Leafs projected starter against the Isles tonight identified
We haven't seen Leafs netminder Matt Murray play a single minute for the Leafs since his horrendous game against the Florida Panthers last week. The two time Stanley Cup Champion allowed 4 goals on 8 shots before being yanked by a frustrated Sheldon Keefe. Ilya Samsonov has played every minute of every game since.
Typically, whichever goaltender leaves the ice first at morning skate is the one that ends up starting the game. Today, Samsonov was first off, indicating that he will start his 3rd straight game. Murray may have to wait until either Wednesday's game against the Rangers or Friday's tilt against the Senators for his chance at redemption.
Samsonov has been enjoying a strong run over the past few games. He was excellent in relief of Murray against Florida, outstanding against Winnipeg and battled hard in the loss to Montreal. The Leafs seem to be changing their approach from equal ice time between their goalies to riding the hot hand. If this is the case, Samsonov has a chance to solidify himself as the starting netminder going forward.
Update: Keefe confirms that Samsonov will start.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 23 | 217 ANSWERS Leafs projected starter against the Isles tonight identified Who do you trust more in goal at the moment? | ||
| Murray | 2 | 0.9 % |
| Samsonov | 163 | 75.1 % |
| I'm comfortable with both | 52 | 24 % |
| List of polls | ||
