"It still is unknown when Rick DiPietro will play his next game for the Islanders, but the goalie will at least get back on the ice with the team this week.

DiPietro, whose latest attempt at a comeback from left knee surgery stalled last Friday when he was removed from a game with leg stiffness while playing for the Islanders' AHL affiliate, is set to return to practice with the Isles.

"Rick has followed the protocol for his rehabilitation diligently," general manager Garth Snow said in a statement yesterday. "He experienced tightness and discomfort in his leg during the Bridgeport game [in Springfield], and we felt it was in his best interest to sit out the rest of the game. "