BOSTON – In his NHL career, Noah Dobson never missed a long period with an injury before this, but at least he had many teammates to seek advice.
All six defenders in the Islander's opening night lineup have appeared at one point this season at another, but his return to the Bruins on Thursday night left Mike Riley as the only defender was still injured.
To promote Dobson's long-term revitalization from the injured reserve, Matthew Balzal was moved from the injured reserve to LTIR.
“It's a mental and physical challenge,” Dobson said. “But I would like to have a two-week break there. [for the 4 Nations Face-Off] It was useful when the team wasn't playing. At least I didn't miss the game back then. You can focus on preparing and being healthy.
“I missed a little time [before] However, it has not been expanded like this, [so] I think it's important to go quickly, keep it simple and try to get into the game. I definitely feel good with all these skates and practices I had. ”
It may be too late for the islanders, who still scored seven points from the playoff spot after beating the Bruins 2-1 on Thursday.
It's not too little that Dobson leaves a good taste for what was a disappointing season in terms of production.
Winning lineup against the Bruins. NHLI via Getty Images
“Overall, I felt pretty good,” Dobson told the Post after a top and bottom performance where he saw the ice at 18:54 and committed five giveaways while on the ice for both islanders' goals. “We're still a little bit away, I feel like timing and some touches. Overall, I thought it was a good first game and a big win.”
Not only did Dobson return to another pair, but also to a completely different defense force than he left five weeks ago.
He lined up alongside Adam Perek on Thursday night, with Tony DeAnguero and Adam Bocvist – two players added by the islanders as a result of all the injuries. Scott Mayfield and Scott Pernovich were healthy wounds.
“I know what I need to do,” Mayfield said before sitting in his second straight game. “The biggest thing for me is you can take two ways. You can feel bad about yourself or take it the other way around. Get into work, get ready and do whatever you can to push yourself back. That's what I'm trying to do.
“I'm always ready. When you get the chance, I know what it's like. It should all be focused on what I have control over.”
Hudson Fassing has played his first game since January 5th, starting in line 4 and then moved up third alongside Casey Ciszicus and Jean Gabriel Pago.
Riley (Hart) traveled to Boston with his team.
