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Bernier embraces new challenge in Toronto

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Jonathan Bernier finally got what he wanted on Sunday: a change of scenery and an opportunity to take the No. 1 goalie job. He didn’t deny his elation to NHL.com.

“I’m very happy, obviously,” Bernier said. “Toronto has always been a great market; especially with the good young team they have now. It feels kind of like L.A. when I first got there in that we all grew up together. Hopefully I can fit in right away.”

Still, as Toronto Maple Leafs GM Dave Nonis notes, he isn’t guaranteed to get most of the jobs instead of incumbent netminder James Reimer. Bernier, 24, seems to embrace the situation, though.

“I went through some ups and downs in L.A., but they treated me very well and I’m thankful for that,” Bernier said. “This is a new challenge and I’m going to show people what I can do. At the same time I’ll be with a great goalie in Reimer, so it’s not going to be easy. I just have to do what I know I can do and hopefully have success.”

That much will be expected in Toronto.