Leafs' Samsonov: Going on waivers was a wake-up call

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Ilya Samsonov believes he had the same reaction as everybody when he was placed on waivers Dec. 31.

"You're sad, yeah? But it's (a) nice signal for your brain and your body," Samsonov told reporters Thursday. "'Man, wake up and get back on track, and work hard as you can.'"

Samsonov was recalled by the Maple Leafs on Wednesday. The 26-year-old didn't suit up for the AHL's Toronto Marlies, though. He worked with the team's performance staff off the ice and had on-ice sessions with Marlies goalie coach Hannu Toivonen.

Samsonov now believes he'll be ready to get back in the crease in short order.

"Brain is ready," he said. "I'm seeing the puck well."

Samsonov could potentially be called upon as early as this weekend, as the Maple Leafs have a back-to-back on Saturday and Sunday against the Colorado Avalanche and Detroit Red Wings.

Martin Jones played both games in Toronto's most recent back-to-back in favor of youngster Dennis Hildeby while Samsonov was in the minors, so it's possible he could do so again. Jones has been a revelation for the Leafs, sporting a .934 save percentage in 12 games.

Samsonov, meanwhile, has arguably been the worst goalie in the NHL this season, ranking last with minus-12.5 goals saved above expected, per Evolving-Hockey. He stopped just 29 of 40 shots (.725 save percentage) in his final two appearances before being sent down.