News:Kyle Okposo found himself back in the goal column Thursday against Winnipeg, potting two in a 5-4 victory.
Analysis: The nearly 24-year-old Minnesotan winger is certainly ending his season on a high note, as he's got eight goals (and an assist) in his last eight games.
Isles' Okposo Scores In Fourth Straight, Hits 20 Goals
News:Kyle Okposo stretched his goal-scoring streak to four games Thursday in a win over the Islanders, striking twice to reach 20 goals for the first time in his career.
Analysis: He scored 18 and 19 in his first full seasons in the league, then fell back to five in last season's injury-shortened campaign, so this constitutes progress for Kyle Okposo. The challenge for him, as always, is producing with consistency.
News:Kyle Okposo posted a goal and an assist in Tuesday's win over the Penguins, giving him goals in three-consecutive games.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo is closing in on 20 goals with just a handful of games left. The highly touted winger will have to start producing more regularly as it's getting a little late to continue saying Okposo has potential.
News:Kyle Okposo limped off the ice after taking a hit but returned on the next shift during Sunday's game against the Rangers, ESPN's Katie Strang reports.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo left the ice in visible pain, be he returned shortly after and looks to be fine.
News:Kyle Okposo notched the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win over New Jersey, giving him two goals in the last three games.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo has been chipping in of late for the Isles and sits with 33 points in 63 games, the bulk of which have come after the new year. He's a talented winger, just someone the Islanders are waiting to have that breakout season that made him the seventh overall pick in 2006.
News:Kyle Okposo (illness) will be in the lineup Monday against Ottawa, according to Newsday's Arthur Staple.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo, who has one goal in his last four games, while recording a minus-4 rating in that span, missed practice Sunday, but he'll give it a go Monday.
News:Kyle Okposo missed practice on Sunday due to illness, according to Newsday.
Analysis: The flu bug seems to be running its way through the Islanders' locker room. Kyle Okposo is questionable to play Monday afternoon. Okposo was moved off of the top line in Saturday's win, but responded with a goal on the second line with Frans Nielsen and P.A. Parenteau.
News:Kyle Okposo assisted on the Islanders' only goal in Monday's loss to Nashville, extending a points streak to four games.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo has been playing strongly of late with nine points in the last nine games, being held without a point only once. His first few seasons in the league have featured flashes of the player the Islanders believed him to be, but he does have a shot at surpassing his career high of 52 from the 2009-10 season.
News:Kyle Okposo notched a goal in Tuesday's win over Carolina, giving him points in each of the last three games.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo has been producing more regularly the last two weeks with four points over the last five games and has 10 of his season's 16 points since December 2.
News:Kyle Okposo scored his sixth goal of the season Friday night in a 5-3 Islanders loss to the Leafs. It was his first point in four games.
Analysis: Much more was expected of the 23-year-old winger this season, but he simply hasn't found any kind of groove yet. With only 13 points in 30 games and a disappointing minus-12 rating, Kyle Okposo's fantasy value is almost nil at this point in the season.
News:Kyle Okposo factored into both Islanders goals in Thursday's 3-2 loss to Dallas, scoring one and assisting on the other.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo's December has been an interesting one, as he's got a respectable six points in seven games, but hasn't had points in consecutive games since the end of October.
News:Kyle Okposo scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's loss to the Penguins.
Analysis: He's finally starting to warm up after an abysmally slow start to his year. He has four points in his last five games. We're not convinced he's out of the woods just yet but this little burst is a good sign.
Islanders' Okposo Scores First Two Goals Of Season
News:Kyle Okposo scored his first two goals of the season in Wednesday's 4-3 overtime loss to the Flyers.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo, a former seventh overall pick, has keeper potential and is worth taking a flier on assuming he remains in the lineup on a more consistent basis going forward.
News: After being a healthy scratch for three games, Kyle Okposo will return to the lineup for the Isles on Monday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Someone named Sidney Crosby is also returning in this game which is pushing Kyle Okposo's return from the headlines. Okposo has yet to score a goal yet this season so we wouldn't be rushing to put him back in your fantasy lineup.
News:Kyle Okposo was once again a healthy scratch Saturday, making it three straight games the Isles have sat their former first-round pick.
Analysis: This seems a little odd. When asked why, Isles coach Jack Capuano stated that there is more than just one reason as to why Kyle Okposo hasn't gotten back in the lineup, but that he expects him back shortly. Perhaps owner Charles Wang is about to offer him the GM job.
News:Kyle Okposo was a healthy scratch for the second straight game Thursday.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo has yet to score a goal this season and may be made the scapegoat for the Isles offensive troubles early this season. Okposo is coming off major shoulder surgery last season and some believe that injury requires up to a year to fully recover from so perhaps better times are ahead, but for now Okposo rides the pine.
News:Kyle Okposo will sit out Tuesday against the Rangers, reports Katie Strang of ESPNNewYork.
Analysis:Kyle Okposo will be a healthy scratch for the first time in his career. In 14 games this season Okposo has struggled; recording only three assists. 19-year-old Nino Niederreiter will make his season debut in Okposo's absence.
News: Okposo signed a five-year contract with the Islanders on Wednesday, Newsday writer Katie Strang reports.
Analysis: The contract indicates that the Islanders expect or hope the former seventh overall pick will take the next step in 2011 after totaling 72 points (24 goals) in his last 118 games. He only recently turned 23, so it'd probably be a surprise if he doesn't improve a bit from here.
