Could 2024 4th rounder be the next half of a NY Islanders’ Russian goalie tandem?

Islanders fans have been spoiled by elite goaltending for years, first with the dependable Semyon Varlamov, then with the emergence of Ilya Sorokin as one of the best in the world. But while Sorokin is locked in through 2031, Varlamov is 37 entering next season with his health uncertain, and a question naturally emerges: Who’s the next long-term option to be in the crease with Sorokin?

Enter Dmitry Gamzin.

32-year old David Rittich may have been signed as an insurance policy this summer, but he's not considered to be a part of the Islanders future, but Gamzin may be.

The 22-year-old Russian netminder was a quiet but savvy fourth-round pick (113th overall) by the Islanders in the 2024 NHL Draft. At the time, scouts viewed him as a bit of a sleeper, but those who watched him closely in Russia saw real upside. Gamzin is known for his compact, technically sound style, which mirrors many modern Russian goalies. He tracks the puck exceptionally well, stays square to shooters, and doesn’t overcommit.

What truly separates Gamzin is his calm demeanor and efficient movement. He rarely panics in scrambles and shows quick lateral agility, particularly strong for a goalie who stands 6’2”. When he was drafted, some scouts praised his “pro-ready habits” and “mature decision-making,” while noting he would benefit from a few more seasons of physical and situational development in the KHL.

For CSKA Moscow last season, Gamzin posted a stellar .928 save percentage and 2.24 goals-against average in 24 games. His performance earned KHL Rookie of the Week honors and put him firmly on the Islanders’ long-term radar. Gamzin recently signed a two-year extension with CSKA, so fans won’t see him in North America just yet, but the potential is there. If his upward trend continues, Gamzin could be the next piece of a future Russian tandem in the Islanders’ crease.