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Welcome to the debut of the Sunday Afternoon Goalie, a weekly post of observations/predictions.
- With the win last night, the Islanders now have 39 points, four points behind, of all teams now, the Washington Capitals, for first, and four points ahead of the Carolina Hurricanes for last in the Metro. The Boston Bruins, who have the same amount of points as the Hurricanes and Philadelphia Flyers, would qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs under its flawed system if the season ended today. It’s time the league returns to the top eight format.
- John Tavares has replaced breaking his sticks with losing an edge. His wipeout led to an Anze Kopitar breakaway attempt. Thomas Greiss, who let in a couple of questionable goals last night, came up big when needed. He’s still a concern though.
- Calvin de Haan, who broke up the Kings rush in overtime which allowed the Jordan Eberle game winner, will be examined tomorrow. The only healthy defenseman who is not playing is Dennis Seidenberg, who would likely replace de Haan if he cannot go against the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday. I would recall Devon Toews from Bridgeport. Toews is fourth in the AHL defensemen scoring with 19 points. His game defensively has been sound. A point back of Toews is 2017 fifth-pick Sebastian Aho, who is enjoying a fine rookie season in the AHL. Garth Snow found a real gem in Aho.
- Steve Bernier did what was asked of him last night and that’s why he was called up. It was Bernier’s first game in the NHL since April 10, 2016. Expect him to remain in the lineup. I can see Alan Quine being waived by New Year’s.
-A weakness for the last few seasons has been winning face offs. The Islanders have turned it around of late. They are 13th in the league this month and have won 50% or better in their last four games.
-Ryan Pulock gets better with each game. Don’t expect him staying on the bottom pairing much longer.
-Anders Lee became the first Islander since Ziggy Palffy in 1997-96 to score 20 goals before Christmas. Palffy scored 48 that season. A feat Lee can easily attain. Lee would be the first Islander since Jason Blake in 2006-07 to score 40. John Tavares trails Lee by one goal for the team lead. Tavares, who traditionally heats up in the second half, is on pace for his first career 40-goal season. If both Lee and Tavares reach 40, it will be the first time that two Isles hit 40 since Derek King and Ray Ferraro both had exactly 40 in 1991-92.
-For those who have yet got on the Josh Bailey bandwagon, please stop rooting for the team.
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