Ilya Sorokin crucial for Islanders' playoff push

Ilya Sorokin is likely to play a crucial role for the New York Islanders as they aim for the playoffs. Recently, he's covered a hefty load in the net, having started 14 of the last 15 games. This situation has changed since Semyon Varlamov was injured back in November. With only two back-to-back games left this season, Sorokin might end up playing 49 of the final 58 games. His performance has been outstanding. Over the last five games, he has achieved a .930 save percentage, marking him as the Islanders' standout player since the trade deadline. The Islanders are in a tight race for postseason spots and cannot afford to lose games now. They will face the Pittsburgh Penguins soon, a team Sorokin has defeated twice this season. In their last game against the Florida Panthers, Sorokin played a significant role, making key saves at crucial moments. Islanders' coach Patrick Roy praised the team’s defensive play but acknowledged Sorokin's contributions at the end of the game. As the Islanders adjust their strategies without Brock Nelson, Sorokin's performance will be vital to their success. The team did not hold practice before traveling to Pittsburgh, likely to preserve energy for the upcoming game.