Islanders' Mathew Barzal Returns to Practice After Injury New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal has taken a significant step towards his return to the ice, participating in practice on April 2. The 27-year-old forward has been sidelined with an injury, causing concern among fans and teammates alike. Barzal's presence on the ice is a welcome development, especially with the Islanders pushing for a playoff spot in the final weeks of the season. As the team looks to make a late-season surge, Barzal's contributions could be crucial in determining their postseason fate.