The Capitals explain their choice to release Ilya Samsonov and send him a clear message
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Jeff Drouin
July 12, 2022 (8:10)
In the last few minutes, the Washington Capitals have shaken the hockey world by announcing that they have not offered a qualifying offer to their promising young goaltender Ilya Samsonov.
The latter will be a free agent on Wednesday and will be able to sign with the team of his choice. Remember that some rumors are already linking him to the Montreal Canadiens, because Kent Hughes inquired this winter about acquiring him via trade.
Why would an NHL organization decide to release such a talented and promising young goalie without receiving anything in return?
They answered the question:
"The decision to not qualify Samsonov (and release him) is a financial decision. As an RFA (with arbitration rights), the #Caps projected he would cost between $3-3.5 million per year, which they felt was too expensive for a number two goalie and not deserved based on his recent performance (so far)." - Tarik El-Bashir
Wow. That's very direct and clear talk and explanation, coming from the Caps. They were not shy about calling Samsonov a "number two goalie" and saying that they don't think he deserves 3 to 3.5 million a year. (When he's probably going to sign more than that on the free-agent market, based on the contract signed by Alexandar Georgiev)
Must read on HabsFanatics
Clearly, it seems to have turned sour between the young goalie Samsonov and the Capitals. More details to follow!
As of Wednesday, Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton will have the opportunity to sign Ilya Samsonov and acquire him "for free". Would you do it?
At 25 years old, Ilya Samsonov is a former first round pick (22nd overall) in 2015. In 2021-22, he compiled a 23-12-5 record with a 3.02 goals-against average and .896 save percentage in 44 games.
In the playoffs, he was good: 5 games, 1-1-2 record, 2.97 GAA and .912 SVR.
If we continue to draw parallels between the New York Rangers and Montreal Canadiens rebuilds, do you think Samsonov can be the "Igor Shesterkin" of the Habs?
Previously on HabsFanatics
| POLL |
12 JUILLET | 446 ANSWERS The Capitals explain their choice to release Ilya Samsonov and send him a clear message Would you like Kent Hughes to sign Ilya Samsonov? |
| Yes | 301 | 67.5 % |
| No | 145 | 32.5 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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