Goaltending tandem finalized as Isles camp moves on

The goaltending tandem is set for the Islanders as the training camp roster continues to shrink.

Shediac, NB native, Niko Boudreau, and Latvian import draftee, Aksels Ozols will defend the net for the Islanders after impressing Head Coach and General Manager, Jim Hulton, at this year’s training camp. 

“Boudreau and Ozols have set a good foundation for us in net,” he said. “Both come to the rink every day with the right mentality and have both put in tremendous amounts of work on and off the ice.”

Players like second-year defenseman Marcus Kearsey are also taking steps in the right direction. 

“He’s put on an honest five pounds of muscle, which is a lot for a guy that age,” Hulton said. 

He added that Kearsey is more confident and has become more assertive in his play. 

Up front, Hulton has been impressed with newly acquired forwards such as Mathew Butler, Anthony Flanagan and other import draftee, Ondrej Maruna. Maruna’s physical play has been his biggest x-factor. 

One player in particular that has been a surprise for Hulton has been 18-year-old Kevin Walker. 

“He’s come into camp this year looking much bigger, stronger and faster.” 

Veterans such as Micheal Horth, Giovanni Morneau, and newly acquired forwards, Cole Huckins, and Kian Bell also instill confidence in Hulton. 

“The veterans on the team are setting the table well for our younger players,” he said. 

There are still some players sidelined due to injury. Bell, who took a hard fall into the net in Pownal vs. Saint John, is currently day-to-day with a bruised forearm. He’s expected to return to action sometime next week. 

As for Sam Bowness and Jarett Todd, they are out long-term and won’t be ready for the start of the season. 

The Islanders return to the ice on September 9th in the new Eliyahu Wellness Centre in North Rustico for another preseason game as they take on the Mooseheads. Pre-purchase tickets here.