CAMPOLI COMING INTO HIS OWN

New York Islander Fan Central | 10/19/2007 06:47:00 PM | | |

NYI.com: Jason Lockhart, Website/Publications Coordinator did an article on Chris Campoli and how he's not only among the leaders on the Islanders in terms of production but among all NHL defenders. He's also up in the hitting department numbers.

"Chris was everywhere last night," said Ted Nolan after practice today. "He'd rush the puck up and then be the first one back. He had a great game."

"It's just me playing my game and recognizing the opportunities to jump into the play. I don't think I'm jumping into the play anymore often than I did last year or the year before. When opportunities come I just want to take advantage of them."

"My role has changed this year," said Campoli. "I'm playing more and with more confidence. All that matters is that we keep winning, and I do what I can to contribute."


NYI Fan Central Comments:
I'm not sure Campoli's doing anything significantly better than he did a year ago besides displaying more of a physical element to his game and maybe the natural progression of a young player in his third season. Last year he got hurt in camp and lost a spot that seemed to be his going into last season before an injury set him back and he had to win over a new coach. This year he has been healthy and just like his rookie season knows when to jump into the play and has finished his chances. I think the early goals have helped his confidence as well as the support Nolan has given him but in terms of being a much better player the jury is still out.

Also any credit to Campoli has to go to Bruno Gervais as his defensive partner. I personally felt both of them were fine as a unit and any talk of them going down was a step backwards because they have shown signs they can play as top four defenders in this league and contribute at both ends of the ice.