Barzal and Maccelli Take Full Practice Step Toward Islanders Return

The New York Islanders moved closer to getting two forwards back on November 7, when Mathew Barzal and Matias Maccelli joined a full practice for the first time since their respective injuries. Barzal had been skating in a non-contact jersey, while Maccelli had missed three weeks with a lower-body injury.

Coach Pete DeBoer said the players would consult with the team’s medical staff after practice to determine whether they would travel with the team the following day. The Islanders have not said when either player might return to a game. DeBoer noted that the upcoming road trip would include practice time, which could be useful even if a player is not ready to play.

The team is also missing defenseman Ryan Pulock, who remained in a non-contact jersey, and forward Calum Ritchie, who had not begun skating. The injuries have limited DeBoer’s lineup options during the current homestand. After two consecutive losses, he had reshuffled the forward lines and defense pairings for a game against New Jersey.

Barzal’s return would give DeBoer choices about where to play him, including at center or alongside Bo Horvat. His speed could also help the power play, while Maccelli would add skill among the top six forwards. Barzal, Maccelli and Ritchie could eventually provide more depth across the lineup.

DeBoer said the Islanders were concentrating on the players available to them. The team has played 15 games without a lineup featuring Barzal, one of its leading players.