Matt Barzal Prepares for Training Camp After Injury
Matt Barzal expressed that it might be better to start training camp this coming Monday, after missing the conclusion of last season due to a knee injury that necessitated surgery.
During the NHL media tour in Las Vegas last week, Barzal mentioned he might not be able to return to his full potential following his injuries, but he adopted a more optimistic viewpoint at the Islanders’ annual golf event when facing reporters for the first time this year.
“Injuries like mine can affect you mentally in a couple of ways,” Barzal shared.
“You can sink into yourself, and I did early on. It can be tough, but then you flip the switch and put everything you have into rehab to improve. It’s mostly about the mental aspect. It feels good to get back to normal. I’m not worried about it anymore; I’ll do whatever is needed to return to my former self,” he added.
Last season, Barzal played just 30 games due to another injury, which sidelined him after a shot to the knee. His absence from Team Canada’s Olympic Orientation Camp this summer indicates a downturn in his career, suggesting this season is critical for his performance.
“I’ve been skating consistently, and I know what to expect,” Barzal commented. “I believe this will be a good test. I’m not fixating on the injury anymore. Once I hit the ice, I plan to give my all.”
The Islanders aim to start Barzal as a center at training camp, a position he hasn’t held much since acquiring Bo Horvat. Coach Patrick Roy indicated that Barzal will begin training camp with Beau Horvat and Kyle Palmieri as part of the initial line setup, while Morvatt will center Maxim Shabanov and Jonathan Rowin.
“I believe Beau and I have excellent chemistry on the ice,” Barzal remarked. “If we can keep playing together, we should give our team a strong chance to score,” he noted.
Roy mentioned uncertainty regarding Semion Varlamov and his readiness for training camp due to a knee issue, but clarified that everyone else should be available on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Horvat confirmed there are no lingering worries about ankle injuries sustained during the World Championships.
