Tuesday Links: Hockey Focused, It's the Stretch Run...

With the Injury to New York Islanders forward John Tavares, other players on the Islanders are going to have an opportunity to play more. One of them is former UND forward Brock Nelson. (TSN.CA)

The Islanders, 12 points out of a playoff spot, weren't going to contend for the postseason this year and are already preparing to move LW Thomas Vanek prior to the March 5th trade deadline. Under those circumtances, there will be some opportunities available for other Islanders, rookies Ryan Strome and Brock Nelson among them, to play more prominent offensive roles.

Former UND forward Evan Trupp is playing with the Corban Knight on the Abbotsford Heat. Trupp has scored (1g-4a—5pts) in 10 games this season.

Apparently Vancouver Canucks forward Ryan Kessler returned from the Sochi game with an injury.

Former UND and current Minnesota Wild forward Zach Parise stood up and defended Olympic coach Dan Bylsma. Mike Russo has the details on his blog.

The Stanley Cup of Chowder profiles Zane Gothberg this week. No mention of the him getting the NCHC goalie of the week.