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5h ago

Islanders Shut Down Mathew Barzal for Two Weeks as Training Camp Opens

The pause removes the team’s leading scorer from camp and preseason and raises doubt about his Sept. 30 availability as the club treats inflammation tied to a prior kneecap injury.

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FILE - New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal (13) controls the puck in the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Florida Panthers, March 28, 2026, in Elmont, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
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Overview

  • The Islanders announced Wednesday that Barzal will not skate for two weeks because of an aggravation that has caused inflammation, and the team says he is actively rehabbing.
  • The two-week timeline covers the entire shortened training camp and all preseason games, meaning Barzal will miss on-ice preparation before the regular season begins Sept. 30.
  • General manager Mathieu Darche said Barzal still has a chance to play opening night but his availability is not guaranteed as the club prioritizes long-term control over a quick return.
  • With Barzal sidelined, younger players such as 21-year-old Calum Ritchie will get looks at higher-line center roles and other forwards will shift into new duties during camp.
  • The move matters because Barzal led the team with 72 points last season, and his early absence compresses evaluation time under the new CBA and could force short-term lineup changes that affect the Islanders’ offense.