News Islanders Team Notes

[New York Islanders]

Blues 2, Islanders 1: Flat, quiet afternoon

The Islanders came home from their rousing 6-1 road trip to start a seven-game homestand but could not keep their groove going in a 2-1 loss to the St. Louis Blues.

It wasn’t an awful game, just a frustrating one against an opponent that has really struggled but has been inching its way back to where it wants to be, with a goalie who turned in a strong performance. A goal conceded in the first minute kept the home crowd from getting too lively and maybe kept the Isles a little flat for much of the afternoon, and they recovered too late.

Their only penalty kill of the day was a scary one, requiring multiple good saves from Ilya Sorokin off golden setups by the Blues late in the first period. They weren’t far from heading into the first intermission trailing by a couple of goals.

[NHL Gamecenter | Game Summary | Event Summary | Natural Stat Trick]

Late in the second period the Blues finally did put the Isles in a 2-0 hole, although the Blues’ struggles have been marked by giving up just such leads in the third period. All was not lost. Still, even with that omen in their favor, it took the Isles until 16:40 of the third, with Ilya Sorokin pulled for a sixth attacker, to finally get on the board and make the Blues sweat.

For a moment, it looked the Isles might complete the late comeback on a chaotic sequence where the shot deflected in off Justin Faulk, who high-sticked Jonathan Drouin drawing a four-minute minor, but was also battling Kyle Palmieri — who himself entered the crease on his own and then crashed off Faulk and into Jordan Binnington.

That caused the refs to immediately wave off the goal for goalie interference, while also giving Faulk a double-minor for high-sticking. The Isles did not challenge, almost certainly the right decision.

Absolute CHAOS on Long Island:

• The Islanders tie the game
• The goal is immediately waved off for goalie interference
• Justin Faulk is injured on the play but ALSO receives a double-minor for high-sticking while laying on the ice

WHAT?! pic.twitter.com/FV5Mr099AW

— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) November 22, 2025

The Isles pulled Sorokin again to make that a 6-on-4 opportunity, but they could not solve Binnington again. A one-timer by Bo Horvat was probably their closes chance, but Binnington got across the crease to glove it.

Overall, it just wasn’t their day. The third pair was victimized for a 2-on-1 with Scott Mayfield caught out after a pinch on the opening goal, and Tony DeAngelo was too passive on Pius Suter in front of the net in allowing the Swiss to bang in the rebound for the second goal. And they ran into a goalie who has a .880 save percentage this season but decided to turn in one of his stellar efforts this afternoon.

Up Next​

Both Patrick Roy and various Isles in the postgame pledged to come out better tomorrow afternoon, when Lane Lambert and the Kraken visit.

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/game-recaps/43306/blues-vs-islanders-anders-lee-binnington

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders vs. Kraken Gameday: Welcome back, Lane

The Islanders complete a back-to-back weekend of home matinees when Lane Lambert and the Seattle Kraken visit.

Both played yesterday, the Kraken winning in OT in Pittsburgh and the Islanders losing at home to the Blues. Hopefully the Isles can deliver a better show for home fans today.

First Islanders Goal picks go here.

Islanders News​

• Meanwhile, news for Alex Romanov is the worst: out five to six months, requiring shoulder surgery. [Isles]
• Not Islanders news, but of interest: The “not that kind of player” Mikko Rantanen who delivered the shove from behind on Romanov just got another game misconduct for checking from behind. (Scott Mayfield was not in the vicinity to be blamed for this one.) He gets a one-game suspension this time — but not for the hit, rather for getting two game misconducts in the first 41 games. [Sportsnet]

Mikko Rantanen receives a five-minute major and a game misconduct for this hit on Matt Coronato.

Coronato went down the tunnel following the hit. pic.twitter.com/Yr0rrVSYXW

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) November 23, 2025

• Takeaways from yesterday: didn’t like the start, of course. [Isles]
• “Lack of jump” following road trip. [Newsday | Post]
• The Skinny: Mat Barzal passed John Tonelli on the franchise assist list; Emil Heineman’s points streak ended. [Isles]
• Previewing today: David Rittich gets the start. [Isles]
• Lambert’s Kraken are running hot at 11-5-5. Maybe he needed some time and perspective before his next head coaching gig. He remains as verbose and animated a public speaker as ever…:

Lane Lambert asked about his reaction to being let go as #Isles coach says “surprise.”

— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) November 23, 2025

#SeaKraken coach Lane Lambert did say his season as associate coach with Maple Leafs was a good experience for him and allowed him to reflect upon his #Isles tenure.

— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) November 23, 2025

“There’s no question that we’re going to be right back at it here in not too many hours, so we just have to make sure we focus in and be good with our structure tomorrow.”

Hear more from #SeaKraken coach Lane Lambert ahead of a quick turnaround vs. the Islanders on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/xBIbPdX42p

— Seattle Kraken (@SeattleKraken) November 23, 2025

Elsewhere​

Twelve total games yesterday, including the Devils losing in Philadelphia. The Metro whole East is going to be funny this year.

• The Sabres are preparing to terminate Alexandar Georgiev, who will head to the KHL. [TSN]
• The Blues are preparing to terminate Alex Texier, but supposedly nine teams will likely show interest in him at a cheaper rate. [TSN]
• Revisiting 32 preseason predictions, like “this is Roy’s last season on Long Island.” [ESPN]
• The Leafs hang their returning goalie out to dry. [TSN]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is...islanders-vs-kraken-gameday-welcome-back-lane

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders 1*, Kraken 0 (*SO): Shutouts for everybody

If a game takes place on Long Island with no goal and almost no penalties, does it make a sound?

The Islanders and Kraken faced off to a stalemate that went all the way to extra-extra time in the shootout before the Isles prevailed for the extra point. It goes down as a 1-0 win for the Isles, though Joey Daccord and David Rittich allowed no actual goals and each are credited with shutouts.

The building finally got to celebrate in the last two shootout attempts — the “yyyEEAH” very audible, a pent-up release and relief — as Bo Horvat had to finish to convert to tie the breakaway contest, then Kyle Palmieri sniped the decisive winner.

The Isles nearly doubled the Kraken in shots and probably would’ve felt most robbed if they were the team that left this one with zero points, but overall it was a tightly played contest. Bo Horvat hit a crossbar and the Isles had a few other close chances and scrambles on Daccord, while Rittich was strong when needed, helped at least once by his post on a wide-angle shot.

