Former Maple Leafs Starter Signs Back in NHL After KHL Stint

Former Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Ilya Samsonov has signed a one-year, two-way contract with the San Jose Sharks for the 2026-27 season. Samsonov played 14 games with the KHL's HK Sochi last season, posting a 3-8-0 record and a .903 save percentage. Currently, the Sharks have three goaltenders under contract, but Samsonov will be fighting for a spot on the roster.

Last season, Samsonov played 29 games for the Vegas Golden Knights, going 16-9-4 and posting a .891 save percentage. Prior to that, he played two seasons with the Maple Leafs from 2022-23 to 2023-24, finishing with a 27-10-5 record in 42 games. It remains to be seen if Samsonov can overcome the competition and secure a spot on the Sharks' NHL roster.

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