News: Okposo picked up two assists in the Islanders' thrilling 4-2 comeback victory over Boston Friday night.
Analysis: Friday's two assists extended his points streak to a modest three games.
News: Okposo had a goal and an assist Wednesday night in the Islanders' 4-1 win over the Wild.
Analysis: The goal turned out to be the game winner. Okposo's been ice-cold of late, having entered Wednesday night's action with a single point (a goal) in New York's seven previous games.
News: Okposo picked up his first goal in 13 games when he sniped his third of the year in Saturday's loss to the Capitals.
Analysis: It was a beautiful goal -- he came in on a 2-on-1, cut hard from the wing to the slot and then roofed a wrister that froze Michal Neuvirth. Mind you, Neuvirth wasn't impressed with the snipe after the game, telling reporters that Okposo got lucky. It's nice to see Okposo get back on the board but it's even nicer to see a little trash talk in such a sterile NHL environment.
Okposo Has Three Assists For Islanders In Overtime Win
News: Okposo had three assists in Sunday's 7-6 overtime win over Buffalo on Sunday.
Analysis: Okposo now has eight points (2G, 6A) and is plus-6 in 12 games and should be a help to owners in deeper leagues.
News: Okposo had two goals and an assist in Tuesday's win over Atlanta.
Analysis: The goals were Okposo's first two of the season. He had just one assist in his first five games since returning from a shoulder injury prior to Tuesday, but he seems to be getting his game together and he makes for a decent fantasy option the remainder of the season.
News: Okposo only has a single assist since his return to the Islanders.
Analysis: This is sort of to be expected as in some ways his first few games back from injury are his training camp. Okposo should pick up his offensive production after the break.
Islanders' Okposo Gets First Point Of Season Friday
News: Okposo had an assist in the Islanders' 5-2 win over the Sabres on Friday.
Analysis: It was his first point of the season in his second game back from his shoulder injury.
News: Okposo was able to return from a shoulder injury for Thursday's loss to the Capitals. It was the first game he played all season.
Analysis: He was able to play a hearty 18:05, and while he didn't register a point, looks to be good to roll with going forward. On Friday, he'll be on the second line with Michael Grabner and Frans Nielson. It may be worth a look to see if Okposo was discarded to your league's free agent wire and is sitting hidden at the bottom based on no scoring totals so far.
News: Okposo (shoulder) will play Thursday against the Capitals, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: Okposo, who racked up 52 points in 80 games with the Isles last season, could help out those in deeper leagues, but his plus/minus figures (he was minus-22 last season) will be a concern on a team that has exactly zero players with a plus-rating.
News: Okposo (shoulder) practiced with the team for the first time since his injury Wednesday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Okposo is still a few weeks away from returing to game action, perhaps late January or early February. The Isles had originally expected Okposo to return in mid-December but that was obviously just a bit optimistic.
News: Okposo (shoulder) will not join the team on its upcoming road trip, Newsday reports.
Analysis: Okposo skated in full gear early in December, but he has still yet to resume practicing with the team. A date for Okposo's return has not been set, but skipping the road trip means he will miss at least two more weeks and six more games.
News: Okposo (shoulder) skated with full gear on for the first time Saturday, Newsday's Katie Strang reports.
Analysis: The Islanders have not provided any type of timetable for when we might see Okposo back on the ice in a game, but his return to full practice Saturday is an encouraging sign that he remains on track to play sometime this month.
News: Okposo underwent successful shoulder surgery Saturday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Okposo had a torn labrum in his right shoulder. He is expected to be out until December.
News: According to a source, Okposo has a torn labrum in his right shoulder and will be out until December, Newsday reports.
Analysis: Okposo will seek a second opinion before determining a date for his surgery, but all indications point to him missing at least two months with this injury. With Okposo and Mark Streit both expected to miss significant time, the Islanders already have their backs against the wall before the season even begins.
News: Okposo will require surgery and is out indefinitely, according to Katie Strang of Newsday.
Analysis: Between Okposo's injury and a shoulder injury to Mark Streit, it sure looks like the Isles are jinxed this season. Two of the top three scorers now won't be on the ice for a long time, and that's before the season even got going. Ouch.
News: Okposo will see a shoulder specialist Monday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Shoulder injuries are killing the Islanders right now as they have already lost top d-man Mark Streit for six months and will now wait for a diagnosis for Okposo. The injury is not expected to be anywhere near as serious and the Islanders will announce a timetable for his return by Tuesday.
News: Okposo has a sore shoulder, according to Newsday.
Analysis: This doesn't seem to be anything serious as the Islanders have a policy this September to sit anyone who has the slightest injury. This may explain the absence of P. A. Parenteau, Frans Nielsen, Doug Weight, Rob Schremp, Trent Hunter, and Okposo from practice Friday.
News: Okposo spent the off-season working on his shot, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Okposo spent 15-20 minutes each day doing nothing but shooting at the net. He believes there is a dramatic difference in his shot and hopes that will show up on the scoreboard.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored a goal and tallied two assists during Sunday's season finale against the Penguins. Okposo tallied his 19th goal at 4:29 of the third period. It was his second goal in three games and third in eight contests.
