Islanders Goaltender Semyon Varlamov Undergoes Two Knee Replacement Surgeries

New York Islanders goaltender Semyon Varlamov has been sidelined for an extended period due to two knee replacement surgeries, as revealed by head coach Patrick Roy on Monday, March 16, 2026. The 37-year-old veteran has not played since November 29, 2024, and is not expected to return to the lineup this season.

Varlamov’s Road to Recovery

Roy shared that Varlamov briefly joined the team for practice on Monday, marking the first time he’s been on the ice with the Islanders in any capacity since sustaining his injury. “It’s great for him,” Roy said. “He’s been working so hard to gain where he is. Two knee replacements? I mean, approach on. It’s not an easy thing for a goaltender, but he’s been here a lot and he’s been doing everything the right way.” New York Post

The specifics of the surgeries, including whether the same knee was replaced twice and the exact timing, have not been disclosed. Varlamov previously mentioned undergoing a knee procedure in December of the prior season, with hopes of returning to play this season. New York Post

Islanders’ Perspective and Team Support

Despite initial optimism, the Islanders acknowledged that Varlamov’s return was unlikely by training camp. General manager Mathieu Darche confirmed on March 6th that Varlamov would not play this season. New York Post

Teammates have expressed their support and admiration for Varlamov’s dedication to rehabilitation. Mathew Barzal noted Varlamov’s commitment, stating, “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.” The Elmmonters

Impact on the Islanders’ Goaltending Situation

Varlamov’s absence prompted the Islanders to sign veteran goaltender David Rittich to a one-year contract in July 2025 to back up Ilya Sorokin. New York Post Rittich has appeared in 26 games this season, posting a 14-9-3 record. amny.com

Varlamov, who joined the Islanders in 2019, has a career record of 76-63-21 with a .916 save percentage and a 2.57 goals-against average in 173 games played with the team. amny.com He played a key role in the Islanders’ consecutive runs to the Stanley Cup semifinals in 2020 and 2021.

Looking Ahead

Despite the setbacks, Varlamov continues to rehab with the hope of returning to play next season. New York Post A successful return after two major surgeries and nearly two years of rehabilitation would be a remarkable achievement. New York Post