Rick DiPietro Makes Three

Sometime in the next couple of weeks the New York Islanders will have to make some tough decisions regarding their goaltending. It will be really interesting as a fan to see what Islanders general manager Garth Snow does when their superstar net minder Rick DiPietro declares himself ready to resume his Islanders career. During the summer Snow signed free agents Duane Roloson who has been stellar in posting a 2.80 GAA and Martin Biron who has been steady. DiPietro who was the Islanders first overall pick in 2000 has had an injury plagued career including a bad knee injury which limited the 28 year-old to only five games last year. On Monday the Islanders got some great news as DiPietro who was only 1-3 last season had a pain free 90 minute practice with the team. Still Snow is being very cautious and keeping his emotions in check. “We don’t want to get too far ahead of ourselves,” Snow said. “He’s practicing today, he’ll practice again tomorrow. Then at some point he’ll do a conditioning stint in Bridgeport (AHL) and if everything goes well, I would think the middle of December (for coming back).” In the past this projected superstar has had many setbacks and refuses to set a projected date for his comeback. “I’ve kind of really tried to put myself out of that whole thing,” DiPietro said. “I think how my knee responds and how I practice will prove to everyone involved when I’m ready to come back. I just continue to feel better, which is a positive sign. It’s exciting to be back.” On September 12, 2006 The Islanders showed their trust in DiPietro as they signed him to a 15 year lucrative contract. Lifetime he has registered 117 wins and a 2.79 GAA.