Isles day after day: Reilly has been taking part in the first team skate since heart processes

Mike Reilly took another step forward on Sunday when the defender took part in the optional morning skate of the New York Islander before playing against the Dallas Stars. Reilly's first team kate marked since November 1st.

“It is very inspiring,” said head coach Patrick Roy. “From the moment he was injured in Buffalo to this day, he went through a lot and it is nice to see that he wants to go on and he wants to come back. Many of us probably have a heart problem and probably think something else, but it is the beauty of our sport. “

Reilly initially suffered a concussion on November 1st in Buffalo and doctors discovered during his treatment a previously not diagnosed heart disease. Reilly was subjected to a heart procedure on November 19 and had left an indefinite period. There is still no schedule for his return, but Sunday was a sign of progress for the injured Blueliner who had previously had skating alone.

“Everyone is excited to have Mikey back and [we’ve] I saw how hard he worked and how hard it was this year, ”said Brock Nelson. “He is happy in the mix. He loves to be with the boys and play. It is exciting for us to see him fun with us with us. “

The next step for Reilly would take part in an official practice, but it was not released as contact. Nevertheless, his presence was felt by the team at the skate on Sunday and a moral set for his teammates.

“All boys here love Mikey,” said Nelson. “He was a great addition to us, so it was great to bring him back to the mix.”

Reilly has three goals and four blocked shots through 11 games this season.