After falling 3-2 to the San Jose Sharks on Monday, the New York Islanders stayed in Northern California, hit the practice ice, then flew to Los Angeles.
I wrote this morning about how Tuesday’s practice was the club’s most important in quite some time, as all three injured players had a strong chance of shedding their non-contact jerseys.
The Islanders Are Getting Healthier, But Are They Getting Better?
Games matter more than practices, but for the New York Islanders, today’s practice is monumental.
Well, it turns out that’s exactly what happened.
However, there’s a caveat.
While Mathew Barzal, Matias Maccelli, and Ryan Pulock all participated fully, that doesn’t necessarily mean all three are ready to return to game action.
Only one skated in his usual spot during line rushes, and head coach Pete DeBoer made it clear afterward that the Islanders aren’t going to rush anyone back.
Beyond the injury updates, Tuesday’s practice offered plenty to dissect, from potential lineup combinations and looming roster decisions to defensive pairings and the adjustments DeBoer wants his team to make.
Here are 20 takeaways from the Islanders’ healthiest practice yet.