DiPietro could return Saturday night

After his second day of practice with the Islanders this week, goaltender Rick DiPietro and coach Jack Capuano seem optimistic that he'll be able to start Saturday night against the Buffalo Sabres at Nassau Coliseum.

DiPietro has yet to play since suffering a groin strain in the second period of the Islanders' 5-2 win over Calgary Jan. 3.

"It's pretty good," Capuano said when asked about the likelihood that DiPietro will play. "He's been having a couple of good days of practice, obviously, but we just want to make sure he's healthy."

DiPietro did not participate in the team's morning skate before Thursday night's game against Ottawa, although he did work with goaltending consultant Sudarshan Maharaj beforehand. He fully practiced with the team Wednesday.

"I feel good,'' DiPietro said. "It's been nice to get back and face some live action in practices. I've gotten to get some work with Sudsie and I'm excited about getting back."

DiPietro will leave the decision about playing Saturday night up to Capuano, head trainer Garrett Timms and general manager Garth Snow. "I always feel like I can play to some extent, which is why I should be the last person to ask if I can play," he said. "That's going to be something I'll talk to Garrett and the coaches about and we'll make a decision."

Given his history - which includes hip and knee injuries - DiPietro also wants to make sure he's fully healthy so as not to put any unnecessary stress on any former problem areas. "That's why we've taken the time here to make sure it's 100 percent," DiPietro said. "I know Garrett doesn't want to come on the ice again to scoop me up. He's a great trainer and I'll follow what the big guy has to say."

SEE PHOTOSTop 10 Islanders of all-time

Sim headed to Europe

Veteran winger Jon Sim, who was suspended by the Islanders for his refusal to report to Bridgeport after clearing waivers Tuesday, plans to pursue a career in Europe if he clears unconditional waivers at noon Saturday, Newsday has learned. If he clears, he no longer will be property of the Islanders and will play for a team in Switzerland for the remainder of its season.

"I'm a loyal guy and I expect a lot of myself,'' Sim said when reached by telephone Friday, "and believe me, this was the hardest decision I've ever had to make, but I had to make this decision for my family."

Said Snow, "I sent him to Bridgeport and he refused to report, so I suspended him without pay and I'm going to terminate his contract.''

Isles files

Frans Nielsen, who also suffered a groin strain against Calgary Jan. 3, did not practice Friday and will not play Saturday night. Defenseman Dylan Reese was placed on waivers. He'll report to Bridgeport if he clears at noon Saturday.