There were only two games on the NHL schedule Wednesday night, featuring two Canadian teams.
The Toronto Maple Leafs rode James Reimer’s stellar play to somehow beat the Detroit Red Wings in a shootout, while the Edmonton Oilers fell to the Anaheim Ducks 2-1.
Here are three things we learned in the NHL on Wednesday:
James Reimer was more than “Just OK”
In his first start since Nov. 15 (Yes, over three weeks ago), Reimer stood on his head and was the reason the Leafs got two points against Detroit. By the end of the night, he had made 41 saves.
Remember the last time that Reimer’s coach called him out after a loss?
Well, the Leafs coach trolled reporters after Wednesday’s game in classic Carlyle fashion.
Oh Carlyle…
Also, good call on not starting Jonathan Bernier for a 10th-straight game.
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Kessel’s not hurt
There has been much discussion lately about the health of Toronto’s star sniper Phil Kessel. On Saturday, Sportsnet’s Damien Cox reported that Kessel is dealing with multiple injuries. It certainly didn’t look that way Wednesday, as he scored a beauty for his 15th of the season past Jimmy Howard to even the game at one. Kessel also looked strong come the end of the game, creating lots of chances for the Leafs.
Can I buy a goal please?
Entering into Wednesday night’s game in Anaheim, Edmonton had the fourth-worst goals per game average in the NHL at 2.21. The Oilers didn’t fare much better against the Ducks, hence a 2-1 loss. The odds weren’t in the Oilers’ favour as their struggles against California teams have been rough.
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