The gang is slowly getting back together. The Islanders will be receiving a big boost Tuesday night when Matt Martin returns to the lineup against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Martin injured his ankle when he blocked shots in back-to-back games against the Capitals and Rangers in March. It has been an arduous recovery – one that included offseason surgery – that will culminate soon.

“I blocked a couple shots in the same spot,” Martin said. “And then I was kinda dealing with that through the playoff run.”

#Isles Game Day Update: Matt Martin will be in the lineup tonight against Chicago.

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) October 19, 2021

To make room for Martin in the lineup, the Islanders waived Leo Komarov Monday. Ross Johnston suited up in Martin’s usual spot alongside Casey Cizikas and Cal Clutterbuck in their season opener Thursday night against the Hurricanes and Komarov filled the role Saturday evening in Sunrise, Fla.

Now, the fourth line – regarded as the best in hockey – will be reunited, giving the Islanders their secret weapon once again.

“It’s been a grind for [Martin] over the summer,” Islanders’ forward Anthony Beauvillier said. “Having him in the room, he’s such a leader and an important piece for us. He’s a funny guy just to have around. Sometimes you just look at him and just laugh.”

In the Islanders’ first two games, they have been outscored 11-4. The Blackhawks, on the other hand, have been outscored 13-7 in their first three. Something will change Tuesday night – and Martin’s return should help the Islanders do just that.

“I think we’re a mature group, we know what’s expected of us,” Martin said. “We just need to go out there and execute.”

Martin recorded six goals and five assists in 54 games last season. He has 67 goals and 75 assists in 746 career games.

In other injury news, Semyon Varlamov is nearing his return. Varlamov and Cory Schneider were on the ice for Tuesday’s optional morning skate in Chicago. Islanders’ head coach Barry Trotz said that Varlamov will get increased action in practice as he approaches his season debut.

Ilya Sorokin will start Tuesday night’s game in Chicago.

Drive4Five