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NY Islanders star Mathew Barzal returns after the hardest journey of his life

ByJiggs Westfall
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Feb 5, 2026; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal (13) skates with the puck during the first period against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
Feb 5, 2026; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal (13) skates with the puck during the first period against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Mathew Barzal is set to make his season debut for the New York Islanders on Saturday night against the Anaheim Ducks, returning sooner than anticipated after an absence he described as the most difficult experience of his life.

Recent reports pointed to Tuesday’s home game against Columbus as his likely return date. Instead, Barzal will join the lineup for the finale of the Isles’ California trip. The way Barzal described it, he woke on Saturday, and wanted to play, and the decision was made.

“It’s been probably the hardest journey of my life honestly,” Barzal said. “I think when you take away something that you love, that you’ve been doing since you were four years old and you’re unable to get on the ice and skate and play, feel like you don’t know what the future looks like, a lot of moments in the summer where there's a period things aren’t getting better. You don’t know if they're ever gonna get better.”

His return gives the Isles one of their most skilled offensive players as they look to build on Thursday’s 5-2 victory over the Los Angeles Kings.

Barzal’s minutes will be monitored closely in his first appearance of the season. He worked with the second power-play unit during Saturday’s morning skate, an indication that special teams could provide an opportunity to contribute while he works back into game shape.

His speed, puck possession and playmaking should give coach Pete DeBoer additional options without requiring Barzal to immediately resume a heavy workload.

The Isles also welcomed back defenseman Ryan Pulock and forward Matias Maccelli on Thursday. Both contributed assists against the Kings.

In a separate move Saturday, the Isles placed forward Kyle MacLean on non-roster waivers, creating the roster opening for Barzal’s activation.

For Barzal, Saturday represents more than a lineup change. After months of uncertainty, he will finally return to the game he loves after months of questioning when it would happen.

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