The 30-year-old defenseman took a puck to the face against the Sabres on Nov. 1

EAST MEADOW, NY -- The New York Islanders defenseman Adam Pelech is making his return to practice on Thursday morning ahead of their game against the Seattle Kraken.  

In his return to a team skate, he's donning a non-contact jersey with a full face shield. 

The 30-year-old has missed 15 games after he took a puck to the face in the Islanders' 4-3 win against the Buffalo Sabres on Oct 1. 

Islanders head coach Patrick Roy told us that Pelech had suffered a jaw injury, and general manager Lou Lamoriello said he would miss 4-6 weeks.

Pelech was placed on injured reserve and can be activated when he's ready to return, as he missed the minimum seven days required. 

The Islanders would need to make a roster spot to activate him. 

Pelech has four assists in 11 games this season, averaging 20:01 minutes per game.