Two Friends Battle For Leafs Backup Goalie Job
Posted September 21, 2006 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
While the Leafs prepare to battle the other behemoths of the National Hockey League for ultimate supremacy, two old friends who wear the same colour jersey are in a heated battle of their own.
Jean-Sebastien Aubin and Mikael Tellqvist are both fighting for the backup goalie spot behind starter Andrew Raycroft, and although the two are long-time companions, they’re both fighting tooth and nail for the coveted spot.
“We try not to think about it too much,” Tellqvist said, referring to their off-ice bond. “We’ve been friends for the past three years now, we’ve been playing together since St. John’s, too. And we know each other pretty good and it is hard always unfortunate if you have to work hard against your friend.”
Teammate Mike Peca sympathizes with their position.
“It is a tough scenario,” he admits. “Guys looking over their shoulder. They are playing more to keep their job and to take chances and win hockey games.”
As for Peca, he’s hoping not to repeat last year’s slow start.
“I always worked hard to make sure I had good starts to the season. Last year was different in that respect but this year I feel great and confident coming in.”
