Islanders F Mathew Barzal nearing return

New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal is getting closer to a return from a lower-body injury that has sidelined him since mid-February.

General manager Lou Lamoriello told reporters that Barzal would skate with the team Saturday or Sunday.

The Islanders (39-28-9, 87 points) have six games remaining in the regular season, starting with Saturday's contest against the host Tampa Bay Lightning.

New York currently holds