Stunning details of NY Islanders goaltender Semyon Valamov's injury revealed

Everyone around the New York Islanders knew something was wrong with Semyon Varlamov. We all knew he had suffered a lower-body injury; we just didn't know what it was or how serious.

The veteran goaltender had not been seen in the crease for an NHL game after Nov. 29, 2024. It was clear he was dealing with something serious and working tirelessly behind the scenes to get back. But the true extent of what Varlamov endured only became known Monday when he joined the team after practice at Northwell Ice Center.

Islanders head coach Patrick Roy revealed the stunning detail: Varlamov underwent two knee replacement surgeries during his long recovery.

When the 37-year-old stepped onto the ice late in practice and faced a few shots, it was more than just another rehab milestone. It was the latest step in a remarkable comeback.

“I’m sure it’s great for him. He’s been working so hard to be where he is,” Roy said. “Two knee replacements? I mean, come on. That’s not an easy thing for a goaltender, but he’s been here a lot and he’s been doing everything the right way.”

Varlamov has been a key figure in the Islanders’ recent history since joining the team in 2019. Before Ilya Sorokin emerged as the club’s No. 1 goaltender, Varlamov helped anchor the Islanders during back-to-back runs to the Stanley Cup semifinals in 2020 and 2021.

Over 173 games with New York, he has compiled a 76-63-21 record with a .916 save percentage and a 2.57 goals-against average.

“What a great moment,” Mathew Barzal said. “No one that I know works as hard as Varly. He's just so committed. To just persevere at every stop, it's inspiring to be honest with you. He's always seemed to have a positive outlook and a mindset that he was going get back and be on the ice. It was pretty cool to see him out there."

His extended absence forced the Islanders to adjust their goaltending depth. The team signed veteran David Rittich to back up Sorokin this season, and Rittich has responded with a strong 14-9-3 record in 26 appearances.

Still, Monday’s moment wasn’t about statistics or roster decisions. It was about a respected veteran stepping back onto the ice after an extraordinarily difficult recovery — and reminding everyone just how much perseverance it takes to stay in the game.