Leafs’ Parenteau leaves game but doesn’t expect neck problem to block trade

MONTREAL – Pierre-Alexandre Parenteau doesn’t think a minor neck injury will prevent him from being traded by the Toronto Maple Leafs, if that’s what the NHL club decides to do.

The Leafs winger left a 4-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens in the first period on Saturday night after feeling neck spasms, which had flared up while working out in a gym the day before.

Asked if the pains would keep him out of action for long, Parenteau said “Not at all.”

That may be a relief to Leafs management. Parenteau is among the impending free agents who is expected to be dealt ahead of Monday’s NHL trading deadline.

“I have no control,” he said. “You know as much as me.

“I’ll be resting (Sunday), trying to settle this down a bit, and be ready to go Monday.”

Earlier Saturday, the Leafs dealt goalie James Reimer to San Jose. He was the fifth Leaf to be dealt away ahead of the deadline, joining Dion Phaneuf, Shawn Matthias, Roman Polak and Nick Spaling.

“He’s a great guy, a really positive guy,” Parenteau said of Reimer. “He was fun to be around.

“He’ll be missed in Toronto for sure.”

Reimer’s former goaltending partner Jonathan Berier was sad to see him go.

“It’s a tough day,” said Bernier, who was backed up by Garrett Sparks against Montreal. “James was a great teammate.

“Guys really liked him and it’s not easy to lose a good guy.”

Bernier said Reimer would not have been shocked at the move.

“He was very calm,” he said. “He understood the business.

“His contract was up and we know what the Leafs are trying to do is rebuild and try to get some draft picks, so he was probably expecting it.”

Other Leafs who may move before the deadline include forwards Brad Boyes and Michael Grabner.