Ilya Sorokin, the New York Islanders’ goalie, recently made headlines by joining an exclusive club of goalie goal scorers in a unique and unexpected turn of events during a game against the Nashville Predators. In the late stages of the third period, with the Predators trailing 6-4 and pressing in the Islanders’ end, Sorokin made a crucial save that led to an unusual chain of events. The puck rebounded out to Nashville forward Steven Stamkos, who attempted to pass it back to the blue line but inadvertently sent it all the way into Nashville’s empty net. As a result of this final poor sequence by Nashville, Sorokin was credited with the first goal of his career, becoming only the second Islanders goalie and one of just 17 NHL goalies to achieve this feat.
After the game, Sorokin humorously remarked, “If I had shot it [into] the goal, it might be a different emotion. But this was just luck. It was a good save before the [goal], though. I wasn’t sure I was the last one [to touch it]. It’s hockey; it happens.” Despite the fortuitous goal, Sorokin’s performance has been solid throughout the season, with a record of 21-18-4, a .905 save percentage, and a 2.76 goals-against average.
The Rise of Goalie Scorers in the NHL
The 2024-25 NHL season has seen a unique trend emerge, with multiple goalies scoring goals for their teams. Sorokin’s goal against the Predators adds to this growing phenomenon, following similar achievements by Pittsburgh’s Alex Nedeljkovic and Filip Gustavsson of the Ottawa Senators earlier in the season. This season marks a historic moment in NHL history, as it is the first time that multiple goalies have been credited with goals in a single season. This trend not only adds an exciting element to the game but also showcases the evolving skills and versatility of modern-day NHL goalies.
A Memorable Moment for Sorokin and the Islanders
For Sorokin, the goal may have been a stroke of luck, but it represents a memorable milestone in his career. As only the second Islanders goalie to score a goal, Sorokin’s achievement will undoubtedly be etched in the team’s history. The unexpected nature of the goal adds a unique twist to an already thrilling game, leaving fans and players alike in awe of the unpredictability of hockey. Sorokin’s good-natured response to the goal reflects the camaraderie and sportsmanship that define the spirit of the game, reminding us that even in moments of unexpected glory, humility and humor go a long way.
In conclusion, Ilya Sorokin’s entry into the exclusive goalie scoring club serves as a captivating tale of triumph and unpredictability in the world of professional hockey. As the NHL continues to witness the rise of goalie scorers, Sorokin’s goal stands out as a shining example of the surprises and delights that make the sport so exhilarating. With each goalie goal adding a new chapter to hockey history, fans can look forward to more thrilling moments and unexpected achievements in the seasons to come.
