Matthew Schaefer made history with his assist on Anders Lee's third-period goal, moving him into first place all time for most points by an Islanders rookie defenseman. Despite the record being broken during a 4-3 loss to the Sabres, Schaefer was more focused on the team's playoff push. He has collected 20 points, including seven goals, across the past 20 games. Simon Holmstrom, who has collected 19 goals and 30 points this season, did not play due to an upper-body injury and was listed as day to day by head coach Patrick Roy. The AHL Board of Governors unanimously approved the relocation of Bridgeport to Hamilton, Ontario, for the 2026-27 season.