[NHL Gamecenter | Game Summary | Event Summary | Natural Stat Trick]

Not sure anyone who saw the Isles under Lane Lambert and then under Patrick Roy last year would ever imagine these two coaches’ teams playing to a scoreless draw, but there you have it.

For Rittich in particular, it continues a strong run of providing absolutely critical backup goaltending for Ilya Sorokin. Both have been very good lately, prompting no need to overuse Sorokin.

#Isles David Rittich jokes at one point in game he had more touches on the puck with his stick than saves.

— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) November 24, 2025

Full video of Rittich’s post-game availability here.

Other Notes​

• After a quieter game yesterday by his quickly established and lofty standards, Matthew Schaefer was an active beast throughout, logging over 27 minutes (that’ll go in the Skinny) with four shots on goal and five more attempts.
• There were two penalties called — okay three when counting the rare but late OT call — but nothing happening. Max Shabanov drove the net to draw a slash late in OT, but that only gave the Isles under 20 seconds of 4-on-3 to try to win before the shootout.
• Horvat’s afternoon was good if scoreless, too, and his shootout conversion was an authoritative, top-shelf laser when they absolutely needed it to stay alive.
• Speaking of which, Frederick Gaudreau was the only Kraken to “beat” Rittich all afternoon, although it was in a circus drill that has no real-life hockey analogy. The “shootout specialist” approached so slowly I was able to catch a cat nap and startle myself awake before he’d shot. It was a bit of appropriate karma that Horvat’s insta-strike followed a slow approach.

Horvat pic.twitter.com/Umf2fIe9Cg

— YESUV (@IslesWhiteSUV) November 24, 2025

Lovable Things​

"He's a gamer" – Kyle Palmieri on goalie David Rittich's shutout performance for the #Isles.@Shannon_Hogan | @NYIslanders pic.twitter.com/2dhdnlpxuq

— Isles on MSGSN (@IslesMSGN) November 24, 2025

#Isles Patrick Roy with some good-natured ribbing of Mathew Barzal after praising his performance (six shots in 24:00). Roy asked about his faceoff numbers for the game and was told Barzal went 2-of-12. Roy broke into a wide grin. "That's pretty good for him. Just kidding."

— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) November 24, 2025

Group in UBS Arena stands late after game sees Matthew Schaefer talking to some people across the ice. They start chanting his name. Schaefer, walking into the tunnel to the #Isles room, turns around, raises his arms in victory and blows kisses to the group.

— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) November 24, 2025

Up Next​

The busy Olympic-year schedule does not let up. This seven-game homestand continues with the Bruins on Wednesday, then a Friday post-Thanksgiving afternoon with the Flyers, then 1 p.m. on Sunday with the Capitals.

All three of those teams currently trail the Islanders in the standings, though not by much…

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/game-recaps/43331/islanders-vs-kraken-rittich-daccord-shutouts

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders Anxiety – Episode 348 – Something is Happening Here

Mike and Dan recap a wild, emotional week in which the Islanders cap off an epic road trip in style before struggling to find their game again at home.

The gauntlet that seemed like it could sink their season instead saw the Islanders surge into a playoff berth with a tense win in Dallas and an unexpected blowout in Detroit. While the victory over the Stars took everything they had and came with casualties, the romp over the Red Wings served as a coming out party for a new folk hero. Max Shabanov went from mystery man to possible Weird Islander to a masked, rouge hero growing in confidence. A return game against St. Louis was less than triumphant, but the follow-up against Seattle got them two huge points despite exactly zero (0) goals being scored in regulation. It’s all been a bit strange but as long as they keep climbing and winning, we can keep smiling.

The week ahead contains more tough games including one against a team that’s already roughed them up. American Thanksgiving is supposed to be the unofficial time when NHL teams show us what they can be. The Islanders have the chance over the next seven days to prove they’re for real, especially in front of their own fans.

To close this episode out, we give thanks for things we’re grateful for, like the stumbles and struggles of our enemies. The Rangers and Maple Leafs are not having a good time right now, and we turn back the clock for a fun new Master Pens Theater.

As always, we’re thankful for you all for listening and supporting us. A new episode of Weird Islanders: The Podcast! releases on Friday, and be sure to check out the Patreon that day for a cornucopia of bonus content for it.

REFERENCES

• Great stuff from “Captain NO B.S.” J.T. Miller (and from Rangers Redditors)
• This Auston Matthews guy seems to disappear during the season a lot, according to Nick Kyprios.
• Hey, maybe this kid has somethi…nope, he’s gone. Never mind.
• Master Pens Theater theme is “The Rule” by Kevin MacLeod, available at FreeMusicArchive.org.

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PLUGS!​

• Vintage Ice Hockey for t-shirts, hoodies and jerseys with hundreds of classic hockey logos, as well as the full line of Islanders Anxiety merch. As always our portion of those sales go directly to the Center for Dementia Research.
• The Pinot Project has a Rosé, a Pinot Grigio and a Wine Enthusiast Best Buy Pinot Noir, all under $15 a bottle. Available at local wine stores and UBS Arena.
• Visit Lighthousehockey.com for the most up-to-date Islanders news and discussion.
• Islanders Anxiety podcasts are part of the Fans First Sports Network (@FansFirstSN).

Theme song: “Morning Haze” by Family Dinner. Hear more of their music on Spotify.

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Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is...hing-is-happening-here-stars-romanov-shabanov

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders News: Injury shadows

The Islanders bounced back from a weaker home return performance against the Blues to pull out a shootout win in the double-shutout meeting with the Kraken, but hanging in the background is injury news to two significant players.

Alex Romanov was not having a good season thus far, but the 5-6-month prognosis removes any chance of him returning this regular season to the important role and contributions he had last season. As odd as it sounds, it may not have an immediate impact but it should have a long-term one. We’ll see how things shake out with Adam Boqvist getting a regular turn or, if that doesn’t work out, Marshall Warren maybe getting another look, or maybe a different option such as NHL vet Ethan Bear.

The other significant news has a shorter “week to week” prognosis, but that could still be a longer-term concern for a 33-year-old whose injuries have impacted his effectiveness over the last few seasons. Pageau was off to a really good start this season, showing life, being a great penalty killer, resuming his shorthanded bromance with Simon Holmstrom. You hope this isn’t a lingering thing.

On the bright side, the Pageau injury would seem to cement that Calum Ritchie will be here to stay, a big step for him and important development for the Isles if he keeps it up.

