Isles Beat the Lady Blues

For the second straight game, the Islanders were outshot by an opponent, but still managed to win. This time it was St. Louis Blues, as the Islanders won 4-3, with the 3^rd line combo of York, Poulin and Bates each registering three points. The 2^nd and 4^th line of the Islanders also had a goal apiece; leaving the 1^st line alone yet to find the twine.

Islander assistant captain Marian Hossa acknowledged that he and his linemates were not on the same page. However he refused to acknowledge it was the change in LW that was the problem. “There`s no doubt that Joe and I had some great chemistry with Pavol Datsyuk last season. We really seemed to click as a trio. However, Datsyuk has been traded [in the deal for Nicklas Lidstrom over the the offseason], and Nick Hagman is now riding shotgun with us. Hags had 36 goals and 36 assists last year, so there`s no doubt he has talent, he just needs to adjust to Joe and my styles. Until that happens, I need to step up the other aspects of my game. Hits, blocking shots, whatever it takes. When the puck isn`t going in, you need to find other ways to contribute.”

The game was marked by a historic occasion, as the Blues` Hayley Wickenheiser became the first woman to score a goal in CLUTCH. She later added an assist, and was named the game`s 2^nd star. Isles1 GM Ryan Long commented on the occasion. “I think it`s great to see a woman score in this league. I also think it`s great that the rest of the St. Louis players have adopted skirts to their uniforms, as per the picture on the cover of their media-guide. Well done ladies.”

The Islanders headed to Colorado immediately after the game, where they will play the Avalanche on Tuesday. The Avs post a 2-1 record, and have won their past 2 games.