Brian MacLellan anticipates Ilya Samsonov starting, Vitek Vanecek backing up during 2020-21 season
Henrik Lundqvist’s shocking announcement that he would not play this season due to a heart condition rocked the Capitals organization and the NHL community as a whole. But inside the walls of MedStar Capitals Iceplex, Hank’s exit also represented, as sad as the circumstances, an opportunity for the team’s young goaltenders who have been in a fierce and friendly competition for NHL playing time over the last few years.
Wednesday, Brian MacLellan confirmed that Ilya Samsonov would be the Capitals’ starting netminder next season during the Capitals general manager’s first press conference since Lundqvist’s announcement was made.
Mac added that while the team was open to possibly adding a veteran goalie via free agency or trade, they were also content with their depth at the position.
By Ian Oland 1 month ago