The Toronto Maple Leafs and goaltender Ilya Samsonov have reached a tipping level in contract negotiations, and the matter has now been referred to an arbitrator. David Alter has reported that the referee will decide Samsonov’s wage, with the workforce providing $2.4 million and the participant searching for $4.9 million. The referee’s resolution can fall anyplace inside this vary.
Since Samsonov is 26 years outdated and just one yr away from unrestricted free will, the contract ensuing from the arbitration can solely be for one yr. This enables the Maple Leafs to maintain the wage low, a key consideration given their tight wage cap scenario. Elliotte Friedman beforehand talked about that Toronto is in search of a short-term deal, and they’ll get the shortest doable time period after the referee’s resolution.
Whereas arbitration can assist resolve instant contract points, it usually results in short-term offers and bitterness, leaving some to take a position about the way forward for Samsonov’s relationship with the Maple Leafs. If Samsonov’s efficiency continues to shine, he can be in additional demand, might stroll away and will have a chip on his shoulder. As such, it is unsure whether or not he’ll stick with the workforce past this season.
Given Toronto’s monetary constraints and Samsonov’s lack of a confirmed observe report, the choice to go short-term appears affordable. Moreover, Joseph Woll’s improvement within the pipeline gives the Maple Leafs with a possible full-time substitute for subsequent season, offering a future departure possibility in just a few years. It was the one possible way for the workforce to maintain their scenario versatile and their prices low.
Samsonov will get an actual Present-Me contract
Samsonov’s earlier season featured his finest efficiency but, displaying his potential as a stable goalkeeper. As a first-round choose by the Washington Capitals in 2015, he displayed glimpses of brilliance, particularly in his rookie yr in 2019-20. Nevertheless, it stays unsure whether or not he can deal with the calls for of a full season as a beginning goaltender, main the Maple Leafs to go for a short-term contract over a long-term dedication.
It is a guess for the Leafs if he has a one-season whale. They will in all probability wish to maintain him, however allow them to undergo the arbitration course of – which is usually not flattering for the participant – there may very well be some exhausting emotions when all is alleged and executed.
Subsequent: Matthews Subsequent Deal Annual Common Ended, Time period Closing (Report)
