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Radek Martinek: Reluctant 1st Star

March 6, 2013, 8:04 AM ET [382 Comments]
Dee Karl
New York Islanders Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
He is almost as soft spoken and difficult to interview as he was when he first arrived on the Islanders and the only word in English he knew well was "Stick."

Radek has a far better command of the English language now, but he's still a man of few words. He just wants to contribute to the team, and do it without fanfare.

While he was not only interviewed on the ice post game by MSG's Peter Ruttgaizer, he was also interviewed in the locker room by the throng of reporters that crowded the room. But if you weren't within three inches of him, you couldn't hear a word he said.

But that didn't matter. His rookie team mate Thomas Hickey (who also made the scoresheet with assists) said a mouthful about him when he was being interviewed by WRHU for their post game show. Hickey called him a true professional who works exceptionally hard every day. He is impressed with the way he cares for himself and his equipment and marvels at his work ethic. These were compliments of the highest caliber for a defenseman that has had his problems over the years.

But it was the shot from the point that brought him the spotlight. "I've seen him make that shot in practice a thousand times." Hickey said.

Jack Capuano knows well what Martinek can do with that shot when he has the opportunity. "He's got one of the hardest shots I've ever seen." Last night, Price didn't get to see it. It whizzed past him too quickly.

With Lubo out of the line-up for Thursday as well, "Marty" has another chance to use it. This time on the Rangers. A team he has faced numerous times.

Matt Martin scored his first power play goal by being at the right place at the right time. I asked him if he had practiced being on the power play. "No. But I've always been told to just be ready. Doug has always told me to always be ready."

Martin is taking that to heart. He has increased his strength and skating skills over the years. Even without his pads on, sitting in just his underarmor, he has the body of a Transformer.

While reporters were wraping up talking to Martin, Travis Hamonic was jokingly repeating over and over "Follow me on Twitter at @MattyMarts17." I caught him giving his toothless smile to his friend and team mate.

Jack Capuano had high praise for his energy line as well: Martin, Cizikas, and McDonald. They always come through for him and give the team the spark he looks for. Last night, they didn't disappoint. They rarely do.

Thursday's game is important on many levels. A division rivalry of epic proportions for two teams only two points apart. But it's also important for the guests of honor and the donation to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children the Islanders will be making from each ticket sold. (Charles Wang has committed to matching it as well.)

Katie Beers will be dropping the puck with John Walsh from America's Most Wanted. She has come a long way from the little girl trapped in a dungeon by a neighbor.

If you cannot make it to the game, I urge you to donate to the cause by texting your support. The number will be aired during the game and can be found on the Isles main website.









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