Evgeny Kuznetsov Calls Out The Toronto Media For Their Treatment Of Ilya Samsonov

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Graham Montgomery
March 17, 2024 (0:50)

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The Toronto media is known for being particularly harsh on Maple Leafs players. This is one of the reasons many players try to avoid playing in the city. Today, Evgeny Kuznetsov referenced this when talking about his close friend and former teammate Ilya Samsonov

Kuznetsov Shows Faith In Samsonov After Slow Start In Toronto

Samsonov's career with the Maple Leafs has been complicated to say the least. At times he's looked like one of the best goaltenders in the league. At other times he was simply not NHL quality. That is exactly what happened earlier this year when the team sent him to the AHL to work on his game. Today, Samsonov's former teammate and friend Evgeny Kuznetsov shared his thoughts on how the media has treated him, showing faith in his countryman.

Kuznetsov on close friend Samsonov:

"You guys been so hard on players, in general, here over time. I'm so happy that he doesn't speak English well so he doesn't understand everything & that's huge for him ... I believe his best games are ahead of him"

These comments come as the Maple Leafs are set to play Kuznetsov's new team in the Carolina Hurricanes.

Samsonov Talks About Facing Old Teammate Kuznetsov

Kuznetsov was not the only one who talked about the matchup tonight. The Leafs goaltender also shared his thoughts on facing the Hurricanes tonight. He specifically noted that he'll do his best to make sure Kuznetsov doesn't get to use his trademark celebration during the game.

Ilya Samsonov on facing close friend Evgeny Kuznetsov:

"I try to give him no chance for the bird (smile) ... Nice opportunity for us, what time you play against your friends. He wants to score on me, I want to make some saves & it will be nice"

Tonight will surely be a test for both clubs as they gear up for the playoffs. Be sure to tune in as it will likely be a highly competitive game with both teams looking to make a statement over quality competition.