Martin excited for return to NY Islanders lineup after 30 games as healthy scratch

Matt Martin wasn't expected to make the New York Islanders this season.

Many thought Martin's career was over last season and that he would retire, much like Cal Clutterbuck, who transitioned from being the NHL's all-time hit leader into broadcasting. Yet, Martin signed a Professional Tryout (PTO) with the Isles during training camp and, against the odds, ended up signing a one-year deal. He didn't debut until Oct. 26 but played regularly throughout November and early January until the team got healthier and players like Marc Gatcomb emerged as better fourth-line options for head coach Patrick Roy.

Martin hasn't played since Jan. 16, which is 30 games as a healthy scratch. Now, in the wake of the Anthony Duclair fallout, which resulted in him taking time away from the team, Martin will draw back in the lineup against the Minnesota Wild on Friday night at UBS Arena.

Despite his time out of the lineup, Martin’s leadership and work ethic have not gone unnoticed. "He’s been a great leader. It’s impressive the way he’s worked hard every day at practice, pushing the guys that were not playing and helping them have a positive mindset, said Roy. "I’m excited to give him the opportunity to play tomorrow."

Martin has one assists in 24 games this season, picking up one assist. That's not important, what is, is that a player who has skated in 847 games across 14 seasons for the Islanders will be on the ice in front of his family and home fans, and he doesn't know if and when the next opportunity to do that will happen, so you know he will make the most of it.

“I’m excited to get back in the lineup and play a game at home,” Martin said. “It means a lot, anytime you play with your teammates, it’s special. It’s been a while here, so to get in some game action, I can hopefully contribute.” Martin is expected to skate alongside Kyle MacLean and Gatcomb as Maxim Tsplakov moves up to a line with Simon Holmstrom and JG Pageau

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