It appears that Brad Treliving made a surprising move in the last few minutes.
As everyone waited for an update on either Ryan O'Reilly, Auston Matthews, William Nylander or Ilya Samsonov, the new GM reportedly signed another goalie to an entrey level contract.
Sources on Twitter revealed that the goaltender Artur Akhtyamov has signed a deal with the Leafs, after they drafted him at the 106th position in 2020.
Akhtyamov had a great season in 2022-23, playing for Neftyanik Almetievsk in the VHL.
With an impressive record of 20 wins, 12 losses, and 6 ties, along with a low 1.74 goals against average and a strong .943 save percentage, it's no wonder the Leafs are interested in him.
The plan is to make him play in the KHL at some point this year, then, move to the NHL when he's ready.
An official announcement should be made soon.
As seen on Maple Leafs Daily -
Leafs reportedly sign goaltender to multi-year deal
POLL | ||
Who do you think will be the Leafs' #1 goalie in three years? | ||
Woll | 1053 | 48.3 % |
Samsonov | 580 | 26.6 % |
Akhtyamov | 208 | 9.5 % |
Other | 338 | 15.5 % |
List of polls |