Samsonov admits he hasn't been working hard in his return to the Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs recently recalled goaltender Ilya Samsonov from the AHL's Toronto Marlies for the first time since placing him on waivers on January 1st. The goaltender spoke to the media today, admitting that he hasn't been working his hardest and that the demotion allowed him time to rest his brain and body. Now it's time to get on track.

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Samsonov is expected to back up Martin Jones against the New York Islanders this evening.

Read below for our earlier published report on the Leafs and superstar pop singer Justin Bieber.

With the NHL All-Star Game headed to Toronto next month, you just knew that the Toronto Maple Leafs were going to call on some of Toronto's most famous celebrities to hype up the game.

And maybe the biggest Toronto celebrity of them all, lifelong Leafs fan Justin Bieber will be there to take in the festivities. Today, Leafs superstar Auston Matthews surprised Bieber, one of his best friends, with a giant stuffed bear in the likeness of Leafs mascot Carlton, as a gift for committing to his All Star Weekend appearance.

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The bigger question might be why does Bieber, a 29 year old married man, have a garage full of stuffed animals? But, I've never been one to judge so you do you, Biebs.

Say what you will about Bieber, but he's always worn his love of NHL hockey and the Leafs proudly. He joined the team on ice for a practice back in 2011 when he was just 16 years old.

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Bieber, the Stratford, Ont. born pop superstar, released his new single and music video today and... well it's a straight up love letter to his favourite team: The Toronto Maple Leafs. Literally... the song is called “Hold On (Maple Leafs Love Letter)”.

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I've gotta say... I'm by no means a pop music fan, but this is great. Sure the music isn't to my taste, but just by virtue of the fact that millions upon millions of non-hockey fans will now be introduced to the sport, this is fantastic. Can't wait for the Taylor Swift and Nashville Predators collab next…

“Biebs is a very special person, and an incredibly talented artist,” said Leafs defenceman Morgan Rielly when asked about his buddy. “He’s eager to work with the team and spend time around the guys. I think that’s a pretty cool opportunity. We’re very fortunate to play for this organization, and I guess that’s just one of those things that kind of comes with it.”