When the New York Islanders didn't place anyone on waivers on Monday, there were only two ways for the club to create an additional roster spot to activate Noah Dobson off of long-term injured reserve before their game against the New York Rangers.

They would have had to go the Waivers Non-Roster route or place someone else on injured reserve. 

The Islanders went the injured reserve route, placing forward Matt Martin on IR on Tuesday night. 

We will call this a Lou Lamoriello masterclass in roster management. 

The 35-year-old, who began the season on a professional tryout (PTO) before getting a one-year deal after a few injuries, the veteran forward has not played since Jan. 16. 

It's a great move by Lamoriello because he didn't have to risk losing a player on waivers. Martin likely won't play for the rest of the season unless the Islanders sell off everyone they can before the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline. 

Between now and puck drop, Mathew Barzal will likely be transferred from IR to LTIR, and Dobson will likely be activated sometime after the morning skate.

Dobson will likely replace Scott Perunovich on the back end and skate alongside Ryan Pulock or Scott Mayfield when he returns after a 10-game absence. 

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