NY Islanders sign Vitek Vanecek to provide a goaltending insurance policy

The New York Islanders addressed an important area of uncertainty on the opening day of free agency, signing veteran goaltender Vitek Vanecek to a one-year contract worth $1 million to bolster their depth behind starter Ilya Sorokin and backup Semyon Varlamov.

The signing comes as the Islanders await the return of Varlamov, who missed all of last season and most of the previous campaign after undergoing double knee surgery. The organization is hopeful that Varlamov, who turns 39 during the 2026-27 season, will be able to resume his role as Sorokin's backup and appear in approximately 25 to 30 games.

Given Varlamov's age and recent injury history, however, general manager Mathieu Darche prioritized adding an experienced NHL goaltender capable of stepping into a larger role if needed.

The move comes after the Islanders elected not to retain David Rittich, who served as Sorokin's backup during the 2025 26 season and became an unrestricted free agent on Tuesday.

Vanecek, 30, brings significant NHL experience to the organization. The Czech goaltender has appeared in 188 career NHL games with the Washington Capitals, New Jersey Devils, San Jose Sharks and Florida Panthers, compiling a 94 52 20 record with a 2.82 goals against average and a .903 save percentage.

While Sorokin remains entrenched as the Islanders' No. 1 goaltender and is expected to again be among the league's top netminders next season, the addition of Vanecek provides the organization with additional security at a position where depth could prove critical.

If Varlamov returns to full health, the Islanders will have an experienced third goaltender available. If injuries continue to impact Varlamov's availability, Vanecek gives the organization a veteran option capable of handling NHL minutes when called upon.

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