There’s chatter around Leafs Nation on Friday that Ilya Samsonov might be headed to the AHL after the NHL roster freeze lifts. The Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves in a goaltending quandary as Samsonov’s recent struggles prompt serious consideration of a move, but they also don’t have many options to back him up.

Pulling Samsonov after a lackluster performance against the Buffalo Sabres, where he allowed five goals on 19 shots, raises concerns about his ability to overcome challenges at the NHL level. This follows a disappointing showing against Columbus, where he conceded six goals in a 6-5 overtime loss. Now, some are wondering if the next step is going down to the minors to find his game and get his head right.

The organization’s confidence in Samsonov appears shaken and without Joseph Woll available, the team is relying on veteran Martin Jones to offer a short-term solution. One could argue he is exceeding expectations, but long-term, there is a real goaltending dilemma that demands resolution.

General Manager Brad Treliving faces a critical decision as Samsonov’s struggles impact the team’s standing in the competitive Atlantic Division. The Leafs cannot afford to let him continue starting games only to falter.

What Options to the Maple Leafs Have?

With NHL rosters frozen, Samsonov will back up Jones in Columbus on Saturday. What comes next isn’t clear. Frank Corrado of TSN suggests a drastic measure—demoting Samsonov to the AHL. Luke Fox of Sportsnet notes that it might be time to give Samsonov the “Jack Campbell treatment”. Elliotte Friedman said he gets all that, but isn’t sure it’s a realistic option.

The potential move to the AHL presents a challenge: finding a suitable replacement. While calling up Dennis Hildeby from the Toronto Marlies is the apparent solution, the Leafs have been reluctant to pursue this option. The Leafs could try to make a trade, but for who?

Corrado points out that efforts to support Samsonov’s resurgence at the NHL level have proven unsuccessful, leaving the team with a difficult decision. And, it’s not just about him. It’s about who the Leafs have to replace him.

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