Semyon Varlamov Returns to the Crease for First Start Since 2024

Semyon Varlamov is officially dusting off the pads. The veteran netminder is set to make his first NHL start since 2024, which in hockey years feels like a previous geological era.

According to Daily Faceoff, Varlamov is getting the nod for the New York Islanders. Throwing a guy into the fire after a layoff that long is a bold strategy, but doing it against your biggest rival takes a special kind of nerve.

"Daily Faceoff reported: 'Islanders’ Semyon Varlamov to make first NHL start since 2024'"

The Islanders are heading across town tonight to face the New York Rangers. New York is coming off a 6-0 demolition of the New Jersey Devils just a few days ago, so the team vibes are high. Still, putting a completely cold goalie in net against the Rangers is a massive wild card for a lineup trying to build early momentum.

Starting a goalie who hasn't seen live NHL action in roughly two calendar years is the hockey equivalent of finding a forgotten Tupperware in the back of the fridge and deciding to just microwave it and hope for the best. It might be totally fine, or it might completely ruin your night.

For anyone looking at the puck line or total goals tonight, Varlamov's rust factor is the giant flashing neon sign you cannot ignore. We will find out very quickly if he spent his time off staying sharp or if the Rangers are about to turn his return into a very public batting practice.