The New York Islanders recalled forward Ruslan Iskhakov from the American Hockey League on Wednesday afternoon, putting him in line to make his NHL debut tonight against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Ishkakov, 22, was drafted 43rd overall by the Islanders in the second round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. In 69 games for the Bridgeport Islanders this season, he’s led the team with 50 points and 18 goals. He is a two-time AHL all-star and was Bridgeport’s lone representative this season.
Ishkakov will be the second player to make his NHL debut with the Islanders this season. Kyle MacLean was called up from Bridgeport on Jan. 18 and has been a key contributor to the Islanders’ run to the playoffs while playing in 31 games.
The Islanders were already planning on resting four of their usual starters in tonight’s regular season finale, leaving room in the lineup for Ishkakov.
Puck drop between the Islanders and Penguins tonight at UBS Arena is scheduled for just past 7 p.m. EST.
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