9-17-8 Home record for the Isles for the season. So bad, it actually is painfull. But they played well, those youngsters in Isles jerseys. But the Sharks were the better team. They should be. They have 95 points to the Isles 59. (Reversal of fortune?)
Johan Sondstrom played well, wearing # 28, he's learning and tonight was trial by fire with 10:28 ice time and one good shot on net. The Isles kept the other newbie back for now. Although Kevin Czuczman should be in the line-up pretty soon.
Anders Lee has been truly noticeable. Maybe because he keeps scoring. He had a goal and an assist in tonight's loss. Butch says he has a nose for the net, can we clone him if that's true?
The Isles managed 38 shots on Niemi while Nabby faced only 26, but try as the Isles may, they couldn't get that tying goal in the last 20 seconds to take the game to OT. It's okay, it was slated to be a learning experience to begin with. It was.
I'll say Matt Martin looked a little reserved tonight. Maybe that was just his natural reaction to being a -3. Okposo had two assists tonight, and he too was not happy. Even John Bailey added to his stats tonight with an assist.
This is such a different team without John Tavares and now without Grabner. But, as Jack said in his post game they gave a great effort against the Sharks. "They worked hard as a group."
He attributes playing in the AHL for Lee and Nelson's development and being ready to play in the NHL. Jack did say he was "surprised" at some of the "limited chances" the Isles have given up that have turned into goals.
I'd say that's a soft shot at Nabokov. Wouldn't you?
Ted Nolan and the Buffalo Sabres visit the Coliseum tomorrow. I am very curious to see how Ted is welcomed. It will be interesting to say the least.