Jan 24, 2025; Elmont, New York, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Ryan Pulock (6) skates with the puck against Philadelphia Flyers right wing Owen Tippett (74) during the first period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

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Ryan Pulock and Scott Mayfield Return as Islanders Face Stars in Crucial Matchup

Islanders get key defensive reinforcements as they push for a playoff spot.

With the playoff race heating up, the New York Islanders find themselves in a battle to stay in contention. They might not be the favorites to claim a Wild Card spot, but they’re still in the fight, sitting just five points behind the Ottawa Senators. Every game counts, and as they gear up to face the Dallas Stars, they’re receiving a much-needed boost on the blue line.

After dealing with a string of injuries that left their defensive group depleted, the Islanders are finally getting some reinforcements. Ryan Pulock and Scott Mayfield, two of their top defensemen, are set to return to the lineup. Pulock has been sidelined for seven games with an upper-body injury, but before going down, he was a key piece of the Islanders’ defense, contributing 16 points (three goals, 13 assists) and averaging over 21 minutes of ice time per game. He will slot back in alongside Scott Perunovich. Meanwhile, Mayfield, who missed the last four games with a lower-body injury, will reunite with Adam Pelech. Mayfield has been a steady presence all season, posting seven points and a plus-14 rating in 50 games.

Islanders activate Scott Mayfield, Ryan Pulock off injured reserve https://t.co/9FvqQRzrLh
— Daily Faceoff (@DailyFaceoff) February 22, 2025

Injuries have been a recurring nightmare for the Islanders throughout the 2024–25 season. In addition to Pulock and Mayfield’s absences, veteran defenseman Mike Reilly has been out indefinitely since undergoing a heart procedure in November. Top blueliner Noah Dobson has missed nine straight games. However, there’s a glimmer of hope—Reilly participated in the morning skate, though he has yet to be cleared for contact. And with Dobson expected to return soon, the Islanders could finally be close to icing a healthy defensive unit.

Also Read: Ducks Defeat Bruins in OT but Lose John Gibson to Injury

Despite the challenges, the Islanders have managed to hold their ground, avoiding a complete collapse even with a shorthanded lineup. Now, with Pulock and Mayfield back, they can stabilize their defense and make a strong push in the season’s final stretch. If they can build momentum and get key players back at the right time, their playoff hopes are far from over.

Image Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

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Ryan Pulock

Scott Mayfield

Anamika Shrivastava

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