Islanders Prepare for Key Matchup Against Canucks
The New York Islanders are gearing up for a key matchup against the Vancouver Canucks, scheduled for Monday evening. This Sunday, the team held a practice in Vancouver, where star player Mathew Barzal—who hails from nearby Coquitlam, British Columbia—was likely excited to have local family and friends in attendance for the game.
Goaltender Update
After sitting out as a backup during the team’s recent 4-2 defeat to the Calgary Flames, goaltender Ilya Sorokin will be back in the starting lineup. Sorokin previously showcased his skills by achieving a remarkable shutout against the Edmonton Oilers, where he turned away all 26 shots in a tight 1-0 victory last Thursday.
Roster Changes
In terms of roster updates, Maxim Tsyplakov will make his return to active duty, rejoining the lineup after being sidelined since the Islanders’ 4-3 overtime victory against the Minnesota Wild. He replaces Maxim Shabanov in the lineup and will form a line with Calum Ritchie and Emil Heineman.
“Tsyppy hasn’t played in a while, so we felt now is a great time to bring him back into the fold,”
Patrick Roy, Islanders’ head coach, commented on the changes.
Despite only netting one goal in 24 games this season, Roy sees potential in Tsyplakov, especially given his previous performances in the KHL prior to joining the Islanders ahead of the 2024-25 season.
“I want him to bring out the game I know he possesses,”
Roy said, describing Tsyplakov as a power forward who excels at bringing pucks to the net and playing solid defense.
The coach expressed his desire to see Tsyplakov focus on his strengths, particularly his presence in front of the net and defensive responsibilities, rather than trying to be overly flashy with the puck.
Practice Lineup
The lineup for Sunday’s practice was as follows:
- Lee-Barzal-Duclair
- Drouin-Pageau-Holmstrom
- Tsyplakov-Ritchie-Heineman
- MacLean-Cizikas-Gatcomb
The defensive pairings featured:
- Schaefer-Pulock
- Pelech-DeAngelo
- Boqvist-Mayfield
- McWard (extra)
Game Preview
The Islanders and Canucks are set to face off at 10 PM ET, and all eyes will be on Sorokin’s performance as he attempts to help his team bounce back from their recent loss and secure a vital win against Vancouver.
