Reading the Tea Leafs: Justin Pogge

Following on the success of two other dormant series PPP and I have decided that in order to fill the gap in NHL news that we'll take a look at each of the current Leafs, possible Leafs on the Marlies, janitors, marketing interns and prospects. We'll recap their performance last year, what we can expect from them, reveal the name of their childhood teddy bear and how they can win our hearts (hint: signing the contract was a good first step...unless your name is Bryan McCabe Ian White). We have no idea how long of a series this will end up being or how consistent it will be but with two of us expect it to only be half as half-assed and twice as timely, offer void in Michigan, for a limited time only.

Just for you guys, because I'm that nice, I present: The Justin Pogge Reading the Tea Leafs TWO VIDEO SPECTACULAR, HOLD ON TO YOUR HATS

More Pogge after the jump!

Contract Status (according to NHL Numbers)
$550K left this year on his contract before he becomes an RFA on July 1, 2009.

Age (as of October 1, 2008)
22 - April 22, 1986

AHL Seasons
Two

Run of the Mill Biographical Information

Former Leaf he'd have to play like in order to be christened a deity
Felix. Cujo. Belfour. Bower. No pressure, kid.

Biggest Question Marks
When will Pogge get the call? Is Pogge ready for the NHL?

Player Summary
Pogge went 19-15 in his first season in the AHL, posting a 3.03GAA and a .896SV%, both of which are fairly Raycroftian.

Last season he improved, going 26-10 while posting a 2.34GAA and a .908SV%. Furthermore, Pogge posted a .918SV% in the playoffs and a 2.09GAA. He's improving on the Marlies, he just needs more ice time (in case anyone forgot, last year contained the Scott Clemmensen debacle).

Projected 2008-2009 role/team
Pogge is defintely starting on the Marlies this year. Vesa and CuJo have the big squad under control. What's not so clear is what happens at the trade deadline. Vesa Toskala could very well play his way on to a better team and get dealt at the deadline, opening a big void. CuJo is too old to shoulder the starting role, even from the trade deadline until season end, and one has to imagine that CuJo was brought in to be a mentor of sorts to Pogge.

Will we see Pogge starting in Toronto at the trade deadline? Hopefully. What better time to start rebuilding than now, and how can a team rebuild without addressing their future goaltending needs?

Who's a better goalie, Pogge, or Raycroft?