And The Downward Slide Continues

Dropping their third straight game, the Islanders again let the contest slip through their hands in the third period. For another 40 minutes, the Islanders battled tough, killed a few key penalties and skated with angst. But for 40 minutes. 40 minutes. 40 minutes. 40 Minutes! That seems to be the maximum amount of the time the team can stomache on the ice.

Mike Sillinger, looking better than he had in his previous two games,scored his first goal since last February for the Islanders, a power play goal which tied the game. It was then spoiled by former Islander star Jason Blake, who scored the go ahead third goal in the third period. Blake, who tallied three points, was a big factor in the Leaf's victory over the Isles.

The Islanders will be on the road for their next three games, including another tough battle with the Fylers in Philly. The Islanders have lost both games this season versus Philly, and must pull a trick out of theier sleeves tonight in order to prevent a four game losing streak. Let's pray that maybe 40 minutes is enough tonight to pull out a victory, or that we might even see a 60 minute hockey game for the first time in 2 weeks, but don't count on it !

Toronto Preface

Big Mac and Co. take on the Leafs tonight in Toronto for the first time. A long rival, the Islanders and leafs have a bump and grind physical history dating back to the playoffs a few years back. Former Islander, Jason Blake, now playing for Toronto, will be on the radar screen for Islanders hitmen Tim Jackman and Nate Thompson. Also, the Islanders are most likely going to maximize Comeau and Bailey's ice time tonight, trying to use their youngstars to get the team rolling. Since the Islanders caught fire the past weeks ( 5 wins and 1 loss), they have slipped and lost three straight. Tonight, the Islanders will need to come out fierce, early, and set the tone of the game. Look for lots of physical play, carrying over from Saturday night's end of the game brawl that broke out. And that of which relased some of the frustration and anger in some players, especially MacDonald, he should be settled and nestle himself back into tip top form tonight.

A Weary Weak of Woes

The Islanders had a few major losses this week, both on and off the ice. Surrendering losses to Washington and Atlanta this week, it dropped the team into last place in the Atlantic East division. Also, they are now six points out from being in the top 8, whereas 2 weeks ago they were only one win away. Off the ice, the Islanders note that rookie sensation Kyle Okposo will be out for a month to six weeks, and top defensemen Radek Martinek reinjured his shoulder. Plus, the Islanders sent down struggling forward Jeff Tambelleni to Bridgeport, to help him find himself( only 2 points, b oth assists, in 20 plus games played) and reboot his confidence.

The Islanders did however welcome back Mike Sillinger, who ahd missed the first 25 games this season, nursing his hip injury he received last season. In addition, the Islanders called up Blake Comeau, the impressive rookie from late last season who spent the beginning of the 08-09 season in Bridgeport. Sillinger and Comeau were line mates during Silly's rehab start last week, and Gordon place3d them side by side for most of last night's collapase against Atlanta.

It seems as if the Islanders are looking tried and worn out, judging from their lack of back check, multiple icings and lazy peantlies taken in the offensive zone during the last three games. MacDonald also seems a bit frustrated and tiresome, and could use a few nights off to recharge. The Islanders have been giving key mintues to youngsters like Hillbert, Bailey and now Comeau and these fresh legs need to get going if the Islanders are to make a push in the next upcoming weeks.