Darren Pang backs Maple Leafs Sergei Bobrovsky move with bold prediction
The Toronto Maple Leafs decision to sign Sergei Bobrovsky has divided opinion, but Darren Pang believes the veteran goaltender still has plenty to offer. Speaking on Leafs Morning Take, the former NHL goaltender and broadcaster predicted Bobrovsky could rebound after an underwhelming final season with the Florida Panthers.Its hard to say, Pang said when asked how much Bobrovsky has left. When you see him in the locker room after a skate, he doesnt look like a worn-down goalie to me at all. He doesnt look like hes at the end of the rope.MORE: Elliotte Friedman isnt buying talk of Tampa Bay Lightnings declineToronto signed Bobrovsky to a three-year, $21 million contract on July 1 after reshaping its goaltending department. The Maple Leafs traded Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby before reuniting Bobrovsky with Anthony Stolarz, his former Panthers teammate. The move followed Torontos first missed playoff appearance in nine seasons.Bobrovsky posted a career-low .877 save percentage in 2025-26, while finishing with a 27-23-1 record and a 3.07 goals-against average. However, Pang believes those numbers require more context.So his preparation, his concentration, his ability to make big saves is very, very good, Pang said. I dont look at the save percentage in the regular season last year for the Florida Panthers as much as a lot of people.Pang expects Sergei Bobrovsky to respond with Maple LeafsSunrise, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky (72) acknowledges the fans after the game against the Detroit Red Wings at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesPang pointed to Floridas difficult season rather than Bobrovskys decline. They werent a very good team last year, guys. They were exhausted. They were banged up, Pang said. They didnt have maybe the best player in the entire league [Aleksander Barkov], a two-way player for sure, and obviously [Matthew] Tkachuk as well.Pang also highlighted Bobrovskys impact beyond his own performances. If the worst thing that happens here is he makes Stolarz a better goaltender and a better prepared goaltender, thats a win, he said. I know what he did with Spencer Knight.MORE: Oilers, Maple Leafs headline NHL 2026-27 opening night scheduleHe closed with a confident prediction. He said, Thats why I would expect, like every great, that hell have a real motivated bounce-back couple of seasons here.That belief is understandable. Bobrovskys recent numbers raise concerns, but his championship experience, preparation, and leadership give Toronto reason to believe its gamble can still pay off.
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