Insider thinks New York Islanders are about to get back their star player - “I think Pageau is close”

On the latest episode of "The Jeff Marek Show," Thomas Hickey shared that the New York Islanders are close to getting Jean-Gabriel Pageau back in the squad.

Having their star player back on the ice would be huge for the Islanders, especially at this stage of the season. Hickey stated that Pagueau has started skating and will be a big boost during the absence of Adam Pelech and Mathew Barzal as the Islanders fight for the playoffs.

"I think Pageau is closer," Hickey said. "Pageau has been skating with the team more recently and he would be a huge boost because, you know, this team has gone through injuries.

"Since Bo Horvat got here, without him, this team would be really thin. When you think of losing Matt Barzal at center, Pageau would be a really nice addition to have back in the group," Hickey added.

"I think Pageau is close and that will be a huge boost."

Pageau's return would be big news for the New York Islanders, especially with how delicately placed they are in the Metropolitan Division.

Jean-Gabriel Pageau's return would help the New York Islanders solidify their playoff ambitions

New York Islanders v Philadelphia Flyers

The New York Islanders have played decently this season and are placed fourth in the Metropolitan Division with 76 points. The Islanders managed a big OT win over the Pittsburgh Penguins recently, who are the team closest to them in fifth. The Penguins have 74 points and a worse goal difference than New York by a margin of 11.

The Islanders have done well on offense, with 195 goals in 67 games. Meanwhile, their defense has stood out, conceding fewer than three goals per game on average. Both their goaltenders have done well, especially Ilya Sorokin, who is conceding 2.35 goals per game.

Jean-Gabriel Pageau has played 56 games this season, averaging 18 minutes on the ice. He has scored ten goals (including two game-winning goals) at a shooting percentage of 10.3 and has assisted 19 more. Before getting injured, Pageau contributed to two goals in a 4-0 win against the Seattle Kraken.

New York Islanders have won their last three games and look to continue in the same form. The Islanders will look to make the most of their upcoming games to secure a place in the playoffs, starting with the Washington Capitals on March 11.

Washington are in sixth place and are seven points adrift of New York. As such, this is a big game for both teams.