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Ilya Sorokin did something no NY Islanders goalie has done in over a half century

For more than half a century, Billy Smith and Chico Resch have occupied the top two spots on the New York Islanders’ all-time wins list. Different generations o

Published: Sunday, 18 October 2026 at 10:00 AM
Ilya Sorokin did something no NY Islanders goalie has done in over a half century
Key Things to Know
  • Ilya Sorokin passed Chico Resch for second place on the New York Islanders' all-time goaltender wins list.
  • The New York Islanders defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 4-1 as Sorokin earned his 158th career win.
  • Billy Smith and Chico Resch had occupied the franchise's top two win positions together since October 1975.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Ilya Sorokin recorded his 158th career victory as the New York Islanders defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 4-1 on Saturday night. The win moved the 31-year-old goaltender past Chico Resch into sole possession of second place on the franchise's all-time wins list. The milestone disrupted a top-two ranking held by Billy Smith and Resch since October 1975, marking the first time in over 51 years that another goaltender has claimed second place.

Sorokin stopped 28 shots during the matchup, including five while shorthanded, lowering his season goals-against average to 1.68. The Islanders successfully killed all three Toronto power plays in the contest. Through eight games, the team has surrendered 17 goals, matching their lowest total over an opening eight-game stretch since 2001.

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