NY Islanders Mathew Barzal assesses his return as DeBoer explains how he was deployed

Mathew Barzal knew his first game of the season would require patience. Returning to the New York Islanders’ lineup was one milestone. Feeling comfortable against NHL competition was another.

Barzal played 16:21 over 21 shifts in Saturday’s 6-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks, recording an assist while adjusting to physical demands he had not faced in months.

“It’s hard to just jump into an NHL game. This is a good league,” Barzal said. “It was the first time I’ve really battled in the last six months.”

Coach Pete DeBoer kept those challenges in mind when deciding where to deploy him. Barzal returned at center, a position DeBoer believes allowed him to use his speed while limiting contact.

“I wanted to get him in the middle tonight regardless just because first game back, I think you take a little less contact,” DeBoer said. “I wanted him to skate and use his legs and get up and down the ice.”

That placement could change as Barzal settles in.

“I still like him in the middle,” DeBoer said. “But that doesn’t mean that he can’t play on the wing. The way we play, we’re interchangeable.”

Barzal assisted on Ben Hutton’s opening goal during his first shift, providing immediate encouragement. Finding his timing and learning his responsibilities within DeBoer’s system remained a work in progress.

“This is my first game really adapting to the new system,” Barzal said. “Obviously there’s some changes from what I’m used to.”

He wanted to contribute immediately but understood one appearance would not erase six months without game action.

“There’s definitely a little period to shake some rust off,” Barzal said. “Felt like I found it towards the end.” And the Islanders have found the spark they've been looking for all season.

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