Ilya Samsonov Cleared Waivers, Joined San Jose Barracuda
The goaltender has moved to the AHL affiliate after failing to be claimed during a recent NHL roster cut.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Hockey
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The San Jose Sharks have assigned goaltender Ilya Samsonov to the San Jose Barracuda after he cleared NHL waivers. Samsonov, who joined the organization on a one-year two-way contract, remains in San Jose following the waiver process.
Why it matters
The assignment allows the Sharks to manage their goaltending depth while providing Samsonov with consistent playing time in the AHL. It follows the standard waiver procedure that occurs during NHL training camp roster adjustments.
Samsonov enters the AHL with a career NHL record of 118-48-25, a 2.77 goals-against average, and a .902 save percentage. He also has 15 career shutouts and once recorded 11 consecutive wins at the start of his career.
The players
Ilya Samsonov
He is a professional goaltender who has played for the Washington Capitals, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Vegas Golden Knights.
San Jose Sharks
They are a professional hockey team based in San Jose that competes in the NHL.
San Jose Barracuda
They are the AHL affiliate of the San Jose Sharks and play in the same city.
The details
Samsonov was placed on waivers by the San Jose Sharks during a round of roster cuts and went unclaimed by other clubs for 24 hours. He is now set to continue his season with the organization's AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda.
Timeline
Ilya Samsonov signed with the Washington Capitals in 2018.
The goaltender signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2022.
Samsonov signed with the Vegas Golden Knights in July 2024.
He cleared waivers and joined the San Jose Barracuda in September 2026.
Season Trajectory
The move reflects the Sharks' focus on solidifying their goaltending rotation during a competitive preseason. It shifts the organizational depth chart, placing the veteran goaltender in the AHL as he works to regain his footing within the league.
Samsonov will now see significant ice time in the AHL, which may impact goaltending rotations for the Barracuda. Fantasy managers should monitor his performance and call-up status, as he maintains a career .902 save percentage.
The takeaway
Samsonov will work to maintain his form with the Barracuda following his move through the waiver system. His career statistics suggest he remains a capable netminder who can provide depth for the organization should an NHL opportunity arise.
Further reading
For more background on the league, visit Hockey.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
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