Mat Barzal getting injured nearly kept the Islanders out of the playoffs. Luckily, their star forward has a big update.
Barzal to Play in Game 1
After nearly missing the playoffs, the Islanders managed to finish in the first wild card spot. This means they'll be facing the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round - a very tough matchup.
Luckily, per Kevin Kurz, star centre Mat Barzal will return to the lineup for Game 1.
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Barzal, who signed an eight-year, $9.15-million annual extension that kicks in next year, made it to two straight conference finals with the Islanders, in 2020, and 2021. After missing the playoffs in 2022, the Islanders will have to work very hard to make an impact.
Hopefully the addition of Barzal will help them go far.
Who do you think will win in the first round?
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