The New York Islander are hoping for the best as there are conflicting reports emerging surrounding the status of injured defenceman Mark Streit.
While New York Newsday is reporting that the All-Star defenceman will be out six months with a torn labrum and torn rotator cuff in his left shoulder, the Islanders told TSN that Streit is out indefinitely until he can see a specialist. Newsday is also reporting that the injury will require surgery.
The 32-year old blue liner suffered an injury to his shoulder Saturday in practice after slamming awkwardly into the boards following a cross-check by teammate Matt Moulson. He was seen afterwards with his arm in a sling.
Should Streit miss significant time it would be a devastating blow to a young Islanders team who depend on the Englisberg, Switzerland native for leadership as well as his ability to move the puck and make sound defensive decisions. Streit had 11 goals and 38 assists in 82 games with the Isles last season while quarterbacking the team's top power-play unit.