Islanders News​

• Prospect Report: Tomas Poletin and Jacob Kvasnicka accumulating goals. [Isles]
• Reading into Warren being returned to Bridgeport. [Newsday]
• A giant and frighteningly realistic Barzal Bobblehead. Teammates react. [Isles video]
• Islanders Anxiety podcast: Something’s happening here. [LHH]

Elsewhere​

Last night’s scores include the Blue Jackets losing to the Capitals and the Rangers winning, unfortunately (of course the Blues beat the Isles in regulation and then wilt in Manhattan). Oh and Logan Cooley scored four.

• Barry Trotz sounds pretty disgusted with the players he’s got, not with the coach he likes. [NHL]
• In which a reporter lobbies for a GM (Craig Conroy) to be extended “immediately.” [Sportsnet]
• Power rankings: It’s Thanksgiving week in the U.S., but north of the border it’s panic week for most Canadian franchises. [Athletic]
• The reeling Canucks are open for business on their veteran players. [Sportsnet]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/islanders-news-headlines/43348/islanders-news-injury-shadows

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders Gameday News: Take 2 vs. the Bruins

The Islanders continue their homestand (1-1 thus far, thanks to the shootout) with a Thanksgiving Eve visit from the Bruins, who just lost to the Sharks.

The Bruins visited earlier in the month, prevailing in a 4-3 (shootout) shortly before the big road trip that may have turned the Islanders’ season around. Time to take two points this time around.

First Islanders Goal picks go here.

Islanders News​

• Previewing tonight: Expect Emil Heineman and Cal Ritchie to help fill in on the PK during J-G Pageau’s absence. [Isles]
• Day to day: Casey Cizikas is the latest injury concern, but they say he only missed practice for “maintenance” and he should be good to go tonight. [Isles]
• Gross: An overdue win over the Bruins would help show the Isles are for real. [Newsday]
• Patrick Roy believes the power play is turning a corner. [Post]
• Mat Barzal isn’t worried about how many points he’s getting, he’s worried about whether he’s helping influence wins by impacting chances, limiting turnovers, covering the ice as a center. [Post | THN]

Elsewhere​

• Only one game in the NHL last night, but it was a doozie that checked off all the narratives for the Oilers, who returned home from a long road trip to get blown out by the Stars: bleeding defensively, goaltending questions, you name it. Four goals against in the first period, pulling Stuart Skinner afterward only to allow four more against Calvin Pickard. [Sportsnet]
• Fifteen games tonight, however; which will be the ones to watch? [NHL]
• Nick Kypreos’ first trade board of the season has lots of names and reasons. [Sportsnet]
• What’s happening Barry Land? The Predators are off to an even worse start than last year, and Barry Trotz has had to refute a report of a “toxic” culture. “I know toxic,” which maybe isn’t the defense he thought it was. [Sportsnet]
• Speaking of, Insider Trading covers potential firesales in Nashville and Vancouver. [TSN]
• Mailbag: After a hot start, are the Penguins “who we thought we are”-ing? [NHL]
• Is this final the end for Milan Lucic? Released from his AHL PTO by the Blues. [TSN]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/islanders-news-headlines/43353/islanders-gameday-news-bruins-barzal

 

[New York Islanders]

Bruins 3, Islanders 1: Stymied and swept by Swayman

The Islanders fell to the Boston Bruins for the second time this month and the third time this season, an odd sweep (two regulation losses, one shootout) at the hands of a team that has been up and down and missing its top defenseman.

It was an odd game. The Islanders outshot Boston 45-14 (!), but in danger and control it was not that lopsided. This was not quite a case of the Isles getting robbed by a goalie — though Jeremy Swayman was solid throughout — but more of a team that has their number, that stymied their attack, controlled rebounds, protected the house, did enough to win a road game, yada yada.

[NHL Gamecenter | Game Summary | Event Summary | Natural Stat Trick]

The Islanders got things started nicely after a great exchange involving everyone in the offensive zone before Mat Barzal tucked it in. That made it 1-0 just 4:41 in, but less than two minutes later, some guy who goes by the name of Alex Steeves tied it up on the first of his two goals in the game.

The go-ahead goal by Tanner Jeannot came in the first minute of the second period, after a baker’s dozen of odd bounces as players from both teams scrambled in the slot. Jeannot settled the puck and rifled over the shoulder of Ilya Sorokin, who never had too much to do.

It was one of those games that could’ve gone the other way at any point, but somehow just got more frustrating as that looked increasingly unlikely, even with a {checks post-game stat updates} 23-3 shot differential in the third.

The Isles had four power plays, including two in the second period, and generally rotated and moved the puck around impressively. But they could not crack the interior and their best one-timer opportunities always misfired or otherwise fell short. A shorthanded goal on their final power play (by that Steeves guy) proved to be the backbreaker midway through the third period.

Up Next​

The season-ending seven-game homestand that could undo their season-saving seven-game road trip continues after Thanksgiving when the Flyers visit. Thus far they’re 1-2 with two close regulation losses to two teams that were due for good efforts to refocus from recent struggles.

The loss drops the Isles back into the wild card spot, just one point ahead of Philadelphia — but of course the entire Metro and East is tight, so this will be a see-saw all season as long as the Isles hang in.

Happy Thanksgiving, everybody! See you on the other side.

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/game-recaps/43361/bruins-vs-islanders-swayman-barzal

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders vs. Flyers game thread

Sorry for the late posting, thought I’d get back in time for this early start time to get a gameday post up.

Alas, David Rittich and the Islanders also got off to a late start…

First Islanders Goal picks go here.

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/game-threads/43367/islanders-vs-flyers-game-thread

 

[New York Islanders]

Weird Islanders: The Podcast! – Episode 75 – The Last Days of Bedlam Special (with guest Pinholes Graham)

Mike and Dan welcome back YouTube hockey documentarian Pinholes Graham to discuss his great film on the 2006-07 Islanders season, The Last Days of Bedlam.

The 2006-07 Islanders defy belief. From shocking front office upheaval to a roster of mostly mercenaries to two surprise trades to a heroic performance by a relative nobody, that squad had more drama than most teams see in decades. The Last Days of Bedlam explores that season as well as its previous context and the cascade of emotions Islanders fans went through game-after-game, month-after-month and even after the season was over.

Together with Pinholes, we get his takes on some Weird Islanders we’ve spotlighted from that season before, like Ryan Smyth, Marc-Andre Bergeron, Deron Quint and Wade Dubielewicz. But we also dive into some short-timers that haven’t come up yet, like goalie Mike Dunham (who still gives Dan PTSD) and defenseman Sean Hill, who was hit with one of the most bizarre and bizarrely-timed suspensions in NHL history.

