New York Islanders forward Frans Nielsen is one of the keys to their game. He is the best defensive forward on the club, and likely one of the best in the league. He’s usually able to limit shots against whenever he plays the top forwards at even strength. He’s easily one of the most valuable commodities on this team not named John Tavares.
Frans Nielsen will likely play in Game 6 for the Islanders
The stalwart defensive forward has been fighting a lower-body injury, but will play in Game 6.
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Nielsen sat out much of the third period in Game 5 of the Isles’ Eastern Conference Quarterfinal series with the Penguins. He suffered a lower-body injury during the Islanders 4-0 loss. However, he said on Thursday night that he will try to play on Saturday, and signs appear likely that he’s going to give it a go. Nielsen participated in the Islanders morning skate on Saturday.
Though most morning skates in the playoffs are optional, much of New York’s compliment of players took part in it, which could be a sign that Nielsen will play. When asked after the skate how he felt, he told reporters that he felt good, but that it was up to the doctors and coaches whether or not he’ll take the ice on Saturday night. So he is questionable for Game 6. The Islanders could certainly use him in the lineup to force a Game 7.
Rookie Brock Nelson skated for the Islanders Saturday morning, though it isn’t expected that he would take Nielsen’s place if he cannot go.
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