Cole McWard Recalled, Set for Islanders Debut

Defenseman Cole McWard has been recalled by the New York Islanders from Bridgeport (AHL) and is projected to make his NHL debut with the team against the Toronto Maple Leafs. This season with Bridgeport, the 24-year-old right-shot defenseman has recorded 16 points (5 goals, 11 assists) in 29 games. An undrafted free agent, McWard previously played six NHL games with the Vancouver Canucks, scoring one goal, and was part of Abbotsford's Calder Cup championship run in 2025.