Analysis: With three points on Sunday, Okposo broke 50 points for the first time in his career. He finished with career highs in goals, assists (31) and points (52). The only downside is that he also had a career-worst minus-23 rating. While we see Okposo making strides in his NHL career, he still hasn't been the impact Fantasy player we had hoped he would be. Okposo is going to remain a low-end Fantasy flier on Draft Day 2010.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored a pair of goals in Friday's overtime loss to the Ducks. He returned after sitting out Tuesday's game against Vancouver due to an upper-body injury. He finished minus-1, going 0 for 1 on faceoffs and registering one hit.
Analysis: With 16 goals and 28 assists on the season, Okposo is a viable starting Fantasy forward in deeper leagues.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo did not suit up for Tuesday's game against the Canucks due to an upper body injury. There is no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Okposo has 14 goals and 28 assists on the season, but was without a point in his previous three games. He is still worth using in deeper Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: AOL Fanhouse reports that Islanders RW Kyle Okposo might miss Tuesday's game at Vancouver with an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: Okposo has been up and down in his sophomore campaign and has just two points in his last eight games. He is worth using in deeper Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored and assisted in Saturday's win over the Lightning, giving him a career-best 40 points on the season.
Analysis: Okposo has been a little inconsistent for our liking in 2009-10, but he's still managed to do enough to be worth using in deeper leagues as a starting Fantasy forward.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored a goal and tallied an assist on Saturday against the Devils. He has a season-high five goals in 10 January games. He now leads the Islanders with 35 points.
Analysis: Okposo has really stepped up his game since December. He has 21 points (six goals) in his last 25 games. This is the type of scoring we have been waiting to see from Okposo since he got to the NHL a few seasons ago. He came on late in 2008-09 and Okposo could be ready for another big second-half run. He is still a low-end Fantasy start, but definitely someone to keep tabs on.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo got an assist in Monday's win over the Devils, extending his points streak to six games.
Analysis: Okposo is turning into a second-half guy once again, so think about activating him in most leagues if your wingers are under-performing.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored a goal and finished at plus-2 on Tuesday against the Red Wings. Okposo scored his 10th goal 9:22 into the third. He has scored in four straight games after scoring only once from Nov. 16-Jan. 2.
Analysis: This is the type of scoring streak we have been waiting to see from Okposo since he got to the NHL a few seasons ago. He came on late in 2008-09 and Okposo could be ready for another big second-half run. He is still a low-end Fantasy start, but definitely someone to keep tabs on.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored a goal and finished at minus-1 on Friday against the Stars. The Islanders took a 2-1 lead at 19:19 of the first period on another error by Trevor Daley. Daley was unable to control the puck behind his net, and it bounced in front where Okposo beat Marty Turco. It was his eighth goal and third in seven games.
Analysis: Okposo had a pretty good December with a season-high 13 points. But he had just one goal in that span. Okposo isn't having problems passing the puck, it's his scoring that has been disappointing. Until he becomes an all-around threat, Okposo remains a low-end Fantasy start.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored the OT winner and added two assists in Saturday's win over the Rangers.
Analysis: Okposo had a good start to December, but came into Saturday with just one assist in his last six games. He remains a low-end starter in deeper leagues for now, but is a solid keeper option.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo had another two-assist game on Wednesday, picking up an assist on each of the goals scored by John Tavares in a 3-2 loss at Toronto. Okposo now has five goals and 15 assists on the season.
Analysis: Okposo has three multi-assist games in his last four starts, with six total assists during that span. He hasn't scored in a while, but Fantasy owners can deal with it as long as he keeps getting assist. Think of Okposo as a solid low-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo recorded two points in the Tuesday loss to Philadelphia. He had two assists on back-to-back goals by John Tavares on power plays in the 2nd period. The goals were the only two the Islanders scored in the game.
Analysis: Okposo now has 18 points on the season for the Islanders and four of them have come in his last three games. Inconsistency continues to plague Okposo early in his NHL career. Every time he looks as though he is going to have a breakout run, he goes into a prolonged slump. Okposo has low-end Fantasy appeal until he puts it all together.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-3 during Thursday's game against the Thrashers. He has three assists in his last three games, but no goals in eight contests.
Analysis: Okposo totaled four points and a minus-6 rating in 13 November games after posting 10 points in 13 October outings. Inconsistency continues to plague Okposo early in his NHL career. Every time he looks as though he is going to have a breakout run, he goes into a prolonged slump. Okposo has low-end Fantasy appeal until he puts it all together.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored in a second straight game Saturday as New York fell in a shootout to the Panthers.
Analysis: Okposo is over the swine flu and hopefully over the on-ice funk he was experiencing in early November. Continue to use him as a low-end starting Fantasy forward in deeper leagues until he starts to get a little more consistent.
News: Questionable before the game because of swine flu, Kyle Okposo felt just fine afterward. The New York winger snapped a shot past Carolina netminder Manny Legace with 14.4 seconds remaining in overtime to give the Islanders a 4-3 victory over the Hurricanes on Friday. "I feel pretty good," said Okposo, who sat out Wednesday night against Washington. "It felt good to contribute again. It's tough watching." With time winding down in overtime, Hurricanes defenseman Bryan Rodney tried to clear the Carolina zone. Okposo anticipated the play and intercepted the puck before beating Legace blocker side. "I looked up and felt something on my stick," Okposo said. "I just tried to shoot something quick. Fortunately, it got over his pad."
