It is assumed that Ilya Sorokin will give the Islanders a chance to win every time he plays. But with Sorokin firmly entrenched in the work of No.
Indeed, Sunday’s 3-0 win against Chicago it was Varlamov’s ninth start of the season. At the end of the night, it was also his first shutout since April 1 of this year, against the Rangers.
“I’m always happy to be locked up. Having a goalkeeper is a big thing,” said Varlamov. Then he smiled and, jokingly, added: “It doesn’t happen often to me, especially lately. I am very happy that I was able to get it today.”
In fact, the Islanders didn’t give Varlamov all he needed to do against a hopeless Blackhawks team — he gave up all 21 shots he faced. Still, after posting a .916 save percentage and looking vulnerable with points over his first eight attempts in net, the first shutout of the season was a nice milestone to accomplish.
The Islanders raised eyebrows at the trade deadline and in the offseason when general manager Lou Lamoriello decided to keep Varlamov at a $5 million annual salary, on the basis that two strong goaltenders were critical to success over 82 games.
Right now, like all of Lamoriello’s other summer moves, that one looks solid.
“I thought he was strong, stable, calm,” said coach Lane Lambert. “I’m on duty all night. He makes great saves when he needs to. Perfect marks for him.”
It didn’t hurt that for the second game in a row, the Islanders’ defensive structure in front of their forward looked better and they gave up less than 25 shots.
“I think we are closing fast. We don’t really think, I guess,” said Matt Martin. “It’s about to appear a little bit, the boys jump to close, give their body, block the guns if necessary. … If you think the game is over and you just play, everything will be better. “
Cal Clutterbuck and Kyle Palmieri, both dealing with physical injuries, have not been seen. The Islanders recalled defenseman Robin Salo from AHL Bridgeport before the game, but he remained healthy.
Anthony Beauvillier recorded his 200th career point in assisting on Brock Nelson’s 3-0 goal.
Hudson Fasching posted a 13:04 in the fourth row in his Islanders debut.