Semyon Varlamov (Kevin Kane/KK Images)
New York Islanders veteran goaltender Semyon Varlamov had two knee replacement surgeries, head coach Patrick Roy disclosed on Monday.
The long-time backup of Ilya Sorokin has not appeared in a game since Nov. 29, 2024, and has not worked with the team in any capacity all season, with the specifics of his injuries unknown. On Monday, though, he emerged toward the end of practice to face some shots between the pipes.
“I’m sure it’s great for him. He’s been working so hard to be where he is,” Roy said. “Two knee replacements? I mean, come on. That’s not an easy thing for a goaltender, but he’s been here a lot, and he’s been doing everything the right way.”
The 37-year-old joined the Islanders in 2019 and was their main netminder during two consecutive runs to the Stanley Cup semifinals in 2020 and 2021 — before Sorokin took over as the franchise’s top choice — both of which ended in defeats to the Tampa Bay Lightning. In 173 games (162 starts) with New York, he is 76-63-21 with a .916 save percentage and a 2.57 goals-against average.
His extended absence prompted the Islanders to sign veteran backup David Rittich, who is 14-9-3 in 26 starts in relief of Sorokin this season.
For more on Semyon Varlamov and the Islanders, visit AMNY.com