Semyon Varlamov Aims for Strong Comeback with Islanders This Season

Semyon Varlamov is determined to make a significant return to the New York Islanders after enduring a challenging two-year span marred by severe knee issues. The 38-year-old goaltender, who has not played since November 29, 2024, is showing promising signs of recovery. General manager Mathieu Darche shared an optimistic update, stating, “As of today, actually, ‘Varly’s’ been on the ice. He told me he felt the best the last four, five years with his knees.” Varlamov’s upbeat attitude is evident, as he humorously remarked, when asked about his condition, that he feels not 25 but 26 years old.

Darche expressed enthusiasm about Varlamov’s performance during a recent conditioning loan to the AHL, where he appeared in two games. The general manager is hopeful that Varlamov can serve as a reliable backup to Ilya Sorokin next season, potentially making 25 to 30 starts. “He’s been training, no medication, no anything. He’s been on the ice at Northwell [Health Ice Center] probably twice a week, if not more, and in the gym. It’s very encouraging what we’re seeing right now,” he added.

While Varlamov appears to be on track for a comeback, the Islanders are also considering additional goaltending options. David Rittich, last season’s backup, is currently an unrestricted free agent, and Darche acknowledged the need to bring in more goalies for depth. “We’re obviously going to sign other goalies, because we have to protect ourselves,” he noted, while emphasizing Varlamov’s potential as an integral part of the team.

In addition to Varlamov’s situation, Darche is making strategic decisions regarding the defense lineup. He revealed that the team will not extend a qualifying offer to restricted free agent Adam Boqvist, allowing prospect Isaiah George a chance to step up. “He might start in the top six,” Darche said. “We want competition. Maybe he pushes someone out of the lineup.”

The Islanders are clearly focused on bolstering their defense, as evidenced by their draft strategy. After selecting blueliner Malte Gustafsson with their first-round pick, they continued to prioritize defense by adding Lincoln Kuehne and Vladimir Dravecky in the subsequent rounds. This focus is crucial, especially since the team is looking to develop strong right-handed defensemen to enhance their depth.

As the draft concluded, the Islanders also secured Russian center Artyom Matyuk and American right wing Robert Cowan, rounding out their selections. With no second- and third-round picks, the success of this draft will heavily depend on the development of Gustafsson, a promising 6-foot-4, 203-pound defenseman who will participate in the team’s upcoming developmental camp.

Additionally, the Islanders announced the acquisition of 22-year-old defenseman Ryan Healey from the Wild, who was a fourth-round pick in 2022 and has recently completed four seasons at Harvard. This move exemplifies the team’s commitment to strengthening their defensive core as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.