The Islanders continued their strong play by defeating the defending Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks by a score of 3-2 last night. Team USA snub Kyle Okposo continues to build on his breakout season scoring the overtime winner and adding an assist. There were times last night that Okposo was the best player on the ice and considering the names playing in last night’s game you can really appreciate the progress that he has made.
It seems that this snub has become a battle cry as the entire organization and fan base has rallied around Okposo. As Kyle was being interviewed after the game the crowd was loudly chanting “USA” and in modest fashion Kyle thanked everyone and said “you guys are giving me the chills.” The rants from Stan Fischler, Howie Rose and Butch Goring were all expected and hilarious but the most revealing quote came from normally reserved captain John Tavares. When asked about Kyle’s game winner Tavares said, “I don’t know if he thought the net was David Poile’s (Team USA General Manager) head and he was aiming for it.” Shocking stuff from Tavares.
I don’t want the Okposo storyline to take away from one of the most entertaining games of the year. I have said before if the Islanders leave everything on the table I can live with whatever result happens. I for one know that there is a mammoth hill to climb and I don’t expect the playoffs but this team is starting to settle down and show some signs of life.
All four lines played well last night but the third line despite not scoring, really stood out. Ryan Strome is coming. You can see the confidence building in his game and his chemistry with Nelson and Mcdonald is evident.
While this is only a three game winning streak, this is something tangible to build off of going into tomorrow’s night game against the Carolina Hurricanes. The organization clearly has rallied around Kyle Okposo and look as trivial as it may seem whatever keeps these points coming is a good thing. We all know that Okposo is a better player when he is angry. He goes to that place known as "beast mode." Let’s hope he is as mad as the hulk for the remainder of the season. An upgrade to "hulk mode" is what will be needed to make a run like last year.
If you were at the game last night or had tickets and couldn’t attend because of the weather you can redeem your tickets for another home game. As always for more on all things hockey please follow me on twitter and Instagram at @DanDanNoodles78.
New York Islanders Blogger • 
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