Barry Trotz anticipated the topic of Oliver Wahlstrom’s availability.
"I know the next question will be about Wahlstrom," the Islanders coach said before Friday night’s game against the Rangers at Nassau Coliseum. "He would be able to play today but we’re going to maximize our roster right now so we don’t have to expose anybody [to waivers]."
The rookie right wing was out of the lineup for a second straight game after playing in 32 of the previous 33 games and notching nine goals and seven assists.
The Islanders needed two roster spots opened with Wednesday’s acquisition of forwards Kyle Palmieri and Travis Zajac from the Devils.