The Leafs' expected starting goalie for Game 5 in Boston is revealed
Photo credit: Twitter/X Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs are at a pivotal juncture in their playoff campaign, and a significant goaltending decision could shape their fate in Game 5.
Joseph Woll is being projected to start, per TSN's Darren Dreger, potentially taking over from Ilya Samsonov, following a strategic in-game change by Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe during their last outing against the Bruins.
The adjustment came during the third period of Saturday's matchup, with Woll stepping in for Samsonov in an effort to spark the team. Despite Woll's solid performance where he blocked all five shots against him, the Leafs ultimately succumbed to the Bruins 3-1, marking a significant setback in the series.
This move isn't new territory for Keefe, who last postseason also opted for Woll in crucial games against the Florida Panthers, signaling a pattern in his coaching strategy during high-stakes moments. Darren Dreger of TSN discussed this on TSN1050's 'First Up', suggesting that Woll's previous brief appearance might set the stage for a more extended role.
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"I'd be surprised (if Samsonov starts Game 5). You can't hang where the Leafs are in the series on Samsonov, I don't think. It was a coaching tactic [making the third period change on Saturday], trying to inject some sort of spark in that final frame so he puts Joe Woll in there. I think now that you've made that play, why wouldn't you give Woll another opportunity to find lightning in a bottle and keep the series alive?"
The decision could be a turning point for Woll, whose season has been less than stellar following a recovery from a high ankle sprain. Initially seen as the potential future lead goaltender for Toronto, a standout performance in Game 5 against Boston could bolster his and the team's confidence, providing the momentum needed to shift the series dynamics.
As the Leafs face a crucial test on Tuesday night, all eyes will be on Woll and Keefe's strategic choices, potentially defining the trajectory of their playoff journey.
Previously on MapleLeafsLatest
| POLL |
29 AVRIL | 356 ANSWERS The Leafs' expected starting goalie for Game 5 in Boston is revealed If you were Sheldon Keefe, who would you start, Joseph Woll or Ilya Samsonov, in Game 5? |
| Woll | 301 | 84.6 % |
| Samsonov | 55 | 15.4 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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