Samsonov remaining in the organization does not clear the full $3.35 million in cap space for the Leafs, only the buriable portion of $1.15 million. But there isn’t a goalie talent with Samsonov’s upside and recent track record of success in the league — including his performance in last year’s playoffs before the injury — available readily to the team without forfeiting assets via trade. The one-year term means that if it doesn’t turn around for Samsonov in the next few months, the Leafs can probably open up the extra couple of million in cap space via trade if needed before the deadline without incurring much of a cost.
Ilya Samsonov clears waivers as Maple Leafs forge ahead with a Martin Jones – Dennis Hildeby tandem for the time being
