BREAKING: Sorokin Taking Shots; Nearing a Return?

There was breaking news out of the New York Islanders camp today: Prior to the main group practicing, Ilya Sorokin was spotted for the first time all camp.

Sorokin underwent back surgery during the offseason and has been recovering ever since. The media had not yet spotted him taking shots, and the only update we got was that he’s been skating. Now, there’s been more context added.

While reporters were told that Sorokin’s been skating, that’s all we were told. He was facing shots and working directly with Islanders goalie coach Piero Greco. Sorokin already facing shots is big news, as we can now assume this may not be the first time he’s even taken shots.

While not in the main group, Sorokin’s return feels closer than ever. There’s still no timeline and even as early as yesterday, Head Coach Patrick Roy had no updates on Sorokin or his timeline.

Sorokin will likely not be ready for opening night or the season’s opening road trip through Dallas, Denver, and St. Louis.

However, it now seems distinctly possible that he can be ready for October 19’s home game against the Montreal Canadiens. If not, perhaps he could be ready ahead of the season’s first back-to-back a week later against the New Jersey Devils and reigning Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers.

This story is still developing and will be updated with any possible quotes and new information.