Stay tuned to the end for a special bonus excerpt from an upcoming episode of Weird Islanders: The Podcast! about another member of this team that we’ve been waiting to feature in his own episode since Season 1. And subscribe to our Patreon for mounds of additional bonus material from this episode including two extra conversations with Pinholes about “regular” Islanders that came up in the film, as well as four (4) related Season 1 Weird Islanders: The Podcast! episodes that are being presented to Patrons commercial free for the first time.

We thank Pinholes for not only coming on with us again but for giving all Islanders fans the great gift of The Last Days of Bedlam. We both excitedly recommend watching it before you listen to this podcast, if you haven’t seen it already. Or better still, watch it again and tell all your friends to watch it. More people need to experience the insanity and ecstasy of the 2006-07 Islanders season and this documentary displays that in a way no one ever has before.

WEIRD BONUS MATERIAL

• None. Just watch The Last Days of Bedlam and the rest of Pinholes’ documentaries at his YouTube channel.

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What makes a “Weird Islander?”

We’re always open to suggestions about other Weird Islanders to discuss. Remember the criteria. Candidates must fulfill one of the two of the following:

• Played one (1) season or less for the Islanders or very short stints over multiple seasons.
• Be a veteran NHLer who is not generally associated with his time on Islanders.

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Visit our friends!

• Vintage Ice Hockey for t-shirts, hoodies and jerseys featuring hundreds of classic hockey logos, as well as Islanders Anxiety merch, and our Al Arbour and The Island shirts. Our portion of the sales benefit the Center for Dementia Research. Use the code ANXIETY20 to save 20% off an order of two items.
• The Pinot Project has Rosé, Pinot Grigio and a Pinot Noir that was named a 2024 Top 100 Best Buy by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. All are under $15 a bottle and are available at local wine shops and at UBS Arena.
• Islanders Anxiety podcasts are part of the Fans First Sports Network (@FansFirstSN).
• Theme song: “Knuckles” by Björn Falk. Hear more of his music on Spotify and at Bandcamp.
• Drum sfx via Zapsplat.com. Jingle bell sfx also via ZapSplat.

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Please subscribe, download, rate, review or spread the word about Islanders Anxiety, Weird Islanders: The Podcast! and all of our podcasts any way you can. All of it helps to raise the show’s profile and maybe could get us another fancy sponsor to sell out to in the near future. Leave us a five star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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• And everywhere podcasts are found

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/ny...holes-graham-ryan-smyth-mike-dunham-sean-hill

 

[New York Islanders]

Kyle Palmieri lost for season with ACL injury

The worst-case scenario has come true after Kyle Palmieri limped off the ice — while assisting on a goal! — during the Islanders’ shootout loss to the Flyers on Friday. The winger tore his ACL requiring surgery, meaning he’s out for six to eight months.

That puts him out for the regular season and it would take a double-miracle scenario (long playoff run, faster healing) to see him again in 2025-26. At age 34 he was having a standard Palmieri season — six goals and 18 points through 25 games through some streaky runs and dry spells, and adapting each time Patrick Roy mixed up lines.

The last we’ll see of him for quite some time is a memorable one:

Palms hurt, but makes heads up play on unsuspecting Flyer. Heineman scores his 10th pic.twitter.com/fr8ZnsTe4J

— YESUV (@IslesWhiteSUV) November 28, 2025

#Isles Anders Lee on Kyle Palmieri: "He's one of the toughest players I've played with. There was a gutsy play by him to battle through that pain. He didn't just take the puck. He got it and had some poise with it, too. I'm very impressed with Palms."

— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) November 29, 2025

For the Isles, that’s two primary if not top-role players now out for the season in Palmieri and defenseman Alex Romanov. (Pierre Engvall is also out for the year, though his season never really started and it didn’t seem he was in primary plans.)

This will test their depth and deployment, as they likely slot a left-shooter in on the right side and also have J-G Pageau out week to week.

Even before Palmieri’s injury, Kyle MacLean was back in the lineup Friday in favor of the scratched Max Tsyplakov, who continues to struggle to gain footing. Max Shabanov took a maintenance day Saturday (so did Mat Barzal), so his health bears monitoring. In the prospect pipeline, Calum Ritchie has already been called up and looks to be a fixture, previously pushing MacLean from the lineup.

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is.../43375/kyle-palmieri-injury-acl-season-ending

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders Matinee News: Capitals visit as homestand gets dicey

The Islanders close November on Sunday afternoon by starting a new chapter in their 2025-26 story: life without Kyle Palmieri. The winger’s ACL surgery (following a heroic exit) is the latest season-ending injury for a roster that has proven better than many thought — thank you, Matthew Schaefer! — but still tested in the depth department.

The 1 p.m. faceoff today offer the latest chance to get this homestand back on track. They followed the 6-1 road trip with 1-2-1 start to this homestand, and after the Capitals visit this afternoon, the red-hot Lightning and juggernaut Avalanche follow. So this homestand could get messy in a hurry, though admittedly we said the same thing when they headed out west and returned with 12 additional points.

In the ever-tight Eastern standings, the Islanders are no longer in a playoff or wild card position, though that could change today as the Capitals (Wild Card 1) are one point ahead of them and the Penguins are level on points.

First Islanders Goal picks for today go here.

Islanders News​

• So yes, the news was as bad as it looked: Kyle Palmieri tore his ACL, requires surgery, will be out 6-8 months, and will have to recover and restore his mobility to top-league-in-the-world level at age 35 (February birthday). [LHH | Isles]
• Newsday Insider: on Palmieri and where the Isles go from here.
• Also from Andrew Gross, on the Isles’ turnaround (asterisk needed!) and Patrick Roy’s communication skills. [Newsday]
• Mat Barzal and Max Shabanov had maintenance days yesterday. We need all the health and speed those guys can muster. [Isles]
• Mathieu Darche’s media availability didn’t offer a whole lot new, though he did say Schaefer is so, SO not available for the WJC. Olympics? Sure, we’d allow that. [Isles | Newsday]
• The Capitals of course have Anthony Beauvillier, who wears the #71 taken from him by #LousRules in the name of culture. He’s been connecting with Alex Ovechkin, most recently to do Bossy’s work in beating the Leafs.

Elsewhere​

Saturday’s scores featured 11 games, including the Leafs destroying the waddling Penguins and old friend Brock Nelson notching four points as the Nordique-clad Avalanche won in Montreal.

