Micheal Haley was a sparkplug during 2010-11's resurgent second half, one that many Islanders fans found missing during a lethargic 5-10-3 start to 2011-12.

After two lifeless shutout losses by a combined score of 11-0 and discussions between Garth Snow and Jack Capuano that spoke to a need for more "grit" and "fire" according to ESPN's Katie Strang, the Islanders have now answered pleas by recalling Haley from the AHL Bridgeport Sound Tigers. Room for his recall was made by Mark Eaton's placement on injured reserve, expected to be a six-week stint with a sprained left MCL.

Barring further moves, that leaves the Islanders currently with six healthy defensemen and three extra forwards to take turns in the press box. Injured goaltender Al Montoya skated with the team today, but his re-activation would likely just move Anders Nilsson back to Bridgeport.

Haley doesn't score many goals and he doesn't prevent many teams from hemming the Isles in their own zone, but he brings a pulse that too few Islanders have shown on too many nights this season.

More to come as the Islanders world turns...