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Tavares was hoping to return for playoff Game 3 or 4

James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports / USA TODAY Sports

Had the New York Islanders clinched a playoff spot, they still would've been without captain John Tavares into the postseason.

Tavares spoke to the media Monday, and he noted he was hoping to return to the Islanders lineup for Game 3 or 4 of the playoffs had they earned a spot, according to Newsday's Arthur Staple.

Like the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Islanders missed out on the final playoff spot by a single point thanks in large part to a comeback win Saturday by the Toronto Maple Leafs over the Pittsburgh Penguins.

As Tavares enters the summer, talk is sure to pick up on his pending free agency. The 26-year-old has one year remaining on a six-year, $33-million contract and could become an unrestricted free agent for the first time.

Tavares briefly touched on the subject Monday, only suggesting that a decision isn't likely coming anytime soon, stating: "It doesn't have to be decided tomorrow," according to Staple.

Tavares concluded this season with 28 goals and 66 points to pace the Islanders.

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