Blue Notes

Henrik Lundqvist and a depleted team will need a super effort tonight to edge the Islanders.

In a dour medical report, Michael Nylander (flu), Matt Cullen (knee) and Marek Malik (groin) are all doubtful and Brendan Shanahan (flu) didn't skate this morning and is a game-time decision, coach Tom Renney said.
"There's enough instability," in Cullen's knee, Renney said, "and insecurity to go with that...you don't want to compromise anything else."

Forward Ryan Callahan was not at the skate---he couldn't join the team until Sandis Ozolinsh cleared waivers at noon---but is en route from Hartford for his second game with the club this season. He played in Buffalo on Dec. 1.

Renney said that defenseman Thomas Pock, another callup who did skate, probably will take Malik's place alongside Michal Rozsival tonight.

The situation is so severe that Renney joking asked some writers and TV commentators about their availablity: "Sam (Rosen) will dress, Zip's definitely in, Larry's (Brooks) behind the bench," Renney said. Joe Micheletti, who arrived late for the coach's press availability after the skate in Westchester, apologized for his tardiness. "You're sorry? OK, you're in," Renney said.

Minus a handful of regulars, Renney pointed to Garden's other team, whose shorthanded effort was enough to upset the Jazz last night. "Look at what the Knicks did last night," Renney said. "As long as the try is there...."

As for Ozolinsh, Ranney said: "Maybe there is something there, but we can't afford to experiment with that longevity any longer. We're hoping he goes to Hartford and he plays and he's clicking and feeling good. He's not far off from being a regular player here. The problem is, he's got to play more. Beyind that, it is attrition. Let's face it, how much is there left to help us?