What stands out most about Ilya Samsonov? Sheldon Keefe reveals what he has found to be Samsonov's best asset
Last night Ilya Samsonov posted his second straight shutout and extended his shutout streak to 152 minutes and some change as the Leafs absolutely dominated the Anaheim Ducks from start to finish, winning 7-0. Samsonov is now a perfect 8-0-0 at home and 9-2-0 overall with a .939 save percentage and 1.70 GAA. Like Matt Murray, Samsonov has been lights out since returning from a knee injury that kept him sidelined for a few weeks.
Samsonov signed a one year, "prove it" deal with the Leafs in the off-season and since arriving, he has done nothing but prove his worth to the team - something Sheldon Keefe has taken notice of.
"He's fun to be around, fun to talk to. But what really stands out is the work that he's put in since he's arrived in our facilityHe's embraced everything that's been brought to him," said Keefe of Samsonov, following the 7-0 win last night.
In his short time in Toronto, Samsonov has quickly become a must interview for his one-line answers and humorous responses, but it is his work ethic that has stood out the most to Keefe and the inner competition with Murray has helped both of them thrive so far this season. That is a big reason why Keefe is willing to alternate starts and give both of them substantial playing time.
| POLL | ||
14 DECEMBRE | 263 ANSWERS What stands out most about Ilya Samsonov? Sheldon Keefe reveals what he has found to be Samsonov's best asset Is Ilya Samsonov a legitimate Vezina Trophy candidate? | ||
| Yes | 156 | 59.3 % |
| No | 20 | 7.6 % |
| He would be, but he doesn't play enough | 87 | 33.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
