Up, down, like a merry-go-...

So get this: The plan is, at least now, for Wade Dubielewicz to dress for the Islanders tonight, come home, play for Bridgeport in the morning, and then play the rest by ear. Rick DiPietro is out with what they're calling headaches. Greg Logan says DiPietro could be back Friday. Regardless, Michael Mole is supposed to be coming up this week.

Elsewhere, Frans Nielsen is out (minor concussion, such as they exist), and Sergei Ogorodnikov has been called up from Pensacola. Allan Rourke is probably up for a while -- probably the rest of the Isles' season, however long it takes -- to replace Freddy Meyer, who needs surgery on a broken finger. Drew Fata is expected to play in the morning; Eric Boguniecki probably isn't ready and is targeted for Friday.

Farther elsewhere, Norfolk announces the new affiliation Thursday. And check out future Norfolk coach Steve Stirling's feelings about the Falcons' play this weekend. (Tip cap: Patrick Williams)