Mathew Barzal enters 2026-27 NHL season as New York Islanders center
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 2:24 AM
Last updated Sep 1, 2026
The New York Islanders begin the 2026-27 NHL season with forward Mathew Barzal returning to his role at center. Under the direction of Head Coach Pete DeBoer, Barzal is expected to anchor the team's offense while leveraging his speed within the coach's system. Barzal finished the previous campaign with 19 goals and 72 points over 81 games, leading the team in scoring. The upcoming schedule features an expanded 84-game slate, offering Barzal more opportunities to build on his point totals. Staff project he will likely play alongside Calum Ritchie and Matthew Schaefer to maintain his offensive impact throughout the year.
- •Mathew Barzal serves as the primary center for the New York Islanders in 2026-27.
- •Barzal recorded 19 goals and 72 points during the 81-game previous season.
- •Head Coach Pete DeBoer plans to use Barzal's speed as a central element of his system.
- •The 2026-27 NHL schedule includes an expanded format of 84 games.
- •Barzal is expected to skate on a line with Calum Ritchie and Matthew Schaefer.
- 2:24 AMYahoo Sports — 2026-27 Season Preview: Emil Heineman
- 1:40 AMYahoo Sports — 2026-27 Season Preview: Mathew Barzal
"The 2026-27 season is on the horizon for the New York Islanders, so it's time to preview the season and highlight expectations for the team and each specific player.
"The 2026-27 season is on the horizon for the New York Islanders, so it's time to preview the season and highlight expectations for the team and each specific player.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 1, 2026, 2:24 AM2026-27 Season Preview: Emil Heineman
The 2026-27 season is on the horizon for the New York Islanders, so it's time to preview the season and highlight expectations for the team and each specific player.
- Yahoo SportsSep 1, 2026, 1:40 AM2026-27 Season Preview: Mathew Barzal
The 2026-27 season is on the horizon for the New York Islanders, so it's time to preview the season and highlight expectations for the team and each specific player.
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