Samsonov appears to tweak something in his lower body during second period against the Ducks
The only thing that could take the wind out of the Leafs' sails right now would be an injury in the goaltending department. The Leafs have already suffered through injuries to both Matt Murray and Ilya Samsonov at certain points this season, with those injuries briefly overlapping. This forced the Leafs to waive Nicholas Aube-Kubel in order to sign Marlies goaltender Keith Petruzzelli to an NHL contract while Erik Källgren took over starting duties.
The Leafs haven't lost a game in regulation in well over a month largely due to the excellent play of both Samsonov and Matt Murray. An injury to either Leafs goalie would definitely be a blow at this point. It's gotten to the point where fans are watching Samsonov and Murray like hawks, picking up on the smallest details and praying they don't see any sign of discomfort.
During the second period of Tuesday night's game against the Anaheim Ducks, one moment from Ilya Samsonov had fans worried. A quick shot off the faceoff went just wide of the net. Samsonov tried to get a pad out to stop it, but it was out of his reach. His extension stopped quickly and he appeared to be in some discomfort as he tried to stand up.
Samsonov returned for the third period, but there is still some concern over his health. Groin, knee and hip injuries are exceedingly common in goaltenders. The Leafs can only hope that Samsonov was simply taking his time, or that the tweak was somewhat minor and that he will be available to the team going forward.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 13 | 583 ANSWERS Samsonov appears to tweak something in his lower body during second period against the Ducks Who will get the call-up if Samsonov ends up sidelined day-to-day? | ||
| Kallgren | 445 | 76.3 % |
| Woll | 85 | 14.6 % |
| Petruzzelli | 53 | 9.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
