Lee praises Barzal’s return, Schaefer’s poise, and NY Islanders’ growth through camp

As the New York Islanders wrapped up training camp, captain Anders Lee said he’s encouraged by the team’s steady progress in structure, chemistry, and mentality heading into Thursday’s opener in Pittsburgh.

“I think we took a step each day,” Lee said. “We learned from our play in games and in practice — what we needed to improve — and took a look at those things. Like Patrick said, it’s about building our structure in all three zones and playing as a unit of five.”

That foundation now includes Mathew Barzal’s full-time return to center, a move Lee said has re-energized their line. “He’s so dynamic,” Lee explained. “Playing center, he picks the puck up low a lot more frequently, gets us out of the zone, carries us up the ice. We take care of our D-zone and come out with possession, and it puts us in a really good spot.”

Lee also praised Barzal’s perseverance after injury. “He looks like himself,” Lee said. “He put in a lot of work to get his body right. It doesn’t show up in his play — that’s the biggest thing. Kudos to him for putting that effort in.”

And for 18-year-old Matthew Schaefer, making the opening-night roster, the captain’s message is simple: enjoy it. “He’s handled everything with class,” Lee said. “He’s come in to learn and work hard. He’s got a great demeanor — nothing’s been overwhelming for him. Just go out there, play your game, have fun. We’ll be there to back you up.”

With Schaefer’s composure, Barzal’s resurgence, and a team-wide commitment to structure, Lee believes the Islanders are ready to hit the ground running.