Romanov has missed the last three games but was a full participant in morning skate ahead of their game against the Buffalo Sabres.

BUFFALO -- New York Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov is a game-time decision against the Buffalo Sabres on Friday night, but according to head coach Patrick Roy, he's likely to play. 

"His return is big for us," Roy said. "I mean, Romanov was playing so well before it got hurt. Against New Jersey, he had a strong game, and we need him on the backend for different reasons. He's defending, he's been moving that puck well, he's been helping on the rush, on and on., so it's nice to have him back; if he played tonight."

Romanov was injured after being on the receiving end of a booming hit from New Jersey Devils forward Kurtis MacDermind in the second period of New York's last win, a 4-3 overtime victory on Oct. 25:

He remained in the game, crushing Devils star Jack Hughes before adding a primary helper after his slapshot deflected off Kyle Palmieri later in the middle frame. 

Romanov said that finishing the game was a bit tough but that "when you have high adrenaline, it's much better." He said he was sore the next day.

The 24-year-old has been the Islanders' strongest player, bringing the energy on each shift. 

When asked what kind of jolt he can bring to the line amidst the Mathew Barzal injury news, he kept it simple.

"You know my game."

Ahead of morning skate, the Islanders shared that Barzal has returned to Long Island as he is getting evaluated for an upper-body injury:

Romanov will be back with usual defense partner Noah Dobson, hoping to help get the Islanders snap their three-game losing skid (0-3-0). 

"He's obviously a big part of the back end. He's been playing well this year," Dobson said. "He brings that physical element, so it's nice to see him back out there with the other group today."

Romanov has two assists, 14 hits, and 19 blocks on the season, averaging 21:18 minutes per game, the second most on the team behind Dobson's 24:02.