NOTES FROM MAPLE LEAFS: Companions step up to help struggling Samsonov
There’s more to it than just what the Maple Leafs can do for goaltender Ilya Samsonov at this time.
In addition to providing Samsonov with off-ice support, the play in front of him needs to significantly improve for the Leafs.
That is, assuming Samsonov is given another opportunity to tend to the Leafs’ goal crease.
In the last game for the Leafs before their three-day Christmas break, which runs from December 24 to 26, Martin Jones will start against the Blue Jackets on Saturday night in Columbus. It is likely that Jones will be in goal when the Leafs play again, which is at home against the Ottawa Senators on December 27.
General manager Brad Treliving must consider all of his choices with Samsonov, who has not been able to get his game into correct gear despite diligently working with goalie coach Curtis Sanford, as the National Hockey League roster freeze ends on December 28 at 12:01 a.m.
This isn’t like it has only been happening for the last two or three weeks. Samsonov hasn’t been quite as consistent as the nimble goalkeeper he was with the Leafs in 2022–2023 this season.
After the Leafs practised in Columbus on Friday, Jones told the reporters, “I don’t have any doubt that we will get it turned around. We have all been through it and we feel for each other, so honestly, it’s just something where you try to be a good teammate and push each other in practise.
Winger Noah Gregor is one player who hasn’t caused any trouble for head coach Sheldon Keefe. Throughout Toronto’s first 30 games, Gregor’s intensity and speed, particularly on the fourth line, have been a consistent factor.