• An interesting look at the effect of the butterfly motion on goalie health, with poster child Matt Murray. [NHL]
• Sartorial news: The Stars unveil a quasi-1999 retro with a trolling cameo by Brett Hull. [NHL]
• Update your fantasies: Logan Cooley exits game with a knee injury. [TSN]
• Update your fantasies: Ducks goalie hero Lukas Dostal will miss two to three weeks. [TSN]
• Adam Fox — who was injured yesterday — talks about ALS and his father-in-law. [NHL]
• “With iconic photos” Mark Messier will showcase the — aww, hell, who gives a shit? Seriously. [NHL]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is...90/islanders-vs-capitals-news-palmieri-injury

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders News: Capped; Malakhov on the Max’s

The Islanders took another regulation loss because this sport is alternately frustrating and fun in the “on any given Sunday afternoon…” kind of way.

It was funny to hear the coaches in post-game because Washington’s Spencer Carbery was basically, “Eh, well, we were OK” and “we [were fortunate to get] a 2-0 lead and were able to protect it,” while Patrick Roy was basically, “we did everything right, [our standard was to win, but sometimes you play the way you should and still don’t get it]” or thereabouts.

By rights and hockey karma and all that, the Isles should pull off something from one of the final two home games against the Avalanche or Lightning, even though the {THIS PARAGRAPH SPONSORED BY OUR OFFICIAL GAMBLING RING PARTNER} odds don’t favor it.

Islanders News​

• This was fun though: Vladimir Malakhov on Max Shabanov, Max Tsyplakov, their adjustment, his role with the Isles, deciding not to coach, and the different vibe under Darche vs. Lamoriello. [RG]
• Speaking of Shabanov, Patrick Roy is optimistic he’ll seize an opportunity with Kyle Palmieri lost for the season. [Isles]
• About last night: the previously linked recap with coach quotes. [NHL] Lamenting another close but not close enough. [LHH] Gross: This shows they’ll need injury reinforcements. [Newsday] “Meagerly” and “plummets” says the Post ragebait headline writer [Post]
• The Skinny: 68 of Alex Ovechkin’s 909 regular season goals have been into empty nets. Also: “The Isles outshot the Caps 31-18 and have a 172-94 advantage over the last five games; however, they have been outscored 12-6 in those games.” [Isles]
• Takeaways: a little of this and that. [Isles]
• In case you missed it, Marc Gatcomb was recalled, so figure he’ll get another look or even run in the lineup soon, though he wasn’t in Sunday. [Isles]

Elsewhere​

Only four games yesterday, including the Senators getting torched by the Stars, and the Hurricanes getting past Calgary 1-0 in overtime.

• Adam Fox is going to miss some time. [NHL | ESPN]
• Meanwhile, the Smurfs’ performance at home has been “unacceptable.” Au contraire, I very much accept it. [AP]
• Martin Brodeur and Bill Guerin discuss Canada and USA’s goaltending situations, respectively. [NHL]
• Clayton Keller’s dad passed unexpectedly on Thanksgiving, but he wanted to stay with the Mammoth on their road trip, which included a visit to his hometown (St. Louis), where tribute was paid to his hockey dad. [AP]
• After three games in the AHL with an .839, the reinstated Carter Hart is expected to debut for Vegas. [TSN]
• Logan Cooley avoids serious injury after a knee-to-thigh hit. [Sportsnet]
• Ah, but there is a different Cooley making a name for himself in an otherwise lost season in Calgary. [Sportsnet]
• There’s “no Plan B” if the Olympic hockey facility isn’t finished on time. I, for one, would never doubt the Italians’ ability to complete infrastructure projects. [AP]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is...405/islanders-news-capitals-malakhov-shabanov

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders Anxiety – Episode 349 – Lucy and the Football

Mike and Dan recap a frustrating run of home games that have the Islanders losing all of the ground they picked up on their successful recent road trip.

With losses to the Bruins, Flyers (via shootout) and Capitals, the Islanders continue to struggle at UBS Arena, which is making fans annoyed. They also have to now deal with losing Kyle Palmieri for the rest of the season following an ACL injury. Palmieri was a key player and point producer and without him, there is both concern and opportunity for others to step up. So far, no one has and games like Sunday’s, where Washington simply bullied the Islanders and prized rookie Matthew Schaefer, could become more commonplace. This season went from no expectations to playoff dreams to gloomy catastrophe, and we’re only a quarter of the way through.

In the second half, we look at an upcoming schedule that sees the Islanders playing the last five Stanley Cup champions all in a row. This stretch could sink them for good, but we said that before the 6-1 roadtrip, too. So you never know. We also check in broadcast partner MSG Networks to list the many good and few frustrating things about the way the games and the Islanders are presented. Overall, we’re lucky to have a top notch broadcast. But there’s a disconnect between the games we’re watching and what we’re being told.

REFERENCES

• None

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PLUGS!​

• Vintage Ice Hockey for t-shirts, hoodies and jerseys with hundreds of classic hockey logos, as well as the full line of Islanders Anxiety merch. As always our portion of those sales go directly to the Center for Dementia Research.
• The Pinot Project has a Rosé, a Pinot Grigio and a Wine Enthusiast Best Buy Pinot Noir, all under $15 a bottle. Available at local wine stores and UBS Arena.
• Visit Lighthousehockey.com for the most up-to-date Islanders news and discussion.
• Islanders Anxiety podcasts are part of the Fans First Sports Network (@FansFirstSN).

Theme song: “Morning Haze” by Family Dinner. Hear more of their music on Spotify.

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Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is...the-football-palmieri-acl-injury-msg-networks

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders Gameday: Lightning will strike

The Islanders face some big tests ahead with two games against the Lightning and one each against the Avalanche and Panthers over the next week. It all starts tonight with Game 6 of this homestand, as the Tampa Bay Lightning pay their disrespects.

First Islanders Goal picks go here.

Islanders News​

• “You can’t keep doing this to people.” Dan and Mike on the Islanders failing to deliver at home, where the prices and the parking are exorbitant and the organization promotes “the One Tree Hill guy is here.” [Islanders Anxiety]
• Prospect Report: Big nights for Cole Eiserman, Kashawn Aitcheson and Jacob Kvasnicka. [Isles]
• Two of those guys are among the three Isles prospects named to USA’s preliminary WJC roster. [THN]
• Eiserman believes he was “put on this earth to be a hockey player.” [Newsday]
• It’s not just these next two games, it’s not just these next four games, the first two weeks and seven games in December present an enormous challenge. [Newsday]
• Share your personal data for Emil Heineman trivia. [Isles]
• In praise of Kyle Palmieri’s heroic “hockey guy” exit. [ESPN]

Elsewhere​

Five games in the NHL on Monday, including the Penguins thumping the Flyers and the Blue Jackets coming back on the Devils.

