In a current arbitration listening to, Ilya Samsonov was awarded a one-year contract price $3.55 million. With the goalkeeper 26 years outdated and only a 12 months away from unrestricted free company, a short-term deal was the one attainable end result.
The arbitration course of concerned the staff providing a wage of $2.4 million, whereas the participant was asking for $4.9 million. The referee’s resolution falls inside that vary, leaning barely towards the staff’s request. It will likely be fascinating to see if the $100,000 distinction someway finally ends up being pricey.
Whereas the decision of the speedy contract points is a optimistic end result, there are issues over potential bitterness and its affect on Samsonov’s future with the staff. If the goalkeeper continues to carry out at a excessive stage, his worth will enhance and he may entice curiosity from different groups. It may result in Samsonov exploring different choices and presumably leaving the Maple Leafs with a chip on his shoulder.
With the uncertainty surrounding Samsonov’s long-term dedication to the staff, the approaching season might be essential for each the participant and the Maple Leafs. Followers and analysts might be watching his efficiency and the dynamic between the keeper and the group carefully.
To this point, the $3.55 million award seems to fulfill expectations, however the implications of the arbitration course of for Samsonov’s future stay unclear. Because the season progresses, all eyes might be on the goaltender’s efficiency and the way his relationship with the Maple Leafs evolves, which may form his future within the league.
In 42 video games final season, the 26-year-old went 27-10-5 with a .919 save proportion and a 2.33 GAA.
Subsequent: Does arbitration imply the Maple Leafs don’t desire Samsonov?
