Islanders 2 Predators 1
In laying out their platform before the season, the Islanders never promised to be a candidate for first place.
Most polls, in fact, agreed with that assessment, making them a longshot even to make the playoffs.
But in getting a “Dubya” last night, the Islanders stunned the pollsters by thrusting into a first-place tie with the defending Stanley Cup champion Devils.
With only about 3,500 supporters electing to be at the Coliseum, the Islanders lost the popular vote, but their exit polling was strong as they received a standing ovation after inching past the Nashville Predators, 2-1.
It marks the first time the Isles (6-4-2-1) reached first place this late in a season since Feb. 18, 1995, when they were tied with the Rangers with 14 points during the lockout-shortened season.
“Oh, man, that’s exciting,” said Brad Isbister. “It feels a lot better to start your way at the top of the [standings in] the paper and work your way down rather than work your way up.”
And though it’s only November, the Isles (6-1-1-1 in their last nine games) know what an accomplishment it is to join the First Place Party.
“It’s a good confidence boost,” said goaltender John Vanbiesbrouck, who made 32 saves and stopped all 15 shots he faced in the third period.
While most people in Nashville focused on their home-state presidential candidate, the few who did tune in saw a great performance by Isbister.
Playing at center for the first time in his NHL career, Isbister notched two goals to give him seven for the season. All seven, in fact, have come in the last nine games.
“Isbister was a stud at center,” coach Butch Goring said. “Maybe we found something. If he could give us these type of games it would be a great find for us.”
Isbister was moved to center to make way for rookie Taylor Pyatt at left wing, with Mariusz Czerkawkski going on the right. Pyatt, who had been a healthy scratch the last two games, had his best outing in his 10 NHL games. After taking just three shots all season, the 19-year-old fired five shots last night, and he earned an assist (second of the year) on Isbister’s first goal.
“It was a great opportunity,” Pyatt said.
Goring, who needed convincing by GM Mike Milbury to insert him, was impressed.
“We envision him on the first line,” Goring said. “If he’s going to have any success he’s got to play with good people.”
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Steve Webb sat out last night with back spasms and is day-to-day.