In 36 games with the P-Bruins, Toivonen posted a 15-16-4 record with a 2.30 goals-against average and .921 save percentage, along with 2 shutouts.
Hannu further showcased his skills by representing his country of Finland in the World Junior Championships during late December and early January.
His goaltending helped lead his country to an unexpected bronze medal, much to the delight of the hometown fans who witnessed the tournament held in Helsinki, Finland.
With Tim Thomas left unsigned by Providence in the offseason, Hannu has become the Bruins’ number one goaltender this year; and as expected, he seized the opportunity.
In 2004-05, Toivonen has tallied 17 wins in 33 games, along with a slim 1.97 goals-against average and a .935 save percentage, all which rank among the league’s top five.
Showing impressive durability, Toivonen had a streak that saw him start 12 straight games from October 24 through November 21, the second-longest stretch in franchise history.
While Toivonen is still refining his butterfly-style technique, his quickness, movement and instincts are all advanced for his young age.
“He’s been terrific and has had a wonderful year,” says one P-Bruins source. “Hannu is a very poised, mature kid for (being) 20-years old.”
Those within the organization anticipate him to be better than current Boston goalie Andrew Raycroft, who was awarded the Calder as the NHL’s top rookie in 2004.
Toivonen drops two for the FAB50 2005, but we expect him to make a strong bid to become Boston’s number one man between the pipes when NHL play resumes.
