Leafs GM Brad Treliving issues statement amid chaotic Ilya Samsonov situation

The goal, according to Treliving, is to allow the Russian netminder to get a break both mentally and physically from playing. To have a mental reset from the vigorous preparation it takes on the mind. Allow his body to continue recuperating from any underlying ailments.

"It's a physical and a mental reset where can he get away from preparing for the next game and all the pressures that come with it... This isn't punishment. We need him to get back to where he's capable of getting back to."

This break will [hopefully] take the pressure off from Samsonov, who likely feels the weight of the world on his back with his performance to start the season. With a New Year upon us, there is hope that all of this work away from the game will allow Samsonov to feel like he's being given a fresh start and a proper reset without feeling like the club wants him gone. They're investing a lot of time and energy into helping him to get back to where he needs to be, which should send him the message that they've not given up on him.

This week will provide Samsonov the opportunity to work with Marlies goalie coach Hannu Toivonen, one-on-one, to help Ilya gain his confidence back on the ice and work on the underlying issues that he has faced all season long.