Analysis: Okposo also managed an assist in 21:23 of ice time on Friday. He wasn't expected to play until late on this road trip, but he quickly recovered from the swine flu and looked just fine in his return. Okposo has 12 points in 18 games. He has been solid on the top line with John Tavares and Matt Moulson. Okposo is starting to live up to his first-round potential, but he is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: The New York Post reports that Islanders RW Kyle Okposo has the swine flu. He is likely to miss most of the team's four-game road trip to Washington, Carolina, Florida and Boston that starts Wednesday.
Analysis: Okposo is off to a semi-decent start this season with 10 points in 17 games but has zero points in his last four contests. He looks like a risky start for Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 16-22) at this point, but he has a few days to get well, so don't count him out just yet.
News:Doug Weight, in his first game following his illness, assisted on Kyle Okposo's tiebreaking, man-advantage goal in the second period that lifted New York to a 3-1 victory over the New York Rangers on Wednesday. Weight, sidelined for three games, sent a cross-ice pass to Jack Hillen in the Rangers' zone. The defenseman fired a drive that bounced off goalie Henrik Lundqvist and past Rangers defenseman Dan Girardi onto the stick of Okposo, who slammed the puck into the open right side with 1:46 left in the second. It was his second goal of the season and first in nine games.
Analysis: Okposo has just two points in his last five games after opening with a six-game point streak. Despite his little slump, Okposo has been great on a line with John Tavares and Matt Moulson. He is starting to flash his first-round potential and develop into a reliable Fantasy option.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo was able to play on Saturday in the team's season opener against the Penguins, having recovered from a concussion. He picked up an assist in the game on a Mark Streit goal.
Analysis: Okposo is expected to be the team's top-line right winger and heavy contributor on offense this season, so it's good to see him active with the team from day one. He is a nice Fantasy sleeper this season and could end up with an impressive year. However, he is not much more than a low-end option at this point.
News:Newsday reports Islanders RW Kyle Okposo (concussion) practiced with his teammates Monday and didn't even have to wear a non-contact jersey. Okposo said he felt good and will continue to work hard in hopes of playing in Saturday's opener against the Penguins. Okposo added he hasn't experienced any difficulty since returning to the ice, but admitted he has been a little hesitant since Flames D Dion Phaneuf knocked him out in a preseason game. "A little bit," he said. "It's in the back of my mind, but it still felt good to get back on the ice."
Analysis: Okposo has said he has been symptom-free for about a week. He, as well as coach Scott Gordon, remain optimistic that he will be ready to play by Saturday. Still, Okposo probably can be considered an injury-risk start for Week 1 (Oct. 1-11). He is expected to be the team's top-line right winger and heavy contributor on offense. We like Okposo as a Fantasy sleeper heading into the season.
News: New York Islanders forward Kyle Okposo was removed from the ice immobilized on a stretcher after taking a big hit from Calgary Flames defenseman Dion Phaneuf early in the second period of a 5-4 preseason shootout loss Thursday night. Okposo, the seventh pick in the 2006 draft, remained motionless on the ice for more than six minutes as he was attended to by trainers from both teams and other medical personnel. A CT scan showed Okposo had a mild concussion, Islanders spokesman Seth Sylvan said in a text message to The Associated Press. Sylvan said Okposo accompanied the team on the flight to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where the Islanders are conducting training camp and where these teams will play again on Saturday night. "I thought it was a clean hit," Phaneuf said. "I stepped up and used my shoulder. You don't like to see guys get hurt, but that's part of my job when the hits are there, to take them."
Analysis: After the hit, New York forward Pascal Morency jumped off the bench and charged Phaneuf but was intercepted by Calgary's Mark Giordano. A small melee ensued, that included Islanders goalie Martin Biron. Morency was given a game misconduct. It's great to see Okposo's teammates stand up for him. It just goes to show you how important he is to their cause heading into 2009-10. Hopefully, he can get back on the ice soon and continue to make progress in his career. Okposo kind of had a disappointing rookie season in 2008-09, but finished on strong note. He had 16 points (six goals) over his final 16 games. There is some hope that the addition of John Tavares will help Okposo take his game to the next level. Since concussions can sometimes be problematic for hockey players, there is some injury risk involved with drafting the 21-year-old forward. He is more of a Fantasy sleeper heading into the season.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Kyle Okposo, who led the Islanders with 18 goals last season in his first full NHL campaign, attended the August orientation camp for the 2010 U.S. Olympic hockey team in Chicago. Isles coach Scott Gordon also will be one of the assistant coaches for the Americans. "I've been extremely excited for the opportunity to represent my country," Okposo said. "Throughout the camp, guys would kid around about a few things but mostly, there was no NHL talk. It was more of getting to know everyone as opposed to being hockey players."
Analysis: Even though he was New York's top goal scorer, Okposo really had a disappointing rookie campaign. He was expected to be a top contender for the Calder Trophy (best rookie) but wasn't even close. Okposo played well late in the season, recording 16 points in his final 16 games. He will look to build off that. Okposo is a low-end Fantasy option Draft Day with sleeper potential.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo was able to return to the Islanders lineup on Saturday against the Flyers after missing four games with a groin injury. He failed to score in the game but had four penalty minutes.
Analysis: Okposo is a part of the Islanders' long-term plans and will likely be a featured part of their team next season. He is a solid long-term keeper but is only a low-end option at the moment.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo was once again absent from the lineup Thursday against the Penguins because of a groin injury. He has missed the last four games and remains questionable for Saturday against the Flyers.
