No, Marc-Andre Fleury isn't heading to Russia, nor is he Russian. However, Vegas Golden Knights fans will remember a certain Ilya Samsonov playing for them last season. After nobody in the NHL picked him up, he heads home to play for HC Sochi.
After seven seasons in North America, 28-year-old Ilya Samsonov returns to the KHL! pic.twitter.com/wGtT7I4KNp
— KHL (@khl_eng) November 1, 2025
Golden Knights fans will remember the erratic 2024-25 campaign he had with the team. Last season, he posted a GAA of 2.82 and a save percentage of .891. However, the Russian netminder also added two shutouts to the mix, making for an interesting year.
However, Samsonov isn't just known as a Golden Knights netminder. He's also known for playing with the Washington Capitals and the Toronto Maple Leafs. He played with Washington for three seasons, posting a GAA of 2.81, a save percentage of .902, and six shutouts. He fared better with Toronto, posting a GAA of 2.71, a save percentage of .905, and seven shutouts.
Ilya Samsonov finds new life after a brief Vegas Golden Knights campaign
Samsonov's brief Vegas Golden Knights tenure was one marked with... mixed reactions. Some people expected him to be the backup goaltender and understood the job he took on. Others... weren't so satisfied.
They took one look at the Russian netminder and saw a guy who allowed four first-period goals against the Utah Hockey Club. They also remember him allowing 10 total goals against the Chicago Blackhawks last season, marking an underwhelming season. Regardless, Samsonov expects better days back in his homeland.
Honestly, good for him. Sometimes, the Golden Knights don't strike gold on free agents or trades. That was the case with Samsonov, who was eventually usurped by Akira Schmid later in the season.
Now? The 28-year-old can find solace in returning home. Heck, he can even belt out a classic tune upon his arrival.