New York Islanders goaltender Vitek Vanecek faces an uncertain roster future heading into the season, as the team weighs the risks of carrying three netminders against the threat of losing him on waivers, according to comments made by coach Pete DeBoer.
The Roster Crunch and Goaltender Depth
Vanecek signed a one-year, $1 million deal with the Islanders during the offseason. However, his path to securing a regular spot depends less on beating out Semyon Varlamov and more on organizational calculus regarding health risks and waiver exposure. Following a preseason 2-1 defeat to the Devils where Vanecek played the full game and stopped 20 shots, DeBoer acknowledged the tricky roster math.
“It’s been discussed, and it does handcuff you,” DeBoer said when asked about carrying three goaltenders on the 23-man roster. “I think that’s all gonna depend on how Varly’s doing, how he’s feeling and things like that. I don’t think, in talking with Mathieu [Darche], that we want to go there, but it’s on the table if we have to.”
Varlamov’s Recovery and Workload Management
Varlamov has surprised the organization with his dedication and recovery following two partial knee replacements. Moving well and stopping shots in camp, he is expected to see action in two of the final three preseason games. The Islanders remain committed to giving him the backup role behind Ilya Sorokin as long as his health holds.
Yet, the demands of an 84-game season introduce unprecedented variables. Varlamov attempts a return with no direct medical precedent for his specific surgical history over a full professional workload. Overusing Sorokin due to previous injuries to Varlamov contributed directly to the team missing the playoffs in each of the past two seasons.
Evaluating the Alternatives
Vanecek registered an .883 save percentage across 22 games with Utah last season. While that figure falls short of reliable starter metrics, he brings more than 200 games of NHL experience to the crease. Behind him, AHL Hamilton prospect Joshua Kotai has put together a solid camp, though unproven at the major-league level.
“I’m not thinking about it too much,” Vanecek said regarding his status. “Just doing my best, and then we go see what’s gonna happen.”
If the Islanders attempt to clear Vanecek through waivers, they risk losing a proven asset to a goaltender-hungry league. Retaining him on the active roster, however, creates a logjam that complicates decisions for tight forward spots involving players like Victor Eklund, Kyle MacLean, Mitchell Chaffee, and Pierre Engvall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vitek Vanecek’s contract status with the Islanders?
Vanecek is signed to a one-year, $1 million contract for the season.
Why are the Islanders considering carrying three goaltenders?
The team is balancing Semyon Varlamov’s recovery from two partial knee replacements against the risk of losing Vanecek on waivers if they attempt to send him down.
How many NHL games has Vitek Vanecek played?
Vanecek brings over 200 games of NHL experience to the New York organization.
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