As the NHL playoffs draw closer, the Toronto Maple Leafs will soon have to make crucial decisions regarding their goaltending strategy. While Frederik Andersen is the team’s longtime starter, a recent injury and his inconsistent performance have left fans wondering if it’s time for backup goaltender Jack Campbell to take the reins. In this article, we’ll explore the arguments for why the Leafs should consider giving Campbell playoff starts and what that could mean for the team’s chances at a deep playoff run.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are on the brink of the playoffs, and it seems Ilya Samsonov may have the edge over Matt Murray in starting Game 1 of the first-round series. Murray has missed considerable time due to injuries, which has allowed Samsonov to show his skills. However, in a recent matchup against the Ottawa Senators, Murray made 48 saves, along with several more in a nine-round shootout, to remind everyone of his two-time Stanley Cup wins. Sheldon Keefe, the Maple Leafs’ coach, praised Murray’s confidence and determination, highlighting his experience as a champion as a massive positive asset.
Samsonov is set to start against the New York Islanders, but Keefe has already said that he is “not quite at 100 percent”. If Samsonov gets hurt or struggles, Maple Leafs’ management, and fans alike, would want to rely on Murray to keep the team afloat. Murray has allowed four goals in each of his last six starts with four coming since his recovery from an ankle injury. Interestingly, these struggles are not due to poor defense surrounding him. His strength in front of the slot is waning as he faces an average of 12.7 slot shots per 60 minutes and holds a .827 slot save percentage, tying him for 27th among the top 64 NHL goaltenders.
Given that Samsonov has faced 13.2 slot shots per 60 and has a 85.7% success rate stopping them, there is a case for Samsonov to start the game. While Murray has a goalkeeping career instrumental in Maple Leaf’s management’s inclusion in their roster, he must find his 2017 form to match up to Samsonov’s recent form in the upcoming games.
As we wrap up our discussion on whether the Leafs should give certain players playoff starts, it’s clear that there are many factors to consider. From experience and skill level to matchups and performance throughout the season, the decision won’t be an easy one. However, what’s most important is that the Leafs stay focused on their ultimate goal: winning the Stanley Cup. By carefully weighing their options and making strategic decisions, there’s no doubt that the Leafs can bring home the championship trophy. Let’s keep our fingers crossed and see what the future holds for this talented team.
