Feb 02, 2012; Ottawa, ON, CAN; The New York Islanders celebrate the winning goal scored in overtime by defenseman Mark Eaton (4) in game against the Ottawa Senators at Scotiabank Place. The Islanders defeated the Senators 2-1 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-US PRESSWIRE

Who would have thunk it.

121 games….where have you been Mark Eaton?

His first goal in since 2010 gave the Islanders the extra point in a 2-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators in Kanata last night.

In a time where scoring comes from the first line, the Islanders got their contributions for people not names Tavares, Moulson or Okposo.

Matt Martin got a great pass from PA Parenteau and snapped a shot passed Ottawa goalie Craig Anderson, giving the Isles the 1-1 deadlock in the third period.  For Martin, that was his sixth goal of the season, establishing a team high.

Zach Smith scored his 13th of the season just before the second period closed out – giving the Sens the 1-0 lead.  Smith, on the Penalty Kill, came down the left wing, and took a high shot that Evgeni Nabokov had in his possession and let get by him.

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Mark Eaton, the unlikely hero – gets the Islanders two points - Eyes On Isles - Eyes On Isles - A New York Islanders Blog

January 31, 2012; Raleigh, NC, USA; New York Islanders center John Tavares (91) carries the puck against the Carolina Hurricanes at the RBC center. The Islanders defeated the Hurricanes 5-2. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-US PRESSWIRE

Now that the tuxedos are gone from Wednesday’s Casino night, it is back to business for the Islanders as they take on the Ottawa Senators tonight in Kanata, Ontario.

The Isles have three games in five nights, as they have the first of a back to back set, as they Sabres come to Uniondale tomorrow night.  This is a chance for the Isles to gain some ground on those above them, and a big game against a team that is fighting with them for a precious playoff spot.

Of course, the attention for the home team will be securing the Islanders number one weapon, John Tavares.  The NHL player of the month of January will hope to continue the play that he showed on Tuesday night, when he recorded his third 4-point night of the season.

Kevin Poulin filled admirably for the Al Montoya and Evgeni Nabokov in the nets on Tuesday night.  Poulin had played all weekend for the Sound Tigers, and the AHL goaltender of the month, provided a solid performance.  The winning netminder from Tuesday’s game was sent back to Bridgeport.

Rhett Rakhshani filled in for Brian Rolston in Tuesday  night’s game, and played well with Josh Bailey and Matt Martin.  He has yet to score an NHL goal, but he has the talent to do just that.

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Isles – Sens… Continue the trend from Tuesday night - Eyes On Isles - Eyes On Isles - A New York Islanders Blog