Mathew Barzal Takes Step Forward, Practicing in Non-Contact Jersey

Mathew Barzal skated in a no-contact jersey during Wednesday's practice as he continues to recover from a knee injury. While his return to the ice is an encouraging sign, there remains no official timetable for his game action until he is cleared for full contact. Barzal is coming off a productive 2025-26 campaign where he logged 19 goals and 72 points in 81 games, and he is expected to resume his top-six role on the Islanders' forward line upon return.