A disappointing first half to Kyle Okposo’s second full NHL season didn’t get any better yesterday when he was passed over for the U.S. Olympic Team for next month’s Games in Vancouver.
The 21-year-old Minnesotan has been held to just six goals, but his solid all-around play made him a candidate for Team USA general manager Brian Burke’s squad. Islanders coach Scott Gordon is also an assistant on the team.
But Islanders GM Garth Snow, though disappointed for Okposo, wasn’t discouraged by the news.
“For Kyle, it’s disappointing because I know making the team was one of the goals he set this year,” Snow said after the team was announced following the NHL Winter Classic at Fenway Park. “But it doesn’t change the fact that he’s a big part of our team and we believe he’s going to do a lot of big things for us.”
Okposo has a team-high 21 assists heading into tonight’s game against the visiting Thrashers and his physical play has made him a dangerous weapon, even when he’s not scoring.
Burke cited Okposo’s lack of experience as a reason he didn’t get selected.
“I’m sure that factored into the decision,” Okposo said.
The main concern for Okposo and the Islanders is that he continues to improve — and finds the back of the net more often.
“We’re ecstatic that he’s a part of our team and with where he’s going as a player,” Snow said.
Having this process over with may help Okposo, who recently ended an 18-game streak without a goal for a team that has struggled offensively all year.
“If it happens in four years, that would be great,” Okposo said. “It’s nice to get the whole thing over with. It’s certainly in the back of your mind, but just to get closure is good.”
* Rick DiPietro made 25 saves and played the entire game for Bridgeport in a 4-2 loss to Providence last night. He left his last game for the AHL affiliate on Dec. 11 after two periods because of leg stiffness.