NY Islanders goaltender Marcus Hogberg clears waivers and heads to Bridgeport

The New York Islanders placed goaltender Marcus Hogberg on waivers Tuesday, clearing the way for free agent signing David Rittich to begin the season as Ilya Sorokin’s backup. The Swedish netminder then cleared waivers on Wednesday and heads to Bridgeport.

Hogberg, 29, had an up-and-down stint last season, filling in for Semyon Varlamov, who missed significant time with injury. In 15 appearances, he posted a 3.38 goals-against average and .878 save percentage, leaving questions about his long-term future in the crease.

He was exceptional early on, gaining praise from Patrick Roy to the point where fans wondered whether he could be the regular backup this season while Varlamov continued his rehab. However, he suffered an unfortunate hand injury, missed time, and wasn't the same when he returned, including a few unimpressive performances.

The Islanders answered those questions this summer by signing Rittich to a one-year deal. Despite coming off a difficult season with the Los Angeles Kings — where he recorded career-worst numbers in 34 games — the 32-year-old netminder brought NHL experience the organization preferred in the short term.

Rittich has not been sharp in the preseason, surrendering eight goals on 47 shots, but head coach Patrick Roy expressed confidence in the veteran’s ability to rebound.

“He’s a great pro, I have no worry about him,” Roy said. “He has the quality to be able to evaluate himself very well, and if he says that he had a couple of bad reads, I'm on his side. I know he's a great competitor, he’s going to do everything to help the team.”

The decision cements Sorokin and Rittich as New York’s opening-night tandem, while Varlamov continues his recovery and remains without a firm timetable to return.