DiPietro, Hunter return for Islanders

Jan 3, 2009 - 7:54 AM GLENDALE, Arizona (Ticker) -- Despite the outcome of the game, the New York Islanders received a boost to begin the new year Friday as starting goaltender Rick DiPietro returned to the lineup in a 5-4 loss to the Phoenix Coyotes.

DiPietro had missed the previous three games with a groin injury. The 27-year-old, who was the first overall pick in the 2000 draft, posted a win over Toronto on December 26 after sitting out the previous 27 contests with a knee ailment.

"It felt good. It was good to get back into the game and get some live action," DiPietro said. "We've done everything over the last couple of days to make sure it wouldn't be a problem, and it worked out. It was nice that I didn't hurt anything and finished the game.

"Besides losing, I feel good physically."

In just five appearances this season, DiPietro is 1-3-0 with a 3.52 goals-against average.

Right wing Trent Hunter also returned for the Islanders after missing one game with a back injury. The 28-year-old has registered 11 goals and 13 assists in 36 contests this campaign.