NYI vs. NYR Game Preview: In a New York Minute, Islanders Can Turn the Page

The struggling New York Islanders will look to snap out of their slump tonight with a win over their archrivals, the New York Rangers, at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. 

In what's probably the biggest story of tonight's contest, Nino Niederreiter will make his season debut for the Isles. The 2010 fifth-overall pick had been nursing a groin injury he suffered during training camp.

He's been recalled from the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (AHL), where he amassed four points (three goals, one assist) over a six-game conditioning stint. 

Coach Jack Capuano would not reveal any information about what the lines might look like tonight or who'd be scratched. My gut tells me that Blake Comeau will be the casualty (he's the most deserving of all the forwards) and that there won't be any radical changes to the forward combinations. My guess is that we'll see Nino on the second line with Frans Nielsen and P.A. Parenteau. 

Evgeni Nabokov gets the nod between the pipes, and it's expected that Al Montoya will back him up. 

As my buddy, Matt Calamia, likes to say, the Rangers generally bring the best out of the Islanders. Perhaps that's exactly what the Isles need, and maybe, just maybe, they can pull off the win and generate some much-needed momentum to help them return to relevancy.  

Players to Watch

Nino Niederreiter

The Isles' 2010 first-round pick makes his season debut. His size will be a welcome upgrade for a team that lacks it, and hopefully he can help kick-start the offense.

Chemistry will be key, and it might be a slower start than people expect. Take that into account regarding your expectations for Nino. But, by all means, be excited. He's been missed, and you'll see why tonight. 

John Tavares

The Rangers seem to bring out the best in John, and that's a good thing, because when JT's on fire, the Isles usually have a solid chance of winning.

Would I expect a hat trick again? Not necessarily, but I would not rule one out. Tavares should have a strong game, as should his linemates (who may or may not include Niederreiter).

Evgeni Nabokov

Amidst all the trade rumors and speculation, Nabokov insisted he's committed to the Islanders for "as long as they need me here." Nabby was the only reason the Isles were even in the game against Vancouver, and he's being rewarded for his 34-save performance with a rarity in NYI's three-goalie rotation: a second-consecutive start. 

He's also beaten the Rangers this season, so perhaps that factored in. Look for him to keep the Islanders in it tonight, but as was the case in Pittsburgh and against the Canucks, he won't be able to do it alone. Offense and defense have to step up.

Comments are welcome.