Ilya Sorokin made a strong return as the New York Islanders' starting goaltender, stopping 32 shots in a convincing 6-2 win over the Colorado Avalanche. This performance marked Sorokin's first action of the season after recovering from back surgery, showcasing his readiness to reclaim his role following a rough start for the team with Semyon Varlamov in goal. The Islanders, now at .500 with a record of 1-1-1, dominated the game, especially after a shaky start, with Sorokin making crucial saves, including a highlight-reel stop in the second period. Head coach Patrick Roy praised Sorokin's confidence and performance, particularly in the third period when he faced a surge from the Avalanche. The victory alleviated concerns regarding Sorokin's physical and mental readiness, crucial for the team's playoff aspirations. Looking ahead, while Sorokin is expected to reclaim the starting role, Varlamov may still see action in upcoming games as the team manages their goaltending situation.