What I find humorous about the New York media (first that they are even talking about hockey) is that they were actually riding Bill Guerin about not scoring a goal this season. While the New York Islanders newest captain and free agent signing had yet to register a goal, he had assisted on 6, leading the team in that category.

Such is the measure of their new captain, Guerin led his team to a 5-2 win over the Washington Capitals (showcasing their reds last night.... this team got it right when it came to new jerseys) by scoring his first three goals of the year and officially joining the NHL Hat Trick Club. The Islanders power play continue's to hum, as they converted 3 of their 5 odd man advantages. Newly signed defenceman Bryan Berard potted his second of the year on the power play once again. Goaltender Rick DiPietro made 27 saves to complete the victory.

Quick Shave:
I love being right, and at the same time, I hate being right. The Philadelphia Flyers continued their torrid start (and at the same time making me look like a genius for calling them playoff bound) by blanking the New Jersey Devils 4-0. Flyers keeper Martin Biron recorded his second straight shutout victory making 38 saves against the Devils. The Devils still have yet to get going, and goaltender Martin Brodeur looks uncharacteristically soft as of late. Be wary of this team however, the Devils have been on the road for the month of October, and could be weary of the travel. Once they begin playing at home, I expect them to regain their form. The New York Rangers helped the Altanta Thrashers into the win column last night, dropping a 5-3 decision in the first game of the Don Waddell era. When the Rangers went on the free agent spending spree this summer, I was cautiously optimistic.... or perhaps pessimistic. Letting Michael Nylander leave as a free agent right now looks like a huge mistake, as Ranger's captain Jaromir Jagr hasn't found any chemistry with his new linemates, which change on an almost period by period basis if they don't yield rapid results. The rotating centers could be an early sign of panic..... oh well. The Toronto Maple Leafs played a little defense last night and managed a 3-2 win over the Florida Panthers on a late goal by Nik Antropov (less than 30 seconds in the game late) and some solid play by goalie Vesa Toskala. The Boston Bruins have also quietly improved this season, and after a successful road trip out West, finished off the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-1 in their home opener. The Bruins are now sitting pretty in 4th overall in the Eastern Conference. It's probably too early for this, but have a look at the current standings. There are some major surprises up and down the board..... uggh.

Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh