The Toronto Maple Leafs have released veteran goaltender James Reimer from his professional tryout (PTO), the team announced on Monday, October 6, 2025. Reimer, 37, signed the PTO with the Leafs on September 26, after it was revealed that Joseph Woll would be taking a leave of absence for a personal matter.
TSN Hockey insider Darren Dreger reported the release, noting Reimer's desire to explore other potential opportunities. The move comes just ahead of the regular season opener and after the Maple Leafs claimed goaltender Cayden Primeau off waivers.
Reimer played in one preseason game for the Leafs, a 6-5 overtime loss to the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday, where he allowed four goals on 28 shots. Following the game, Reimer acknowledged the uncertainty of his situation, stating, "I'm going to take it minute by minute, I guess, and we'll see what happens...it was a joy to come here, and we'll see what happens—what decisions get made, and what the need is, and what they think they need going forward. So we'll see how that goes, and we'll find out together".
The acquisition of Cayden Primeau, who is ten years younger than Reimer, made Reimer redundant, solidifying the Leafs' goaltending situation. Along with Primeau, Toronto also claimed forward Sammy Blais off waivers on Monday. Michael Pezzetta, Henry Thrun, Dakota Mermis and Matt Benning cleared waivers on Monday.
Primeau, who played 11 games for the Montreal Canadiens last season, posted a 2-3-1 record with a .836 save percentage. He will now compete with Dennis Hildeby for the backup role behind expected starter Anthony Stolarz, who is anticipated to start Wednesday's regular season opener against the Canadiens.
Reimer is now free to sign with any team that has interest in acquiring his services. Last season, he split time between the Buffalo Sabres and Anaheim Ducks, posting a 10-10-2 record with a 3.04 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage.
Reimer is very likely to be picked up at some point due to injuries, as he often finds a job at some point in the season. Maple Leafs fans are very familiar with Reimer, as he spent six seasons with the club after being drafted 99th overall in 2006. During his time in Toronto, he recorded an 85-76-23 record with a 2.83 goals-against average and a .914 save percentage.
