Ilya Sorokin, the New York Islanders' star goaltender, has been the subject of recent trade speculation, raising questions about his future with the team. While no concrete evidence suggests the Islanders are actively shopping Sorokin, NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that the team may have explored a deal involving him at the 2025 NHL Draft. This has led to discussions about whether the Islanders should consider trading Sorokin, despite his importance to the team.
Sorokin, 29, has been a standout player for the Islanders since joining the team in 2020. He has consistently demonstrated his talent and skill, earning recognition as one of the league's top goaltenders. In the 2022-23 season, Sorokin posted a .924 save percentage and an NHL-best six shutouts, making him a finalist for the Vezina Trophy, awarded to the league's best goalie. On July 1, 2023, Sorokin signed an eight-year, $66 million contract extension with the Islanders, with an average annual value of $8.25 million. His contract includes a full no-move clause, giving him control over any potential trade.
Despite Sorokin's strong performance, the Islanders have faced challenges in recent seasons. The team has struggled with injuries to key players and inconsistency in their overall play. As of late February 2025, veteran goalie Semyon Varlamov was out indefinitely with an injury. There have also been questions about the team's ability to contend for a Stanley Cup. These factors may be prompting the Islanders to consider a potential rebuild, which could involve trading some of their key players, including Sorokin.
Several factors could contribute to the Islanders' willingness to consider trading Sorokin. The team's new general manager, Mathieu Darche, may be looking to reshape the roster and build for the future. Trading Sorokin could bring in a significant return of prospects and draft picks, which would help the Islanders rebuild their team. The team also has a bit of cap space to add pieces around their core. As of July 2025, the Islanders have approximately $3.875 million in projected cap space. With the NHL salary cap expected to increase in the coming years, the Islanders could have more financial flexibility to make moves.
However, trading Sorokin would not be an easy decision for the Islanders. He is considered one of the team's core players, and his departure would create a significant void in their goaltending. Sorokin's strong play has provided the Islanders with stability and confidence, and he is often credited as the backbone of the team. If the Islanders were to trade Sorokin, they would likely seek a significant return, including NHL-ready players, prospects, and draft picks.
Several teams could be interested in acquiring Sorokin if the Islanders make him available. The Edmonton Oilers, who need to improve their goaltending, have been mentioned as a potential suitor. A potential trade to Edmonton could involve players like Zach Hyman, Matthew Savoie, and a first-round pick. However, any team that acquires Sorokin would need to have sufficient cap space to accommodate his $8.25 million annual salary.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to trade Ilya Sorokin rests with the New York Islanders. The team must weigh the potential benefits of acquiring valuable assets against the risk of losing a star goaltender. With Sorokin possessing a no-move clause, he ultimately has control over his destination. As the NHL offseason progresses, it will be interesting to see if the Islanders make any moves regarding their star netminder.
