3 takeaways from Rangers’ preseason win over Islanders

The New York Islanders dressed many of their main roster regulars during their most recent preseason game against the New York Rangers. The Rangers' roster was highlighted by players like Igor Shesterkin, and held the fort for two periods in what ultimately became a 3-2 overtime win for the Blueshirts. He was just one part of the story, and here's three initial takeaways from the team's most recent victory.

Shesterkin's appearance was encouraging as season approaches

The Islanders put 22 shots on net while Shesterkin was between the pipes, and they only scored once. Shesterkin stopped nine shots in the first two minutes, the lone blemish being an Anthony Duclair shot from a weird angle which rolled up on him and just sneaked past the goal line.
In the second frame, Shesterkin was perfect, and he stopped all 12 shots that he faced. It was a good spot to play him, as it allowed him to get peppered with shots. Shesterkin is a goalie who likes to get into a rhythm, and this was a nice way to continue to bring him along as the regular season gets closer.

Gabe Perreault and Noah Laba continue to make their case

Besides Shesterkin's exemplary performance in goal, the duo of Perreault and Laba continued to make their case as to why they should be a part of the Rangers' opening night lineup. Perreault picked up a pair of assists in the team's overtime victory, and he now has two goals and two assists for four points in four games.

Laba scored the game winning goal in overtime, and he now has a line of 1-4-5 through four games. He drove hard to the net after getting the puck from Perreault, and he easily tucked it passed David Rittich.

The team may not have room for both, and there's even a chance they may not have a spot for one. But it is impressive to see them continue to make the most of the playing time they have received, and highlight their overall ability as players. If that's the case, the Hartford Wolf Pack will be getting a pair of motivated players who will be ready to help them win some hockey games.

Brennan Othmann's opportunity is slipping away

Othmann had another opportunity to make his mark, and he failed to meet the moment. In the first period Taylor Raddysh passed the puck to Othmann who was open on the far side of the net, and instead of firing off a one-timer, he passed the puck back to a surprised Raddysh who wiffed and failed to get a shot on goal. Othmann ended the game with zero shots on goal despite logging 16:50. He did have two blocks and four hits, but his unwillingness to shoot the puck continues to be a head scratcher.

When the Blueshirts play next

The Rangers have just two games left to get them ready for the regular season. The next game will take place at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, October 2nd, and puck drop will be at 7:00 p.m. vs. the New Jersey Devils. This should be a game that features a pretty full roster, and will be a good test against a squad that will try to contend for a Metropolitan Division title this season.