Wins for Islanders and Devils in NHL! 🏒

Soto to the Yankees, Mets sign Lopez and more!! ⚾

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SportsDraft NY
December 08, 2023

Hey there - get ready for a jam-packed NY sports update that cuts through the noise!

From The Devils impressive win over Kracken to the The Islanders rout of the Blue Jackets, we've got you covered.

Plus Mikal Bridges discussed Dennis Smith JR and Aaron Rodgers is ramping up his rehab. Read on for the details!

Let’s Go 👇🏻

Nemec's First NHL Goal Clinches Devils' Triumph Over Kraken

The New Jersey Devils soared to victory against the Seattle Kraken with a tight 2-1 win, highlighted by rookie Simon Nemec's first NHL goal, proving decisive. The Devils' fifth win in six games was further bolstered by Akira Schmid's impressive 37 saves, including crucial stops in the third period.

Talking Points

  • Simon Nemec, only in his third NHL game, scored the winning goal for the Devils, showcasing his potential as the No. 2 pick in the 2022 draft.

  • Goalie Akira Schmid's stellar performance, making 37 saves, was pivotal in securing the Devils' win.

  • The Kraken's struggle continues, marking their sixth consecutive loss, despite a solid effort and a goal from Tye Kartye.

What to Expect Next:

  • The Devils aim to continue their winning streak against Calgary, while the Kraken will seek to end their losing streak when they face Tampa Bay.

  • Keep an eye on the rising stars like Nemec and Schmid, who are proving to be game-changers for the Devils. The Kraken's response in their next game will be crucial in reversing their current slide.

Islanders' Dynamic Duo: Barzal and Horvat Dominate in 7-3 Rout of Blue Jackets

In a stunning display of skill and teamwork, Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat propelled the New York Islanders to a commanding 7-3 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. The duo combined for four goals and three assists, underlining their crucial roles in the team's success.

Talking Points

  • Mathew Barzal's two goals and two assists, alongside Bo Horvat's two goals and an assist, were instrumental in the Islanders' high-scoring win.

  • Semyon Varlamov's solid performance with 32 saves played a key role in his first home win of the season.

  • Despite a third-period scare, the Islanders managed to maintain their lead, a significant improvement given their previous struggles in similar situations.

What to keep an eye on:

The Islanders, riding high on this win, face the Los Angeles Kings next, with the momentum clearly in their favor. Their ability to convert scoring opportunities and maintain defensive strength will be crucial in their upcoming games.

Mets Bolster Bullpen: Jorge Lopez Joins on a One-Year Deal

The New York Mets have made a strategic move by signing right-handed reliever Jorge Lopez to a one-year contract worth $2 million. This acquisition aims to strengthen their bullpen with Lopez's diverse experience and All-Star caliber skills.

Talking Points:

  • Jorge Lopez, with a record of 6-2 and 49 strikeouts last season, brings valuable depth to the Mets' pitching staff.

  • His impressive performance in the first half of 2022, which earned him an All-Star selection, highlights his potential impact on the team.

  • The Mets continue to actively enhance their roster during free agency, with Lopez being the latest in a series of signings focused on pitching.

Yankees Secure Soto in a Stellar Trade, Eyeing Championship Glory

The New York Yankees have made a significant stride towards championship contention by acquiring star outfielder Juan Soto, along with Trent Grisham, from the San Diego Padres. General Manager Brian Cashman has expressed confidence in this move, considering it a major upgrade and a step closer to the Yankees' aspiration of becoming the last team standing.

This is another manifestation of the Steinbrenner legacy. I think George Steinbrenner always felt that the best players in the world should play here for the New York Yankees… and obviously Hal Steinbrenner and Jenny and Jessica have continued those efforts, and so Juan Soto is a latest example of that.

Yankees GM Brian Cashman

Key Points:

  • The acquisition of Juan Soto, who is set to be a free agent after the 2024 season, adds formidable strength to the Yankees' lineup.

  • The trade, which cost the Yankees key players like Michael King and Kyle Higashioka, underlines the team's commitment to immediate success.

  • Cashman's strategy focuses on the present, aiming to leverage Soto's exceptional talent to chase a title in the 2024 season.

What to Look for Next: 

The Yankees' reshaped roster, with the inclusion of Soto and Grisham, is now a formidable force in the league. The combination of Soto's hitting prowess and Aaron Judge's established excellence creates a potent offensive lineup that could dominate in the upcoming season. The team's performance in the early stages of 2024 will be a critical indicator of how well these new dynamics work on the field.

Sport Round-Up 🏀🏈🏒⚾

Aaron Rodgers participates in Thursday practice

Aaron Rodgers (Achilles) practiced on Thursday in a limited capacity, a day after he did not practice at all following a ramp up in his rehab process earlier in the week which saw him practice on consecutive days.

Nets approached Bridges in signing Dennis Smith Jr.

"I watched him play winning basketball on a team that wasn't winning. I know a winning player when I see one. They asked me about him, and I'm like 'hell yeah'"

Bridges on Smith Jr.

Bills coach apologises for 9/11 analogy

Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott apologized Thursday for using an analogy about the 9/11 terrorists during a motivational speech more than four years ago.

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