Mrazek earns consecutive starts for first time with Leafs

SPORTSCENTRE Reporter

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The Maple Leafs (optional) and Sabres skated at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday. 

For the first time this season, Petr Mrazek will make consecutive starts for the Leafs.

"He's earned it," coach Sheldon Keefe explained. "That's the first thing. It's no secret that Jack [Campbell] stumbled a bit here of late and we have talked about getting Petr more time in the net, so we think the timing and everything really makes sense."

Mrazek has won three straight decisions, including Monday night in Washington where he stopped 30 of 33 shots. 

"He's finding his rhythm," said Mitch Marner. "He's finding his groove right now and it's great to see. It's great for our team to have two guys that can go in that net without any hesitation and be a stud. Both of them have earned the right to get that net."

Teammates are still getting familiar with Mrazek's aggressive style of play. 

"Sometimes Pete stands up when guys wouldn't expect a goalie to stand up and make a save," noted defenceman T.J. Brodie. "He comes up with the big saves when you need him and he's good at playing the puck too ... We just have to play the same way regardless of who's in there."

With Mrazek sidelined with a groin injury, Campbell seized the starting job in the first half and booked a ticket to his first ever All-Star Game. But Campbell has been inconsistent since the team returned from a COVID pause in January (.897 save percentage in 15 games) and has really struggled of late (.841 save percentage in the last three games). 

So Mrazek, who signed a three-year deal with the Leafs in the summer, has a chance to finally establish himself with his new team. He is 9-4-0 with an .895 save percentage this season. 

"He has a good