Zach Parise skating again with Islanders decision brewing

The first step in Zach Parise’s potential comeback is underway. 

Parise, confirming a report by The Athletic. 

Nothing has been decided by Parise relating to a potential return, but getting back on the ice is a necessary step if playing this season is in the cards. 

In exit interviews last year, Parise was clear that if he were to come back, it would be with the Islanders. 

“I think it would be here or nowhere,” he said. “I don’t know. But I just feel like that’s how it would be.” 

General manager Lou Lamoriello said at the start of training camp that he did not think Parise would retire, going as far as to say, “I don’t feel he will at this point.” 

The assumption is that if Parise comes back, he would sign a one-year contract with the Islanders at the league minimum, the same rate he took the last two seasons. 

Potentially complicating things is that, since Parise would be returning later in the season, his prorated cap hit would be larger than the league minimum of $775,000.

The Islanders would need to create space for him, since they have just $534,035 available. 

That could become complicated the 5-4 loss to the Devils on the first line Friday night, is the only player on the roster who would not require waivers to be sent down. 

It is also not immediately obvious where Parise would fit into the lineup if Holmstrom stays on the top line.

Anders Lee is skating in the spot on the third line where Parise slotted in last season. 

Still, those are questions for down the line.

Parise proved last season at age 38 that he can still be an effective NHL player, scoring 21 goals to rank third on the team.

There isn’t much reason to assume he would not continue to contribute at 39 and the Islanders would surely be happy to welcome him. 

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Scott Mayfield skated Friday morning for the first time since he sustained a leg injury on opening night against the Sabres.

He did not play against the Devils, however, and coach Lane Lambert said it had not been decided whether he would travel to Buffalo for the game Saturday. 

“This is a good step for him to get back on the ice, for sure,” Lambert said. 

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Anders Lee swapped places with Holmstrom midway through the second period, skating the rest of the game on the first line while Holmstrom was moved to the third.