In the first period, the Islanders played well, but seemed to misfire while they attack the Devils trap. At times, they chase the puck and looked unable to settle down. Aaron Ness, Nino Niederreiter and Travis Hamonic look strong so far in the game. Just when it looked like things might not be going so well, Michael Grabner makes a beautiful play to Kyle Okposo who rushes in for a nice goal past Hedberg. To make things even better, Nielsen to Moulson, then a beautiful cross crease dish to a wide open Mark Streit, 2-0 Islanders. Montoya playing well, but has been lucky as well with a post and defensive clears on some rebounds, until the Devils get on the board towards the end of the period. 2-1, Isles.
As the second period begins, Frans Nielsen and J.T. team up for a nice goal in front of Hedberg, 3-1 Isles. That’s 3 goals on 8 shots so far. Power Play much better with the “regulars.” Half way through the second, Kevin Poulin takes over the Isles net. The Devils turn up the pressure on the “fresh” goaltender, Isles resilient as a team thus far. Streit to Staios for the goal to make the score 4-1. Matt Martin leaves the ice after Jansens hit. Gillies answers the hit with some of his own on Jansen. Isles have the momentum now and are turning up the pressure. Devils reeling. After a close breakaway from Grabner, Moulson breaks in to make it 5-1. Matt Martin has returned as Devils make it 5-2.
Streit with 3 points (1g, 2a), Nielsen and Moulson each with 2 points (1g, 1a) so far.
Epic battle, round 2 from Gillies and Jansen. Gillies is a monster. Third PP goal from Matt Moulson off aTravis Hamonic feed. 6-2 Islanders. Poulin looks comfortable and composed in net. Hedberg makes a couple of great saves to keep the score where it is, but it is too late. The pressure by the Isles is consistent straight through to the finish.
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The Islanders looked good in several areas of their game tonight. The top players are impressive tonight and the system in place looks great. Their aggressive fore-check and speed unravel the Devils trap. Their transition play and special teams were much better in this game, with more of the core group represented. Eight Islanders had at least one point and outshot the Devils 26-25.
Mark Streit showed why he was missed last year and revealed to any onlookers why he was chosen for captain. The Isles showed composure and kept out of the box, the opposite of what they did in game 1. Michael Grabner brought more of the speed he displayed all of last year. Tavares, Moulson, Neilsen were strong as well.
Montoya and Poulin were solid. I am as confident as I can be that the goaltending will not be a concern this season. Montoya was 8/9 and Poulin was 14/15
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