What new in Islanders Country? Plenty, but none of it good. First off DP’s getting ANOTHER doctor’s opinion on his knee. The $67 Million Dollar Man has started just 5 games for us this season.
Next, one of the few bright spots this season – the emergence of Joey MacDonald as a solid netminder, hit a snag as Joey Mac was hurt just 6 minutes into last night’s game with the Rangers. There are rumors of the Isles talking to Doobie (who’s playing in Russia) about bringing him back.
And finally, another loss. To the Rangers, no less. After leading 1-0 after one period, two quick Ranger goals in the second doomed the Isles. Officially the NHL’s worst team, the Isles have just two wins since November 29th. Tavares or bust.
The Islanders who lost to the Devils in overtime last night are not the same team that beat their Jersey foes five times in a row to start the season and six of their seven previous contests. No, this was a team featuring the names Brennan, Spiller, Keith, Davison and Okposo. These guys – maybe the new Isles regime, and maybe not – fought hard against a Devils team trying to clinch their own playoff berth. No one fought harder than goaltender Joey MacDonald who stopped 45 shots and I think that was in the third period alone. At least it felt like it.
As down as this team is right now, and believe me, they qualify as down since they have lost 14 of their last 18, but as down as they are they don’t play like they are down. And that is largely a credit to Coach Ted who always has his guys ready, and the youth movement brought in by Nolan and GM Garth Snow. These kids are hungry. They play that way. No one wants to go back to Bridgeport and I say that as someone who has friends from that town.
So, the scoreboard showed another loss last night but I have to say that if the Isles have to go down, this is the way to do it. Go down swinging everytime. Don’t leave anything in reserve. Empty the clip.
Just two games to go, both against the Rangers who are fighting for a better seed in the postseason. I think the Isles will manage to take one. Sure hope so. After this season, they and their fans deserve it.
