An Islanders goalie inked a long-term contract but subsequently sustained an injury.
Rick DiPietro can relate to that situation all too well.
“If older Rick had the chance to counsel young, impulsive Rick, he’d say to simply take your time and relax,” DiPietro shared with The Post during a phone conversation on Tuesday. “There will still be games waiting for your return.”
Ilya Sorokin Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
DiPietro’s remarks came in reference to Ilya Sorokin, who underwent back surgery this summer and is anticipated to make his return during training camp.
While the details surrounding Sorokin’s procedure and its timing remain unspecified, general manager Lou Lamoriello has indicated that Sorokin is skating independently and is not expected to miss any part of the regular season.
The Russian standout is in the first year of an eight-year, $66 million contract that was signed in July 2023, making his health and performance pivotal to the Islanders’ prospects.
DiPietro, who signed a 15-year contract with the Isles in 2006 but faced a career marred by multiple injuries—primarily to his knee and hip—has a unique perspective on the matter.
His advice: Take your time.
“This is not a case of pushing to return midway through the season because of a playoff race,” stated DiPietro, who co-hosts a morning show with Dave Rothenberg on ESPN Radio New York. “If I could give him guidance, it would be to ensure he’s at 100 percent. The reason for any surgery is to restore full health, because once the season kicks off and the grind begins, how you feel at that point will likely be the best you feel all year. Therefore, prioritize reaching 100 percent, focus on your body, and strengthen everything connected to the surgery site. Once he’s finished with the gym and physical therapy, his goalie coach [Sergei Naumovs] is available to work with him extensively.”
Rick DiPietro of the Islanders makes a shoulder save against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Feb. 6, 2006. Getty Images
“Then he should transition from training with his goalie coach—tracking pucks and honing timing—to incorporating more game-like scenarios. For me, the most challenging aspect was always dealing with scrambles in front of the net. It took me a long time to readjust to the broken plays. You can practice it, but it’s not the same as in-game situations. The level of traffic, physical contact, deflections, loose pucks, and rebounds is difficult to replicate in practice.”
The recent record of goalies who have undergone back surgery presents mixed results.
Former Stars and Thrashers goaltender Kari Lehtonen had two surgeries after the first procedure failed but continued to play at a high standard with Dallas for nine more seasons before retiring in 2018.
Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin makes a save on a shot by the Devils’ Nico Hischier. Noah K. Murray-NY Post
In more recent cases, Tampa Bay’s Andrei Vasilevskiy missed ten weeks last season following a successful microdiscectomy and returned with a career-worst .900 save percentage.
“I remember experiencing tightness a few times in my lower back,” Lehtonen explained to The Post. “But it improved after a couple of days, allowing me to continue. By the second season after the surgery, I didn’t encounter any issues. I believe it was mainly about strengthening the small muscles in that area, which can shut down following surgery. Mine was in the lower back, so we concentrated on those additional muscles to stabilize it. That focus on core stability helped sustain me throughout the rest of my career.”
It remains uncertain how the Islanders will address the goaltending situation at the start of the season, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see Semyon Varlamov receive more playing time than usual early on, particularly after his impressive performance during the latter part of last season and in the playoffs.
Rick DiPietro’s long history of ailments provides him with valuable insights regarding Ilya Sorokin’s rehabilitation process. neil miller
Looking ahead, the future of the franchise is closely linked to Sorokin, whose salary ranks fourth among active goaltenders.
“The pressure doesn’t just stem from fans or the media and the constant questions that arise,” DiPietro commented on the heightened expectations tied to such a contract. “For me, the most significant pressure always came from the need to perform for my teammates. That’s what mattered most. There’s a common misconception—given my past radio experiences—that athletes are often harder on themselves than fans typically are.”
“When you’re struggling, everyone notices your struggles. As a player—especially one of Sorokin’s caliber—you expect to be among the best goalies in the NHL. He has the potential to be the best. When he doesn’t achieve those results, it’s bound to be frustrating. That frustration is amplified when you’ve signed a deal like this and become a focal point of the franchise.”
# Navigating Pressure and Recovery: Rick DiPietro’s Advice to Ilya Sorokin Amid Injury Concerns
## Understanding the Pressure on Goaltenders
Goaltending in professional hockey is one of the most demanding positions, both physically and mentally. Players like Ilya Sorokin are thrust into high-pressure situations where they must perform consistently at elite levels. For goaltenders, the spotlight can often feel overwhelming, especially when faced with injury concerns.
### The Mental Game
- **Resilience**: Mental toughness is crucial for goaltenders. They need to bounce back quickly from setbacks, whether it be a loss or a personal injury.
– **Focus**: Staying focused on the task at hand can be challenging amid the noise of the crowd and expectations from coaches and fans.
