What a game!
Kyle Okposo just scored his fourth goal in four games for the second time this season to defeat the Montreal Canadiens 3-2 in overtime. It was Okposo’s 16th goal of the season.
No matter the outcome, I still have a problem with being conflicted with the Islanders play as of late. I have a constant eye on the standings I’ll admit – so with each solid game and each point earned in the standings (7 in last 4 games – eeeek) we creep further out of the league basement and make the Tank for Tavares almost a thing of the past. (Note: The Lightning have also won tonight, so the Isles maintain their four point lead cushion in the standings for the bottom (ie: LAST PLACE)).
I always want to see the Islanders do well, especially when the drive is being led by the team’s future. Players like Jesse Joensuu, Mike Iggulden, Blake Comeau, Jack Hillen, Frans Nielsen, Jeff Tambellini, Sean Bergenheim, Kyle Okposo, Josh Bailey et. al. make this season really exciting because we are witnessing a glimpse of our future. We are able to see our team grow and learn with each other, sometimes with really exciting results.
Last week I was asking everyone if Okposo could reach the 20 goal plateau this season, his first full NHL season. Now, I am starting to wonder if I should be asking if he can reach the 30 goal mark – he is doing THAT good lately. I know, let’s not get ahead of ourselves – but it’s certainly a very bright spot in an otherwise tough season.
The Tavares Hunt will continue – it’s still a long, yet short road trip against a group of tough teams.
Friendly reminder, if you don’t see a steady stream of updates here – head on over to Lighthouse Hockey as there is a good chance I already posted something over there.
I remember you asked me about 20 goals. That was when he had a “mere” 12 or 13. I didn’t really answer…I think I said something like, “Who knows? Hope so.”
Yes, 20 is well within reach (duh). As for 30, he’d need to go on an incredible mini-Bossy streak (14 goals in 14 games). Since he’s been growing the beard the goals have been flowing. We’ll have to ask him about the power of the beard after the road trip.
If he reaches 30 goals this season, I’m willing to grow a beard all summer long. That’s right, I said it. The dye is cast!
I’m a big Mark Streit fan from Switzerland and since last summer a big islanders fan. I often get up in the middle of the night to watch the islanders games over the internet…
I totally agree with that the islanders should try to end up dead last and not to pile up useless points to give someone else the pole position on winning the lottery!! Sure hope the officials of the organisation have that in mind for the remaining games!