Ilya Samsonov was a bit of a risk when Kyle Dubas signed him to a one-year $1.8-million deal in the off-season.
The young goaltender, who hadn't been qualified by the Washington Capitals, had struggled in his career.
Having already acquired a new face in Matt Murray, this new tandem needed to have success. Luckily, these bets paid off - especially Samsonov.
Samsonov in the Record Books
Samsonov, who has now played 35 games this season, has now set the record for the most wins through this threshold. He has a whopping 24 wins!
Most wins by a Maple Leafs goalie in their first 35 games of a season:
24- Iyla Samsonov (2022-23 via downing CAR tonight)
23- Turk Broda (1946-47)
23- Jack Campbell (2021-22)
22- Broda (1940-41)
22- Jacques Plante (1970-71)
22- Frederik Andersen (2017-18)
22- Andersen (2018-19)
The only issue lies in that Samsonov has a one-year contract, and will need a new one in the off-season. The Leafs won't have an easy time re-signing him, but they can't afford losing him.
What a signing by Kyle Dubas.
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