As he was coming up througu the ranks in Toronto, Kasimir Kaskisuo had all the makings to be an NHL goaltender. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 203 pounds, the now 30-year-old goaltender had people turning their heads when he was signed by the Leafs on March 28th 2016.
After spending the bulk of his time in the AHL with the Toronto Marlies and the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL, along with a 1-year deal with the Nashville Predators, Kaskisuo disappeared from the NHL circles, playing a pair of seasons in Europe. Today, his name popped up again signing with the AHL affiliate Toronto's bitter rival the Montreal Canadiens.
TSN hockey insider Chris Johnston reported today that Kaskisuo joined the Laval Rocket on a PTO. While there's no guarantee that he will make the team, it's clear the Habs are looking for goaltender depth as a possible trade may be on the horizon.
The Canadiens are still carrying 3 goalies, with Jake Allen, Sam Montembeault and Cayden Primeau all requiring waivers to be sent down. Adding Kaskisuo to the mix on an AHL or NHL deal would provide the Habs with some flexibility in goal in the event that they trade a goalie or that one may be claimed off of waivers.
It's been a few years since Kaskisuo was in the Leafs' system, so he's certainly had some time to allow his emotions to cool on the Leafs/Habs, Marlies/Rocket rivalries, so I'm sure the decision wasn't a tough one when the opportunity presented itself - especially because it could eventually lead to some NHL opportunities with a rebuilding Canadiens team.
