Maple Leafs Mrazek Headed to the AHL

Toronto Maple Leafs netminder Petr Mrazek is hoping to get healthy enough for some game action soon, and when that time comes he'll be heading to the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League (AHL).

The 29-year-old Czech native has battled a groin injury so far this season and just when he thought he was healthy enough to play, Mrazek re-injured himself in his first game back. So far he's appeared in only two games for the Maple Leafs in 2021-22, and has a 4.20 GAA and a .877 save percentage. Hopefully a conditioning stint in the AHL can get his game back on track.

Mrazek was signed in Toronto because of his experience playing in a tandem set up. But so far this season it's been all Jack Campbell for the Maple Leafs who is the leading candidate for the Vezina trophy. Besides Campbell, rookie Joseph Woll has stepped up and impressed in Toronto, winning his first three games. This certainly puts some added pressure on Mrazek to get back out their and perform. He had this to say to the media earlier this week:

I'm happy to be back, I can tell you that. It's been a tough time for me, but I feel good.[Injuries] happen in a sport. I tried to be positive and work hard to get back. Jack and Joey played outstanding. I'm really happy for them. To go on a road trip with the guys and winning [games], it's always a lot happier locker room.

Mrazek signed a three-year deal with the Leafs, for $3.8 million per season. He holds some no-trade protection where he submits a list of 10 teams he wants to avoid. If he's unable to get healthy enough to make an impact on the Maple Leafs this season, look for the cash strapped Leafs to consider moving Mrazek in the offseason. Campbell is a pending free agent and will be a massive raise from his $1.6 million salary.

You can't blame the Leafs for thinking Mrazek would work out for their club after he posted a 2.06 GAA and a .923 save % last season in Carolina. Unfortunately injuries are catching up to the veteran netminder and now the organization waits to see if he can get his game back on track with the Marlies.

Photo credit:John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports