The New York Islanders announced on Thursday afternoon that defenseman Matt Carkner and forward Michael Grabner have been activated from the team's injured reserve list.
Carkner had missed 20 games due to a groin issue dating back to Feb. 7. Grabner is believed to have injured his shoulder against the Pittsburgh Penguins on March 10 and has missed the team's last three games while recovering.
Both players are expected to return to the lineup on Thursday night when the Islanders host the Montreal Canadiens. Head coach Jack Capuano stated on Thursday morning that he plans to pair Carkner with team captain Mark Streit.
Carkner was signed to a three-year, $4.5 million contract as a free agent this past offseason, but has only played in nine games since joining the team.
Grabner is expected to be paired with Marty Reasoner and Matt Martin on the third line. In 26 games this season, the 25-year-old forward has registered 10 goals and three assists, as well as six penalty minutes.
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