3 Teams That Should Show Interest In Signing Ilya Samsonov

Ilya Samsonov has yet to be signed by an NHL team as the best available goalie on the free agent market. Time is ticking to the start of training camp and whether a team wants organizational depth or someone to challenge for the backup role, I think the ship has sailed for Samsonov to get a multi-year deal and anywhere over $1.25 million AAV. These are three squads that may still want to sign him.

Calgary Flames

The Calgary Flames should be very happy with their number one goalie for a long time in Dustin Wolf, but teams still need backup options and third string goalies who are capable. The Flames, with playoff hopes, are putting a lot of trust in Ivan Prosvetov, who spent last season in the KHL and only has 24 games played in the NHL prior to leaving for a year. He has put up good numbers recently, but the NHL is a different game. Calgary has Devin Cooley, but he is an AHL-caliber goalie and not a good enough third string if Prosvetov doesn't work out. Samsonov could challenge for the backup role right out of training camp and be a proper third string.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Carolina Hurricanes have to avoid any problems in net, and the only way to do that while rostering an injury-prone goalie is to have backups. Pyotr Kochetkov isn't necessarily starter level, but he can play half of the games for the Hurricanes. Frederik Anderson spends parts of every season on the IR, so why would 2025-26 be any different? Cayden Primeau is in the organization now, but that's after posting a 4.70 GAA and .836 SV% in 11 games for the Montreal Canadiens. That isn't a good option. Samsonov is the type of goalie that can step in and give Kochetkov a break during the times when it would be just down to him in net.

Edmonton Oilers

It is a bit odd that a goalie like Ilya Samsonov has yet to be signed for this upcoming season. While the Edmonton Oilers would be better off signing a goalie like Carter Hart, if they are able to wait, or trading for someone like Tristan Jarry, things could go bad early and pressure the team into making a move if Samsonov is still available. He has had good seasons, but also has a career .902 SV% and may not even be worth upgrading from the tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard.