Leafs players discuss Matt Murray's first start in over a week tonight
Ahead of their matchup against the Ottawa Senators tonight, the Toronto Maple Leafs took to a mandatory practice this morning. With goaltender Matt Murray being the first goaltender to leave the ice, he was the projected starter that head coach Sheldon Keefe later confirmed.
Tonight marks Murray's first start since the Leafs played in Boston, with Ilya Samsonov playing in five straight starts since then. As you can imagine, it would be challenging to stay confident and committed when being put in that situation as a goalie. Despite this, members of the Leafs spoke highly today of Murray's willingness, drive, and stellar work ethic, over the last thirteen days.
Mitch Marner touched on his attitude and ability to stay supportive despite the circumstances. Murray got off to a phenomenal start to the season, whereas until recently, the Leafs seemed to have two goalie 1a's. Given his history, Murray has bounced back countless times and proven to perform to his standards in the second half of the season before.
The start tonight will give Samsonov a much-needed rest where over that five-game span, he was a staggering 4-0-1 and did not lose a game in regulation. Murray conveniently gets the start against his former team, the Senators. Keefe mentioned that the schedule is just the schedule, and despite it being his old team, Murray would be ready to go no matter the opponent.
Although the Senators can be deemed a weaker opponent to many, they always manage to hold their own when playing the Leafs. If anything, the opponent could add flare to Murray's game, encouraging him to play at a higher level.
His teammates and company have confidence in his game and admit that he has been continuously putting in the work to regain his presence in the crease. With the opportunity, Murray will be tested early after seeing no action in nearly two weeks.
