EXCLUSIVE: Mathew Barzal Addresses Power-Play Shakeup, Bo Horvat’s Return vs. Sabres

No. 13 was very honest about where the power play is at and what needs to better after a 3-3-1 road trip. Plus, the importance of No. 14's return to the lineup.

Stefen Rosner, David Kolb, and The Elmonters

Jan 24, 2026

∙ Paid

**PHOTO: Madison Peyser/New York Islanders.**

EAST MEADOW, NY — The New York Islanders were back on the practice sheet on Friday ahead of today’s 1 PM game against the Buffalo Sabres.

Mathew Barzal and his team went 3-3-1 on the road, where they struggled to provide consistent offense at 5-on-5 and on the power play. That’s led to some changes.

Forwards:
Drouin-Horvat-Heineman
Lee-Barzal-Duclair
Shabanov-Pageau-Holmstrom
Cizikas-Ritchie-MacLean

Power Play: (P-LW-RW-B-N):
PP1: Schaefer-Drouin-Holmstrom-Horvat-Ritchie
PP2: DeAngelo-Barzal-Heineman-Duclair-Lee

Following practice, Barzal spoke to The Elmonters about the power play changes, what needs to be better, collectively outside of finishing, and the importance of Bo Horvat’s return:

EXCLUSIVE: Mathew Barzal Addresses Power-Play Shakeup, Bo Horvat’s Return vs. Sabres

No. 13 was very honest about where the power play is at and what needs to better after a 3-3-1 road trip. Plus, the importance of No. 14's return to the lineup.

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