Islanders start Varlamov, dress Ladd, Komarov for Game 2 vs. Lightning

New York Islanders goaltender Semyon Varlamov (40) makes a blocker save during second period NHL hockey action against the Florida Panthers. (Frank Gunn/CP)

The New York Islanders are making some lineup changes for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference final as they try to rebound from an 8-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 1.

Head coach Barry Trotz will turn to Semyon Varlamov in net. Varlamov replaced Thomas Greiss midway through Game 1 and allowed five of the eight goals in the loss. In 15 playoff games this year, Varlamov has a 9-4-0 record with a 2.22 goals-against average, .913 save percentage and two shutouts.

In addition to the change in net, Trotz is also making two adjustments to his forward group by adding Leo Komarov and Andrew Ladd to the lineup. The duo is replacing Ross Johnston and Derick Brassard.

Komarov has appeared in 12 playoff games for the Islanders this year, scoring three points. Ladd will be making his debut in these playoffs and will be making his first post-season appearance since 2016 when he was a member of the Chicago Blackhawks.

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