Islanders vs. Devils Gameday: Sorokin rested, Hog returns

David Rittich will get the start as the Islanders host the Devils tonight, but it’s still worth noting a little headline they dropped yesterday: Marcus Hogberg has been recalled from Bridgeport so Ilya Sorokin can get extra rest with the coming winter break and a “small nagging issue.”

Rest up and heal, Ilya, we’re gonna need on the other side of Christmas.

First Islanders Goal picks go here.

Islanders News

• The day-to-day, noting the Hogberg/Sorokin news [Isles], as well as Bo Horvat skating but in no-contact jersey.
• Those Horvat and Sorokin updates in Newsday and the Post as well.
• A wee line remix after three games without a win. [THN]
• Dan and Mike talk about the annoying dip in form, and the Newsday article and reaction about reaching/growing the Isles fanbase. [Islanders Anxiety podcast]
• Another version of the “Barzal stepping up in Horvat’s absence” storyline. [Post]
• Prospect Report: Both top picks from the summer make their country’s respective WJC teams, meanwhile Luca Romano keeps pumping in goals. [Isles]
• With season-long injuries, Isles’ trade needs are clear, but it’s complicated. [Po$t +]

Elsewhere

Yesterday’s smaller slate of games included the Flyers winning to leap the Islanders (and Capitals) in the standings, and Columbus collecting a win while remaining in the Eastern basement.

• Injury updates: Tristan Jarry will be “a couple of weeks” (this time), while the Hurricanes will be without Seth Jarvis “week to week,” which is also the updated estimate now for Jaccob [sic] Slavin. [NHL]
• That’ll fix it: The Leafs fired PP coach Dr. Marc Savard. [Sportsnet]
• After mental health battles, Connor Ingram is grateful for another NHL chance with the Oilers. [NHL]
• The ECHL’s players union will go on strike Friday if an agreement isn’t reached. [Sportsnet]