The Monster Shines for the Leafs

After shutting out the Detroit Red Wings for two periods on Saturday night there is no question that rookie Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Jonas Gustavsson otherwise known as ‘The Monster’ has instantly become a fan favorite. Making his home debut Gustavsson who is coming off a solid season in posting a 1.96 GAA and a .932 Save Percentage with Farjestad of the Swedish Elite League was a bit of a mystery to fans before stepping out on the ice Saturday night against last year’s Stanley Cup finalist. Right away ‘The Monster’ who missed some of training camp due to minor heart surgery earned countless ovations as he looked like a poised veteran in stopping countless shots. Any concern about this 24 year-old who was also sought after by the Colorado Avalanche, San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars being behind schedule in getting ready for the season was put to rest after not only Saturday’s performance when he turned aside 15 shots but also on Friday when at Joe Louis Arena he made seven saves in shutting out the Red Wings for a period. After Saturday night fans and Leaf management were singing his praises. “That’s why we—and particular Brian—pursued him so hard,” Maple Leafs coach Ron Wilson said. “We thought he’s the best goalie not in the NHL. He’s had three periods and he’s looked pretty good.” His best save on Saturday which earned him a lengthy standing ovation occurred in the third period when the lanky Swede showed his quickness by going post to post in robbing Wings Johan Ryno who was set up by Jan Mursak on what was a two on nothing breakaway. “It was awesome,” said Gustavsson who got another standing ovation when skating out as the first star. “It was so much fun to play today.” Besides for Gustavsson two other Swedish players who had standout nights and made a definite statement to Leafs management were Carl Gunnarson and Victor Stalberg who found the back of the net in what was a 2-1 home win on Saturday. Even though Stalberg who is 23 years-old, led the Leafs this pre-season with five goals he will more than likely not make the big club. He believes that he can definitely have an impact in the NHL. “I think I’ve shown over the last couple weeks here that I’m ready to play,” said Stalberg. “Hopefully, I get a chance here coming Thursday.”