After botching Anthony Duclair’s return from a torn groin last season, the Islanders have operated with caution surrounding him during training camp.

And while things looked to be trending toward Duclair playing his first preseason game Thursday at the Rangers, an upper-body injury threw a curveball into that plan.

Not only was Duclair out of the lineup Thursday when the Islanders scored three straight goals in the third period for a 5-4 win over the Rangers , but the winger wasn’t on the ice with the non-game group either.

Islanders left wing Anthony Duclair runs a drill during practice at the Northwell Health Ice Center on Sept. 18, 2025. Corey Sipkin

The Islanders described him as day to day, while stressing that the current upper-body issue is not related to Duclair’s groin.

Wi

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