Islanders' Hickey practices, but return is 'still some time away'

New York Islanders defenseman Thomas Hickey returned to practice on Monday for the first time since suffering a lower-body injury on Oct. 24.

"He's still some time away," coach Jack Capuano told Newsday of Hickey. "But it's good to have him out there. He went through the protocol of what he needs to do. Now you'll probably see him practice with us for the next week or so."

Hickey recorded two goals in four games to match last season's total, which was set while competing in 81 contests. The 26-year-old saw the start of this campaign delayed due to a fractured thumb that was suffered during the preseason.

Hickey has nine goals and 41 assists in 206 career games.