The New York Islanders are beginning to look more like themselves again. After a turbulent start that raised questions about their goaltending and defensive structure, the team seems to be settling into a rhythm. Their recent wins against the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers not only boosted their confidence but also marked a turning point for their star goaltender, Ilya Sorokin.
Sorokin’s performance has followed a pattern similar to the Islanders’ season — filled with early struggles but signs of improvement. As the team stabilizes, the focus has shifted to Sorokin’s form and mindset, giving fans a clearer view of how he handles pressure.
Ilya Sorokin Addresses His Critics with His Recent Performances
In October, the Islanders were not at their best, and much of the attention was on Ilya Sorokin’s inconsistent form. Once ranked among the NHL’s top goaltenders, Sorokin’s early numbers were well below his usual standards. His save percentage dropped to .875, placing him among the weakest performers in the league. For a player with an eight-year, $66 million contract, expectations were always going to be high.
After the Islanders’ 3-2 overtime win against the Devils on Monday, Sorokin addressed the ongoing discussion about his play. He said with a smile:
“I don’t know. Please, tell all bad words about me, after this I play better. So, I don’t care about this. Just can say today was a good game, and I feel good, and the team helped me.”
Ilya Sorokin was asked if he feels like he’s getting better with each game this season:
“I don’t care about this. Just can say today is a good game and I feel good and the team helped me” pic.twitter.com/NWMxL8TuvP
— Islanders Videos (@SNY_Islanders) November 11, 2025
That mindset has translated into better results. Sorokin now holds a 5-4-2 record with a 2.90 goals-against average and a .898 save percentage, along with one shutout. In November, he has been especially strong, recording a 1.44 GAA and a .947 save percentage.
The Islanders’ improvement has been supported by steady contributions from other key players. Bo Horvat continues to lead the offense, while Mathew Barzal’s overtime winner against the Devils was another reminder of the team’s balanced attack. With Sorokin regaining his confidence and the roster showing more structure, the Islanders remain competitive in the Metropolitan Division.
“I thought Sorokin was unbelievable for us in net again. He made some phenomenal saves, especially towards the end of the game,” Horvat said of Sorokin after the win against the Devils, via NHL.com.
For Sorokin, the story has shifted from criticism to calm recovery. The 30-year-old goaltender, drafted by the Islanders in 2014, has shown that he can manage both expectation and pressure.
The Islanders still have work to do, but Sorokin’s play has given them a solid foundation. Next, the New York Islanders (8-6-2) will face the Vegas Golden Knights (7-4-4) on Nov. 13 at 10 p.m. ET.
