Maple Leafs' Mrazek gets 1st start since Heritage Classic

The Toronto Maple Leafs turned back to goaltender Petr Mrazek on Wednesday against the New Jersey Devils.

Mrazek made 20 saves on 22 shots en route to the Maple Leafs' 3-2 victory.

The 30-year-old surrendered four goals on 37 shots in a loss to the Buffalo Sabres in his last appearance at the Heritage Classic on March 13.

With Jack Campbell sidelined and Mrazek struggling, rookie goalie Erik Kallgren took over the crease for the past three games. He earned a 35-save shutout in his debut and split his last two decisions. Kallgren gave up five goals on 33 shots in his previous appearance last Saturday.

"It's a good opportunity to get him going for us," Keefe said about naming Mrazek as Wednesday's starter, according to The Athletic's James Mirtle.

Mrazek has struggled immensely in his first season with the Maple Leafs, managing a .884 save percentage in 17 appearances. He went unclaimed after Toronto placed him on waivers last week.

He took the waiver assignment as a wake-up call and hopes he'll turn things around as the season winds down.

"You never know what can happen. The hockey career can change (in) a minute," Mrazek said, according to TSN's Mark Masters. "I'm happy I'm here."

He added: "It never feels good, you know, but now it's over, and we move on. It's like a reset button and let's get going."

Mrazek has allowed 20 goals on 148 shots in his last five games, producing a .865 save percentage in that stretch.

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