Ilya Samsonov Responds to Leaf Fans After Loss in His Return

The widely anticipated return of Ilya Samsonov didn't go how the goaltender had fully hoped last night for the Toronto Maple Leafs, as they dropped the second part of their back-to-back to the Detroit Red Wings.

While the Leafs lost, Samsonov was able to find his footing and did everything he could to keep his team in the running for the game, making a few stellar saves to keep the Leafs in it.

The performance was enough to get the Toronto Maple Leaf fanbase vocal, cheering 'SAMMY SAMMY SAMMY' for him during play at the Scotia Bank Arena.

After the game, Samsonov faced the media for the first time in a while, and was immediately asked about his feelings hearing his name chanted by fans in his return after what was likely a low point for the goalie.

Samsonov also discussed how this was a stepping stone for his game, and that he hoped to continue to make steps forward to getting back to the game he knows he can play.

The Leafs take on the Oilers tomorrow night, so we will see if Samsonov has an opportunity to build on his game, or if Sheldon Keefe will go back to Martin Jones for the start.

As seen on Hockey Feed - "Ilya Samsonov sends a strong message to fans in Toronto."