Samsonov was an unrestricted free agent after Washington declined to make him a qualifying offer. He had a 23-12-5 record, 3.02 GAA, and .896 save percentage in 44 contests. He entered the league with a lot of potential, but he hasn't developed the way people were hoping. Perhaps a fresh start will do him some good. He's set to serve as the backup goaltender behind Matt Murray.

Washington also dealt netminder Vitek Vanecek to New Jersey on the second day of the 2022 NHL Draft. The team was expected to be active on the free-agent market for goaltending help and now they gave two roster spots to fill. Samsonov went 23-12-5 during the 2021-22 season with a 3.02 goals-against average and .896 save percentage in 44 appearances. 

Samsonov had his ups and downs in this series but he overall played well enough tonight to give Washington a chance at the win. Now the Capitals will head into the off-season with a big decision to be made in goal as neither Samsonov or Vitek Vanecek separated themselves from the other over the course of the season.

Samsonov gave up five goals on 38 shots in Wednesday's 5-3 loss to the Panthers. He will make his fourth straight start of the series, with the Capitals looking to force Game 7. Samsonov has a 1-2 record this postseason with a 2.68 GAA and .923 SV%.