Islanders, Matt Martin Take Down Sabres in First Of Three
Matt Martin scored twice, Jordan Eberle and Casey Cizikas each had two points, and the Islanders beat the Sabres 5-2 Thursday at Nassau Coliseum.
The Islanders came alive in the first period off a goal from Noah Dobson and never looked back. The Islanders came out ready to play and showed why they are truly one of the best teams in the MassMutual East Division by playing good all-around hockey.
Islanders Game Analysis
First Period
It was all New York in the first period. The first ten minutes were a pretty good back and forth from both teams. A little bit more than halfway through, Dobson scored his first goal of the night, putting the Islanders on the board first.
The Islanders had an unsuccessful powerplay shortly after Dobson’s goal. Then, Martin scored his first goal with just under four minutes left to make it 2-0 in favor of the Islanders. Ilya Sorokin played great this period. He picked up seven saves keeping the Sabres off the scoreboard. Islanders also crushed the Sabres in shots on goal 18-6.
Second Period
The second period was similar to the first. The Sabres, however, were able to get on the scoreboard early on in the frame. Taylor Hall scored the goal for Buffalo, his second goal of the season and first since opening night. The Islanders played great defense as well this period.
In his 300th career game, Anthony Beauvillier scored with just about five minutes left in the period, giving the Islanders a 3-1 lead. Sorokin played well in the second period, recording three saves and allowing just one goal. The Islanders continued to outshoot the Sabres, this time by a 14-5 tally.
Third Period
The third period was once again all New York. Jordan Eberle kicked things off with a goal, which gave the Islanders a 4-1 lead. Rasmus Ristolainen scored shortly after, making the score 4-2. The final goal came from Martin with about five minutes left to play. This was his second of the night.
Sorokin picked up six more saves in the period, bringing his total to 16. He allowed two goals but still got the win for New York. The Islanders once again outshot the Sabres, 13-7. New York fired on all cylinders tonight and it was a very well-played team game.
Islanders Takeaways
New York played terrific hockey tonight. Sorokin played a strong game, saving 16 shots and giving up only two goals. Also, Martin played terrific tonight as well. He arguably played one of his best of the season. Martin now has four goals on the season.
Dobson was also outstanding, scoring his second goal of the season. He continues to prove his worth and make the most of all of his ice time. Although young, Dobson could be a major contributor on the team for years to come.
What’s Next?
Up next the New York will be playing Buffalo on Saturday at 1 p.m. The game will be aired on MSG+.
