NY Islanders get two key players back against Kings, but lose another to injury

The New York Islanders are getting some much-needed reinforcements for Thursday night's matchup against the Los Angeles Kings, but the injury news isn't all good.

Matias Maccelli and Ryan Pulock will both return to the lineup after missing extended time, while JG Pageau will sit out with a lower-body injury. Pageau, who played in each of the Isles' first 17 games, participated in Thursday's morning skate but couldn't get himself ready for game action.

"I don't think it's serious but he's not going to play tonight," head coach Pete DeBoer said. "He tried this morning (and he) couldn't."

For Maccelli, Thursday marks his first game since Oct. 17, when he suffered a lower-body injury against Toronto. Before getting hurt, the winger was finding his groove, recording two goals and four assists in eight games, including a five-game point streak.

"Just keep playing the way I was before I got hurt," Maccelli said, acknowledging that getting his legs back after three-and-a-half weeks will be important.

Maccelli worked with the top power-play unit during morning skate, potentially giving the Isles another offensive weapon as they look to get their game back on track.

Pulock's return might be just as important.

The veteran defenseman missed four games after suffering an upper-body injury against Minnesota on Oct. 29. Initially, Pulock feared the injury could keep him sidelined considerably longer.

He was paired with longtime partner Adam Pelech at morning skate, a welcome sight for a defensive group that could use his physicality, reliability and penalty-killing ability.

DeBoer confirmed neither returning player will have restrictions, allowing both to immediately resume their usual responsibilities.

The Islanders would certainly prefer having Pageau available, particularly for his defensive responsibilities and faceoff ability. But getting two regulars back, especially with the team trying to rediscover its early-season form, is a welcome boost heading into Thursday's game.

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