Hamonic's impending return to provide jolt for Islanders
New York Islanders defenseman Travis Hamonic is inching closer to his return to game action.
Sidelined with a hairline fracture in his foot since Jan. 7, Hamonic was able to skate without issue during Wednesday's practice at Northwell Health Ice Center at Eisenhower Park. Coach Jack Capuano told reporters that the 25-year-old Manitoba native may be inserted into the lineup if all goes well.
Travis Hamonic on the ice for practice today. #Isles pic.twitter.com/Dpc61s36mF
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) January 20, 2016
Via the New York Islanders' official Twitter account:
"Good skate for Travis today. If he feels that he can go, there's no reason I won't put him in the lineup."
Hamonic's potential early return is music to the ears of the Islanders, who have been without Johnny Boychuk since the veteran defenseman suffered a shoulder injury against the Buffalo Sabres on Dec. 31.
If Hamonic isn't ready by Friday, would go on retroactive IR to make room for call-up. Or #Isles could go with 6D for Fri-Sat (unlikely).
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) January 19, 2016
Hamonic has collected two goals and six assists this season for New York (24-15-6), which saw its two-game winning streak come to a halt on Sunday with a 2-1 shootout loss to the Vancouver Canucks. The Islanders will look to get back on track Friday when they visit the Ottawa Senators.
