Preseason preview: New York Islanders host New Jersey Devils

The New York Islanders will hit the ice at home for the first time this preseason in a Friday night tilt against the New Jersey Devils.

The Isles spoiled Devils’ coach Sheldon Keefe’s first game behind the bench with a 4-2 win in New Jersey. Now, the Devils will be looking to get revenge on the Isles in this contest.

Meanwhile, the Islanders are coming off a frustrating 2-0 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday night. The New York Islanders played a solid all-around game but failed to score. This time around, the Isles’ top scorers will hit the ice, hopefully generating much more offense.

With that in mind, here’s a closer look at what to expect heading into Friday night's New York Islanders-New Jersey Devils bout.

New York Islanders host the New Jersey Devils in preseason contest

Roy satisfied with Islanders’ performance against the Flyers

Isles’ coach Patrick Roy spoke with the media following Thursday night’s game. Overall, Roy seemed satisfied with his team’s performance despite the loss. Roy stated that Isles “didn’t give them much” as part of a well-structured game.

Roy also mentioned how the Isles had their chances to score but couldn’t find the back of the net. In particular, Roy expressed his satisfaction with the Thiesing line. Roy praised the effort on that line, despite missing some opportunities.

Lastly, Roy also praised Calle Odelius, stating that he did really well, seeing improvement since the beginning of camp. While it remains to be seen if any of these players would have a realistic chance of making the team, they will, nonetheless, become valuable members at Bridgeport this season.

Tsyplakov could move up to the top six

According to Roy, Maxim Tsyplakov seems destined for a bottom-six role to start the season. When asked about the Russian prospect, Roy mentioned that Tsyplakov could get a look in the top six. But for now, it looks like Simon Holmstrom will get the chance to suit up with Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri on the second line.

While Roy did not rule out the possibility of Tsyplakov moving up to the top six, it wasn’t something realistic at the moment. In the meantime, Tsyplakov’s play may force Roy to test him with the top players sooner rather than later.

The top line is fine as it is

Roy basically confirmed that the top line of Anthony Duclair, Bo Horvat, and Mathew Barzal is pretty much etched in stone. The trio has shown their chemistry on the ice. So, it seems that Roy is at a place where he’s not going to fix something that isn’t broken.

Fans should expect to see the trio back in action against the Devils on Friday night. The top line played against the New York Rangers a few nights ago. Barring injury, the Isles top line could be one of the most productive given the powerful combination of speed and skill.