Contract negotiations and an eventual arbitration marked Samsonov's offseason. However, his in-season performance hasn't matched his ambitions. With an unsettling 4.34 goals against average across his first four matches, Samsonov's form has been a cause for concern.
His performance took another hit during the game against the Lightning when he conceded 3 goals from just 4 shots in the first period, leading to his early exit.
Anticipations were high for Samsonov, especially with Matt Murray on LTIR. Many looked to him as the undisputed number 1 for the Leafs, hoping he would emulate his previous year's form.
Contrary to Samsonov's decline, Joseph Woll's performance is ascending rapidly. Coming in during a challenging phase in the game against Tampa Bay, he managed to stop every shot he faced, ensuring a victory for the Leafs.
Leafs' coach Sheldon Keefe seems to recognize the brewing competition for the goalie spot, with Woll rapidly emerging as a strong contender.
With Woll's increasing pressure on Samsonov, the hope is for both to elevate their game. A robust competition can only benefit the Leafs, potentially providing them with a dynamic goalie duo as the season unfolds.
As Read on HockeyPatrol - Goaltending Controversy In Toronto Is Now In Full Effect
POLL | ||
22 OCTOBRE | 128 ANSWERS Toronto's Goaltending Debate Intensifies In your opinion, who is better? | ||
Woll | 100 | 78.1 % |
Samsonov | 28 | 21.9 % |
LIST OF POLLS |