Dmytro Timashov makes a return to NY Islanders training camp

With it being the first day of NY Islanders training camp, many expected to see unfamiliar names on the opening roster, from players who have spent their whole career playing for their AHL affiliate Bridgeport Islanders and rookies who shined during the rookie camp. One participant no one expected is a former Islander whose contract was mutually terminated in 2021.

Many fans may not even remember Dmytro Timashov in an Islanders jersey. For a refresher, Timashov began his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, drafted 125th overall during the 2015 NHL Draft. The Swede spent four years in Toronto, playing three seasons with the Toronto Marlies before finally cracking an NHL roster with the Leafs in 2019-2020.

In February 2020, Timashov was placed on waivers by the Leafs and claimed by the Detroit Red Wings, finishing his career in Toronto with nine points (four goals, five assists) in 39 games. Timashov played only five games with the Red Wings before the season was cut short due to Covid, failing to put up any points during that short time. As an RFA in Detroit, Timashov had his rights traded in December 2020 to the Islanders for future considerations.

On Sept. 16, 2021, the Islanders signed Timashov to a one-year deal worth $750,000. He appeared in 22 games in Bridgeport, scoring five goals while adding six assists before being called to the Island. He played only one game in New York before being placed on unconditional waivers for a mutual contract termination on Dec. 18.

After leaving Long Island, Timashov returned to his home country of Sweden, signing a two-year deal with Brynas IF of the SHL.

While much is still unknown about his return to the Island, there is some confusion about his status on the team, but it appears Timashov intended on returning to North America this season.

"I want to return to the United States," Timashov said in an April interview with Måns Karlsson of Hockeysverige.se, which has been translated. "Yes, there is interest. But then you have to check whether it will be a one-way contract or a two-way contract, and things like that."

Former head coach Barry Trotz praised Timashov for his skill level and physicallity during his first training camp on Long Island.

"He did a real good job. He’s a real solid player," said Trotz. "What stands out about him, he’s got a really good skill level. He’s not physically a tall player, but he’s a physically strong player."

There's excitement to see what Timashov brings during his second time with an almost unrecognizable squad compared to his 2021 debut. If he sticks with the organization, he seems destined for Bridgeport but will bring depth and experience to a B-Isles roster.