NY Islanders G Ilya Sorokin didn't think he deserved to be a Vezina Finalist

New York Islanders goaltender Ilya Sorokin didn't expect to be one of the NHL's top three goaltenders last season.

In an interview with the Russian publication Sport-Express, Sorokin admitted he was surprised to finish second in Vezina Trophy voting after the Islanders failed to qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

"Honestly, I was surprised to be in the top three," Sorokin said. "We didn't make the playoffs, and I don't think a goalie on a team that doesn't usually deserves a nomination."

Sorokin's comments reflect the importance he places on team success over individual accolades.

Despite another standout season, the 30-year-old believes the Vezina Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL's top goaltender, is generally reserved for players whose teams reach the postseason.

Sorokin was one of the primary reasons the Islanders remained in playoff contention throughout much of the season. He finished among the league leaders in several statistical categories and has now recorded an NHL-best 26 shutouts over the last five seasons.

Still, he viewed his Vezina nomination as unexpected.

"The only exception is Sergei Bobrovsky," Sorokin said, referencing the former Vezina winner. "He once won the Vezina with an incredible statistic, 93 or 94 percent save percentage. But since I'm in the top three, it's a great honor for me to be there with Vasilevskiy."

Rather than expressing disappointment about finishing second in the voting for the second time in his career, Sorokin said he was honored simply to be included alongside fellow finalists.

The comments are consistent with the approach Sorokin has taken throughout his NHL career. While individual awards are appreciated, his focus has remained on helping the Islanders return to the playoffs.

That opportunity comes this season under new head coach Pete DeBoer, with expectations that the Islanders will contend for a postseason berth after a summer that included several roster changes.

If the Isles return to the playoffs and Sorokin produces another season at an elite level, he could once again find himself in the Vezina conversation. Based on his own comments, however, team success will remain the accomplishment he values most.

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