Capitals' Samsonov to make NHL debut vs. Islanders

Washington Capitals rookie netminder Ilya Samsonov is expected to make his NHL debut Friday night against the New York Islanders, the team announced.

The Capitals selected Samsonov with 22nd overall pick in 2015. He's one of just seven goaltenders this decade to be chosen in the opening round of the draft.

Samsonov allowed three goals on 28 shots over two preseason starts for the Capitals.

In 2018-19, the 22-year-old appeared in 37 contests for the American Hockey League's Hershey Bears, posting a 20-14-2 record with a 2.70 goals-against average, an .898 save percentage, and three shutouts.

Samsonov has been sensational for Russia on the international stage, helping the nation capture a silver medal at the 2016 World Junior Championship and a bronze in 2017.

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