Islanders coach Barry Trotz said after a
5-2 loss
that he was uncertain about Varlamov's status moving forward.
"He tested. He'll have to re-test," Trotz said. "I couldn't tell you much past that if they got the results on the second test or not. I haven't talked to our trainer yet.
"… The rules and everything the way they are, I have no idea what's going on in the world right now. Every province, every city it seems has different rules. We'll get this test and we'll have a real clear understanding of where he is once we get the results."
Varlamov led New York out for warmups and was listed as the starting goalie on the playing roster.
"It's obviously unfortunate to have that news right before puck drop," Islanders forward Jean-Gabriel Pageau said. "He was feeling fine. That's the good thing."
Ilya Sorokin started for New York and made 24 saves. He made 33 saves Friday in a 3-1 loss at the Edmonton Oilers.
"I guess you never know what to expect these days," Islanders defenseman Adam Pelech said. "We have two great goalies. 'Sorky' came in ready to go and he played great for us as always."
Colin Cooper was the emergency backup. The 27-year-old had a 3.03 goals-against average in four seasons with Mount Royal University in Calgary from 2015-19.
