In a recent game against the Buffalo Sabres, the Toronto Maple Leafs faced a crushing defeat with a final score of 9-3, and goaltender Ilya Samsonov was pulled from the net after allowing five goals on 19 shots. This disappointing performance followed another subpar game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, where Samsonov allowed six goals on 35 shots in a 6-5 overtime loss. The recurring pattern of poor play raises concerns about the goaltender’s current state and leaves the Maple Leafs questioning their trust in him.
Martin Jones, initially signed as a backup goaltender for the Leafs, has unexpectedly taken on a more significant role and performed relatively well in the short term. Despite allowing four goals on 16 shots in the same game against the Sabres, Jones has provided a much-needed stabilizing presence for Toronto. However, the team acknowledges that a more substantial issue persists, prompting discussions about potential drastic measures to address the goaltending situation.
Samsonov’s post-game comments only added to the worry, as he expressed a deep struggle with his game, stating, “It’s tough right now. I need to figure out everything in my head. It’s not about technique. It’s not about nothing. Just in the head.” The question arises whether he can rectify his issues at the NHL level or if a different approach is needed.
Frank Corrado of TSN suggests a possible solution: demoting Samsonov to the AHL. He emphasizes that the Leafs have given him multiple opportunities to reclaim the starting position but notes that Samsonov has failed to capitalize on these chances. With NHL rosters frozen, Samsonov is slated to serve as Jones’ backup in the upcoming game against Columbus. However, the looming Christmas break adds urgency to the Maple Leafs’ decision-making process.
Corrado draws parallels between Samsonov’s situation and that of the Edmonton Oilers’ goaltender, Jack Campbell. Both goaltenders are struggling at the NHL level, with Corrado noting that Samsonov’s numbers indicate he might not be ready for the NHL. The comparison to Campbell becomes more poignant as Corrado highlights that not only does Samsonov fail to give his team a chance to win, but he also increases the likelihood of a loss when he is in the net.
#TSNHockey analyst @FrankCorrado22 joins @JayOnrait to discuss Ilya Samsonov’s continued struggles. pic.twitter.com/LNqLO51PAJ
— JayOnSC (@JayOnSC) December 22, 2023
The mention of Campbell’s struggles in Edmonton raises the specter of potential long-term consequences if Samsonov doesn’t find his game. While the Leafs have the advantage of Samsonov’s contract expiring after the season, making him a UFA, there is also the pressing need for goaltending assistance. If Samsonov is not part of the solution, he becomes part of the problem, requiring the team to find a suitable replacement. The dilemma for Toronto is whether to explore options within their system, such as calling up Dennis Hildeby from the Marlies, or seek external help to address their goaltending woes. The urgency of the situation is heightened by the potential impact on the team’s playoff positioning, making a decision imperative in the near future.
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