The Islanders set off across the country on Sunday, into a two-week stretch that looks like their moment to go from treading water in the playoff race into its deep end.

New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal has traveled with the team for their cross-country road trip, signaling his potential return from injury this week in California. Fellow injured teammates Matias Maccelli and Ryan Pulock also traveled out west as the Islanders prepare to play five of their next six games away from home, beginning against the San Jose Sharks.
While Pulock appears furthest from returning after skating in a non-contact jersey, head coach Pete DeBoer's squad looks to stabilize after consecutive home losses to New Jersey and Carolina. The Islanders currently hold a 7-6-3 record and hope upcoming returns will bolster their forward depth and defensive structure.
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