• The Devils and Blue Jackets had four fights and lots of other chaos in an eventful game. [Sportsnet]
• Peter DeBoer says the Olympic rink in Italy is even smaller than NHL standards. (Also, he can’t wait to throw Jake Oettinger under an Italian bus, probably.) [Sportsnet]
• The Canucks keep losing centers and Brock Boeser has played with five of them. [Sportsnet]
• The Adam Fox injury news is vague but ominous. [NHL]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is...islanders-vs-lightning-news-palmieri-eiserman

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders 2, Lightning 1: Relief, and end to Tampa’s streak

The Islanders got the much-needed go-ahead goals and timely saves that had eluded them on this homestand and were rewarded with a 2-1 victory that ended the Tampa Bay Lightning’s seven-game win streak.

The the Lightning were without Victor Hedman — which has hardly slowed them the past 10 games — the Islanders’ post-Palmieri and sans-Pageau lineup started to settle in for a nicely disciplined but hair-raising finish as the Lightning repeatedly threatened with a sixth attacker.

Ilya Sorokin made 27 saves including several at 6-on-5, and he was aided by blocks from Ryan Pulock, Simon Holmstrom and a host of others as time wound down. Three unconverted looks at the empty net did not end up haunting the Isles, who ended a three-game winless slide to go 2-3-1 on this homestand with one more to go.

[NHL Gamecenter | Game Summary | Event Summary | Natural Stat Trick]

Of course, like just about every game on this homestand and indeed the road trip before it, it could’ve gone differently. The Lightning came out ready to strike {sorry} with several golden chances in the opening. But the Islanders settled things down and ended up getting some great chances of their own in what ended up as a scoreless first period.

Bo Horvat’s goal in the first minute of the second period hinted that maybe finally the pendulum of luck was going to swing back their way. When Calum Ritchie made a nifty short pass in the slot to Anthony Duclair (on a sequence Duclair started with a takeaway) for Duclair’s fourth goal and a 2-0 lead, the possibility of a win cracked open.

Sorokin was great all night except for the goal he allowed with 3:34 left, a bad-angle shot that bounced in off his side through the only gap available.

That left the final stretch, which was nerve-wracking — especially after the Isles missed their shots at the empty net — but in the end they got the regulation win they needed to feel like all this “played well enough” will occasionally pay off.

Other than a redirection stop as they clung to a one-goal lead, Sorokin’s best stop may have been with about seven minutes left in the second period. The Islanders had a nice push started by a Duclair interception, but then they got caught in a bad change that enabled an uncontested break-in for Anthony Cirelli. The Lightning forward made a a great couple of moves, but Sorokin stretched in an abdominals-defying way to make the pad save.

Huge save by Ilya Sorokin holding the #Isles 1-0 lead.

He's been sharp tonight. pic.twitter.com/nberYGP2ro

— Isles Den (@IslesDen) December 3, 2025

Other notes​

• We are so lucky to have recent and cerebral Islanders Thomas Hickey and Cal Clutterbuck on the broadcast. Their observations and awareness of what these players are thinking in critical situations is refreshing. The Tampa timeout with the goalie pulled allowed them time to go through scenarios and mindsets for both squads.
• Tony D’Angelo took a regular shift after being an illness worry at the morning skate. He looked like himself.
• Travis Mitchell (19 shifts) and Max Tsyplakov (12) were sheltered a bit in their positions but were often part of getting play pointed the right way.
• Max Shabanov, who assisted on Horvat’s opening goal, continued to look more comfortable overall and insightful with the puck.
• The Lightning featured Charle-Edouard D’Astous (whose name on the play-by-play call sounds jarringly like “Datsyuk”) in his first NHL season after years in the minors (presumably held back by the NHL’s hyphen-or-apostrophe-but-not-both rule) and being named defenseman of the year in four different pro leagues. He was active, seems like he may stay awhile.

Up Next​

The homestand concludes with an even better opponent, as the Colorado Avalanche begin a road trip here Thursday in Brock Nelson’s return. They had one regulation loss heading into tonight’s contest with the Canucks.

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/ga...-vs-lightning-sorokin-horvat-shabanov-ritchie

 

[New York Islanders]

Capitals 4 (2EN), Islanders 1: Bad home cookin’

The New York Islanders’ seven-game homestand got evermore frustrating Sunday afternoon as they dropped their third in regulation and fourth loss overall through five tries.

Falling to the Capitals 4-1 (with two empty netters), the Islanders couldn’t convert their chances early, then couldn’t get a toehold late after Tom Not That Kind of Player Wilson spotted the Capitals a 2-0 lead with the help of a Ilya Sorokin puckhandling gaffe.

Like a few of the losses in this stretch, it wasn’t an awful performance, and in fact they felt they were doing a lot of the things that got them success out west, but the finish, the timely conversions and saves were not in their column.

[NHL Gamecenter | Game Summary | Event Summary | Natural Stat Trick]

The Isles did get a power play goal but also conceded one, making special teams a wash. Bo Horvat pounced on a rebound to finally get the Isles back within one 6:17 to go in regulation.

But the Isles couldn’t get the next one with Sorokin pulled for a sixth attacker with over two minutes to go, enabling Aliaksei Protas and then Alex Ovechkin to ice the game with freebies.

#Isles insisting they are doing pretty much everything right except not scoring goals. Roy says he does not see top players pressing with injuries to lineup. Players say they have to trust the process and know wins are coming if they keep playing like this. 1-3-1 on homestand.

— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) November 30, 2025

True, they didn’t look quite like a team reeling from depth injuries with Kyle Palmieri, J-G Pageau and Alex Romanov out. But those absences will hurt at the margins in close games like this, with the Isles back to a makeshift fourth line just when they’d found a trio that was making some progress.

On that note, Marc Gatcomb was recalled from Bridgeport, though he didn’t get in the lineup today.

