Islanders GM Mathieu Darche emphasizes the importance of a reliable backup goaltender, particularly for Semyon Varlamov, who is recovering from injuries. His rehab is reportedly progressing well, with ice time anticipated soon. Darche signed veteran David Rittich as insurance, ensuring the team remains competitive in pursuit of playoff aspirations. While optimism surrounds Varlamov's recovery, Darche remains realistic about the challenges of returning from surgeries at age 37. Rittich serves as a safety net for managing Ilya Sorokin's workload, safeguarding the team's postseason potential.
From what I've been told, his rehab is progressing well. He's getting on the ice next week, I believe.
My job is to protect the organization. It's a big role... sometimes that's the difference between being in the playoffs or not.
Yes, Varlamov says he's progressing well and feels good. But Darche knows there's no guarantee a 37-year-old goalie coming off surgeries can jump right back into form.
If Varlamov is healthy, the Isles will have one of the league's better tandems again. If not, Darche's foresight could be the difference between chasing a wild card spot and locking one down early.
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