Bruins release former Leafs goaltender from his PTO and announce their starter for game 1 of the season
The Boston Bruins have released goalie Kasimir Kaskisuo from his professional tryout (PTO) and have announced their starting goaltender for game 1 of the regular season.
Kaskisuo, a 30-year-old Finnish netminder, is also known for his YouTube channel, where he shares behind-the-scenes looks at his life as a professional hockey player, including his time in the NHL, minor leagues, and overseas.
Kaskisuo spent the last two seasons in Sweden after going unsigned in the NHL. Determined to make a return, he relocated to Burnsville, Minnesota, where he trained twice a week at a local rink for $15 per session, working out with SPHL players to stay in shape. Reflecting on that time, he admitted it was tough.
Despite offers from European teams, Kaskisuo focused on making it back to the NHL. His hard work paid off when he earned a PTO with the AHL's Laval Rocket. Meanwhile, his YouTube channel, which has grown to 64K subscribers since 2017, provided him with a steady source of income.
After his stint with Laval, Kaskisuo signed a PTO with the Bruins on September 18th. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting the ongoing contract issues with Boston's top goaltender, Jeremy Swayman.
As contract talks with Swayman continue, the Bruins have made backup plans for the start of the season. Head coach Jim Montgomery told the media that it's «unlikely» Swayman will be ready for the season opener against the Florida Panthers on October 8, and Joonas Korpisalo is expected to start instead.
Korpisalo was acquired by the Bruins in the offseason, along with Marc Kastelic, in a trade that sent Linus Ullmark to the Ottawa Senators. Initially, Korpisalo was expected to serve as Swayman's backup, but with Swayman still unsigned, Korpisalo will be stepping into a larger role.
While Korpisalo is a dependable option, Bruins management has expressed frustration over the prolonged contract negotiations, which have left the team with uncertainty as the regular season approaches.
