Islanders Face Vital Decision on Varlamov's Future as Sorokin Gets Game 3 Start

The New York Islanders are facing a vital juncture in their first-round playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes, as they turn to goaltender Ilya Sorokin for a must-win Game 3. Head coach Patrick Roy announced the change after the Islanders dropped the first two games in Carolina, despite strong performances from veteran netminder Semyon Varlamov.

Varlamov, who was instrumental in the Islanders' late-season push to secure a playoff berth, received high praise from Roy for his play down the stretch. "He was a big reason we made the playoffs," Roy acknowledged. However, after the Islanders surrendered a 3-0 lead in a deflating 5-3 loss in Game 2, the team has opted to give Sorokin the nod as they look to get back into the series.

The decision is not a straightforward one for the Islanders, as Varlamov has been solid in the series despite the 0-2 hole. Roy pointed to Varlamov's ability to control rebounds as a strength, an area where Sorokin had struggled at times during the regular season. But with the Islanders' season on the line, Roy believes Sorokin is entering the series at the "perfect scenario" and is hopeful that the young goalie's improved rebound control and recent strong performances will translate into a vital victory.

Why this matters: The Islanders' goaltending decision for Game 3 could have far-reaching implications not only for this series but for the future of the franchise. With Sorokin signed to a long-term deal as the presumptive starter of the future, how he performs under playoff pressure could shape the team's plans in net moving forward.

The Islanders will also need to make a decision on Varlamov's future with the team beyond this season. The 35-year-old goaltender has been a reliable presence since joining the Islanders in 2019 but is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. As the series shifts to Long Island for Game 3, the Islanders are hoping that a change in goal and home-ice advantage will be the spark they need to climb back into contention against the Hurricanes.

Key Takeaways

• Islanders turn to Sorokin for must-win Game 3 vs Hurricanes after 0-2 series deficit.
• Varlamov praised for late-season play but struggled in Game 2 as Isles blew 3-0 lead.
• Sorokin's improved rebound control could be key as Isles' season hangs in balance.
• Goaltending decision could impact Isles' future plans with Sorokin as presumptive starter.
• Varlamov's future with Isles beyond this season uncertain as he enters free agency.