Ex-Leafs Goalie Ilya Samsonov Takes Subtle Jab at Former Team Following Debut Victory with Vegas

Ilya Samsonov left the Toronto Maple Leafs this offseason, and the Golden Knights goalie now seems to be calling out his old team.

The 27-year-old joined the Vegas Golden Knights after being traded by Toronto, and in the team's opening game, he stopped 22 of the 23 shots he saw, helping them win another significant game. Unsurprisingly, though, he claimed that Vegas had the greatest NHL atmosphere during his post-game remarks, seemingly criticizing the Toronto Maple Leafs and possibly the Washington Capitals as well.

Fans were infuriated by those remarks, as you can imagine. Some Leafs supporters are criticizing Samsonov, while others are criticizing the Vegas team. Can't we all just be pleased that a guy has established himself? While playing for the Leafs, his NHL future appeared to be seriously in jeopardy, but he is now succeeding in a different league. Fans of the Leafs, live and let live...

After being dominated in the Stanley Cup Playoffs the previous season, it was best for the Maple Leafs to move on from Samsonov, who was a low key player who tried to let his play speak for itself while he was in Toronto. Given that many players have referred to Vegas as one of the best arenas to play in the league during their seven-year existence, it is currently unclear if he genuinely believes it or if he was exaggerating to attract the attention of Toronto's supporters.

The Golden Knights are scheduled to visit Toronto on November 20th, and although many fans probably would have welcomed Samsonov back, these remarks might cause them to reconsider, as he might now receive a very cold reception.