The Islanders have wanted a top line like this for years, but they didn't have to wait long to see what it brings.
That was preseason. In fact, the Islanders lost in the preseason after blowing a three-point lead in the third period and allowing six points, so take this result with a pinch of salt.
But a night in which the line of Anthony Duclair, Beau Holbert and Mathew Barzal all scored three goals in their debuts counts as a night the Islanders can be happy with, even if they lose 6-4 to the Rangers at the Garden.
“I played okay,” Barzal said modestly. “I had some good chances and was lucky to make some. I wanted to go 6-on-5.” [goal against] We're back. It was a good start for us.”
Islanders coach Patrick Roy has put together most of his lineups throughout camp and, as expected, has not said anything specific about what the lineup will be against Utah on Oct. 10.
But Duclair, Holbert and Barzal have been together throughout camp so far, and no one is making it a secret that they will be together for Opening Day.
That's exactly why Duclair is here, and it was immediately clear when he orchestrated the passing exchange with Barzal for the first goal of the night.
“He always seems to be open,” Barzal said of Duclair. “I thought he was great.”
“Just watching him, I knew it would be easy to play with him. He's a bigger guy than I thought he would be. He's good at winning battles and he's not afraid to get to the corner and hold onto the ball there. I think turning the puck over in the transition game will be key for our line.”
Last season, the Islanders had seven, including Holbert and Barzal, and if the numbers this year are anywhere close to that, it would mean something is very wrong.
If this is an initial impression, it's fascinating to think what this could mean in the future.
That's certainly something to be excited about.
Roy said he plans to make sure he sits behind the bench during preseason games, rather than watching from a higher vantage point as some coaches choose to do.
Mike Reilly missed Monday's practice due to an illness but skated on Tuesday.
Semyon Varlamov stopped all 10 shots before being replaced by Henrik Tikkanen, who allowed five goals on 13 shots.
