The New York Islanders are set to face off against the Vegas Golden Knights, highlighting key player changes and strategies leading up to the game. The Islanders have made adjustments to their lineup and anticipate a competitive match on the ice.
Projected Lineup for the Islanders
The Islanders will feature the following players in their anticipated lineup:
- Emil Heineman – Bo Horvat – Kyle Palmieri
- Jonathan Drouin – Mathew Barzal – Simon Holmstrom
- Anders Lee – JG Pageau – Anthony Duclair
- Casey Cizikas – Cal Ritchie – Max Tsyplakov
- Matthew Schaefer – Ryan Pulock
- Adam Pelech – Tony DeAngelo
- Alexander Romanov – Adam Boqvist
- Ilya Sorokin (goalie)
Recent Roster Changes
On Thursday morning, the Islanders recalled defenseman Travis Mitchell from their AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Islanders. This decision was made due to Scott Mayfield’s absence, as he returns to New York for the birth of his first child. Head Coach Patrick Roy indicated that Mayfield is expected to join the team in Colorado for their upcoming match against the Avalanche.
Travis Mitchell’s Assessment
Mitchell, a 25-year-old defenseman standing 6’4″ and weighing 203 lbs, has had a solid performance this season, with three assists in 12 games for Bridgeport. Last season, he recorded 13 points across 65 games and accumulated 101 penalty minutes. Coach Roy praised Mitchell’s skills, quoting his Bridgeport counterpart Rocky Thompson, who described him as their best defenseman.
Player Returns and Performance
Adam Boqvist, a defenseman, is set to play against the Golden Knights for the first time since October 30. He will partner with Alexander Romanov on the ice. Boqvist’s previous statistics include four blocked shots and one hit in four games this season. Coach Roy expressed confidence in Boqvist’s skating abilities and his potential as a reliable defensive partner.
Max Shabanov’s Recovery
Max Shabanov, recovering from an upper body injury, participated in practice with the Islanders while donning a non-contact jersey. Although he will not play against the Golden Knights, his return marks a positive step. In six games this season, Shabanov has contributed three points (one goal and two assists).
Ilya Sorokin’s Stellar Performance
Goaltender Ilya Sorokin is expected to start against Vegas. He boasts a career record of 3-2-1 against the Golden Knights, with an impressive .939 save percentage and a 1.96 goals-against average, including two shutouts. Sorokin’s recent performance has been remarkable, recording a 3-0-1 record in his last four starts, with strong rebuts against 112 of 118 shots faced.
Coach Roy noted Sorokin’s increased confidence since the Islanders’ victory over the Washington Capitals on October 31. His vital role is crucial as the team prepares for the challenges against the Golden Knights.
