The New York Islanders are getting a much-needed shot in the arm just in time for a big game against the Boston Bruins. Assuming all goes well, Noah Dobson will be back in the lineup Thursday night after being on long-term injured reserve. Coach Patrick Roy said so after practice Wednesday.
With the Islanders clinging to playoff life, Dobson’s return couldn’t have come at a better time. But will it be enough?
Dobson’s Back: A Boost for the Blue Line
What We Know
After weeks of rehab and practice, Noah Dobson is ready to go. He skated with Adam Pelech Wednesday, while Ryan Pulock was with Adam Boqvist. The top pairing of Alexander Romanov and Tony DeAngelo remained the same.
Roy isn’t nervous about Dobson’s insertion into the lineup. “He’s been working hard in practice so I’m not worried. I just want to see him control the puck, jump in the rush, defend well. Do the things he’s been doing since he’s been here.”
The Impact of His Injury
Dobson’s absence has been felt on both sides of the ice. He’s an offensive defenseman and his point production had slowed earlier this season before he was injured on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Dobson hasn’t had many injuries in recent years but this one came at a tough time for the Islanders who have been inconsistent. His return adds this to a defense that has been shaky in his absence.
Lineup Changes Ahead of Bruins Game
If Dobson returns, Scott Perunovich is going to be out of the lineup. Perunovich had a tough night against the Rangers on Tuesday, minus-4 in the 5-1 loss. That was a big reminder of how the Islanders have struggled without Dobson.
Hudson Fasching Also Back
In addition to Dobson, forward Hudson Fasching is expected to be back in the lineup on Thursday. Fasching has been out since he got hurt in the overtime win against the Bruins on January 5. His return could be a boost to a 4th line that got destroyed against the Rangers.
Coach Roy wants energy from Fasching and his linemates Kyle MacLean and Marc Gatcomb. “We want energy. That’s what we’re looking for,” Roy said. “That line needs to go out there, finish their checks, show some physicality. That’s what we want. That’s it.”
A Must-Win Game Against the Bruins
The Islanders are 7 points out of a playoff spot so this is a must win if they want to stay in it. While Dobson’s return is good timing it may not be enough to save their season. But having him on the ice gives them a shot against one of the toughest teams in the league.
This one is big for the Islanders as their 11-3-0 stretch started with a OT win over the Bruins on January 5 — the same game Fasching was injured. Getting that momentum back could turn their season around.
FAQs About Noah Dobson’s Return
When is Noah Dobson returning?
Noah Dobson is expected to return to the Islanders’ lineup on Thursday, February 27, 2025, against the Boston Bruins.
Why is Noah Dobson’s return important?
Dobson provides offensive firepower from the blue line and stabilizes a defense that has struggled without him. His return comes at a critical time as the Islanders fight to stay in playoff contention.
Who will sit out if Noah Dobson plays?
If Dobson returns, Scott Perunovich is expected to come out of the lineup after a poor performance against the Rangers.
Is Hudson Fasching also returning?
Yes, Hudson Fasching is likely to reenter the lineup on Thursday, marking his first game in nearly two months after being injured on January 5.