NY Islanders All-Star Mathew Barzal eager for return after extremely focused summer

New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal may be sporting a shiner or two this summer, but he's healthy, focused, and eager to hit the ice as the team opens training camp.

Last season was a frustrating one for the Isles’ star forward, limited to just 30 games due to a pair of injuries: an upper-body injury in October that cost him six weeks, and a lower-body injury in February that ended his season. But Barzal, who turns 28 this season, says the adversity pushed him to lock in like never before.

“I feel good. I feel like I've had a great summer,” Barzal said at the team’s annual golf outing via NewYorkIslanders.com. “It's forced me to be extremely focused this summer, and kind of put every drop of energy into getting back. I'm obviously a competitor, and I don't take anything for granted. So I want to get back to where I was pre-injury. And I think I did a great job this summer of getting my strength back and mentally being getting stronger and feel good.”

The Islanders are counting on it. Despite the shortened season, Barzal still managed 20 points (6G, 14A), and when fully healthy in 2023-24, he proved his impact with 80 points in 80 games. His play-driving ability remains central to the Isles’ hopes of rebounding after last year’s struggles.

Head coach Patrick Roy confirmed Barzal will start camp at center, his natural position, and could be flanked by captain Anders Lee and veteran Kyle Palmieri. Barzal spent much of last season on Bo Horvat’s wing, a role he’s open to reprising if needed, but he welcomes the chance to control the middle of the ice again. “I’m excited. I’m ready for it,” Barzal said. “[Center is] a little more involved, maybe around the ice, but like I said, I’ll play anywhere.”

The road ahead won’t be easy — the vibes are good around the team, but the Eastern Conference is deep with playoff contenders. But with a healthy Barzal back in the mix, the Islanders’ chances of returning to playoff form look far brighter than they did just a few months ago.