Patrick Roy Offers Shootout Advice to Ilya Sorokin

In a surprising turn of events, Hall of Fame goaltender Patrick Roy returned to the crease on Friday morning, this time at the request of New York Islanders’ netminder Ilya Sorokin. The session aimed to improve Sorokin’s shootout performance, a crucial aspect of modern NHL play.

Sorokin’s Shootout Struggles

Sorokin has had a rough season in shootouts, coming away with two losses from his attempts. His latest outing was against the Boston Bruins, where player Marat Khusnutdinov expressed confidence during his shootout attempt, revealing he knew Sorokin would react to his initial move. With a career shootout record of 7-16 and a .623 save percentage, it’s clear that improving this area is a priority for the talented goalie.

Patrick Roy’s Legacy and Perspective

While Roy’s illustrious career ended in 2003 before the NHL adopted the shootout format in the 2005-06 season, he remains an influential figure in the hockey world. Sorokin approached him for insight, prompting Roy to share his own experiences with high-stakes situations, including the pressure of the 1998 Olympic semifinal, where he faced a shootout against Czechia’s Robert Reichel.

“I was extremely nervous,” Roy recalled. “Going for a medal, I felt the pressure. I told Sorokin it was one of the most nerve-wracking moments of my career.”

Key Takeaways from the Practice Session

During their practice, Roy provided Sorokin with strategies on how to manage shootouts effectively:

• Force Shooters Inside: Roy emphasized the importance of compelling opposing players to shoot rather than allowing easy opportunities.
• Mental Preparation: Understanding the psychological aspects of shootouts can help goaltenders reduce anxiety during crucial moments.

“I really appreciate that he came to me. I feel like it’s a great step,” Roy said, highlighting the growth mindset that both players share.

Coaching Changes and Adjustments

Earlier this season, Roy made headlines by breaking his usual limits and offering advice to Sorokin, a move that coincided with the dismissal of goaltending coach Piero Greco. This time, however, Sorokin is guided by Sergei Naumovs, another accomplished coach who has previously worked extensively with him in their home country of Russia.

Looking Ahead: Max Shabanov’s Possible Return

As the Islanders gear up for a seven-game road trip, there’s speculation surrounding the potential return of forward Max Shabanov, who is recovering from an upper-body injury. While his status remains uncertain, Roy stated:

"We’ll see how it shapes up in the next day or so."

Impact on Lineup

If Shabanov returns, fitting him into the already-established top nine may prove challenging. Nonetheless, the Islanders are prepared to navigate such changes as they move forward in the season.

Conclusion

Ilya Sorokin’s request for advice from Patrick Roy signifies not only the pursuit of excellence but also the rich tradition of mentorship in hockey. As the Islanders continue to battle through the season, players are increasingly focusing on sharpening their skills, especially in high-pressure situations such as shootouts.

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