Islanders' Varlamov Practices After Knee Replacements

Penguins could get Malkin, Crosby back as Blackhawks sign prospect

Mar. 16, 2026 at 5:21pm

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Semyon Varlamov, the 37-year-old New York Islanders goaltender, has rejoined the team at practice as he continues to work his way back from two knee replacement surgeries. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins could have centers Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby back in the lineup soon, and the Chicago Blackhawks signed a prospect to an entry-level contract.

Why it matters

Varlamov's return to the ice after such a significant injury is an inspiring story, as the veteran goaltender looks to overcome the odds and potentially play again for the Islanders. The Penguins getting their two star centers back would be a major boost as they push for a playoff spot, while the Blackhawks signing a prospect is a sign of their continued efforts to rebuild through the draft.

The details

Varlamov has not played since November 2024 and was not expected to return this season, according to Islanders GM Mathieu Darche. However, the goaltender has been working hard in his recovery and was able to join the team at the end of practice on Monday. Malkin has served a five-game suspension and is ready to return, while Crosby has been skating during the Penguins' road trip after sustaining a lower-body injury at the Olympics. The Blackhawks signed prospect Bosivert to an entry-level contract, adding to their pool of young talent.

  • Varlamov last played on November 29, 2024.
  • Malkin served a five-game suspension that ended on March 16, 2026.
  • Crosby has been out since sustaining a lower-body injury on February 18, 2026 while playing for Team Canada at the Winter Olympics.

The players

Semyon Varlamov

A 37-year-old goaltender for the New York Islanders who is working his way back from two knee replacement surgeries.

Evgeni Malkin

A center for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is returning from a five-game suspension.

Sidney Crosby

A center for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is recovering from a lower-body injury sustained at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Bosivert

A prospect who signed an entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Patrick Roy

The head coach of the New York Islanders.

Mathieu Darche

The general manager of the New York Islanders.

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What they’re saying

“It's great for him. I mean, he's been working so hard to get to where he is. I mean, two knee replacements, come on. It's not an easy thing for a goaltender, but he's been here a lot, and he's been doing everything the right way.”

— Patrick Roy, Head Coach, New York Islanders

“Varly is still on the ice every day; I wish I could give you a different update. It's one thing to take shots and move on the ice, but it's another thing to play games. He's not at the point yet of practicing, so we don't expect him back this season.”

— Mathieu Darche, General Manager, New York Islanders

What’s next

The Islanders will visit the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday, March 16, 2026.

The takeaway

Varlamov's determination to return to the ice after such a significant injury is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. Meanwhile, the potential returns of Malkin and Crosby to the Penguins' lineup could provide a much-needed boost as they fight for a playoff spot, and the Blackhawks' signing of a prospect shows their continued commitment to rebuilding through the draft.