Varlamov Savors Every Moment in Long-Awaited Return to Islanders

Semyon Varlamov is embracing his second chance with the New York Islanders, cherishing each moment on the ice after a grueling 662-day layoff due to two partial knee replacements. The veteran goaltender, who could make his official return this week, possibly Tuesday against the Rangers, expressed his gratitude for being back with his teammates.

"It was 'special' for Varlamov to take the ice in the preseason. It was 'emotional' for him to stand with his teammates before Saturday's home opener," the New York Post reported. The 38-year-old Russian acknowledges that his NHL career is nearing its end and intends to savor every opportunity.

Varlamov's perspective on the brevity of a professional career was heightened by the recent announcement that his countryman and former teammate, Alexander Ovechkin, will retire at the end of the current NHL season. Varlamov, drafted by Washington in 2006, reflected on his early days in the league, where Ovechkin provided support.

"He's been my friend for a long time and I’ve always been supportive of him and he’s been great to me and my family. He’s a great person, he has a big heart and we shared a lot of games playing for our national team. He’s very respected around the hockey world, especially in Russia. He’s the man," Varlamov said of Ovechkin.

Meanwhile, Islanders forward Victor Eklund is also enjoying a strong start to his career. Eklund celebrated his 20th birthday on Saturday by scoring a goal and recording an assist in the Islanders' 6-0 victory over the New Jersey Devils, an achievement made more memorable by his mother's presence.

Coach Pete DeBoer praised Eklund's hockey intelligence and awareness, noting his quick grasp of strategy. "He's a really smart player," DeBoer stated. "He’s got a really good hockey IQ. You got a handful of guys on your team, you go and find them the day after a game with a clip, they know what it is before you even press play, and he’s one of those guys."