Reevaluating Ilya Sorokin’s Performance and Future with the Islanders
Ilya Sorokin’s recent performance has left fans and analysts puzzled. The netminder went from being a shutdown Vezina Trophy finalist to performing at an average level, ultimately getting pulled after conceding three goals on just 14 shots in his sole playoff start. Sorokin himself admits that he struggles to explain this decline in form. As the Islanders enter the offseason, Sorokin’s main goal is to rediscover his game.
One potential reason behind Sorokin’s struggles is the number of shots he faced throughout the season. Despite serving as Semyon Varlamov’s backup for part of the stretch run, Sorokin ended up facing more shots than all goaltenders except Juuse Saros of the Nashville Predators, who played in eight more games than him. This heavy workload, combined with the 62 games Sorokin played in total during the 2022-23 season, could have contributed to his decline.
Sorokin himself acknowledges that there are multiple factors at play. He mentions the challenges of playing numerous games, particularly in January and February. The demanding nature of the goaltender position requires attention to detail and control over the smallest aspects of the game, which Sorokin believes may have affected his performance.
Varlamov, who has proven himself capable of shouldering a greater workload in previous seasons, indirectly criticizes the handling of the goaltending rotation by assistant coach Lane Lambert. Varlamov argues that playing a No. 1 goalie for 60 to 65 games can lead to fatigue and impact performance in the playoffs. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring the starter is fresh for a deep playoff run. However, Varlamov remains confident that Sorokin will bounce back next season.
Varlamov even goes as far as to declare that Sorokin is among the top five goalies in the league. He believes Sorokin will continue to excel for the Islanders and advises him to mentally reset during the offseason, taking a break from hockey and returning refreshed and physically prepared for the next season.
Another player facing uncertainty with the Islanders is Oliver Wahlstrom, a restricted free agent. Wahlstrom’s inconsistent performance this season has led to questions about his future with the team. When asked about his intentions, Wahlstrom remains noncommittal, stating that a decision will be made in conjunction with General Manager Lou Lamoriello. Wahlstrom acknowledges Lamoriello’s support throughout the ups and downs of his career.
Regarding the coaching staff, Lamoriello does not provide a definite answer on their return for the next season. However, he does express his expectation that director of goaltending Mitch Korn will continue in his role.
As the Islanders enter the offseason, Sorokin’s journey to rediscover his game becomes a focal point. The team recognizes the importance of managing their goaltending rotation effectively to ensure peak performance in the playoffs. The future of players like Wahlstrom remains uncertain, but Lamoriello’s confidence in Korn’s return suggests stability in the goaltending department. Only time will tell how these storylines unfold for the New York Islanders.
