir Kaskisuo (33) during the third period of a regional semifinal in the NCAA men’s college hockey tournament, Friday, March 25, 2016, in Worcester, Mass. Minnesota-Duluth won 2-1 in double overtime. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

AP

Toronto has signed Minnesota-Duluth goalie Kasimir Kaskisuo to a two-year, entry-level deal, the club announced on Monday.

Kaskisuo, 22, was one of the 26 goalies shortlisted for this year’s Mike Richter Award, given annually to the NCAA’s top netminder. Kaskisuo went 19-15-5 this season, posting a 923 save percentage and a 1.92 GAA.

As mentioned, the Finnish netminder is leaving school after just two years. He was equally impressive in his freshman campaign, going 18-14-3 with a .917 save percentage.

Kaskisuo’s two-year deal kicks in next season and, at the time of writing, it’s unclear if he’ll sign an ATO with the Marlies, in order to kickstart his pro career.

It’s entirely possible he could be in line for some NHL minutes next season. Garret Sparks, who at one point was in the ECHL, has played 12 games for the Leafs this year and, of the goalies currently with the Marlies, only Antoine Bibeau is under contract for next year.

Alex Stalock, acquired in the James Reimer trade, is a pending UFA.