Ilya Samsonov Shines With Golden Knights, Secures Key Wins and Praise
After signing with the Vegas for $1.8 million, Ilya Samsonov has turned into a force in the net. His impressive 9-3-1 record and .907 save percentage only scratch the surface, showing promise in solving the Golden Knights’ backup goaltending problems.
After facing difficulties with his previous team, the Toronto Maple Leafs put him on waivers in December 2023. Even in Toronto, glimpses of talent showed through the rough patches. His save average was .890 for the 2023-24 season.
Vegas needed a backup goalie after trading Logan Thompson to the Washington Capitals. They rolled the dice on Samsonov for a one-year “show-me” contract, bringing him in to back up Adin Hill. That bet has paid off.
On December 29, he dominated Calgary with an amazing performance. He made 31 saves, helping the team secure a solid 3-0 win against the Flames. Throughout December, he showcased his adaptability to performing with little prep time with a 4-0-0 run while giving up just five goals.
Hill noted Samsonov’s work ethic to the Las Vegas Sun, stating he’s “the first guy on the ice, and he’s battling hard.”After shutting down Calgary, his teammates gave him a gold chain – their way of naming the game MVP.
The coaches love his work ethic in practice and push to get better. Playing with Hill, he’s helped create a strong goalie duo as the January games ramp up. Samsonov expressed his determination to the Las Vegas Sun, “That’s what we need to focus more on right now. Recover and continue to win.”
