New York Islanders captain John Tavares out indefinitely following early exit

NEW YORK -- New York Islanders captain John Tavares had to be helped off the ice with 3:14 remaining in the team's 2-1 win over the New Jersey Devils on Friday after getting tangled up with the back of the net and a Devils player.

Islanders coach Doug Weight termed the injury "lower body," although Tavares was clutching the back of his left leg in the hamstring area.

"It's not a great scenario, obviously, John is a huge engine and plays every single situation we've asked," said Weight. "It's a big blow anytime you see your best player go down."

Weight added that Tavares, who had an assist Friday and leads the Islanders with 66 points this season, will be further evaluated on Saturday to determine the severity of his injury.

"It didn't look great, but I'm always hopeful," said Weight.