Ilya Samsonov sends what appears to be a threat to Linus Ullmark

It's a known fact that professional athletes like to win, and the former Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Ilya Samsonov probably still feels sour about the recent loss to the Boston Bruins in the first round of the 2024 NHL playoffs.

Even if Jeremy Swayman was between the pipes for six of the seven games against the Toronto Maple Leafs, it's possible that Ullmark did something to get under Samsonov's skin.

A post on Instagram placed Ullmark at the 10th rank of the best goaltenders, and Samsonov wrote a comment that illustrates a growing rivalry between them.

Take a look:

On November 21st, Ullmark and Samsonov could meet on the ice for a game with their respective new teams: the Ottawa Senators and the Vegas Golden Knights.

In order for that to happen, they'll need to remain healthy, and the circumstances surrounding the game will need to fit the teams' plans for their goalie rotation.

After a tough stint with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Samsonov will be under a lot of pressure to perform with the Golden Knights, who are looking to win a second Stanley Cup in three years.

As for Ullmark, he could be the key to helping the Senators have their breakout season; something they've been waiting a long time for.

Source for Linus Ullmark's statistics: Hockey DB
Linus Ullmark

Source for Ilya Samsonov's statistics: Hockey DB
Ilya Samsonov