Byfield a game-time decision for Kings against Islanders

Quinton Byfield is a game-time decision for the Los Angeles Kings against the New York Islanders on Thursday, Oct. 22, according to the NHL’s projected-lineup report. The centre sustained an upper-body injury in Tuesday’s 5-2 win over the Washington Capitals.

Byfield played four shifts totalling 2:44 before leaving in the first period. Coach Peter Laviolette said after that game that Byfield would be evaluated Wednesday; no timetable for his return was announced in that postgame update.

Los Angeles recalled forward Jared Wright from Ontario on Wednesday in case Byfield is unavailable. Laviolette described the recall as a precaution, CBS Sports reported.

Before the game, Byfield had fallen awkwardly into the boards during practice after becoming tangled with a teammate, Pro Hockey Rumors reported, citing NHL reporter Tom Gulitti and Kings reporter Zach Dooley. Trainers briefly checked on him and he finished the session. It remains unclear whether that incident caused his early exit against Washington.

The Kings adjusted their forward lines during the game, with Erik Haula moving to second-line centre and Andre Lee taking a third-line role, according to Pro Hockey Rumors. The Kings visit the Islanders on Thursday, Oct. 22.