Goaltending Controversy In Toronto Is Now In Full Effect

Samsonov has not had the start to the season that he had hoped for when going through contract negotiations (and eventual arbitration) this offseason. The originally presumed number-one goaltender for the Leafs has started slow, sporting an ugly 4.34 goals against average in his first four games played.

Last night certainly didn't help Samsonov's case, as he was pulled after allowing 3 goals on 4 shots in the first period against the lightning.

With Matt Murray on LTIR, Samsonov was expected to be the Leafs number 1 this year, with hopes that he could repeat last year's success.

Just as Samsonov's performance seems to be going downhill, Joseph Woll's stock is on the rise. Last night, he was able to step in and secure the win for the Leafs, not allowing a single goal after coming in cold in the first period.

Now, it appears Sheldon Keefe has acknowledged that there is a real goalie battle going on in Toronto and that Woll is making a serious push for the position.

Hopefully, Woll will continue to push Samsonov to be better, and both will improve as the season goes on, giving the Leafs a formidable goalie tandem.

As seen on The Hockey News - "Joseph Woll's Time, Matthew Knies Shines and Other Observations From the Maple Leafs' Comeback Win Over Lightning"