Semyon Varlamov
A goaltender of spectacular reflexes whose career has been a long-running showcase of athleticism, carrying teams through deep playoff runs.
Born 1988 (age 38)·Russian ice hockey player·Birthday: April 27·Millennials
Biography
Semyon Varlamov's journey from a young prospect in Yaroslavl to an NHL stalwart is a tale of explosive talent and resilience. Drafted by the Washington Capitals, his potential was immediately obvious—a hybrid-style goalie capable of jaw-dropping, acrobatic saves. His trade to the Colorado Avalanche in 2011 marked his ascension to a true number-one, where his Vezina Trophy-caliber 2013-14 season cemented his reputation as one of the league's most dynamic netminders. Injuries occasionally interrupted his rhythm, but Varlamov consistently demonstrated an ability to steal games single-handedly. Finding a late-career home with the New York Islanders, he evolved into a crucial part of a formidable goaltending tandem under Barry Trotz's defensive system. His calm, experienced presence helped guide the Islanders to consecutive Stanley Cup semifinals, proving that his quickness and competitive fire burned as brightly as ever.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Semyon was born in 1988, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Semyon Was Born
The biggest hits of 1988
#1 Movie
Rain Man
Best Picture
Rain Man
#1 TV Show
The Cosby Show
Semyon's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1988Born
Pan Am Flight 103 bombed over Lockerbie
Gas: $0.90/galHome: $74,800Min wage: $3.35/hrPresident: Ronald Reagan"Faith" — George MichaelBest Picture: Rain Man
1993Started school
European Union officially established
Gas: $1.11/galHome: $86,600Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"I Will Always Love You" — Whitney HoustonBest Picture: Schindler's List
2001Became a teenager
September 11 attacks transform the world
Gas: $1.46/galHome: $126,400Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Hanging by a Moment" — LifehouseBest Picture: A Beautiful Mind
2004Could drive
Indian Ocean tsunami kills over 230,000
Gas: $1.88/galHome: $157,300Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Yeah!" — UsherBest Picture: Million Dollar Baby
2006Could vote
Twitter launches; Pluto reclassified as dwarf planet
Gas: $2.59/galHome: $174,700Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Bad Day" — Daniel PowterBest Picture: The Departed
2009Turned 21
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2018Turned 30
Royal wedding of Harry and Meghan; Parkland shooting
Gas: $2.72/galHome: $211,800Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Donald Trump"God's Plan" — DrakeBest Picture: Green Book
2026Age 38 today
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Finished as a runner-up for the Vezina Trophy as the NHL's best goaltender in the 2013-14 season with the Colorado Avalanche.
- Recorded a career-high 41 wins in the 2013-14 NHL season.
- Backstopped the New York Islanders to the Stanley Cup semifinals in both 2020 and 2021.
- Won a gold medal with the Russian national team at the 2014 IIHF World Championship.
Did You Know?
His father, Alexander Varlamov, was a professional hockey player in Russia.
He was drafted in the first round (23rd overall) by the Washington Capitals in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.
He is known for his intense pre-game stretching routines, which are often highlighted by broadcasters.
He won the starting goaltender job for Russia at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
“My style is aggressive; I challenge the shooter and try to take away his angle.”
