Bruins Rivals Player Opens Up About Struggle With Mental Health

PUBLICATION

Austin Sabourin
October 27, 2023 (7:38 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Toronto Maple Leafs have shown confidence in goaltender Joseph Woll by placing him in the top spot, leaving Ilya Samsonov on the sidelines. Woll's recent outstanding performances earned him the starting role over Samsonov, who has been grappling with the mental toll of this change. In a candid conversation with Jonas Siegel, Samsonov admitted the mental challenges he's faced since his early exit in a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

"I can't say I feel great; it's been tough... But I'm the type who will fight through this. I'll battle every day."

In recent years, NHL players have become more open about their mental health, and Samsonov is just one of many. The pressure he's under is heightened as Woll, despite playing only 18 games, boasts an impressive NHL record with a 2.24 goals-against average and a .929 save percentage. With Samsonov struggling this season, the starting position has been claimed by the 25-year-old Woll.

Woll's emergence has prompted speculation among fans and pundits about the possibility of Samsonov being placed on the trade block in Toronto. Contract terms come into play, as Samsonov, an unrestricted free agent after the 2023-24 season, was awarded a one-year, $3.55 million contract through arbitration this summer. Meanwhile, Woll is under contract for another season with a minimal $766K cap hit. Having a starting goaltender at such a reasonable cost next year could be an intriguing option for the Maple Leafs and their general manager, Brad Treliving.

Samsonov's season record stands at 2-1-0, with a save percentage of .831. He has been diligently working with goaltending coach Curtis Sanford during practice to address his performance.

Although Samsonov is on the brink of losing the starting position to Woll, this challenge could serve as motivation for him to reclaim the crease and regain his status as the Maple Leafs' starting goaltender. He has a chance to make his case on Saturday when the Leafs face the Nashville Predators, as head coach Sheldon Keefe has entrusted him with the opportunity.

"It's a significant competition for me, and we need to push each other. We're ready. We're both prepared for this."

The weekend's performance will determine if Samsonov can reclaim his position at the top.