Barring an injury, the Leafs appear to have selected their playoff starter
There has been a lot of talk in recent weeks about who deserves to be the Leafs' number one netminder come playoff time. Well, as we inch closer and closer to the postseason, one netminder appears to be emerging as the team's most-trusted option.
Today, following the team's morning skate, it became very clear who will get the nod tonight against Edmonton. Despite Joseph Woll having played well against the Washington Capitals, it will be Ilya Samsonov starting for the Leafs tonight against Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman and the Oilers.
Samsonov was not on the ice for today's optional skate, which is usually the best indicator of who the starting netminder will be. Samsonov taking extra rest points to him preparing for tonight's game.
The Leafs appear to be taking an extra cautious approach with Woll right now, as the team has started him in just 4 games since his return from injury. High-ankle sprains can be tricky, and the Leafs appear to be taking no chances with Woll's health ahead of the playoffs.
Samsonov's play of late has also made this entire situation such an easy one to manage. With Sammy holding down the fort and giving the Leafs so many quality starts, it makes the decision much more simple for Sheldon Keefe: Keep rolling with the hot hand.
Samsonov is 3-1-1 in his last 5 starts. Despite having a 3.12 GAA and a .888 SV% this season, Samsonov has posted a save percentage of .900 or better in 5 of his last 6 starts.
| POLL | ||
23 MARS | 518 ANSWERS Barring an injury, the Leafs appear to have selected their playoff starter Do you think Ilya Samsonov extends in Toronto this summer? | ||
| No, he's going to leave as a UFA | 189 | 36.5 % |
| Yes, he loves Toronto | 147 | 28.4 % |
| Too soon to say for sure | 182 | 35.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
