Artur Akhtyamov Addresses Future with the Maple Leafs, Makes His Intentions Very Clear

Once a pretty significant area of concern for the Maple Leafs, the depth in the crease both now and in the future is no longer something the Leafs are sweating, and for good reason.

The team is a few seasons removed from employing the Jack Campbell, Petr Mrazek, David Rittich and Michael Hutchinsons of the world, and is now sitting pretty with the likes of Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll at the NHL level.

The Marlies are well-positioned in the goaltending department as well with the monstrous Dennis Hildeby and athletic Artur Akhtyamov in the fold, giving the Leafs a couple of promising prospects patrolling the blue paint for the foreseeable future.

Hildeby recently put pen to paper on an unorthodox 3-year extension, keeping him under control in Toronto at least until the 2027-28 season. Akhtyamov was admittedly happy about the news.

Akhtyamov, however, is a pending restricted free agent, and up until now, the Russian netminder hasn't really addressed his immediate future in Toronto. This week, however, Akhtyamov has established that he wishes to remain with the Leafs organization beyond this season and wishes to sign an extension.

Akhtyamov currently makes just $851,000 per season and is in year 3 of his entry-level deal. Given his status as the team's 4th goalie in the pecking order, and his desire to remain in Toronto, the Leafs should be able to get the 24-year-old netminder locked in at a salary not much higher than what he earns now.

Akhtyamov handled himself extremely well in his rookie season in North America, posting an 11-8-4 record to go along with a 2.81 GAA and a .901 SV%.

If the Kazan, Russia native can build on those numbers this season with the Marlies and provide Hildeby with the solid backup the organization knows he can provide, it's only a matter of time before he gets the new deal he's after.