The New York Islanders dipped back into Bridgeport on Friday, recalling right-shot defenseman Cole McWard ahead of Saturday night’s showdown with Toronto — and it’s a move that quietly tells you a lot about where this team’s blue line is at right now.
McWard, 24, has been one of Bridgeport’s more reliable defensemen this season, putting up 16 points (5G, 11A) in 29 games while playing real minutes in all situations. He’s not flashy, but he’s steady, competitive, and comfortable moving the puck — exactly the kind of profile the Islanders have leaned on all year when juggling injuries and experimenting with pairings.