My first impression is that it could do worse.
After an entire shift of Saturday night's game against the Hurricanes at UBS Arena, it became clear that the Islanders needed Tony DeAngelo more than anyone expected. Less than a minute into the game, the order increased exponentially as Ryan Purock went down the tunnel with an injury.
DeAngelo ended up playing 30 shifts and 25 minutes in a chaotic 3-2 overtime win over the Hurricanes, just hours after officially becoming an Islander after approving waivers at 2 p.m. Saturday. I ended up skating 10 seconds.
“For some reason, we have guys who just don't feel that time,” coach Patrick Roy said. “I think he's one of them. He was able to go out there and play. I was watching his last game in Russia — he played 26 minutes. To the Islanders organization. welcome.”
It's a deal that may have seemed realistic when it was announced Friday afternoon, but DeAngelo could now be a key piece of the puzzle if Pulock is sidelined long-term with an injury.
“Honestly, I'm really grateful for this opportunity,” said the 29-year-old former Ranger. “Two weeks ago, my NHL career looked pretty bleak. I'm not going to say I took it for granted when I was here, but to get another chance, I wanted more than that. I can't.
DeAngelo's preparation on Saturday consisted of a quick skate, some film and a brief introduction to his new teammates.
Roy tells him not to worry about the system, he will have time to go out and play and learn everything later.
It worked well enough for now.
“We knew it was going to be similar to how Carolina played, especially after Patty took over,” said DeAngelo, who spent last season with the Hurricanes. “It's an easy adjustment for me system-wise, but for me it's just getting the timing back. NHL timing, being on the page with those guys. Faceoff plays, power plays, it's good to get a lot. [reps] So that you can do it right away. ”
He got more than anyone expected on Saturday. He may end up playing a bigger role in the near future than anyone thought.
“I was so happy to see him tonight, I’m not going to lie,” Roy said. “He's smart. He moves the puck well and skates well. I think that's a good fit for us. He has the ability to jump on the rush and moves the puck well on the power play. He probably hasn't played in a game since January 12th or 13th, when he was in Russia.
“I thought he looked good. Really good.”
