Sergei Samsonov, who is a friend of mine, was an NHL All-Star.  In August 1996, Samsonov left Russia and was soon playing for the IHL's Detroit Vipers during the 1996-1997 season.  That season, in the playoff Finals against the Long Beach Ice Dogs, Samsonov scored four goals!  The Vipers captured the Turner Cup, and he was voted the IHL's Rookie of the Year.  Samsonov was the 8^th overall selection by the Boston Bruins in the 1997 NHL entry draft.  During the 1997-98 season, he registered 47 points on the strength of 22 goals and was rewarded for his strong play with the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie.  Samsonov did well in his second season in the NHL -- which for a rookie is often much harder than the first -- and scored 25 goals!  After establishing a career high 75 points in 2000-01, Samsonov was named to Russia's 2002 Olympic Team which competed and captured a bronze medal in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Samsonov was an aggressive offensive-minded player with world-class ability to handle the puck.  He was a very smart player and had exceptional speed.  His offensive threat was a joy to watch during his NHL All-Star career!

I am also very thankful to Samsonov for his friendship and courtesy ever since the time I first met him.  Plus, he is always fun to play golf with in the summer months!

Watch one of Samsonov's goals!

Samsonov's stats!