Looking back at Ilya Samsonov, you'd swear he was the most unpredictable goaltender around. One night, he'd allow one goal or even pitch a shutout. The next start? He'd allow four goals in the first period alone, leaving fans to call for the Russian goaltender's head.
Well, it turns out that Samsonov isn't re-signing with the Golden Knights and will test the free agent market. According to Sportsnet, he'll become a free agent on July 1st after a tumultuous 2024-25 campaign.
The 28-year-old posted a GAA of 2.82 and a save percentage of .891. While he did post two shutouts, he was also replaced as the backup goaltender for the playoff run by Akira Schmid.
The Golden Knights appear to be headed towards a more cost-effective option for the backup goaltender position in 2025-26. Schmid is due $875,000 next season before becoming a restricted free agent in 2026. Carl Lindbom is currently on a two-way contract worth $840,000 before he follows Schmid's suit in 2026.
What this means for the Golden Knights with Ilya Samsonov leaving
Breathe in, Golden Knights fans. Now, breathe out. The Ilya Samsonov era is finally over.
Now, you can save money with a more cost-effective backup plan. No more Samsonov causing Golden Knights fans to turn into Steve Dangle on the power play.
One might look at the free agent market for netminders and see barely anything there. However, is that a bad thing for Vegas when Kelly McCrimmon prefers younger, more cost-effective options to back up Adin Hill? Let's not forget that Schmid had a solid showing in his limited time in the NHL and Lindbom was great with the Henderson Silver Knights.
That makes not bringing the Russian goaltender a no-brainer. The goalie room is more crowded than people think and fans are thankful for that. Now? You have a better future with two promising goalies backing up Hill.
Again, breathe in. Breathe out. Samsonov is no longer hiding underneath your beds.