The Islanders will have their first day off of training camp on Thursday, leaving them just six more potential practices until their season opener against the Rangers on Jan. 14 at Madison Square Garden.
Which means top-line center Mathew Barzal can still participate in the bulk of camp if the restricted free agent and the Islanders can quickly work out a new deal. But, as coach Barry Trotz cautioned on Wednesday without using Barzal’s name, the clock is ticking.
"If you’re going to start the season, you’ve got to get going right away," Trotz said. "It’s hard if you miss some time here.