Islanders' Mathew Barzal and Adam Pelech Return After Six-Week Injuries

Barzal and Pelech rejoin the Islanders as the team fights to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

Mathew Barzal (upper body) and Adam Pelech (jaw) returned to the Islanders' lineup on Sunday after missing six weeks of play due to injuries.
Barzal and Pelech were activated ahead of the game against the Chicago Blackhawks, with Barzal coming off long-term injured reserve and Pelech off injured reserve.
During their absence, the Islanders managed to remain within one point of an Eastern Conference wild-card spot, maintaining playoff contention.
Anthony Duclair (lower body) and Mike Reilly (heart condition) are still sidelined, though Duclair is traveling with the team and could return soon.
Coach Patrick Roy praised the team's resilience during the injury period and expressed optimism about the energy boost from returning players.