Islander News Articles 10/26:

New York Islander Fan Central | 10/25/2007 09:20:00 PM | | | | | | | |
Newsday: John Jeansonne's update for Friday is on Shawn Bates' being out for two hundred sixty nine days with quotes from the player and coach Ted Nolan as he was given medical clearance for full practices two weeks ago. Also reported is the light schedule also combined with Berard being out for a possible minimum of two weeks, would cause him to only miss four or five games.

"He hasn't played in eight months, nine months," Nolan said. "We want to look for the best way to get him back without jeopardizing his confidence" -- and without forcing other personnel changes.


* Bates is secure in the knowledge that he remains a full-fledged member of the team. Except ...

"The toughest part is not playing in the games," he said. "I'm around all the guys again. I get to practice with them. I get to travel with them. But not going to battle with them; the most important part of this is not playing with the guys, because that's what a team is all about. Skating's fun, but it's hard work. Playing the games is fun."


NYI Fan Central Comments:
Nolan's comment about forcing other personnel changes when he's ready to play is the interesting comment here. To this point Bootland and Johnson will likely be in the lineup on the fourth line right wing spot until there is an injury.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio's update is on new Sound Tiger Joe Rullier who's 25-game tryout runs until Dec. 28 with comments, from Rullier, head coach Jack Capuano and some of his new teammates.

"It's a good chance for me to fit in, to give something to the team here, and get something back, maybe a chance at the NHL. My focus is on getting a contract here."

"There's no sense rushing him in," coach Jack Capuano said. "We have to put him in a situation where he's going to succeed."


Newsobserver: Canes beat writer Luke DeCock reports Hurricanes are doing what the Islanders did with the players fathers traveling with the club for a few games last season which will include Saturday, Carolina plays at home against Montreal Friday night.