Behind the scenes, the NHL’s New York Islanders have a standout between the pipes in Ilya Sorokin, a goaltender whose career journey reflects a blend of precision, hard work, and moments of international pride. In a candid interview, Sorokin reflected on the personal pull of home and the foods that connect him to his roots. He shared that Russian national dishes hold a special place in his heart, with Olivier salad, vinaigrettes, and traditional soups bringing back memories of family dinners and familiar flavors. He noted that adjusting to life abroad has taught him moderation in all things, yet the taste of home remains a strong tether, especially when thinking about chicken cutlets with mashed potatoes—a dish he fondly associates with comfort and childhood meals. This sentiment underscores how athletes balance elite performance with the enduring bonds of home culture. — Citation: Sports24
On the professional front, Sorokin recently secured a long-term extension with the Islanders, further anchoring his role as a cornerstone of the franchise. The eight-year agreement, set to begin at the conclusion of his current deal in the 2024/25 season, translates into a substantial commitment from the organization. With an annual salary of approximately 8.25 million dollars, the contract positions him among the highest-paid goaltenders in the league and signals confidence in his ability to anchor the team’s defense for the long haul. This deal also reflects Sorokin’s status as one of the premier netminders in contemporary hockey, valued for his poise, athleticism, and consistency during high-stakes moments. — Citation: Sports24
Sorokin’s performance over the 2022/23 season earned him a unique distinction among Russian players. He stood out as the only Russian to receive an individual award at the season’s end, a testament to his impact on the ice. While he was among the finalists for the Vezina Trophy, the award recognizing the league’s top goalie ultimately went to Linus Ullmark of the Boston Bruins. The outcome, while not clinching the top prize, did not diminish Sorokin’s reputation as a top-tier performer who routinely tasks shooters with challenging angles and sharp focus under pressure. — Citation: Sports24
Drafted by the Islanders in the third round of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Sorokin’s career includes stints with CSKA Moscow and Metallurg Novokuznetsk, experiences that helped mold his technical foundation and professional resilience. These varied stops contributed to his development, equipping him with a broad toolbox of goaltending skills, from post-to-post agility to puck tracking and quick decision-making in the crease. His path through European clubs and into the NHL reflects a common arc for players who blend international experience with North American competition to reach the pinnacle of the sport. — Citation: Sports24
As a member of the Russian national team, Sorokin has earned significant accolades on the international stage. He contributed to Russia’s Olympic gold medal in 2018, a landmark achievement that highlighted his ability to excel in high-pressure international environments. In addition to the Olympic triumph, he has accumulated bronze medals at the world championships, underscoring a sustained level of performance across multiple major events. These moments illuminate the broader arc of Sorokin’s career—from club hockey to the global stage—demonstrating consistency, leadership, and the capacity to perform when it matters most. — Citation: Sports24
Beyond the rink, Sorokin’s remarks about Manhattan reveal a quieter facet of life for a professional athlete who travels the globe in pursuit of excellence. His candid note about not fully embracing the city’s rhythm adds texture to the portrait of a player who prioritizes balance, focused preparation, and moments of personal retreat amid a demanding schedule. This awareness of lifestyle alongside professional commitments paints a fuller picture of a modern athlete navigating fame, travel, and the persistent chase for peak form. — Citation: Sports24