Netminder Tim Bernhardt played parts of four seasons in the NHL during the 1980s. He was best known in the minors but did put forth many stellar performances for the woeful Toronto Maple Leafs in 1984-85.
Bernhardt was a standout for three years with the QMJHL's Cornwall Royals. He led the league with a 3.63 goals against average in 1976-77 and was a member of Team Canada at the 1978 World Junior championships. He was also placed on the QMJHL second all-star team in 1976 and the first team in each of the next two seasons. Bernhardt was chosen 47th overall by the Atlanta Flames in 1978 but was constantly placed in the minors since the parent club had Dan Bouchard and Rejean Lemelin.
In 1982-83 he made six appearances for the relocated Calgary Flames but posted a disappointing 0-5-0 record. He joined the AHL's St. Catharines Saints in 1983-84 and wound up winning 25 games and being voted on to the league's second all-star team. Bernhardt was signed as a free agent by the Toronto Maple Leafs in December 1984 when youngsters Ken Wregget and Allan Bester faltered. Considering he had very little defensive support, Bernhardt's 13-19-4 record and 3.74 goals against average were very impressive.
Bernhardt slipped down the depth chart in 1985-86 when Toronto acquired veteran Don Edwards and Ken Wregget's play improved from the previous year. He remained with the Leafs' AHL affiliate until his retirement following the 1989-90 season. Bernhardt later worked as a North American scout for the Dallas Stars.
