No. 2: Semyon Varlamov
The New York Islanders have two decent goalies on their roster right now in Ilya Sorokin and Semyon Varlamov. However, since Sorokin is only 27-years-old compared to Varlamov’s 34-years, the older netminder seems like the more likely choice to be traded.
Varlamov has had a very good career and has shown he can be a legitimate starting goalie in this league. He’s also shown he can do it in the playoffs, as he was a vital piece to the Islanders making it to back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals.
As of right now, I’d rather have Varlamov over Murray, based on his longevity. Murray’s way too much of an injury risk, while Varlamov has been a perfect tandem netminder with Sorokin over the past few years.
Not only that, but Varlamov could be a really good mentor to Samsonov, who’s another Russian goaltender.
It’s possible that the New York Islanders contend for a playoff spot this year, but I think it’s much more likely they miss. As such, there’s no reason to believe why Varlamov wouldn’t be available for them via trade soon.