Ilya Samsonov provides important update on his overall health status
With the recent run of stellar play from Matt Murray, Ilya Samsonov's early season heroics have begun to fade from the fanbase's memories. The 25-year-old has been out with a knee injury since the Leafs faced off against the division-leading Bruins on November 5th. Brad Marchand was awarded a penalty shot and in his failed attempt to make the save, Samsonov twisted his knee awkwardly. Samsonov did finish the period, but the Leafs had to rely on Erik Källgren to take over starting duties in the 3rd period that night and straight through until Matt Murray's return from an adductor injury.
Samsonov has been slowly working his way back over the past few weeks. He's even been a full participant in practice several times, but after Tuesday's practice, it seems like he is ready to go again - at least according to the netminder himself.
- Ilya Samsonov on his health status
Encouraging words to be sure. However, Sheldon Keefe was quick to remind everyone that Samsonov still hasn't been cleared to play by the Leafs medical staff. Bummer.
According to Keefe, the Leafs pushed Samsonov pretty hard at practice today and want to see how his body responds over the next couple of days before a determination is made on how ready he truly is to return.
Once Samsonov is cleared to play, it will mark the first time since the first game of the season that both Murray and Samsonov are healthy. Källgren has played as well as can be expected, but having two goaltenders duelling for the number one spot will be fantastic for the Leafs - especially since both Murray and Samsonov are currently sporting save percentages of .921 or better. With reliable goaltending and a continued focus on team defence, the Leafs could be headed towards a December to rival their red-hot November, much to the delight of Leafs Nation.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 29 | 128 ANSWERS Ilya Samsonov provides important update on his overall health status Will Ilya Samsonov be good to return to action by this weekend? | ||
| Yes | 95 | 74.2 % |
| No | 33 | 25.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
