The New York Islanders’ aspirations for a deep playoff run have been dealt a significant blow as the team announced that star forward Mathew Barzal has been placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) and defenseman Adam Pelech on regular injured reserve (IR) due to upper-body injuries.
Barzal, who has been a driving force behind the Islanders’ offense, will be required to miss a minimum of 10 games and 24 calendar days after being placed on LTIR. The 27-year-old center last played on Wednesday, logging a team-high 22:46 of ice time among forwards in a 2-0 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Through 10 games this season, Barzal has recorded two goals and three assists.
Reacting to the news, fellow forward Bo Horvat acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “It (stinks), and it’s not ideal. But again, guys have gone down in the past and the other guys have stepped up, and that’s going to be the exact same thing going forward. We’ve got the guys in here to do it, and we have to get it done.”
Pelech Sidelined After Puck to the Face
Adding to the Islanders’ woes, defenseman Adam Pelech was hit in the face with a puck during the team’s 4-3 victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Friday. The 30-year-old blueliner has been a reliable presence on the Islanders’ backend, tallying four assists in 11 games this season. Over his eight-year career with the organization, Pelech has amassed 144 points (26 goals, 118 assists) in 511 games since being selected in the third round of the 2012 NHL Draft.
Islanders Recall Defensive Reinforcements
In response to the injuries, the Islanders have recalled defensemen Samuel Bolduc and Grant Hutton from their AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers. Bolduc, 23, has impressed in Bridgeport this season, scoring one goal and setting up four others in nine games. Hutton, 29, has chipped in with two assists over the same span.
The loss of Barzal and Pelech comes at a critical juncture for the Islanders, who find themselves in the thick of the playoff race. As the team looks to maintain its position and secure a postseason berth, the contributions of the recalled defensemen and the ability of the remaining roster to step up will be paramount.
“Losing Barzal and Pelech is undoubtedly a setback for the Islanders, but this team has shown resilience in the face of adversity before,” remarked a close source to the organization. “The depth of this roster will be tested, but there’s a belief within the locker room that they have the talent and determination to weather this storm.”
As the Islanders navigate this challenging period, the spotlight will shine brightly on the team’s leadership group and the coaching staff’s ability to adapt and optimize their strategies. With a passionate fanbase behind them and a hunger to prove their mettle, the Islanders will look to rally together and continue their push for playoff success, even in the face of these significant roster setbacks.
