Devon Toews covered a lot of ground after getting called up by the Islanders on Wednesday.
Toews flew from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton to Las Vegas, with a connecting flight in Charlotte, NC. It was a long day, but well worth it to join the Islanders at morning skate at T-Mobile Arena.
"It was a bit of a long day, but I'm happy to be here," Toews said.
The recall is Toews' first, as shoulder surgery ended his season prematurely last year. Trotz said Toews impressed him at training camp and made a case to join the Islanders, but the coach wanted a veteran blue line, as well as some time for Toews to return to form.
Toews didn't miss a beat heading down to Bridgeport, recording 19 points (5G, 14A) in 24 games.
"Everybody's dream is to make the NHL roster, so I guess there was a little bit of disappointment, but the crew we have in Bridgeport is great," Toews said. "They've helped me develop a lot of my game, I knew it was a good spot for me to go."
It seems unlikely that Toews will play on Thursday, as he stayed on the ice for extra work after morning skate. Trotz had Michael Dal Colle and Josh Ho-Sang practice with the team before making their season debuts, so it appears Toews may have to wait a few more days if he is to see game action.
