Knies was asked a question about what it is like playing in front of Joseph Woll. Samsonov allowed the first goal of the game on a great chance for Trent Fredrick. After that he was perfect, stopping 27 of 28 Boston shots in total. Knies' response was rather interesting.
There is a quality some goaltenders have where it just feels easier playing in front of them. Knies seems to be referring to that here, implying he does not feel the same way about playing in front of Ilya Samsonov.
Samsonov certainly came in Clutch for the Leafs tonight with the season on the line. He made a number of huge saves throughout the tight contest, including one that would have ended the game in OT.
Late in the 3rd period, he stonewalled Trent Fredrick, who was in alone for his second of the game.
After the game, Leafs reporter Mark Masters enthusiastically denoted how he was not surprised Woll played so well. In fact, he referenced the fact that he's calm and collected in net.
This lines up perfectly with Knies' comments about playing in front of them. It seems now, Sheldon Keefe only has one option for goal in game six, and that is Joseph Woll. He's taken the starter role, at least for now.
POLL | ||
1 MAI | 669 ANSWERS Matthew Knies calls out Ilya Samsonov after scoring game winner Who do you think the Leafs should start in net for game 6? | ||
Ilya Samsonov | 47 | 7 % |
Joseph Woll | 622 | 93 % |
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