Campoli Nilsson make strong debuts

My impressions on the key rookies from last night's preseason opener between the Isles and Rangers, won handily by the Isles 5-1.

Chris Campoli (NYI) - turned in an outstanding all-around effort against the still-sad Rangers. Superb at both ends of the ice, Campoli made sharp reads in his own zone and dished out some big hits, as well displaying his offensive instincts by bolting into the rush and finishing with a hard backhander through Rangers' rookie keeper Henrik Lundqvist.

Robert Nilsson (NYI) - based on this one game alone, it appears that the gifted yet unpredictable Swede is ready for NHL duty, remarkable considering he couldn't hold a spot in the SEL last season. Made a number of sweet tape-to-tape feeds playing left wing on the top line with Yashin and Satan. Two in particular come to mind, one on a spinaround from behind the net and another brilliant pass off the rush that split the D and gave Zhitnik an open path to goal.

Petteri Nokelainen (NYI) - Wow! This Finn plays a rough and tumble game even in exhibitions. Skated hard and delivered a few punishing open-ice hits - well-timed and disruptive. Toiled on a high-voltage energy line with countryman Sean Bergenheim and center Justin Papineau, a combo which gave the Rangers fits all night.

Henrik Lundqvist (NYR) - kept the score respectable by stopping 16 of 17 shots after coming in for starter Kevin Weekes who looked terribly disjointed. Lundqvist showed excellent focus and quickness. He located shots through traffic with ease and even displayed improvisation abilities as he alertly poked away a rebound on a shot that he'd initially misplayed. Most encouraging start.

Petr Prucha (NYR) - made a solid NHL debut at right wing on a line with Martin Rucinsky and Jamie Lundmark. Played a very active game, creating havoc and turnovers with his energy and speed. Gritty guy who sticks his nose in. Should be better suited beside a puck-possession center such as Steve Rucchin who wasn't dressed.

Marc Staal (NYR) - enjoyed a standout camp up until last night that is. Showed his age and inexperience. Took a number of over-enthusiastic penalties and got completely undressed one-on-one by Trent Hunter. Still somewhat raw in terms of his defensive-zone coverage. You have to admire Staal's moxy though as he kept coming back for more. Also looks noticeably thicker and stronger on the puck compared to last season.