It's crazy how quickly things can change in hockey, before the NHL Trade Deadline it looked like Petr Mrazek's time could be done in Toronto. Fans had turned on him, the media criticized his play and Leafs' head coach Sheldon Keefe made it clear Mrazek hadn't been near good enough.
Even Mrazek, admitted his frustrations with his own play of late. Mrazek was place on waivers by the Leafs just before the NHL Trade Deadline and it looked like Mrazek could be on his way out of Toronto. Thankfully for the Maple Leafs that wasn't the case. With the injury to Jack Campbell and Leafs GM Kyle Dubas not being able to find a goaltender, the Leafs were happy Mrazek cleared waivers.
This week Mrazek was given the crease Wednesday night at Scotiabank Arena vs the New Jersey Devils and he didn't disappoint. Though Mrazek wasn't to busy, he was solid making 20 saves on 22 shots, leading the Leafs to a victory that he so desperately needed for his confidence. This was his first win since March 7th. Mrazek was feeling good after the win speaking with the Media afterwards saying,
Two points, it feels good. Always important. I felt really comfortable. I felt I was in the game, all game, focusing on the things I can control, and that's the reason we won.
The Leafs are hoping that this game can be a confidence booster for Mrazek. This weekend the Leafs have two games in two nights so Mrazek will be finding his way back into the net sooner than later, and the Leafs will have to rely on him to play a big role down the stretch.
