Samsonov IHL'S Top Rookie
by Paula Pashche... of the oakland press
Auburn Hills- When Vipers coach Steve Ludzik first heard about 17 year old Sergei Samsonov, he had one question: "How can a kid this age play with men?"
Seventy-three games, 29 goals and 35 assists later, Luszik had his answer.
Samsonov proved himself all season, finishing fourth on Detroit Viper's scoring list. Wednsday he was named IHL's Rookie of the year.
Samsonov, who is from Russia and spoke just a few words of English last fall, has improved his game along with his english skills.
"This team gave me a chance to play," said Samsonov, who wil likely be one of the top picks in June's NHL draft.
Ludzik gived the credit to Viper's General Manager Rick Dudley.
"It took a lot of guts to sign a 17-year-old kid to play in this league," Ludzik said. "And he's exceeded expectations."
The coach says while Samsonov is young, he's mature on and off the ice. Both coach and rookie know the team has helped Samsonov make the transition from Russia.
"They've helped me everywhere - on the ice and off the ice," said Samsonov, who was highly touted as "the best Russian skater e ver" when he joined the Vipers.
Despite expecations, he said he didn't feel pressure, but it was tough to pick up and move to a new country. His dad is living with him in Auburn Hills now, which he appreciates.
"The team helps you always, but family is nice," Said Samsonov whose mother and sisters are still in Russia.
His teammates were just as happy when they got word after Wednsday's practice at The Palace.
Samsonov was second to Orlando's Brian Felsner (29-41-70) in Rookie scoring this season.
"Our teams in Real good shape right now" sammy said.
Samsonov Quiets Calder Talk
After earning rookie of the year honors in the International Hockey League last season, Boston's Sergei Samsonov could capture the NHL's version of the award this year.
The former Detroit Viper has been playing well the last couple of months and has emerged as a leading candidate for the Calder Trophy. Samsonov scored his 15th goal Tuesday in the Bruins' victory over the Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena. With 33 points, he's second to Toront's Mike Johnson in scoring among rookies.
But the 18-year-old left wing isn't concerned about individual awards.
"I try not to think about it because it's a long season and you don't know what's going to happen. there's a lot of ups and downs," Samsonov said. "I play pretty good one month and all of a sudden people start talking about rookie of the year. I try not to pay attention to it."
Samsonov collected 29 goals and 64 points in 73 games with the Vipers and was the 8th pick in the 1997 entry draft. After a slow start, he has settled nicely.
"I'm much more comfortable right now. I guess it just took some time to get used to the speed," Samsonov said. "(the IHL) is pretty much the same league as the NHL, just a different league of hockey. Playing for the Viper's helped me a lot because I know what to expect from the (long) schedule and how to prepare for games."