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Tavares recovers after streak breaking one-game absence

Tampa Bay Lightning v New York Islanders

UNIONDALE, NY - DECEMBER 17: John Tavares #91 of the New York Islanders in action against the Tampa Bay Lightning during their game at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on December 17, 2013 in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Al Bello

New York Islanders captain John Tavares’ streak of 246 consecutive games played came to an end Saturday, but the team confirmed that he’ll be back for tonight’s match against the Minnesota Wild.

The Islanders have to be relieved that Tavares’ lower-body injury didn’t turn out to be anything serious. As it is they’re 11-21-7 this season and are averaging just 2.38 goals per game. Losing Tavares for an extended period of time would have killed what little hope they still have of making the playoffs.

Without him, the Islanders suffered a 2-1 loss to the New Jersey Devils last night.

Even with the team struggling offensively, Tavares has managed to scored 13 goals and 39 points in 38 games this season. In other words, this is shaping up to be his third straight campaign of averaging roughly a point per game.

After tonight’s match, the Islanders will head to Boston to play on Tuesday and complete their stretch of three games in four nights.

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