NY Islanders report encouraging news on the Mathew Barzal return front

New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal skated on his own on Thursday morning, marking his first time on the ice since reaggravating a left kneecap injury during the offseason. The progress comes as a welcome boost for the team following a difficult start to the season.

General manager Mathieu Darche previously indicated that Barzal might require only a handful of practices before returning to game action, raising the possibility of a return next week. The positive update follows a 5-2 loss to the New York Rangers and news that Alexander Romanov will miss six to eight months with a torn ACL.