11/13/2011 Islanders Game Review

Islanders 2011-2012 Game 14 @ Canucks Review:

LOSS: Isles 1-4 Canucks

Record: 4-7-3

Summary:

This losing has gotten a bit ridiculous, and this game really highlighted the biggest flaws of this team. As is the trend as of late, the Islanders began the game looking flat and proceeded to give up a goal on the first shot against. That is the fourth time in the past six games that the Isles have given up a goal on the first shot. It really is almost comical how horrible that is and in my opinion its a big reason for the losing streak. Its mighty hard to start every single game down by a goal, and be expected to come back and win. Overall there are a lot of problems with this team that were overlooked by management and its almost impossible for a fan to pin-point each one. Jack Capuano was understandably upset after the game and I think his anger is long over due. If the Islanders come out with a poor effort tomorrow and/or on Thursday I would expect some big changes. Islanders management is very unhappy with the team thus far and I think if it continues there might be some notable players pushed out. 

Three Positive Players Of The Game:

1- Michael Grabner- 

He is looking a lot better as of late, almost to the level he was at last season. His jump has been good and he has been getting involved in many offensive plays. 

2- Steve Staios- 

Was the best defenseman for the Isles by far. He broke up a few odd-man rushes and was playing a very gritty game. Out of all the failed veteran acquisitions, its nice that we have at least one who has worked out well.

3- Matt Martin- 

Aside from John Tavares, he has been the most consistent and useful Islander player night in and night out.

Three Negative Players Of The Game:

1- Mark Eaton- 

For a little while he was playing good hockey, but as of late he has returned back to his bad play. In this one, I counted 4 shifts where he was a liability on the ice. He just seems like he turns off all of his awareness sometimes.

2- Mike Mottau- 

Why is this guy still in the line-up, sure he made some nice breakout passes in this one, but his defensive-zone coverage is simply atrocious.  

3- Frans Nielsen- 

He has been so underwhelming this year that its ridiculous. There were some really important moments in this game where he should have stepped up and made an impact and he failed on nearly all.