Sheldon Keefe Criticizes Ilya Samsonov's Disappointing Performance: Waivers incoming?
It would be an understatement to say that Ilya Samsonov has been brutal this season. In an attempt to give Samsonov a fresh start for the season, the Maple Leafs rested the goalie for the final two games surrounding the Christmas break.
Samonov's poor stats are making records and no one is happy
Admittedly, Toronto's defense hasn't been very good this year, but after a crushing 6-5 overtime loss on Friday, the squad ought to be improving from Samsonov's current save percentage of 0.862. Due to his appalling start, he has either surpassed or established a record.
It's the lowest by any NHL goalie through 15 starts since Dan Cloutier (.862) in 2006-07.
He has the lowest save percentage of any goalie with at least ten games played because of how awful it is.
The Leafs continued to lead by a goal throughout the game, but it seemed like Columbus was putting the puck in the net whenever they had a chance to tie the game up. Samsonov let in six goals on 21 shots during the game.
In his last two games, Samsonov faced 30 shots and gave up nine goals.
Everyone is calling Samsonov out, especially head coach Keefe
Sheldon Keefe was not happy after the game
Keefe even indicated that GM Brad Treliving is checking over his options
The Athletic writer, Jonas Siegel, is even calling for the Leafs to move on from him.
There's little doubt that Samsonov's situation in Toronto cannot get any worse. Going through the arbitration process may often destroy a goalie's confidence; this could be one of those times. Or his injuries from this season may have never completely healed. Hopefully, he can improve his performance rather than losing the ability to ever play again.
| POLL | ||
Will Samsonov bounce back | ||
| Yes | 255 | 21.4 % |
| No | 935 | 78.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
