Andy Hilbert, Trent Hunter, Doug Weight, Chris Campoli….

Come on down! You are the next contestants in the Islanders wheel of lineups!

Glad to see you back!

With the 5+ days to rest and relax, the boys should get back to practice today, ready to hit the ground running to their next game, Thursday in Atlanta. The Isles need to get this win to avoid the shutout from the Thrashers. Atlanta has played a bit better, since the announcement of Ilya Kovalchuk as the newest captain (a ploy to keep him there, in my opinion). Having Dougie and the other three back in the lineup will be a help.

Trent Hunter – who hasnt scored in 15 – needs some confidence. This opening game should be the conduit to get him going. I would be interested to see how Kyle Okposo, who was blue flame hot before the break, will come out in his first few games back. I can understand how he was not at the ‘young stars’ game (strictly on stats – he would not). But if he continues his hot recent past, it could spring him to consideration for the Calder.

There was some discussion on some of the boards concerning Josh Bailey, and can you send him to Juniors. At this point, the arguments are still going to be the same… WHY? Windsor is doing so well, and does not need him. Why subject him to juniors. He is hanging in there – and although the numbers are not as good as I think they would have wanted, he is improving in many other aspects of the game (physicality, face offs, among others). When the season is over, he can go to the Port for the playoffs, and can help there.

Kudos to Witt – for Don Cherry’s comments about him on Sunday during the all-star game. He loves his warrior mentality, and considers him an all-star! In all but the -27, I agree!

Well boys – get ready for Atlanta, and welcome back!

Posted under Islanders 08-09