Islanders coach Scott Gordon laughed when, in typical reporter fashion, I pointed out that No. 1 draft pick John Tavares was minus-2 in his first rookie camp scrimmage. "I haven't seen the stat sheet," Gordon kidded, showing that he, too, is more comfortable now that his rookie NHL season is behind him.

"I wouldn't read too much into any particular performance by anybody. This was a great opportunity for all the players to get their feet wet. I really thought they competed hard. We want players to battle."

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