Reimer smiling and on a roll again as the Maple Leafs’ top goaltender

Smiling James Reimer is back.

After a rough couple of seasons since the Toronto Maple Leafs brought in Jonathan Bernier to be their starting goaltender, the affable Reimer has plenty of reasons to be happy.

In his past seven starts, Reimer is 4-1-2 with a 1.95 goals-against average and .945 save percentage. He was named the NHL’s third star of the week and will get the nod for his eighth start in nine games Tuesday when the Leafs play host to the Colorado Avalanche.

Reimer one day may think about his crazy ascent to the NHL and what has transpired since, but for now he’s just trying to prove to himself and teammates that he can get the job done.

“Really I have my own expectations,” the 27-year-old said. “I have to look myself in the mirror. That’s the person I try and prove. Every day it’s about just trying to get better and not giving up and just competing. It’s not so much about what other people think. It’s always been what I can do.”

So what does Reimer see when he looks in the mirror?

“Just a guy that’s having fun,” he said with a laugh. “I try and go out there and work hard in practice every day, so when I step on the ice I know I’ve prepared myself the best I can.”

That preparation came from working with goaltending consultant Lyle Mast and new goaltending coach Steve Briere. Reimer struggled at the onset but has since seized the chance to be the No. 1 goalie with Bernier hurt and not on top of his game.

After Bernier struggled in Sunday night’s 4-3 loss at the New York Rangers, coach Mike Babcock quickly told reporters that he was turning back to Reimer against the Avalanche.

“We’re in the winning business,” Babcock said. “You’ve got to earn your own confidence. That’s how the league is.”

Reimer’s confidence appears high, even though his often flailing style in and around the crease makes him look like he’s not totally comfortable. That hasn’t changed much from 2013, when he helped the Leafs to their only playoff appearance since the 2005-06 lockout.

The Morweena, Man., native is back to stopping the puck like he did in 2013, and it’s coming at a good time in a contract year. Reimer is in the second of a two-year deal and can become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

If this level of play continues, Reimer will be a sought-after goalie in a shallow marketplace, whether it’s by Toronto or another team. At the moment, he’s focused on enjoying the ride and making the most of his opportunity.

“It’s been a lot of hockey, but playing hockey is fun,” Reimer said. “It’s something where, when you put the work in, you know you’re ready and hopefully good things happen.”

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