Reimer is expected to start Maple Leafs' home opener vs. Senators

TORONTO - James Reimer got the nod for the Toronto Maple Leafs' first game of the season, and he's also expected to start the home opener.

Judging from the morning skate, Reimer will get the nod Saturday night against the Senators over Jonathan Bernier.

Reimer is 8-1-1 with a 1.69 goals-against average and .949 save percentage in his career vs. Ottawa. Bernier has never faced the Senators.

Reimer earned the opening-night start based on his strong training camp and pre-season and gave up three goals on 35 shots in the season opener at the Montreal Canadiens. Bernier allowed one goal on 37 shots in his Leafs debut at the Philadelphia Flyers.

Right-winger Nikolai Kulemin was not on the ice for Toronto's morning skate at Air Canada Centre. Spencer Abbott, who was recalled Saturday morning, took line rushes in Kulemin's place.

Defenceman Morgan Rielly is expected to make his NHL debut, replacing the injured Mark Fraser in the Leafs' lineup. He is likely to start the game paired with Jake Gardiner.