Semyon Varlamov deserves the Game 1 playoff start for the New York Islanders

Former NHL goaltender Carter Hutton shines a light on why Semyon Varlamov deserves the nod for a Game 1 playoff start for the New York Islanders.

Frank Seravalli: Let’s talk about the Islanders and their crease because it’s been a fascinating development, Varlamov has played the bulk of the games. If you go back to March 23 he has played six out of nine games, meaning that Sorokin has played three, not that his numbers are, he’s 2-1-0 with a .920 save percentage and Varlamov is 5-1-0 with a .938, what is happening here?

Carter Hutton: You know I think it’s just burnout. Sorokin has played a ton of games and minutes and I am surprised this hasn’t happened earlier, getting Varlamov in the mix, it’s different when you have a backup who hasn’t proven it yet but Varlamov is different he has a ton of games under his belt and history with head coach Patrick Roy. I think going in and solidifying this team is what he needed and he’s been solid all season long with a .917 save percentage. At the trade deadline, I was a bit surprised teams weren’t calling on a backup like this, his contract is still generous he’s got three years left at $2.75 million but he’s always been a workhorse and a guy who can get it done.

Carter Hutton: From what I have seen in interviews recently he just looks super fit, at times his game can slip away but he’s at the top of his conditioning right now. I don’t think he will be the main guy as this is a nice reset for Sorokin but at the same time whatever way you can get into the playoffs, Patrick Roy and the Islanders will do it.

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