Leafs make controversial decision in goal for tonight's game against the Sabres
The Toronto Maple Leafs are back in action tonight after a day off on Wednesday, hopefully having recharged on the heels of a 5-2 loss at home to the Rangers. Tonight's opponent, the Buffalo Sabres, aren't quite as prolific and dangerous as the Rangers, so the opportunity for the Leafs to establish their dominance tonight is there for the taking.
If the Leafs want to pick up a decisive win in their 2nd last game before the Christmas break, it will have to begin with a solid performance in goal. For much of the season, goaltending has been the whole story for the Leafs. A strong performance from their goalie has typically led to a lot more wins. A rough outing from whoever is manning the crease has often resulted in a disappointing loss.
The Leafs have received solid goaltending from Martin Jones this season in Joseph Woll's absence, to the tune of a 3-1-0 record, with a 2.55 GAA and a .930 SV%. However, after being shelled by the Rangers on Tuesday, it appears as though the Leafs are giving him the night off to reset.
During Thursday's morning skate, Ilya Samsonov was given the starter's treatment, working only briefly before coming off of the ice early, the common routine for the team's starting goalie.
Samsonov has been fighting it all season long, to the tune of a 5-1-5 record, a 3.51 GAA and a .878 SV%. Tonight's start against the Sabres provides him with an excellent opportunity to boost his stats and get back into the win column, which could, in turn, also help to boost his confidence.
A win may change the entire dynamic of how the Leafs opt to split the starts until Joseph Woll returns. A solid performance likely buys Samsonov some more time and consideration. A loss may push the Leafs even further towards making Martin Jones the new #1 goalie in town until Woll is fully recovered.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 21 | 973 ANSWERS Leafs make controversial decision in goal for tonight's game against the Sabres What's the maximum AAV you'd offer Ilya Samsonov on an extension if you were Leafs GM Brad Treliving? | ||
| $3.55M or more | 26 | 2.7 % |
| $2.5M-$3.5M | 70 | 7.2 % |
| $2.45M or less | 141 | 14.5 % |
| I wouldn't extend him at all | 736 | 75.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