#Isles in warmups (Game No. 26 vs. #Caps)
Lee-Barzal-Drouin
Heineman-Horvat-Shabanov
Duclair-Ritchie-Holmstrom
MacLean-Cizikas-Tsyplakov
Schaefer-Pulock
Pelech-DeAngelo
Mitchell-Mayfield
Sorokin
Rittich

— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) November 30, 2025

Roy, in his words:

“Sometimes after games there’s nothing to be said. And I think today is an example. We did everything right. We had a lot of shots and we had a lot of chances. We just came up short. We could find excuses. I get it. I mean, the standard of our team is to win hockey games and do the right thing, but sometimes we just need to continue to play the way we are and believe that things will go our way.”

So will things go their way again if they keep at it? After the road trip that solidified their approach, we discussed how things will go up and down but if they keep it up they’ll at least keep things interesting. I suspect that’s where we are now. The East looks to be a traffic jam of teams in the bottom playoff spots, wild cards and wild card chasers, and this 1-3-1 rut has the Isles still just a sneeze away from wild card position.

Up Next​

To sound like a broken record: this homestand only gets harder, with visits from two of the league’s very hottest teams in the Lightning and Avalanche, followed by one of those back-to-back Florida tours.

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/game-recaps/43396/capitals-4-2en-islanders-1-bad-home-cookin

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders News: Just as we predicted…

I don’t care if Bettman’s blue,
Football’s dull and basketball too
Baseball, I don’t care about you
It’s hockey, I’m in love

Thursday night was crazy and fun and so modern-era Islanders. After struggling to score all homestand, they rang up goals against the top team in the league with everything from a Kyle MacLean goal that most expected to be overturned, to an Adam freaking Pelech goal, to a Mat Barzal backhand classic. They welcomed back a longtime Islander in style, and even Brock Nelson’s wife did a long intermission interview with Shannon Hogan, the four cute Nelson kids climbing around the intermission desk in Cal Clutterbuck’s stead.

Say what we will about the wisdom of keeping so many players together for so long, there’s something very old school and fun about it, as affirmed by Mrs. Nelson discussing how the players and eight or nine wives basically grew up together on the Island. As a bonus, we had Thomas Hickey and Clutterbuck on the broadcast sharing impressions of even-keel, do-anything Nelson that we all suspected but heard confirmed by his longtime teammates.

Lose to the Blues and Capitals, then salvage the homestand with wins over the Lightning and Avalanche? Sure, of course. For a transitional season where little is expected, this continues to be fun.

Islanders News​

• A most unexpected outcome, yet consistent with the season thus far… [LHH | Post | NHL]
• Brock on returning to the Island as a visitor: It’s weird. (You made the right choice though, Brock.) [Newsday]
• Here’s the video tribute, which MSG helpfully showed during the first period rather than going to commercial. It was good, but I was disappointed they didn’t show at least one clip of him getting under opponents’ skin while maintaining that classic Reverend stoneface expression. [Isles]
• Yet more from Brock and his memories: “Opening night here, when UBS first opened up. First goal. A lot of different memories,” he said. “Beau’s goal back in the Coliseum against Tampa. Bails’ OT goal [against Pittsburgh in 2018]. There’s a number of different moments and times that stick out.” [Post]
• Definitely helping matters is that Adam Pelech and Ryan Pulock are showing flashes of their younger selves. Dare I say Pelech has looked like the cobra again. [Newsday]
• Mat Barzal alluded to this in post-game with Shannon Hogan, but this team believes in itself and feels like it can skate with anyone. That belief will make for entertaining efforts even when they fall short. [Newsday]
• More from Barzal: “It was the exact same as past games, just a matter of the puck going into the net.” [Isles video]
• Takeaways: Jonathan Drouin was a late scratch due to his back. (That afforded Max Tsyplakov a little more TOI, and I though he did well. Haven’t given up on him yet.) [Isles]

Elsewhere​

Ten games in the NHL Thursday night, with wins for the Bruins, Smurfs, Penguins, among others. All those teams and the Isles have 32 or 33 points.

• Bourne: Is this Auston Matthews’ decline? [Sportsnet]
• Meanwhile, another Joseph Woll injury for the Leafs? [Sportsnet]
• File under Unexpected: Ryan McDonagh gets a three-year, $12.3M extension from the Lightning at age 36. [TSN]
• Legendary former Islanders assistant coach Scott Gomez, who also had a career as a player, reflects on being inducted into the U.S. Hall. [NHL]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is.../islanders-news-barzal-brock-nelson-avalanche

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders 6 (EN), Avalanche 3: Giant killers

Brock Nelson’s return was an emotional affair, and you can tell just how much the long-time Islander meant to his teammates, the organization, and of course, the fans. That guy was part of some of the best moments of my Islanders fandom, and even though it was definitely the right move to trade him, it still stings to not see him in the blue and orange.

But the New York Islanders channeled that emotion into a strong performance, making the best team in the NHL look mortal and handing them just their second regulation loss, their first since October 25th (!!!) and their first one by multiple goals.

With Jonathan Drouin day-to-day, Max Tsyplakov moved up to play with Mat Barzal and Anders Lee, and Marc Gatcomb got into the lineup for his second game this season. That lineup change seemed to bring out the best in the fourth line, who brought the right energy early and picked up the opening and empty net goals.

Barzal put up a three point night with a goal and two assists, including the critical fifth goal that gave the Isles some breathing room as the Colorado Avalanche attempted a comeback after going down 4-0.

Matthew Schaefer drew multiple penalties, increasing his penalty differential lead, and became one of the fastest teenage defensemen (in strong company) to pick up 20 points. That kid is truly something special.

This team might be the most confusing one in the NHL, but when things click, they can hang with (and beat) anyone.

[NHL Gamecenter | Game Summary | Event Summary | Natural Stat Trick]

First Period​

Kyle MacLean put the Islanders on the board early, finding the puck after a scramble in Mackenzie Blackwood’s crease after a Ryan Pulock blast. The Avalanche challenged the goal, but it was ruled a good one, despite the fact that Marc Gatcomb’s stick was caught in Blackwood’s pad. The Isles got a power play after the failed challenge, but couldn’t take advantage of that.

View Link

Mat Barzal got an incredible pass through to Anthony Duclair, but it was stopped by Blackwood. Then, Matthew Schaefer got a step on Martin Necas and drew a holding penalty, but the Isles couldn’t convert.

Ilya Sorokin was huge when needed, making some big saves, notably on Joel Kiviranta, to keep the score 1-0.

And then, to bookend the period, late in the first, Mat Barzal set up Anders Lee short side to double the lead.

View Link

Second Period​

Schaefer drew another penalty, but it was counteracted early by a terrible call on Barzal, giving us some 4 on 4 hockey. The Isles also killed off the remainder of the Avalanche’s power play.

