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Islanders’ Mathew Barzal makes long-awaited return to practice

For the first time this season, Mathew Barzal took the ice with his Islanders teammates during Wednesday morning’s practice — a significant step toward a long-awaited 2026-27 season debut. Barzal, who was wearing a red no-contact sweater at the Islanders’…

By Joe Pantorno · AMNY

Published: Wednesday, 4 November 2026 at 4:01 PM

Key Things to Know

Mathew Barzal returned to practice with the New York Islanders wearing a no-contact sweater on Wednesday.
Barzal had been sidelined due to inflammation in a previously operated knee prior to the season.
General manager Mathieu Darche stated that Barzal will largely determine when he feels ready to play.

The Story in 60 Seconds

New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal returned to practice with his teammates on Wednesday morning, marking a key step toward his 2026-27 season debut. Barzal skated in a red no-contact sweater at the team's facility after previously practicing alone due to knee inflammation that occurred shortly before the season began.

While general manager Mathieu Darche noted there is no definitive return timetable, Barzal's eventual comeback will bolster an Islanders forward unit currently missing Calum Ritchie and Matias Maccelli. Barzal scored 72 points in 81 games last season for New York, who currently hold a 7-5-2 record.

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Islanders’ Mathew Barzal makes long-awaited return to practice

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