Analysis: Okposo really wants to get back on the ice, but New York has long-term plans for the burgeoning forward and have no reason to risk further injury in meaningless games. Okposo has heating up before exiting the lineup, but still has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy. He is certainly a solid long-term keeper and sleeper heading into 2009-10.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo (groin) did not return to the lineup Tuesday against the Hurricanes. He has missed the last three games and remains questionable for Thursday against the Penguins.
Analysis: Okposo is dying to get back on the ice before the season ends, but since New York has nothing really to play for outside of pride, the team will not risk long-term injury. Okposo has heating up before exiting the lineup, but still has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy. He is certainly a solid long-term keeper and sleeper heading into 2009-10.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo was out against the Lightning on Friday with a groin injury. He is considered questionable for Tuesday's game at Carolina.
Analysis: Okposo netted his team-high 18th goal and added an assist Wednesday at Washington, giving him six goals and 15 points in his last 12 games. It has been a real treat to watch Okposo over the last month. He came into the NHL last season with a lot of fanfare, but really struggled to adapt to the pro game. Injury bothered him early in the season, but ever since coach Scott Gordon really put him in a starring role, we are getting glimpses of what Okposo can bring to the table. He has low-end Fantasy appeal in seasonal formats when healthy, but is certainly a solid long-term keeper and sleeper heading into 2009-10. He is considered an injury risk for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Injuries are still plaguing the New York Islanders, right down to the final six games of a lost season. All-Star defenseman Mark Streit and top rookie Kyle Okposo, the team's two leading scorers, both sat out against the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday night because of groin injuries. Islanders forward Dean McAmmond was also sidelined due to illness. New York recalled center Trevor Smith and left wing Sean Bentivoglio from Bridgeport of the AHL on Thursday and had both rookies in the lineup when they faced the Canadiens. Bentivoglio made his NHL debut.
Analysis: Okposo netted his team-high 18th goal and added an assist Wednesday at Washington, giving him six goals and 15 points in his last 12 games. It has been a real treat to watch Okposo over the last month. He came into the NHL last season with a lot of fanfare, but really struggled to adapt to the pro game. Injury bothered him early in the season, but ever since coach Scott Gordon really put him in a starring role, we are getting glimpses of what Okposo can bring to the table. He has low-end Fantasy appeal in seasonal formats when healthy, but is certainly a solid long-term keeper and sleeper heading into 2009-10.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders RW Kyle Okposo netted his team-high 18th goal and added an assist Wednesday at Washington, giving him six goals and 15 points in his last 12 games.
Analysis: It has been a real treat to watch Okposo over the last month. He came into the NHL last season with a lot of fanfare, but really struggled to adapt to the pro game. Injury bothered him early in the season, but ever since coach Scott Gordon really put him in a starring role, we are getting glimpses of what Okposo can bring to the table. He has low-end Fantasy appeal in seasonal formats, but is certainly a solid long-term keeper and sleeper heading into 2009-10.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders RW Kyle Okposo had two assists Saturday against the Flyers, giving the rookie winger 13 points (five games) in his last 11 games.
Analysis: Okposo has been flying high since coach Scott Gordon put him on a line with Blake Comeau and Josh Bailey. He finally seems in his element and we could be witnessing the rise of a NHL superstar. Okposo is worth a look in Fantasy while he is this red hot.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored a goal and tallied an assist Friday against the Hurricanes Okposo scored a power-play goal at 18:57 of the second period to cap a four-goal outburst by New York that gave them a 4-2 lead. Okposo has five goals and four assists during a career-best seven-game point streak.
Analysis: Okposo has been flying high since coach Scott Gordon put him on a line with Blake Comeau and Josh Bailey. He finally seems in his element and we could be witnessing the rise of a NHL superstar. Okposo is worth a look in Fantasy while he is this red hot.
News: Islanders RW Blake Comeau and RW Kyle Okposo both assisted twice in Sunday's 4-2 win at Chicago.
Analysis: Comeau was called up in early December and has played well enough to stick around with the Islanders. He is best kept in long-term Fantasy leagues until he posts points consistently, but this second half of the season should have him on all deeper seasonal league radars next season. Okposo remains a solid long-term keeper but only a low-end seasonal option at the moment.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored for a third straight game Tuesday as New York fell in OT to the Leafs.
Analysis: Okposo is quite the talent, but likely not in the running for Rookie of the Year unless he can prolong this streak for a month or so. He is a solid long-term keeper but only a low-end seasonal option at the moment.
News: New York went up by two with 36.8 seconds left in the second period when Kule Okposo sent a wrist shot past Phoenix goalie Josh Tordjman in what ended up being a 3-2 win for the Isles.
Analysis: Okposo also scored against the Devils on Saturday, giving him four goals in his last 17 games. Okposo is quite the talent, but likely not in the running for Rookie of the Year anymore. He is a solid long-term keeper but only a low-end option at the moment.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored a goal during Saturday's 7-3 win against the Devils. On the Islanders' first power play, they went up 2-0 at 10:59 when Josh Bailey fed a beautiful pass in front to Okposo, whose quick one-timer got past Martin Brodeur. It was his 13th goal and second in seven games.
