It's been quite a rookie season for goaltender Sebastien Centomo. The 20-year-old netminder began the season with the Central Hockey League's Memphis RiverKings, was called up to the American Hockey League's St. John's Maple Leafs in early January, and today joins the parent Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League following an injury to Maple Leaf standout Curtis Joseph. In his first game back since earning a gold medal with Team Canada at the Winter Olympics, Joseph suffered a broken bone in his left hand during the Leafs' 4-1 win over Carolina.

The ascension of the Quebec native has been startling in his first professional season. Joining Memphis following a solid training camp, Centomo excelled. In 19 games with the RiverKings, Centomo posted a 16-1-0 record, a goals against average of 2.09 and a save percentage of .934. He was twice named CHL Goaltender of the Week this season, and was named Goaltender of the Month for November after winning all eight contests he played in. In late December, Centomo joined the Canadian Select Team and won two games at the Spengler Cup in Switzerland. Joining St. John's in January, he continued to post excellent numbers, playing 15 contests while recording a 2.39 goals against average. Centomo's .932 save percentage currently leads the entire AHL, and he recorded his first AHL shutout with a 3-0 win at Lowell on January 27th.

Memphis Coach Doug Shedden was extremely pleased to see Centomo called up to Toronto. "In training camp I thought he was the second best goaltender in the entire organization, and he was among the best conditioned athletes I've seen," said Shedden. "With his work ethic, his excellent attitude and outstanding skills, we knew he was a very special player, and we wish him continued success this season."

CHL President Brad Treliving echoed Shedden's comments, congratulating Centomo on reaching hockey's highest level. "With our continued focus on player development, we are extremely pleased to see Memphis' affiliation with Toronto paying dividends for our players," said Treliving. "Sebastien Centomo has earned this promotion through hard work, and we know he'll continue his efforts to make the most of his opportunity to perform with Toronto."

Centomo's first opportunity with Toronto will be this weekend, as the Maple Leafs visit the New Jersey Devils Friday prior to a Saturday home contest against the Buffalo Sabres.