New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal out two weeks with left knee inflammation

The New York Islanders announced that forward Mathew Barzal will not skate for two weeks due to inflammation in his left knee, an aggravation of a prior injury. The injury stems from a left kneecap injury he suffered in February 2025. The team is being cautious, and general manager Mathieu Darche said Barzal could still be available for the season opener on September 30 in Toronto. Coach Pete DeBoer had planned to use Barzal as a center. Other players, including goaltender Semyon Varlamov, are also dealing with injuries as training camp begins.