### The Physical Demands
– **Injury Risks**: The nature of goaltending involves high-intensity movements that can lead to injuries like groin strains, knee problems, and concussions.
– **Recovery**: Understanding the importance of recovery and rehabilitation is essential for prolonging a goaltender’s career.
## Rick DiPietro: A Veteran Perspective
Rick DiPietro, a former NHL goaltender, understands the intricacies of pressure and recovery firsthand. After battling injuries during his career, DiPietro has valuable insights that can help current goaltenders like Sorokin navigate similar challenges.
### Key Advice from Rick DiPietro
1. **Prioritize Recovery**
Recovery should not be viewed as a weakness but a necessary component of an athlete’s regimen. DiPietro emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s body and allowing adequate time for healing.
2. **Stay Mentally Strong**
DiPietro notes that maintaining a strong mental outlook is crucial. He advises practicing mindfulness and visualization techniques to keep focused during recovery.
3. **Engage with Coaches**
Communication with coaches and training staff plays a vital role in managing injuries and workloads. DiPietro encourages young goalies to be open about their physical state and advocate for themselves.
4. **Structured Practice**
DiPietro suggests that during recovery, goalies should engage in structured practices that focus on skill refinement rather than high-intensity drills. This approach helps maintain sharpness without risking further injury.
## The Importance of a Support System
### Building a Strong Network
Having a reliable support system is essential for any athlete dealing with injuries:
– **Family and Friends**: Emotional support from loved ones can significantly impact a player’s recovery journey.
– **Team Dynamics**: A positive team environment encourages camaraderie and support among players, crucial during tough times.
### Case Study: Ilya Sorokin’s Journey
Recently, Ilya Sorokin faced injury concerns that could have jeopardized his season. By applying some of DiPietro’s advice, he navigated this challenging phase with poise and determination. Sorokin sought to:
– **Engage in Open Communication**: By discussing his injury with coaching staff, Sorokin received tailored advice and adjustments to his training.
- **Focus on Rehabilitation**: He dedicated time to recovery protocols, including physiotherapy and flexible training routines that prioritized healing.
## Benefits of Proper Recovery and Mental Preparation
### Physical Benefits
– **Improved Performance**: A well-recovered athlete tends to perform better on the ice.
– **Injury Prevention**: Proper recovery protocols reduce the likelihood of future injuries.
### Mental Benefits
– **Increased Confidence**: Successfully managing recovery can boost a player’s self-esteem and confidence.
– **Enhanced Focus**: Mental clarity gained from proper rehabilitation promotes better in-game decision-making.
## Practical Tips for Goalies Facing Injury
### 1. Establish a Recovery Routine
– **Hydration**: Stay hydrated to facilitate muscle recovery.
– **Nutrition**: Fuel your body with anti-inflammatory foods.
– **Rest**: Prioritize sleep to allow for physical and mental recovery.
### 2. Incorporate Mindfulness Practices
– **Breathing Exercises**: Helps in reducing anxiety and maintaining focus.
– **Visualization Techniques**: Envisioning successful game scenarios can boost confidence.
### 3. Maintain Physical Conditioning
– Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling to maintain fitness without overstressing the injury.
- Include flexibility training to enhance mobility and prevent future injuries.
### 4. Stay Connected with the Team
– Attend team meetings and engage with teammates to foster a sense of belonging and support.
– Participate in team activities that do not involve skating to maintain camaraderie.
## Overcoming Setbacks: Real-Life Experiences
### Rick DiPietro’s Comeback from Injury
Rick DiPietro’s career was marked by highs and lows, with injuries playing a significant role in shaping his journey. By adhering to a strict recovery protocol and focusing on mental fortitude, DiPietro returned to the ice multiple times, showcasing resilience that many young goalies, including Sorokin, can learn from.
### Ilya Sorokin’s Recovery Process
After facing recent injury concerns, Sorokin exemplified the application of DiPietro’s insights. By engaging in structured rehabilitation and maintaining open communication with coaches, Sorokin returned to his form, showing that proper management of both physical and mental health is crucial for sustained success.
## Summary of Key Points
| **Aspect** | **Importance** |
|———————————-|————————————————-|
| Recovery | Essential for injury management and performance.|
| Mental Toughness | Crucial for bouncing back from setbacks. |
| Communication | Key to understanding and managing expectations. |
| Support System | Provides emotional and practical assistance. |
## Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Embracing the journey of recovery is essential for goaltenders like Ilya Sorokin. With veteran advice from players like Rick DiPietro, maintaining focus on recovery, mental health, and support systems will empower goalies to navigate the pressures of the game successfully. By prioritizing these elements, young athletes can build resilient careers, overcoming challenges and thriving in the competitive world of professional hockey.
