▶ Leafs send Bernier down to Marlies

The Toronto Maple Leafs are sending goaltender Jonathan Bernier, pictured, on a minor-league conditioning stint. Coach Mike Babcock said Wednesday that Bernier would go to the American Hockey League’s Toronto Marlies for 10 days once starter James Reimer is healthy. Bernier is 0-8-1 with a 3.28 goals-against average and .888 save percentage this season. His struggles got so bad the Leafs called up Garret Sparks to make his NHL debut Monday. Bernier could play in four of the Marlies’ next six games, beginning either Friday night in Rochester or this weekend at home against the Manitoba Moose. While in the AHL, Bernier will receive his NHL salary and count against the salary cap.