A familiar face to return to the Leafs in between the pipes?

The Toronto Maple Leafs were handed a massive blow on Tuesday morning when it was confirmed that starting goalie Frederik Andersen would not be travelling with the team after suffering a neck injury on Monday. He is considered day-to-day.

It did not take long for trade rumours to kick back up in Toronto as general manager Kyle Dubas probably has to change his deadline plans depending on how long Andersen’s absence will be.

That’s why TSN’s Frank Seravelli has suggested to go out and get a former player who could help the goaltending situation in Toronto. Seravelli believes the Leafs should target Detroit Red Wings’ Jonathan Bernier on the market ahead of the deadline. 

Bernier spent three seasons with the Maple Leafs and, as we all know, it did not work out. Maybe a second chance would be more successful? There is no doubt that Dubas has to find the right solution if Freddie is going to be out longer, however, Seravelli’s suggestion comes with a warning and we wonder if that is really what Toronto needs… 

“Reacquiring Bernier, 31, might not be a big hit in the Toronto market. He’s been there once already and didn’t get the job done. His cap hit ($3 million) is also more than the Leafs can afford. Plus, it’s the term (one year left) that is most crippling, meaning Toronto must be sure he’s the guy they want in their tandem next year, too. But Bernier is quietly having a very solid year (.908) on a Detroit team that will end up being one of the worst in the salary cap era.”

Could Bernier be acquired, do the job and stay in Toronto as Freddie’s backup next season? Dubas has to answer a lot of questions before he can convince the rest of management - and the fanbase - that this is the best move for his team.