Barry Trotz toys with the Boston media ahead of Game 2

Say what you want about the New York Islanders under head coach Barry Trotz, the team and the man know how to get results. Trotz-style hockey is very defensively oriented and usually revolves around limiting offensive opportunities for opponents and capitalizing on their mistakes. Personally, I enjoy a more offensive brand of hockey that relies on pushing the pace and forcing opponents into making mistakes, but it's hard to argue with Trotz's results. The man always seems to get the most out of his players and that's a true skill that not a lot of coaches possess. 

Trotz is also notorious for holding his cards close to his chest and not revealing much about his lineup or his strategy heading into a big game, so it's no surprise that he's keeping his starting goaltender a secret for Game 2 this evening. The Isles, of course, face off against the Boston Bruins in Game 2 of their second round series this evening and when asked who would start in goal for his team this evening, Trotz had a bit of fun with the Boston media. 

Check it out:

  For those who don't get the joke the Isles' two goaltenders are Semyon Varlamov and Ilya Sorokin, both left catching Russian goalies. One thing we know for certain though: Billy Smith won't be getting the start for the Isles this evening...

The 25 year old Sorokin got the start in Game 1 and surrendered four goals on 39 shots. He has started the majority of the Isles' game this post-season, even if Varlamov outperformed him during the regular season. To be honest, I'd be surprised if Varlamov didn't get the start. Trotz really can't go wrong with either guy, but the stability that comes from having a steady veteran between the pipes could be what helps get the Isles into this series. Varlamov is a criminally underrated goaltender and has the ability to steal a game as well as anyone else in the NHL. Again, Sorokin is stellar as well, but given Varlamov's experience I think he's probably the safe bet to lead the Isles onto the ice in Game 2.