Varlamov’s Comeback Journey

At some point, the game might start to feel like a game again.

But for now, Semyon Varlamov, the backup goaltender for the Islanders, is feeling a lot more. After undergoing two partial knee replacements and nearly two years away from the rink, he is on the brink of making his much-anticipated return this week, possibly as soon as Tuesday against the Rangers at Madison Square Garden.

Varlamov described it as “special” to step onto the ice during the preseason. He felt “emotional” before Saturday’s home opener as he stood alongside his teammates. The 38-year-old goaltender has a clearer perspective now, knowing that he shouldn’t take any moment for granted as he approaches the tail end of his career.

A stark reminder of the fleeting nature of time came Monday when fellow Russian and former teammate Alexander Ovechkin revealed this would be his last season in the NHL.

“Ovi’s a legend,” Varlamov remarks, with a hint of admiration. “He’s an iconic player, probably the best scorer ever. There’s so much to say about his influence in the game. It won’t be the same without him.”

Varlamov was drafted by the Capitals in the first round back in 2006, just three years after they picked Ovechkin first overall. Varlamov’s NHL debut was almost 18 years ago. Back then, he spoke limited English but was eager to learn, playing alongside a star who had been a benchmark for him.

“I remember when I first arrived from Russia—he spoke English and even let me crash at his place for a few weeks,” Varlamov recounted. “Ovi helped me adjust to Washington. He welcomed me like nobody else.”

“He’s been my friend for a long time now, and I’ve always supported him. He’s been fantastic to me and my family. He’s just a good guy with a huge heart. We’ve shared a lot of experiences playing for our national team, and he is genuinely respected in the hockey community, especially in Russia. He’s the man.”

Meanwhile, in the aftermath of the Islanders’ impressive 6-0 win over the Devils on Saturday, Victor Eklund was still buzzing with excitement, especially since it was his 20th birthday. He scored a goal and contributed an assist while his mother cheered in the stands, earning himself a warm serenade from the Islanders fans.

“I still have goosebumps,” Eklund expressed, beaming. “Watching it back brings a smile to my face. I just can’t believe it.”

In just three games into Eklund’s career, Islanders head coach Pete DeBoer has noticed the player’s impressive awareness, something that is remarkable considering his limited experience.

“He’s a really smart player,” DeBoer said about last year’s first-round pick. “He has a high hockey IQ. Some guys, you know, you find them the day after a game and they can recite what they did wrong without even needing to hit play on a clip. Eklund is definitely one of those. Some players just give you that blank stare instead.”