The possible reasons behind the Keith Kinkaid PTO with the NY Islanders

The New York Islanders signed veteran netminder Keith Kinkaid to a Professional Try Out (PTO), Daily Faceoff confirmed. My colleagues here at Eyes on Isles reported on this move earlier, breaking the news of the hometown player suiting up for the Isles at last.

Now, this sort of deal generally flies under the radar. It’s hardly the type of transaction that moves the needle. But then again, the timing of this move is an interesting one.

In an earlier piece, I discussed how Ilya Sorokin’s reported injury could cost him time at training camp. As such, GM Lou Lamoriello could be compelled to search for a competent backup for Semyon Varlamov, if Varlamov were asked to step in as the starter.

From the looks of things, it could be that Sorokin might miss time this season, hence necessitating another goalie in the system.

Considering that Kinkaid spent much of last season in the AHL, it could be that this move is precisely intended for the AHL. As such, Kinkaid would most likely suit up for Bridgeport. But the Isles wanted to get a look at Kinkaid in training camp before sending him down.

In a way, the 35-year-old vet deserves a legitimate shot at making the NHL roster before ultimately settling in the minors. Then again, we might need to read between the lines with this move.

Why would the New York Islanders need another goaltender?

So, let’s assume for a minute whatever Sorokin is “battling,” as Elliotte Friedman pointed out, is serious enough to keep Sorokin out. All right, so it’s not the end of the world as Varlamov could easily slide in as the starter.

However, that move would have a ripple effect throughout the organization. First, the big question becomes, “Who becomes Varlamov’s backup?”

The New York Islanders have Marcus Hogberg in the system. But as we’ve discussed, he’s not the most reliable backup option. Beyond that, the system is pretty thin on goaltenders. Thus, the need for another goalie emerges.

Second, Kinkaid adds competition for Hogberg. Both Kinkaid and Hogberg compete for the backup role in camp, with the loser heading to the AHL. Again, the Isles are thin in goal. So, whoever gets sent down would most likely be the starter in Bridgeport.

Lastly, there is always a risk of losing either Kinkaid or Hogberg if they get sent down as they would have to clear waivers. So, it’s a low-cost situation if anyone happens to claim either goalie on waivers.

On the whole, I could be reading too much into this situation. It could just be that Lamoriello feels the team needs more depth in goal, especially at the AHL level. So, instead of signing Kinkaid to an AHL deal, the club gives him a PTO just to show what he can do.

Then again, given the way the rumor mill has been turning, it could be that the New York Islanders are in trouble. While there may be no need to push the panic button just yet, the Isles’ goaltending situation might be something to keep a close eye on.