New York Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche addressed the media this week, confirming that Semyon Varlamov, Pierre Engvall and Alexander Romanov have met all health criteria to take part fully in the club’s September 2026 training camp.
Training Camp Outlook
Varlamov, who has been sidelined since November 29, 2024, after suffering knee problems, has been skating four to five times weekly without medication or pain for over a month. His recent two‑game stint in the AHL in April 2026 saw him post a 46‑of‑49 save percentage and a 2‑0‑0 record, indicating he is ready to shoulder a larger share of the goaltending duties and help alleviate the heavy workload that Ilya Sorokin endured last season.
Engvall missed the entire 2025‑26 campaign after undergoing hip and ankle surgeries, with the lingering ankle issue still being monitored. The forward recorded 15 points (eight goals, seven assists) in 62 games during the 2024‑25 season and Darche expects him to be fully fit for the upcoming year.
Romanov, who underwent shoulder surgery and was limited to 15 games in the previous season, has been on the ice for three weeks. He has shed 12 pounds and his movement has noticeably improved, suggesting he will be able to contribute more robustly on defense and in the forecheck.
Adding depth, Vitek Vanecek signed a one‑year contract with the Islanders to provide insurance in net, while the organization remains optimistic that the trio’s return will bolster the roster as it aims to compete for a playoff spot.