Islanders looking to keep to rest plan for Ilya Sorokin

New York Islanders coach Pete DeBoer is aiming to manage starting goaltender Ilya Sorokin's workload early in the season to prevent late-season burnout. The team plans to rotate goaltenders more heavily early on, targeting at least 30 appearances from backup Semyon Varlamov to ensure Sorokin remains fresh for a potential playoff push.

Sorokin demonstrated the plan in action by skipping Saturday's morning skate before stopping 37 shots in a 6-0 shutout against the New Jersey Devils. Meanwhile, the Islanders delayed forward Mat Barzal's return to the ice following a left kneecap injury, with the team now anticipating he will skate Thursday or Friday.