Analysis: Okposo finished January on a four-game goals streak and it appeared he was ready to have his breakout NHL run. Not so fast. He has scored just three times in his last 16 games and still isn't looking like a Rookie of the Year candidate. Okposo has a lot of talent, but until he becomes a constant offensive threat, he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo tallied an assist Tuesday against the Lightning to extend his point streak to five games. He has five goals and one assist in that span.
Analysis: We have been waiting for Okposo to have his breakout run and it seems as though he might currently be in the midst of it. New York has made a commitment to their younger players in the second half and that means plenty of PT for Okposo, who is gaining more-and-more Fantasy value with each point.
News:Kyle Okposo had his first two-goal game in the NHL, and goalie Yann Danis survived a shaky third period in the New York Islanders' 5-4 victory over the Atlanta Thrashers on Thursday. Okposo, who has four goals in three games, made it 2-0 on his eighth goal 7:29 into the first. With 7:21 remaining, Okposo's ninth goal, a wrister from the bottom of the right circle, gave New York a 5-3 lead and helped Danis compose himself. It also made a tough-luck loser out of Johan Hedberg, who stopped 17 of 18 shots, but was saddled with the defeat since Okposo's second goal proved to be the difference.
Analysis: The NHL's seventh overall draft pick in 2006, Okposo scored on the power play in the previous two games before getting two even-strength goals Thursday. We have been waiting for Okposo to have his breakout run and it seems as though he might currently be in the midst of it. New York has made a commitment to their younger players in the second half and that means plenty of PT for Okposo, who is gaining more-and-more Fantasy value with each goal.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored in his second straight game during Wednesday's 2-1 win against the Ducks. For the first time in four games, the Islanders scored first. It took just 2:38 into the game while on their first power play for Okposo to whistle a slap shot from the top of the left circle into the short side. It was his fifth goal in 13 games.
Analysis: New York is committed to giving their younger talent a lot of playing time down the stretch and that means Okposo should get a lot of scoring chances in the second half. He is starting to get his legs back under him after missing several weeks earlier this season with a wrist injury. Okposo remains a nice low-end Fantasy option with room to improve.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored his sixth goal of the season in Monday's 2-1 OT loss to the Capitals.
Analysis: Okposo had a nice point streak going a couple of weeks ago, but now has just two points in his last seven games. He remains a nice keeper option, but his seasonal Fantasy value lies solely in the deepest of formats.
News: New York forward Kyle Okposo left the ice with assistance with about 4 1/2 minutes left in the first period after getting hit in the head with the puck. He returned during the second period wearing a plastic shield on his helmet. He didn't record a point in 19:55 of ice time and finished at plus-1.
Analysis: Okposo dodged a real bullet Thursday. It would have been disappointing for him to exit the lineup again after playing well coming off a wrist injury in late December. Okposo has gotten back to basics, but still remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo has totaled three goals and five assists in his last eight games. He had all of one goal and one assist in his previous 12 games.
Analysis: Okposo has been playing very well since returning from a wrist injury. Okposo started the season in a rut and he didn't break out until he sat down with coach Scott Gordon. New York's head man told the rookie to get back to the basics and it seems to have worked. Okposo is a solid young talent and worth a flier in larger leagues.
News: Islanders rookie RW Kyle Okposo scored his fifth goal of the season Monday in a loss to the Oilers. He now has three goals in his last seven games.
Analysis: Okposo came into the season as a favorite to win the Calder Trophy (top rookie), but his slow start put him out of the picture. However, if he has a strong second half, he might give voters something to think about. Okposo is a first-round pick, so the talent is there. He could be a future Fantasy stud, but for now remains a low-end option until he has sustained success.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Kyle Okposo, a centerpiece of the Islanders' current rebuilding program, got off to a slow start in his first full NHL season but had a career-high five-game point scoring streak (2 G, 5 A) before it was snapped Saturday at San Jose. He credits a conversation he had with coach Scott Gordon earlier this season, while the power forward was sidelined by a wrist injury. "After that conversation, I came to the realization that I was lost and I wasn't playing the way I used to," Okposo said. "I needed to get back to doing what I did to get me here. It lit something in me."
Analysis: Okposo came into the season as a favorite to win the Calder Trophy (top rookie), but his slow start put him out of the picture. However, if he has a strong second half, he might give voters something to think about. Okposo is a first-round pick, so the talent is there. He could be a future Fantasy stud, but for now remains a low-end option until he has sustained success.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo assisted in Saturday's loss to the Islanders, giving him three points (G, 2A) in his last two games.
Analysis: Okposo has just seven points on the season, but maybe this little spurt is a sign he's back and ready to contribute on a regular basis, Fantasy-wise. The Islanders play four times in Fantasy Week 13 (Dec. 29-Jan. 4), so Okposo could be an interesting low-end flier in deeper leagues for the period.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo returned from a 13-game absence Friday against the Wild after his sprained wrist healed sooner than anticipated. The University of Minnesota product and 2006 first-round draft pick's comeback coincided neatly with the Islanders' only visit to his hometown, too. He didn't have a point in 18:01 of ice time and finished at minus-2.
Analysis: The rookie forward has had an ugly start to the season and hasn't yet flashed the first-round potential we all know he possesses. It doesn't help he plays for an inept team like the Islanders, but Okposo is a player that can elevate his game no matter who he is around. Until he heats up, he remains more of a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders C Mike Comrie and RW Kyle Okposo practiced Monday, but they are still expected miss another week of action.
