Isles Topple Devils 3-1
What a beginning to Kyle Okposo’s career.
The highly touted prospect of the New York Islanders scored his first NHL goal last night (the Game Winning goal, no less) and contributed an assist in the Islanders’ 3-1 win over the New Jersey Devils last night at the Prudential Center. The win broke New York’s losing streak at 6 games. Blake Comeau and Trent Hunter (empty netter) also contributed goals for the Islanders. Travis Zajac tallied for the Devils.
Okposo scored on a power play late in the 3rd period to put the Islanders ahead for good. He parked himself in the slot and eluded the penalty-killing Devils (exhibiting poise and better hockey sense than one might expect out of a rookie), then one-timed a Richard Park feed past New Jersey goaltender Martin Brodeur. His assist on Comeau’s goal also showed he has a willingness to work hard in the corners and behind the net and also possesses a soft pair of hands in terms of passing.
The rookie’s goal was not the only highlight of the night for New York , who have inexplicably dominated the Devils this season. Goaltender Wade Dubielewicz was once again solid in net. He turned back 34 shots and made an excellent save on a partial breakaway by New Jersey’s John Madden.
The game featured three fights, two of which were won handily by the Devils. The Isles’ Matthew Spiller was decked by a thunderous blow from New Jersey’s Arron Asham. Rod Pelley dropped the much larger Josef Vasicek with a flurry of punches at the end of the game. Still, Islander fans must have appreciated the fire and passion that was demonstrated by their team. Those attributes were noticeably absent during the losing streak.
Coach Ted Nolan criticized his team earlier in the week for their collective lack of effort and put them through a series of torturous workouts to punish them. If last night’s game is any indication, the Coach’s message has been received loud and clear.
Author Bio
Frank has been a fan of the New York Islanders since seeing his first hockey game way back in 1977.
He reveled in the success of the Dynasty years and endured the time the team has spent in the basement of the league.
He also covers the Isles and New York Jets for www.sportstalkbuzz.com and writes a regular fantasy hockey column for www.rotoexperts.com.
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