This was exactly the reason why the Islanders signed Mike Dunham a week before the season started.

Before last night’s game started, I really wanted DP in there, because I want him to get into a big rhythm, but after 30 odd saves, I felt like the Islanders goaltending situation hasn’t been this solid since we had Ozzy & Snowie together. Dunham is really making his case that he can be depended on this season.

Always known for being a solid goaltender, who was always in the wrong place at the wrong time [backing up Martin Brodeur, being the starting goaltender for a Predators team that had nobody, but him that was worth a damn, being a part of the revolving door that was the Thrashers goaltending situation last year, THE RANGERS, etc] Dunham has come to the Isles this season and has been simply amazing. Even when they got smoked by the Lighting last week 5-1, Dunham was solid, but got little help from his D.

Last night however, was much different.

Over the past few games, it seems that our defense core has picked up their games and is playing great on both sides of the puck. Even Brendan Witt was taking some shots from the point last night and Sean Hill and Radek Martinek were again extremely solid. I can’t believe I’m going to say this, but I think aside from the sloppiness they showed for a few minutes here and there last night, the Isles defensive effort was perfect.

If that wasn’t enough, Blake and Yashin again played a marvelous game on both ends and both gave each other great passes that led to goals. It’s kind of a double edged sword however when you think about it, because I keep saying to myself, “WHY DIDN’T ANYONE THINK OF PUTTING THEM ON THE SAME LINE BEFORE?” But then again, instead of thinking about it, I’m just going to enjoy it. I haven’t seen two players on the Islanders play like this together since, well never!

It was also great to see Asham and Satan get goals too; we need to get them going in the biggest way and last night might be exactly what they need. Andy Hilbert also played a decent game last night but hasn’t been anything like the crafty, underrated player we thought he would be. He has to get going shortly or I can see him in another jersey very soon.

This one; hope it fits.

Back to Dunham…

Two nights ago, I compared DP to Billy Smith because of his frequently excellent use of the stick check and last night Billy Jaffe compared Dunham to him, which shows you how well these two guys have been playing. Right now we’re second in the conference in GAA and in the upper tier as far as the entire NHL goes. If we can keep that up and then get some more offense, this season is going to be a lot of fun for everyone.

NEXT GAME…

After we drop off Gino Campoli, we go see our old friends the Toronto Maple Leafs on Monday, I hope Darcy Tucker and company are ready to meet Brendan Witt and Chris Simon. Should be interesting to say the very least.

Let’s go Isles.

Posted under Isles 2006-07, Post Game Rants