The Toronto Maple Leafs placed Ilya Samsonov on waivers yesterday following another dismal performance Friday against the Columbus Blue Jackets. For the second time in as many games against Columbus Samsonov allowed 6 goals as the Leafs lost 6-5 in overtime again. Samsonov's performance of giving up 6 goals on 21 shots dropped him to 59th of 60 in save percentage amonv goalies who have played a minimum of 10 games. Quite frankly, waiving him was the only solution right now.
The Leafs head to California and begin their annual California road trip with back-to-back games against the LA Kings and Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday and Wednesday. Prior to heading West, they announced that they have recalled 2022 fourth-round pick Dennis Hildeby to join Martin Jones as the team's second goalie. Hildeby is off to a fantastic start in his first year in North America posting a 2.20GAA and .919 save percentage.
Hildeby will likely see game action against the Ducks on Wednesday while Jones should get the start tomorrow against LA. Reports have indicated that Samsonov, if he clears waivers, will spend significant time with the Marlies meaning we could see Hildeby play in more than just Wednesday's game.
The move has been questioned by some, including Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, as he believes that this could be harmful to Hildeby's development. At the same time, though, he likely gives the Leafs a much better chance of securing some points than Samsonov right now.