Then, Bo Horvat made it 3-0, with Schaefer picking up an assist, giving him 20 points in 28 games.

View Link

And shortly after, Adam Pelech broke his 115 game scoreless streak and made it 4-0.

View Link

Then, the Avalanche scored two quickly, with Nichushkin and Necas making 4-2. Necas’ goal bounced off Travis Mitchell’s skate and in.

Cale Makar took a late penalty, and Barzal took advantage on the power play with a great move through traffic to make it 5-2.

View Link

Third Period​

Artturi Lehkonen cut the lead to 5-3 early in the third.

Anders Lee’s backhand went high, and then Schaefer took a delay of game penalty, which the Isles killed.

The Avs pulled Blackwood with about three and a half minutes left, and Scott Mayfield took a tripping penalty, setting up a 6 on 4 for Colorado.

Cizikas scored into the empty net, making it 6-3 and sealing the win for the Islanders with a standing ovation from the crowd.

View Link

Up Next​

Next, the Islanders head to Florida to take on the Tampa Bay Lightning, who they hosted just two nights ago at UBS Arena, and beat 2-1. It’ll also be the beginning of the annual dads and mentors trip, which should hopefully give the Isles that extra spring in their step.

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/ga...s-vs-avalanche-barzal-pelech-sorokin-schaefer

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders vs. Lightning Gameday: Swinging through Florida

After knocking off the top team from each conference to conclude their homestand, the Islanders now do a traveling back-to-back through Florida with start times 22 hours apart for some reason.

As they continue to defy expectations at each turn, your mileage may vary on whether this weekend will be a “thought they’d get stomped but stole points” or “thought they had proven something, what a disappointment” kind of experience.

Things start in Tampa with their second of three meetings with the Lightning in 11 days.

First Islanders Goal picks go here.

Islanders News​

The injuries up front have created some opportunities, including Max Tsyplakov putting together a couple of good games in two different roles. Meanwhile, Travis Mitchell seems to be preferred over Adam Boqvist on the left side of the third pair for now. More reps available with 120 minutes or so to dole out over the next 24 hours.

• Previewing tonight: Jonathan Drouin is traveling with the team but still “day to day.” J-G Pageau is also traveling with the team but won’t play on this trip. [Isles]
• Musing with centers Bo Horvat, Mat Barzal, Cal Ritchie, what if the Isles still had Brock Nelson? [Newsday]
• Islanders thrown into the trade rumor “watch” because of their injuries, though no smoke there. [Sportsnet]
• It’s the Dads Trip! Here are photos of the Isles with their pops (or in some cases, brothers, or in other cases Scott Mayfield’s guest Kyle Dubas). [Isles]

The #Isles and their Dads and Mentors are headed to Tampa! pic.twitter.com/wHbqrcEu0i

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) December 5, 2025

Elsewhere​

Twelve games tonight, just five scores last night — including the Devils being shutout at home by Vegas.

• Ryan Leonard is out after what was deemed a legal hit by Jacob Trouba. [Sportsnet]
• Joseph Woll is back on IR…should the Leafs trade for a goalie answer? [Sportsnet]
• Charlie McAvoy is recovering from his broken jaw. [NHL]
• Never-Isles-GM Ken Holland gives Jim Hiller the ol’ vote of confidence in L.A. [TSN]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is...vs-lightning-gameday-swinging-through-florida

 

[New York Islanders]

Islanders Gameday News: Brock’s return

The long homestand concludes tonight with Brock Nelson in the building in his new threads (shame they’re not the Nordique ones, we could have given ourselves Ron Hextall or Scott Gordon nostalgia), with his new mates who’ve still lost only once in regulation. Tear up for the tribute video? Brock wouldn’t have you do that, probably — at least not outside of Brocktober.

The man, The Reverend, who we watched grow up and go gray on the Island had 604 points in 946 regular season games as an Islander. He now has 30 points in 45 regular season games (including post-trade last season) and counting with the Avalanche, where he’s fitting in and delivering exactly what they sought.

First Islanders Goal picks go here.

Islanders News​

• Inside Matthew Schafer’s bond with Nick and Marcus Foligno, who also lost their mom to cancer. [Athletic]
• Can he earn an Olympic spot? Jon Cooper was asked. [Newsday | Post]
• The Islanders and Hofstra announce a probably overdue partnership, including “preferred” pricing at “select games” for students, faculty and staff. [Isles | Newsday]
• Not pretty nor emphatic but “Our fans deserved the win.” [Newsday | Post | LHH]
• The Skinny: “The Isles allowed 30 shots on goal for the first time in nine games,” and they are 9-2-3 in games decided by a single goal including 5-2 in regulation [Isles]
• Andrew Gross on this tough stretch of the schedule, and talking with the in-and-out Adam Boqvist. [Island Ice podcast on SoundCloud]
• It’s time for the WAGs to go Christmas shopping for kids. [Isles]

On the Island, Episode 3:

Elsewhere​

Last night’s scores include the Capitals and Flyers picking up wins, damn it.

• Former Whaler (among others) Kevin Dineen reveals he has pancreatic cancer. [ESPN]
• Tyler Seguin is likely out for the season with an ACL injury. Man, he and Taylor Hall have not aged as well as that kid who didn’t win the Calder. [NHL]
• The Flyers will be without Tyson Foerster for 2-3 months. [NHL]
• “On pace for a six-point season…” Trent Frederic is trying rebuild trust after the Oilers signed him to a puzzling eight-year contract. [Sportsnet]
• Catching up with Andrei Markov, who’s getting honored by the Canadiens after being frozen out by Marc Bergevin. [NHL]
• More on that: “If Canadiens owner Geoff Molson didn’t feel good about [Bergevin freezing Markov] then, he had to have felt horrible months later — after 39-year-old Mark Streit was signed for pennies on the dollar to end up dressing for only two games before having his contract torn up.” [Sportsnet]
• The Leafs tried a five-forward power play unit, not sure if they’ll try it again. [TSN]
• Sharks top pick Michael Misa will go to the AHL on a post-injury conditioning stint. [Sportsnet]
• Bourne: Do the Canadian teams stink this year, or are some just in injury funks? [Sportsnet]
• Mikko Rantanen has learned from his double-trade UFA season (but maybe not from his double misconduct this season?), but the thing I learned is Rantanen’s girlfriend is named Susanna Ranta. (There are other sounds in that language, aren’t there?) [ESPN]

Source: https://www.lighthousehockey.com/is...417/islanders-vs-avalanche-news-brocks-nelson