Islander preseason hockey is well underway as the team split its first two contests. The Isles returned "home" to the newly painted Nassau Coliseum and in front of a sellout crowd, defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 3-2 in overtime. Last night the team was at Madison Square Garden where they lost 1-0 to the Rangers in overtime, in a penalty filled game that was completely unwatchable thanks to the league's new slashing policy.
What do we take from the first two games? I always say, the most important thing is playing these games injury free, that is the most important part of the preseason. It really is hard to gauge a game that is half AHL rosters.
With that being said their are some positives through two games. The two NHL lines really stood out on Sunday afternoon. Jordan Eberle looked great with Anders Lee and John Tavares as Tavares potted two including the OT winner. I also liked Mathew Barzal as he centered Josh Bailey and Andrew Ladd. Last night was hard to really break down when their were more than 20 minor penalties in the game. Jaro Halak was solid and Eamon McAdam was sharp as well. I thought dman Devon Toews and Parker Wotherspoon played solid games. Last night was just a mess because of the way it was officiated as Brock Nelson had a goal disallowed as the far ref blew the play dead to hand out minor penalties.
I will say this about the new league crack down on slashing, some good will come out of it after the players adjust to it. It will force the defenders to keep their feet moving and that can't just lazily slash away at an opponent.
The Isles preseason continues Wednesday as the team plays two games against the Flyers. It will be interesting to see how Head Coach Doug Weight manages the rosters for both contests.
A quick reminder that we are exactly one week away from our live 100th episode podcast which will be at Offsides Tavern in Chelsea one week from tonight. Scheduled to appear is Isles play by play man Brendan Burke and NHL fantasy guru Pete Jensen. I hope to see you all there.
New York Islanders Blogger • 
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