Long deprived of one of their top scorers by the

Long deprived of one of their top scorers by the islanders?

New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal is out indefinitely with a lower body injury.

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The 25-year-old may have been hit in the knee when making contact with the Boston Bruins’ Craig Smith during Saturday’s game at TD Garden. If his absence is prolonged, his team risks increasing his chances of qualifying for the playoffs.

Barzal has 14 goals and 37 assists for 51 points in 58 games this season and is starting a new eight-year, $73.2 million contract in 2023-24.

Overall, the Islanders are clinging to the second round of the Eastern Conference drafted clubs with 63 points.