When the New York Islanders announce their opening lineup for the first-ever game at UBS Arena tonight, all the pomp and circumstance will have a weird, pandemic-softened feel: The three previously announced players in COVID-19 protocol are not alone. In addition to captain Anders Lee, longest-serving Islander Josh Bailey, and Ross Johnston, today we learned Adam Pelech, Anthony Beauvillier and Andy Greene are also on the list.
Combining those with the injury to Ryan Pulock, and the Isles limp in after a grueling 13-game road stretch with six regulars out. The Isles are also scheduled to play again tomorrow against the Maple Leafs.