New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal is out indefinitely with a lower-body injury.
Islanders head coach Lane Lambert wouldn’t budge Monday when peppered with questions after morning skate about the anticipated duration of Barzal’s absence or the possibility he’s done for the rest of the season.
However, TSN followed up the news with a report the organization internally views Barzal’s status as week-to-week.
Barzal left Saturday’s 6-2 loss in the first period after a collision with Boston Bruins defenseman Craig Smith. He did not return.
Barzal, 25, has a team-leading 37 assists with 51 total points in 58 games this season.
The Islanders recalled Arnaud Durandeau on emergency basis for Monday’s game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Barzal signed an eight-year contract in October worth $73.2 million, with an average annual value of $9.15 million.
–Field Level Media