John Tavares ruled out against Devils

NEWARK, N.J. -- New York Islanders captain and leading scorer John Tavares will miss Saturday's game against the New Jersey Devils.

The Islanders announced his absence via Twitter less than an hour before the opening faceoff. The team said it would explain why he missed the contest after it was over.

A few Islanders players have missed games with illnesses in recent days.

Tavares leads the team with five goals and six assists.

New York recalled Taylor Beck from Bridgeport (AHL) on an emergency loan before the game.