Islanders' John Tavares: Will play Friday

Tavares practiced Thursday and will play Friday versus the Sabres, Arthur Staple of Newsday reports.

Analysis:

Tavares was given what the team termed a maintenance day Thursday, fueling speculation that the star player may be dealing with an injury. Apparently, a day was all he needed, as he will return to center the top line Friday. Tavares is having a subpar season, and part of the reason is the revolving door of wingers he's been forced to play alongside. The Islanders have tried just about everyone on the roster with Tavares, but they've found the chemistry to be lacking. This may be a lost season not only for the Isles as a team, but for their star center as well.