The Islanders are currently uncertain about Bo Horvat’s status. The newly appointed captain is still being assessed after an illegal check to the head from Frank Nazar during Thursday night’s game against Chicago.
Horvat was promptly taken out of the match by the league’s concussion spotters and missed an optional practice on Friday at UBS Arena.
“I think he’s going to see our medical team again this morning to check in on how he feels,” said coach Pete DeBoer.
The NHL’s player safety department announced it would hold a hearing for Nazar on Friday, which could lead to a suspension.
Even if Nazar faces consequences, it won’t alleviate the Islanders’ concerns if Horvat is unable to play in Saturday’s game against the Lightning or beyond.
Horvat has scored four goals in four games, leading the Islanders in scoring, a strong continuation from last season when he netted 31 goals. He was also the only Islander selected for an Olympic team.
With just 1:33 remaining in Thursday’s match and the Islanders up 3-1, Horvat was hit hard in the head after taking a shot into an empty net.
The team reacted fiercely, coming to Horvat’s defense during the following altercation.
“I definitely think [the hit] crossed the line,” Kyle Palmieri commented. “I don’t necessarily think it’s about taking liberties. It’s a fast-paced game, and Bo was in a vulnerable spot. He needs to be aware of that.”
“We just hope everything turns out alright for Bo, because he’s such a vital part of our team. The hit has happened, and now we just have to move on. We stood up for each other as a team,” Palmieri added.
Meanwhile, Mat Barzal maintained his individual skating routine on Friday, extending his time on the ice compared to Thursday, but DeBoer remained cautious about Barzal’s recovery from left kneecap inflammation.
“We’re not even discussing a return timeline for Barzal yet,” DeBoer remarked when asked about it. “We’re still in the early stages of his recovery.”
Although the Islanders assert Barzal is making progress and feeling good, the timelines referenced have pertained to his return to skating rather than full practices or game play.
The Islanders have the opportunity to start the season with three consecutive home victories, a feat they’ve accomplished only twice this century, according to team statistician Eric Hornick. Last season, they swept the Lightning in three matchups.
