## Hogberg Shines in Preseason Debut, Providing Hope Amidst Sorokin Uncertainty
**UNIONDALE, NY** – With star goaltender Ilya Sorokin sidelined recovering from offseason back surgery, the Islanders were forced to rely on their backup options in their preseason opener against the New Jersey Devils.
Marcus Hogberg, a strong contender for the team’s third goaltender spot, stepped up in a big way, making 15 of 17 saves through the first half of the game, a performance that provided a much-needed sense of security.
“Overall pretty good game and of course I can do better,” said Hogberg, reflecting on his performance. “I wasn’t square enough to make the save on [Jesper] Bratt, the second goal there. Five-hole.”
Hogberg’s performance was particularly impressive considering the Islanders’ shaky defensive play early in the game. He exhibited composure and composure, effectively shutting down the Devils’ scoring chances.
“They were both very good,” lauded coach Patrick Roy. “We had a couple moments in the first, I thought we gave up too many scoring chances, so Hogberg played really well, kept the game at 1-0 [after New Jersey scored first]. He was good on those rebounds, kept the puck close to him. Skarek came in, I thought he did well, as well.”
The 29-year-old Swede spent the last three seasons with Linkoping HC in the Swedish League, compiling a .914 save percentage in 2023-24. Prior to that, he spent time with the Ottawa Senators, where he shuttled between the NHL and AHL, never exceeding a .904 save percentage.
With Sorokin’s status uncertain, the Islanders’ need for a reliable third goalie has been amplified. Hogberg appears to be the frontrunner for that spot, despite competition from Jakub Skarek, Henrik Tikkanen, and Keith Kinkaid, all of whom are vying for the role.
The Islanders’ lineup for their first preseason game featured a mix of NHL veterans and prospects. Brock Nelson anchored the top line with Simon Holmstrom and Kyle Palmieri, while Jean-Gabriel Pageau skated alongside Anders Lee and Oliver Wahlstrom.
While Hogberg’s performance was encouraging, the Islanders will need to be cautious about over-reliance on their backup netminders. The sooner Sorokin can return to the ice, the better for the team’s overall stability. The team’s success hinges on their ability to confidently navigate the goaltending situation during Sorokin’s absence.