New York Islanders await Mathew Barzal's return from injury

New York Islanders head coach Peter DeBoer provided updates on the team's roster and lineup adjustments five games into the 2026-27 NHL season. The team is hopeful that star forward Mathew Barzal will return to the lineup soon following a knee injury. Barzal has begun skating and could potentially return for the team's upcoming game against the Ottawa Senators.

In an effort to spark offensive production, DeBoer has been shuffling forward lines. This includes moving Simon Holmstrom to the fourth line alongside Casey Cizikas to help the player reset and focus on winning puck battles. Meanwhile, captain Bo Horvat has maintained consistent production, recording at least one point in each of the first five games.