The New York Islanders held an optional morning skate in St. Louis ahead of their game against the St. Louis Blues, according to a March 10 update from the team.
The matchup is notable as it marks Brayden Schenn’s first time facing his former team since being acquired by the Islanders less than a week ago. Schenn, who spent nine years with the Blues, said, “Sitting on the opposing bench, everything is just backwards of what you’re used to. I’m looking forward to tonight, it’ll be emotional and weird at the same time.”
Ilya Sorokin will start in goal for the Islanders for a second consecutive game. Head Coach Patrick Roy confirmed Sorokin’s start and praised Schenn’s leadership: “It’s nice to have someone who has won a Stanley Cup but is also a leader and learned so much from different players throughout his career.” Sorokin enters the game with a record of 23-14-2 this season, including six shutouts.
Schenn has already begun mentoring younger teammates such as Cal Ritchie and has taken on leadership roles during practices and skates. He reflected on his transition after being traded mid-season: “I’m happy to be part of the Islanders organization. It’s been unbelievable. Even in a short amount of time, the guys have been extremely welcoming. It’s not an easy transition moving mid-season with three kids, but the people around me have made it as easy as possible.”
Schenn also spoke about reconnecting with former teammates in St. Louis: “When you get traded you don’t think it’s going to happen that fast. A couple of my former teammates came over yesterday with their kids and played mini sticks with my kids.”
Looking ahead, both Schenn and Roy emphasized their focus on making a playoff run with the Islanders. As Schenn said, “That’s what it’s all about, any NHL player will tell you that. It’s all about competing and striving for the same goal, trying to get to the playoffs. Then once you’re in the playoffs, it’s the best time. It’s competitive hockey, that’s the best.”
