Ryan Strome, Anders Lee, Mike Halmo Recalled by New York Islanders from AHL Bridgeport

As expected ever since news of Frans Nielsen's broken hand, and particularly since a nation watched in horror as John Tavares' knee bent in an unhealthy way, the New York Islanders have called for reinforcements from the farm.

What is a little unexpected is the third member called up, likely a sign that Matt Martin's lower body injury is still a concern:

Physical winger Mike Halmo is among a trio of Bridgeport Sound Tigers getting the call (officially under emergency terms), joining forwards Ryan Strome and Anders Lee, the latter two receiving their second stints with the big club after starring at AHL Bridgeport.

Though they may not play together, that makes a line -- literally:

Isles announce the whole top #BST line -- Anders Lee, Ryan Strome, Mike Halmo -- recalled on emergency basis.

— Michael Fornabaio (@fornabaioctp) February 25, 2014

With Nielsen and Tavares both out, Strome figures to get a featured role at center as should fellow rookie Brock Nelson. Lee, who was groomed as a center but played more and more wing in college and in the AHL thus far, will likely remain at wing while the Isles rely on a more experienced hand to handle the pivot.

Halmo, as mentioned, plays more of a Martin-style game. When he was originally signed as an undrafted free agent two years ago, it was with an eye toward the Matt Martin or even (optimistically) Andrew Shaw type of OHL product.

In his second AHL season, Halmo has produced -- 17 goals (nine on the power play) on 117 shots with 37 points in 53 games in 2013-14.

As for Bridgeport, who have won six in a row and 11 of their last 13, well they not only lost an entire line; they lost their top three scorers. They next play Friday in Providence, against the same Bruins team they beat Sunday afternoon on the back of Kenny Reiter's 40 saves.

Good luck.