Ryan O'Reilly, a seasoned NHL center for the Nashville Predators, remains one of the few players in the league who chooses to play without a visor. Despite repeated requests from family and warnings from past injuries in the league, O'Reilly's habit of playing unprotected continues, marking a stark contrast to the league's safety regulations which mandate visors for all players with fewer than 25 games of experience since the 2013-14 season. This decision is not uncommon among veteran players like Jamie Benn and Matt Martin, who also forgo facial protection.

The risks associated with this choice are significant, as highlighted by past incidents such as Bryan Berard's devastating eye injury. However, for these players, the allure of maintaining an 'old-school' image and the comfort of their established playing style outweighs the potential dangers. They embrace their decisions as part of hockey's culture, a testament to their toughness and resilience on the ice.

New York Rangers forward Matt Rempe has been suspended for eight games due to boarding and elbowing Dallas Stars defenseman Miro Heiskanen. The decision follows an in-person hearing, allowing for a more severe penalty.

This suspension comes after the Rangers' disappointing performance, marking their fourth consecutive home loss. Rempe, who has struggled to find his footing this season, was recently recalled from the AHL and has yet to score in five games.

The New York Islanders secured a significant victory against the Vancouver Canucks, highlighted by a fight between Matt Martin and Vincent Desharnais. After Desharnais checked Martin into the boards, Martin responded, showcasing his fighting skills late in the game.

Martin, who has seen a decrease in fights throughout his career, emphasized the importance of such moments for team morale. Teammates Ryan Pulock and Anders Lee praised Martin's role in protecting the team and energizing the squad during the game.

The New York Islanders are facing challenges as center Mat Barzal returns to Long Island for evaluation of an upper-body injury. The team has not specified the injury's timeline after he consults with doctors.

Barzal's injury comes during a tough stretch for the Islanders, who have lost three consecutive games, bringing their record to 3-5-2 this season. Additionally, winger Anthony Duclair is sidelined for several weeks with a lower-body injury, prompting the signing of veteran Matt Martin for added forward depth.

Mat Barzal of the New York Islanders has returned to Long Island for evaluation due to an upper-body injury. The team will provide a timeline for his recovery after he sees doctors. Barzal's injury is a concern as the Islanders are already missing Anthony Duclair, who is sidelined for several weeks with a lower-body injury.

Barzal, 27, is the highest-paid player on the team, currently in the second year of his eight-year, $73.2 million contract. He has recorded five points in 10 games this season.