NY Islanders winger Anthony Duclair starting to feel himself again after rough season

Two weeks into training camp, New York Islanders forward Anthony Duclair is making the most of his fresh start on Long Island. The winger has suited up for two preseason games and scored in both, but more importantly, he’s proving that he’s past the groin injury that derailed his 2024-25 campaign.

“Every day it’s getting better,” Duclair said via NewYorkIslanders.com. “The body’s responding well after games, after practices. I’m very happy with where I’m at right now and I want to keep tackling the training sessions every day.”

Duclair tore the groin muscle off the bone just five games into last season and admitted his December return was premature. “It felt like skating on one leg,” he said. Limited mobility led to just 11 points in 44 games, a sharp drop from his 24-goal, 42-point season the year before. Determined to bounce back, Duclair dedicated his summer to rehab and conditioning, and the early returns are promising.

His goal against the Devils last week was his first since April 1, and he looked even sharper on Monday at Madison Square Garden, finishing a slick feed from Mathew Barzal. The play was reminiscent of the chemistry the pair briefly showed before injuries interrupted last season.

“I think Duke’s in a good headspace,” Barzal said. “He’s in a good physical space, he looks good out there. He was moving well and has got great instincts offensively. I think he looks like Anthony Duclair.”

Head coach Patrick Roy has been equally impressed. “I thought he was skating well, he was heavy on pucks,” Roy said. “Even in practice, I love his awareness. I see it.”

Duclair has rotated through several line combinations — from JG Pageau’s checking unit to reps with Barzal and Kyle Palmieri — and Roy values his adaptability. “Anthony will play with a lot of guys,” Roy said. “He’ll adjust to any line. His mind is in such a good place, so I’m pleased with that.” For Duclair, the goals are encouraging. But more than anything, he looks and feels like himself again — which is exactly what the Islanders need.