This was later updated to week-to-week, and he will likely only be back near the end of the season.
Barzal is one of the most important players on the Islanders roster, and he signed an eight-year $73.2-million extension with team that starts next season.
This is a massive setback for the Islanders, who hoped to be in the playoff conversation after acquiring Bo Horvat at the end of January.
This will effectively guarantee that they miss the playoffs in a strong eastern conference. With several expiring UFA's, it would be logical for them to start selling.
Players like Scott Mayfield will receive a lot of interest, considering his physical and responsible nature.
They equally have a good goaltender in Semyon Varlamov, who would provide great goalie depth for a team.
We will see if Lou Lamoriello profits off this reality, as it would be a shame to hold this Islanders team back from the deadline opportunities on the horizon.
POLL | ||
20 FEVRIER | 221 ANSWERS REPORT: Disaster in New York Changes All Their Deadline Plans Do you think the Mat Barzal extension (8x$9.15M) was a good deal? | ||
Yes | 72 | 32.6 % |
No | 149 | 67.4 % |
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