Analysis: Comrie and Okposo can contribute offensively for the Islanders when healthy, so keep an eye on their status as this week goes on as they could be worth using in deeper leagues for Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 22-28). Okposo also has some great keeper value.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Kyle Okposo has suffered a setback in early December in his return from an injury to his right wrist, with the Islanders announcing Friday that he will be out an additional 4-to-6 weeks. "It's just frustrating more than anything," said Okposo, who missed his eighth straight game Saturday against Atlanta. "You've just got to stay positive, keep around the boys and try to stay into it."
Analysis: This injury just adds to what has already been a turbulent pro career for Okposo since he abruptly left the University of Minnesota team last season. He hasn't had a lot of offensive success under Gordon, but Okposo does have the talent to succeed in the NHL. However, he remains more of a low-end option and long-term Fantasy keeper at this time.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders RW Kyle Okposo has resumed practicing with the team, but missed his sixth straight game Saturday against the Senators since suffering a hand/wrist injury Nov. 17.
Analysis: Okposo has disappointed so far this season with only five points and a minus-6 rating after finishing his last campaign so strongly. He has the talent to be a big-time contributor, but until he hits his stride, Okposo remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders RW Kyle Okposo will miss about a week with an arm injury.
Analysis: Okposo has disappointed so far this season with only five points and a minus-6 rating after finishing his last campaign so strongly. He has the talent to be a big-time contributor, but until he hits his stride, Okposo remains a low-end Fantasy forward. He probably isn't worth starting in Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 24-30) as he's only likely to play twice at most.
News:Josh Bailey and Kyle Okposo -- a couple of key first-round draft picks -- sparked the New York Islanders' struggling power play and helped the team to a much-needed victory. Okposo and Trent Hunter scored power-play goals, and Joey MacDonald made 29 saves to lead the Islanders to a 3-1 victory against the Ottawa Senators on Thursday night. Bailey, who debuted Tuesday during the Islanders' 3-1 home loss to Philadelphia, made a fine pass on the tying goal. Okposo received the puck in the slot and fired it into a wide open left side. It was his second goal of the season and first since Oct. 27.
Analysis: Okposo hasn't gotten off to the kind of start the Islanders or Fantasy owners envisioned after he made such an impact down the stretch in 2007-08. Okposo has just five points in 16 games and hasn't really adjusted to his first full season in the NHL. He has the talent to be a big-time contributor, but until he hits his stride, Okposo remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that RW Kyle Okposo, the Isles' 2006 first-round pick, was moved up to the team's top line, on the left side alongside veterans C Doug Weight and RW Bill Guerin, despite totaling just one goal and two assists in the first 10 games. "Kyle is going to be an offensive player in the NHL, for sure," coach Scott Gordon said. "His skill level, his strength, his skating, his passing and shooting ability -- it's a good package. You want to make sure the guy playing with Dougie and Billy is a guy that's capable of scoring and making plays with the consistency they have."
Analysis: Okposo only has three points this season, but he has clearly shown enough potential in his time in the NHL for the Islanders to give him a ton of ice time. It will take time to see exactly how much this move will help him, but the Islanders aren't very good, so don't expect a huge boost in Fantasy value for Okposo. He remains a low-end forward for deeper leagues until told otherwise.
News: The New York Post reports that Islanders coach Scott Gordon will switch up his lines for Thursday's game at the Flyers. RW Kyle Okposo will drop down to a line with RW Trent Hunter and C Frans Nielsen, while LW Jon Sim will skate with C Mike Comrie and C Andy Hilbert.
Analysis: While Hunter is playing well this season with four goals already, this move takes some of the shine off Okposo's value, as he was previously playing on the top line with Richard Park and Mike Comrie. No one else's value really changes, as all of these other guys have minimal Fantasy value as bench guys in deeper leagues anyway.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo scored his first goal of the season during Monday's 4-2 loss to the Rangers. Okposo, who had a golden scoring chance in front earlier in the first period off a blatant giveaway by Nikolai Zherdev, made up for the miss. The rookie took a pass in the slot from Richard Park and wired a drive past Henrik Lundqvist for his first this season and third in 17 NHL games. He took seven shots on net and finished at plus-1.
Analysis: Okposo has connected on just 1 of 23 shots this season. He has three points in eight games. He is trying to get a feel for first-year coach Scott Gordon, but is expected to log top-six minutes all season. Okposo is being compared to Jarome Iginla as a power forward with a knack for scoring. If he ever reaches that level, then one day Okposo will be a must-start Fantasy option. For now, he remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders RW Kyle Okposo, who was denied by Martin Brodeur on a penalty shot Friday, notched his first point of the season Saturday against the Blues with an assist on C Mike Comrie's goal.
Analysis: The bar remains high for Okposo heading into 2008-09 after he made a brief debut toward the end of 2007-08. He is currently skating a second-line winger, but could be a top-line player by season's end. Okposo is being compared to Jarome Iginla as a power forward with a knack for scoring. If he ever reaches that level, then one day Okposo will be a must-start Fantasy option. For now, he remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Newsday reports the bar remains high for Islanders rookie RW Kyle Okposo after a late-season debut in 2007-08. Okposo, who began the season at the University of Minnesota, played 35 games with Bridgeport (AHL) before New York gave him a taste of the NHL. Okposo had five points (two goals) in nine games last season. "It feels pretty good to know I got that under my wing a little bit, but it doesn't change my mentality at all," Okposo said. "I want to be a player in the NHL, I don't want to just make it. I don't want to say, 'OK, I've made it, so now I can rest.' I want to be That Guy out there."
