Toronto Maple Leafs Sign College Goaltender To One-Day Amateur Tryout Contract

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed University of Toronto goaltender Alex Bishop to a one-game amateur tryout contract because of Petr Mrazek's recent injury. Due to the Leafs' lack of cap space, they are not able to call up another goaltender yet. However, once they play Saturday's night game short a player, they then will be able to recall veteran goaltender Michael Hutchinson.

TOR is signing Alex Bishop from the University of Toronto to a ATO. He’s replacing the injured Petr Mrazek as Jack Campbell’s backup tonight. Due to cap constraints, they can’t (yet) call up someone from the AHL Marlies…
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 16, 2021

Mrazek is injured. Once they play a game short a player, they can make an emergency recall on Michael Hutchinson for Monday's game.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) October 16, 2021

Mrazek injured his groin in the Leafs' Thursday night tilt against the Ottawa Senators. He has had some trouble staying healthy as of late. During the 2020-21 season with the Carolina Hurricanes, he was limited to just 12 games. However, he played very well in them, as he sported a 6-2-3 record, 2.06 GAA and .923 SV%.

Yet, to focus on Bishop, this is such a cool moment for him. Although he is not starting for the Leafs, the 24-year-old will have the chance to experience what it's like being a player in the NHL. Bishop played in the QMJHL with the Saint John Sea Dogs, Quebec Remparts and Val-d'Or Foreurs and completed his tenure in the league after the 2016-17 season. He is set to play his third season with the University of Toronto this season.

Nonetheless, Alex should embrace his time in the NHL. You don't see this occur very often and he gets to be a part of an Original Six franchise - even if it's just for a day.