New York Islanders' starting goalie Ilya Sorokin underwent offseason back surgery, which could cause him to miss the start of training camp. While GM Lou Lamoriello initially downplayed the injury as minor, head coach Patrick Roy later confirmed the surgery. Sorokin, who had a subpar season last year, is currently skating and expected to be ready for the regular season opener on October 10. In his absence, veteran backup Semyon Varlamov is likely to take over starting duties temporarily. The Islanders remain confident in their goaltending depth and Sorokin's eventual return.