Analysis: Okposo, the Islanders' 2007 first-round pick (7th overall), should spend all of the 2008-09 season with New York and likely as a top-six forward. "He's sharp, he's eager, he's a great student, both at school and in the game of hockey," said Bryan Trottier, an Islanders executive and advisor. Okposo is being compared to Jarome Iginla as a power forward with a knack for scoring. If he ever reaches that level, then one day Okposo will be a must-start Fantasy option. For now, he remains a late-round Fantasy sleeper and potential top Rookie of the Year contender.
News:Kyle Okposo snapped a tie with 2:35 remaining by scoring his first NHL goal, and the New York Islanders ended a six-game losing streak with a 3-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Friday night. Okposo, who made his NHL debut Tuesday in New York's home loss to Toronto, scored shortly after having his helmet knocked to the ice. He took a pass in the right circle from Richard Park and snapped a drive past Martin Brodeur.
Analysis: Okposo, a St. Paul, Minn., native signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Islanders in December, shortly after leaving the University of Minnesota. He will earn $850,000 each year of the deal and is eligible for bonuses that could reach a maximum of another $850,000 per season. Because the Islanders brought him up to play only the final nine games, the first year of his contract won't officially kick in until next season. The right winger had a goal and five assists in seven games while playing for the United States in this year's world junior championship and was assigned to Bridgeport when the tournament ended in January. Okposo is a solid long-term Fantasy keeper.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Islanders RW Kyle Okposo, the seventh pick in the 2006 entry draft, played nearly 15 minutes in his NHL debut Tuesday against Toronto. The 19-year-old winger wore uniform No. 21 and mostly played on a line with C Richard Park and LW Blake Comeau as the out-of-it Isles called him up from AHL Bridgeport for their final nine games. "Absolutely, it would've been nice to be in a playoff race right now, but anytime you play a first game at any level, especially the NHL, it's an exciting time," said Okposo,
Analysis: Okposo, a St. Paul, Minn., native signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Islanders in December, shortly after leaving the University of Minnesota. He will earn $850,000 each year of the deal and is eligible for bonuses that could reach a maximum of another $850,000 per season. Because the Islanders brought him up to play only the final nine games, the first year of his contract won't officially kick in until next season. The right winger had a goal and five assists in seven games while playing for the United States in this year's world junior championship and was assigned to Bridgeport when the tournament ended in January. Okposo is a solid long-term Fantasy keeper.
News:Kyle Okposo pulled off his Islanders jersey for the first time after practice on Monday. The 19-year-old is set to make his NHl debut on Tuesday against the Toronto Maple Leafs two years after he was chosen by New York with the No. 7 pick in the draft. In a season that has quickly unraveled for the Islanders, Okposo is providing something for the franchise to look forward to. New York was in the thick of the playoff hunt after running off six straight wins last month, but the Islanders are 2-9 since and have fallen to 13th place in the Eastern Conference. They are five spots and nine points behind Philadelphia and the postseason cutoff. Okposo scored eight goals and added 16 assists in 29 games in the AHL. After earning an assist in Bridgeport's victory on Saturday night, Sound Tigers coach Jack Capuano gave him the news that he was headed to the NHL.
Analysis: Okposo, a St. Paul, Minn., native signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Islanders in December, shortly after leaving the University of Minnesota. He will earn $850,000 each year of the deal and is eligible for bonuses that could reach a maximum of another $850,000 per season. Because the Islanders brought him up to play only the final nine games, the first year of his contract won't officially kick in until next season. The right winger had a goal and five assists in seven games while playing for the United States in this year's world junior championship and was assigned to Bridgeport when the tournament ended in January. Okposo is a solid long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: Islanders prospect Kyle Okposo continues to play with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the AHL. Okposo, who left the University of Minnesota to begin his pro career, is averaging a point per game with Bridgeport. He has 13 points in 13 games. In four February contests, he has two goals and two assists. Despite his strong play, the Islanders have given no indication of when Okposo might make his NHL debut.
Analysis: Okposo had 26 goals with 25 assists in 58 games during his 1 1/2 seasons with the Golden Gophers. As a freshman, he scored 19 goals and managed 40 points in 40 games. He left the team midway through his sophomore season at the urging of the Islanders' brass because they felt his game wasn't developing fast enough on the college level. If Okposo keeps putting points on the board, he might be called up to the NHL very soon, especially if the Islanders clear house at the trade deadline (Feb. 26). He remains a solid long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: Islanders RW prospect Kyle Okposo continues to play well for the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the AHL. Okposo, who left the University of Minnesota to sign with New York in late December, has one goal and seven assists in seven games.
Analysis: Okposo had 26 goals with 25 assists in 58 games during his 1 1/2 seasons with the Golden Gophers. As a freshman, he scored 19 goals and managed 40 points in 40 games. He left the team midway through his sophomore season at the urging of the Islanders' brass because they felt his game wasn't developing fast enough on the college level. If Okposo keeps putting points on the board, he might be called up to the NHL very soon. He remains a solid long-term Fantasy keeper.
