A lot has changed for Reimer in 13 months
SUNRISE — Critics say he played his way out of town, supporters claim he was run out of town.
Whichever case you wish to make regarding the reasons why James Reimer is no longer a Maple Leaf, this much is certain: You’ll most likely find him smiling regardless.
Such was the case on Tuesday morning, the personable goalie of the Florida Panthers grinning at the sight of familiar faces from the Toronto media contingent approaching en masse to chat with him.
After almost six seasons wearing the Maple Leafs crest, Reimer was dealt 13 months ago to San Jose, where he served as the backup to Martin Jones for the Sharks run to the Stanley Cup final. During the ensuing summer, he inked a five-year, $17 million deal with the Panthers, finally getting the long-term financial security he deserved.
Off the ice, he’s a new dad, he and wife April welcoming Nevaeh Adelyn May into the world in late January. On the ice, there have been recent struggles with his team going 2-7-1 entering the game here against the Leafs Tuesday night.
Coach Tom Rowe isn’t pointing an accusing finger at Reimer though. Far from it. Asked about No. 34 Tuesday morning, Rowe said: “He’s been phenomenal.”
In a wide-ranging conversation, Reimer touched on a number of topics including the Leafs, life in Florida and fatherhood.
Yeah, I think you keep your eye on any team you’ve played for. So I’ve kept my eye on San Jose and, ya, I’ve kept my eye on Toronto. I think Toronto more so because one of the teams we’ve been close pretty much all year. So that’s relevant too.
Not really surprised. They’ve got a lot of talented kids there. Obviously the coaching staff too.
Definitely. Obviously the team has changed a lot over the years but there’s still a few guys over there you’ve played with and you know. So it’s almost fun when you play against your old team.
Probably just the hype. We all know what it’s like about the hype and adrenalin in Toronto. Here it’s more about you just focus on your business and be successful, win as a team. Maybe that just lets you focus a bit more on what you need to do.
I just saw he’s really been hot recently. We haven’t really (stayed in touch). You nod to each other when you play against him but that’s about it.
It’s good, it’s fun. You know what it’s like to come down here especially if you’re playing in a northern city, a different city. It’s a little more relaxed. I don’t know if fun is the right word but it’s a good atmosphere. On off days you can go out and get some sun — you’re off days you can get away from the game more which is the nice part.
He takes the game seriously. But at the same time he likes to have fun. More than anything, he’s just so professional. He takes care of himself and he always brings his game. It’s been fun playing with him.
It’s good. Obviously at first it’s a bit terrifying. You don’t know what you’re doing. But you start to get the hang of it by now. It’s fun. My wife’s amazing. She’s done a great job. I just try to help, give her support and not screw up too bad.