Dec 3, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; New York Islanders goalie Semyon Varlamov (40) looks on during warm-up before the game against the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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New York Islanders Goalie Rotation Strengthened as Semyon Varlamov Nears recovery from Illness

Semyon Varlamov set to rejoin practice, while Hunter Miska boosts Bridgeport depth amidst Ilya Sorokin’s illness and goaltending challenges.

Stefen Rosner from NHL.com has reported that Semyon Varlamov, the New York Islanders goaltender, is anticipated to rejoin team practice sometime this week.

Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello provides the information and offers some positive news following a goaltending scare on Saturday when starter Ilya Sorokin became unwell, forcing the team to use third-string goalie Marcus Hogberg in net and summon Jakub Skarek on an emergency basis.

Semyon Varlamov To Practice This Weekhttps://t.co/5WzZ31t4XN
— Pro Hockey Rumors (@prohockeyrumors) January 13, 2025

The outcome was positive, with Hogberg beginning last night against Utah and securing the victory by saving 21 out of 22 shots. Hogberg has provided the Islanders with outstanding performance during Varlamov’s absence, achieving a .950 save percentage and goals saved above expected of 5.0. Nonetheless, the Islanders cannot depend on a third-string goalie for an extended period, and Varlamov’s comeback will signify an improvement.

Also Read: A Standing Ovation for Marc-Andre Fleury in Vegas

Due to the rotation of goaltenders, the Islanders’ AHL affiliate in Bridgeport strengthened their goaltending depth by signing Hunter Miska to an AHL contract. The 29-year-old had been competing in the KHL this season with Dynamo Moscow, posting a .908 save percentage and a 2.81 goals-against average across 14 games.

The Minnesota native from North Branch has not participated in North America since the 2021-22 season and has spent a significant portion of his professional career in the AHL as a member of the Colorado Eagles. Miska has participated in six NHL games, five with the Avalanche and one with the Arizona Coyotes.

Image Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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Anamika Shrivastava

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