Karri Ramo signs PTO with Toronto Marlies, Enroth Clears Waivers

It was only a matter of time before it happened. Karri Ramo, who has constantly been linked to the Toronto Maple Leafs’ goalie situation throughout this year, has signed a Professional Tryout contract with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies.

The deal has been reported as an Amateur Tryout by many, but those are reserved for players who have yet to play professional games. The concept remains the same, though; he’s signed on a deal that can be backed out of at any given moment, be it due to the Leafs feeling he isn’t the right fit, or them wanting to sign him to an NHL deal, or Ramo picking another team instead.

Ramo has been practising with the Leafs for the past few weeks while recovering from an ACL injury he suffered with the Calgary Flames this year.  In 37 starts, Ramo posted a 17-18-1 record, a 0.909 save percentage, and a 54.1% Quality Start ratio. The hope is that the 6’2, 205 pound Finn will quickly get in game shape and perhaps take the place of Jhonas Enroth, who has struggled in his past few starts. TSN’s Pierre LeBrun talked to Todd Diamond, who is Ramo’s agent, and notes that the plan is to get him into a few games with the Marlies to see where he stands.

If neither Ramo or Enroth can themselves around into capable NHL backups in short time, the Leafs could instead look to Garret Sparks, Antoine Bibeau, or Jeff Glass, who are the present Marlies trio.

While we’re on the subject of Enroth, the Swede is also in the news today for clearing waivers. The Leafs don’t have to send him to the Marlies immediately, especially without a Plan B in immediate sight, but can do so within the next 30 days.