As the New York Islanders wrapped up training camp, captain Anders Lee said he’s encouraged by the team’s steady progress in structure, chemistry, and mentality heading into Thursday’s opener in Pittsburgh.
“I think we took a step each day,” Lee said. “We learned from our play in games and in practice — what we needed to improve — and took a look at those things. Like Patrick said, it’s about building our structure in all three zones and playing as a unit of five.”
That foundation now includes Mathew Barzal’s full-time return to center, a move Lee said has re-energized their line.