Report: Maple Leafs Will Sign Goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov
A Russian sports website is reporting that Phoenixe Coyotes goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov is going to accept a deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The website, http://www.sport-express.ru/ is in Russian but does have a conversion link for English readers. I was unable however to verify this story through that website. The only recent news they are showing for Bryzgalov is his being named to the Russian World Championship team.
Taking a look at this story critically has got me wondering if the Maple Leafs would be interested in such a deal. I personally do not think so. Yes there was rumblings throughout the season that the Leafs would be on the prowl for a number one goaltender at the end of the year. I would argue however that the play of James Reimer in the last part of the season and his recent showing for Canada at the World Championship has earned him a shot at the starting position. I think most people would agree with this statement. Also, Bryzgalov does not seem to be the mentoring type. If the Leafs were to pick up a veteran netminder it would be to share the position with Reimer and help him grow into a starter. The comments Bryzgalov made about Winnipeg recently give me the impression that he is an egotistical, close minded and selfish. I really can't see him fitting into that role. The Leafs will be on the lookout for someone like J.S. Giguere (at a much lower salary). Someone who is a seasoned veteran but can also fill in if things get rough for the rookie Reimer.
The signing of the young Mark Owuya also would not fit if the Bryzgalov rumour was true. Why bring another young goaltender into the mix if you aren't looking to promote another? Bryzgalov is a big name with a big salary. I don't see him providing any benefit to the Leafs. Reimer is a solid down to earth Canadian country boy. He works hard day in and day out. The Leafs certainly don't need anymore primadonas to contend with.
Maybe the Philadelphia Flyers should be looking into Bryzgalov. I wonder if Philadelphia has nice parks and things for families to do?
A Russian sports website is reporting that Phoenixe Coyotes goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov is going to accept a deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The website, http://www.sport-express.ru/ is in Russian but does have a conversion link for English readers. I was unable however to verify this story through that website. The only recent news they are showing for Bryzgalov is his being named to the Russian World Championship team.
Taking a look at this story critically has got me wondering if the Maple Leafs would be interested in such a deal. I personally do not think so. Yes there was rumblings throughout the season that the Leafs would be on the prowl for a number one goaltender at the end of the year. I would argue however that the play of James Reimer in the last part of the season and his recent showing for Canada at the World Championship has earned him a shot at the starting position. I think most people would agree with this statement. Also, Bryzgalov does not seem to be the mentoring type. If the Leafs were to pick up a veteran netminder it would be to share the position with Reimer and help him grow into a starter. The comments Bryzgalov made about Winnipeg recently give me the impression that he is an egotistical, close minded and selfish. I really can't see him fitting into that role. The Leafs will be on the lookout for someone like J.S. Giguere (at a much lower salary). Someone who is a seasoned veteran but can also fill in if things get rough for the rookie Reimer.
The signing of the young Mark Owuya also would not fit if the Bryzgalov rumour was true. Why bring another young goaltender into the mix if you aren't looking to promote another? Bryzgalov is a big name with a big salary. I don't see him providing any benefit to the Leafs. Reimer is a solid down to earth Canadian country boy. He works hard day in and day out. The Leafs certainly don't need anymore primadonas to contend with.
Maybe the Philadelphia Flyers should be looking into Bryzgalov. I wonder if Philadelphia has nice parks and things for families to do?
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