David Rittich, a goaltender for the New York Islanders, is entering the free‑agency market after a season that featured a 14‑10‑3 record, a 2.76 goals‑against average and a .894 save percentage across 30 appearances.
Backup Plans Take Shape
Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche confirmed that Semyon Varlamov will reprise his role as Ilya Sorokin’s backup, a decision that effectively reduces the likelihood of Rittich securing a second‑year contract with the club.
With Varlamov slated to share the crease, the team’s depth chart suggests that any additional playing time for Rittich will depend on injury circumstances or performance during the preseason.
Rittich’s statistical profile positions him as a reliable NHL‑level backup; his career save percentage hovers near .900 and his goals‑against average has consistently remained under three, traits that many contending clubs value in a dependable second option.
Industry observers expect the 30‑year‑old to attract interest from teams seeking a proven, cost‑effective net‑minder, and his upcoming free‑agency period could culminate in a full‑time NHL contract.