Islanders and Canucks Open Preseason

With a drop of the puck (and some gloves later on), the 2009-10 NHL preseason is underway.

From Terrace, BC the New York Islanders and Vancouver Canucks started a bit slow and rusty, but eventually played a game resembling NHL hockey.

The sparks started flying in the second period.  Part in-game incident, part look-at-me and part remember-me, there were three fights in the middle frame, four fights in total.

Jeremy Reich and Rick Rypien each fought twice, including once versus each other, easily the fight of the night.  Both players are looking for some attention.  Reich last played in the NHL for the Boston Bruins in 2007-08.  Rypien has had an injury-plagued career and is just looking to prove he can play the tough style of game expected of him.  Neither player is a heavyweight, but both are game on any night.

The game ended with the Canucks on top, 2-1.

Videos added

Andy Sutton vs Rick Rypien Sep 14, 2009
Jeremy Reich vs Rick Rypien Sep 14, 2009
Tim Jackman vs Guillaume Desbiens Sep 14, 2009
Jeremy Reich vs Ron Petrovicky Sep 14, 2009

Some reads

Pierre-Luc Letourneau-Leblond wants own identity with NJ Devils
Latendresse, Laraque and Gill look to compensate for Habs’ lack of size
Bulked-up Leafs ready to rumble
Flyers Training Camp Opens to Record Attendance
Hot-to-trot Colts head into new campaign without true enforcer
Brashear Showing No Remorse for Hit on Betts
Days of Flying Frenchmen are history