Watching Ilya Samsonov’s post-game pressers was really hard when he was at his lowest. You won’t find a more open, honest player in the league, and Samsonov was not afraid to tell us how he felt, tough start after tough start.
He was at the toughest place an NHLer can be, clearing waivers, being sent down to the minors and having his spot as the Toronto Maple Leafs’ number-one goalie taken from him.
But after a mental reset and a heart-to-heart with his father who flew to Toronto from Russia, Samsonov’s season has flipped on its head. It’s been incredible.
For his remarkable effort, Samsonov is this year’s nomination from the Toronto Maple Leafs for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy.
It’s no surprise. We’ve all seen the miraculous turnaround, the change in tune in his quotes postgame. Sammy is back, having gotten through the hardest part of his career and coming out stronger.
The Bill Masterton Trophy
By definition, the award is given to “The National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.”
Each team’s Professional Hockey Writers Association chapter votes for their team’s nomination. Then the whole association votes for the winner.
The last few Leafs nominees include Morgan Rielly, Mark Giordano, and Zach Hyman. Toronto’s lone winner was Jason Blake in 2008.
Samsonov’s battle
There aren’t many—if any— players who’ve shown more perseverance or dedication to hockey this season. Samsonov was truly down and out.
When he was waived, he owned the league’s second-worst save percentage, and was near the bottom of the league in goals saved above expected as well. His confidence was gone. You could tell by his body language in net and his actual language after games.
Something clicked during his time off. His dad flew from Russia to be with him, and basically told him this is it. They both knew his career was in jeopardy.
And since he’s been back, he’s been one of the best goalies in the league.
He’s played 21 games. He’s won 16 of them, he’s saved almost 10 goals above expected per Evolving Hockey, and he’s rocking a .912 SV%.
Perseverance and dedication are the two perfect words to describe his season.
Congratulations to Sammy, he deserves the recognition.
