Varlamov Pursues Unprecedented NHL Comeback After Knee Surgeries

New York Islanders goaltender Semyon Varlamov has returned to training camp, embarking on what he describes as a "risky idea" to resume his NHL career after undergoing two partial knee replacements. Varlamov has not participated in an NHL practice or game in 22 months.

His teammate Ilya Sorokin recalled asking Varlamov if his career was over after the surgeries, to which Varlamov responded, "No, I will come back." Varlamov’s determination to return appears to have no direct precedent among professional hockey players who have undergone similar procedures. Research by The Post found Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn as one of the few professional athletes to return to elite competition after a partial knee replacement.

Varlamov expressed that he was not mentally ready to retire and, despite setbacks during rehabilitation, maintained the motivation to continue playing. He cited his respect and love for the game, his desire to be part of the current Islanders team, and the team's promising outlook as driving forces.

General manager Mathieu Darche acknowledged the potential roster implications of Varlamov’s return, including the possibility of carrying three goaltenders alongside Ilya Sorokin and Vitek Vanecek. Coach Pete DeBoer noted the need for the backup goaltender to play approximately 30 games during the 84-game schedule and cautioned against overworking Sorokin.

The organization has expressed admiration for Varlamov's journey. "It’s almost inspiring to our guys," Darche said. DeBoer added, "When I got here and I heard about the surgery he had undergone, I was not counting on seeing him at all."

J.G. Pageau commented on the uniqueness of Varlamov’s situation, suggesting he might be the first in NHL history to attempt such a comeback.

Varlamov's path to training camp involved increasing his skating sessions and playing in two AHL games at the end of Bridgeport's season, steps he believes were crucial for earning the opportunity to participate in camp. He remains focused on daily progress rather than long-term outcomes.

"I don’t want to jump ahead of things," Varlamov stated. "I’m just taking one day at a time and what’s the best thing I can do to be a better teammate? Just [be] the best version of yourself today. I can only control what’s happening today."