Dec 3, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; New York Islanders left wing Matt Martin (17) looks on during warm-up before the game against the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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New York Islanders Place Matt Martin on IR, Set to Activate Noah Dobson

New York Islanders make roster moves as Matt Martin lands on IR while star defenseman Noah Dobson is expected to return to action.

The New York Islanders are making some key roster changes as they place veteran forward Matt Martin on injured reserve, clearing the way for defenseman Noah Dobson’s return. Martin is dealing with a lower-body injury. Meanwhile, Dobson won’t be back for tonight’s game against the Rangers but is likely to return on Thursday against the Bruins. According to Stefen Rosner of The Hockey News, this move allows the team to activate Dobson from long-term injured reserve (LTIR) without having to waive another player. Instead of risking a roster shakeup through waivers, general manager Lou Lamoriello opted for this approach to make room.

Martin, who started the season on a professional tryout (PTO), eventually signed a one-year contract at the league minimum of $775,000 when the Islanders faced injuries early on. However, the 35-year-old hasn’t played since January 16, and it’s unclear when he sustained his injury. His absence over the last 12 games suggests he may not see much ice time for the rest of the season unless the Islanders deal with more injuries or trade away multiple players.

Islanders Place Matt Martin On IR, Expected To Activate Noah Dobsonhttps://t.co/ZazPyaSqzU
— Pro Hockey Rumors (@prohockeyrumors) February 25, 2025

This season, Martin has played 24 games, registering just one assist along with 68 hits and 15 blocked shots. While he was once known for his aggressive forechecking, his role in the lineup has diminished. He has been averaging just 7 minutes and 47 seconds of ice time per game and struggling in possession, with a Corsi-for percentage (CF%) of only 35.4%. Given these struggles, his impact has been limited, making his return to regular action uncertain.

Meanwhile, Dobson’s return is a much-needed boost for the Islanders’ defense. The 25-year-old has been sidelined with a lower-body injury since January 20, leaving a noticeable gap in the team’s blue line. Before his injury, Dobson was averaging over 24 minutes of ice time per game and was a key play driver for the team. His offensive numbers have dipped this season, with six goals and 18 assists in 46 games, but he remains an essential part of the lineup. Some fans have questioned his role in the power play and some of his decision-making with the puck, but there’s no doubt the Islanders will benefit from his return as they continue their playoff push.

Image Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Matt Martin

New York Islanders

NHL

Noah Dobson

Anamika Shrivastava

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