"Toronto ruined him" "Surprised no one wanted him": NHL fans react as Ilya Samsonov signs multi-year deal in KHL

NHL fans reacted after Ilya Samsonov signed a new contract to return to the KHL. He was an unrestricted free agent after the 2024-25 season. The Washington Capitals drafted him 22nd overall in the 2015 NHL Draft.

Samsonov debuted for the Capitals in the 2019-20 season and moved to Toronto in 2022. There he played two seasons and again moved to Vegas. There, he played that season as Adin Hill’s backup with the Golden Knights.

The KHL posted on X,

"After seven seasons in North America, 28-year-old Ilya Samsonov returns to the KHL!"

Samsonov agreed to a two-year deal with HC Sochi. He will now begin a new chapter with HC Sochi after seven years in North America.

As soon as Samsonov's signing news reached NHL fans' screens, they shared their reactions in comments.

"Toronto ruined him." One fan wrote. "Surprised no one wanted to sign him." Another fan said. "How did he not find an NHL job? He's certainly not elite, but he's at least a serviceable backup." one fan questioned.

Some fans wished him luck in Russia, and others said it was a good chance for him to restart his career. Here are some more reactions to Samsonov's new KHL contract.

"All the best in life, personally and professionally Sammy, from a fan from Toronto who still loves and misses you ❤️" a fan wrote. "Best of luck! Saw his first shutout and enjoyed his play but couldnt step it up. Never know whatll happen" another fan mentioned. "This is a joke. Better than half the backups in the NHL," one fan reacted.

John Tavares' kind words for Ilya Samsonov after 2024 AHL demotion

In early January 2024, Ilya Samsonov was sent to the AHL after being placed on waivers on December 31st by the Toronto Maple Leafs. John Tavares, who was the team's captain that season, was not happy for him after the move. He said the team felt for Samsonov and could have supported him better.

"We feel for 'Sammy' in the way that it’s gone," Tavares said in Jan. 2024. "As a team and individually, you’re disappointed obviously in a lot of those game we just didn’t play better and help him build his confidence and build his game because he’s obviously a very good netminder, very talented, very hard working, and we love him as a teammate, so we definitely feel for him."

Tavares's comments showed care and respect for Ilya Samsonov during a tough time. Since then, the Leafs have placed their trust in Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz to guard their net.

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Edited by Ankit Kumar