Ilya Samsonov stays behind as the Maple Leafs embark on last stretch
Tonight's lineup changes for the Toronto Maple Leafs are in, and goaltender Ilya Samsonav isn't even in the team's traveling party. Head coach Sheldon Keefe announces some adjustments.
Connor Timmins will be stepping in for Ilya Lyubushkin on defense, while Nick Robertson and Timothy Gregor will replace Connor Dewar and Ryan Reaves.
Joseph Woll is set to start as expected, with the Leafs opting to use the Martin Jones option as backup to give Sammy some rest before his projected home start on Thursday against New Jersey.
Samsonov put on a solid performance in goal for the Leafs on Monday, stopping 30 of 32 shots in a 3-2 overtime victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Despite allowing goals by Rickard Rakell and Drew O'Connor, Samsonov stood tall and earned his fifth consecutive win. With a .929 save percentage over his last five games, Samsonov has been in top form. Looking ahead, Joseph Woll is expected to start on Tuesday in New Jersey, setting up Samsonov for the home matchup with the Devils on Thursday.
The Leafs enter Tuesday trailing the Florida Panthers by three points for second in the Atlantic Division and home ice in their probable playoff rematch with a game in hand and five games remaining.
| POLL | ||
Which lineup change for the Toronto Maple Leafs are you most excited about for tonight's game? | ||
| Connor Timmins replacing Ilya Lyubushkin | 68 | 14.2 % |
| Nick Robertson and Timothy Gregor | 264 | 55.2 % |
| Joseph Woll Starting | 146 | 30.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
