Ilya Samsonov is expected to get the nod Saturday against the Nashville Predators
DALLAS — Joseph Woll's performance warranted another look. So it came as little surprise that the 25-year-old goaltender will make consecutive starts in goal for the first time this season when his Toronto Maple Leafs visit the Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center.
"He’s played extremely well that’s part of it. Probably equally as significant is it just gives us more time for Sammy [Ilya Samsonov] here," Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe said of his decision. "Coming off an off day yesterday, you get some good workouts today, get a good practice day tomorrow and then get ready for Nashville. So I think it works out well for both guys."
Woll has been impressive since coming on in relief of Samsonov in Tampa on Saturday. Toronto's starting goaltender to start the season, the Russian goaltender has struggled in four starts this season. Despite a 2-1-0 record, he has posted an .831 save percentage.
In his last start, Samsonov was pulled after allowing three goals on the first four shots he faced. Down 3-1, Woll came on in relief and made 28 saves to help his team defeat the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-3 in overtime.
Woll continued his solid play against the Washington Capitals on Tuesday. He made 37 saves on 38 shots in a game where the players in front of him didn't play particularly well.
The decision to get Samsonov ready on Saturday in Nashville gives the player enough time to get ready to reset his game.
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