After nearly two years away, Semyon Varlamov is back.
The New York Islanders goalie will start Tuesday against the New York Rangers, head coach Pete DeBoer told reporters.
Varlamov, 38, has not appeared in an NHL game since Nov. 29, 2024, when he dropped a 5-4 OT decision against the Washington Capitals. He has since undergone two partial knee replacements, missing all of last season.
The 621-game veteran holds a career .916 save percentage and 2.65 goals-against average over 17 seasons with the Washington Capitals, Colorado Avalanche and Islanders.
In 10 games during the 2024-25 season, the Russian put up an .889 save percentage and 2.89 GAA.
He's slated to be Ilya Sorokin's regular backup on Long Island this season.
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