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Ilya Sorokin named as Vezina Trophy finalist |
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New York Islanders goaltender Ilya Sorokin was named as a Vezina Trophy finalist yesterday.
In addition to Sorokin, Connor Hellebuyck and Linus Ullmark were named as the two other finalists. It marks Sorokin’s first time as a finalist for the award, after finishing sixth in voting last year.
The netminder posted a .924 save percentage with the Islanders this season, while playing 62 games – 10 more than he played last season. His 36 goals saved above expected had him ranked second in the league in the category, according to Hockey Reference.
It’s still a bit of a toss up as to who could take home the award, though Sorokin should have a good shot. Ullmark registered a ridiculous .938 save percentage, but did only play 49 games, splitting some of the workload with Jeremy Swayman. Meanwhile, Hellebuyck’s numbers were slightly lower than Sorokin’s, but he was arguably even more influential in getting his team to the postseason.
Coming off two huge years and now established as one of the league’s top starters, Sorokin’s contract status will also be something to track. He’s set to enter the final year of his deal and will become an unrestricted free agent in 2024. The Islanders will be eligible to extend him as of July 1.
Sorokin is the second member of the team to be nominated for an NHL Award, after Anders Lee was named the team’s nominee for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy.
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