Islanders’ Isaiah George On Cracking The Lineup, Initial Thoughts On DeBoer & Boughner’s Impact
Isaiah George talks about his return to the lineup, adjusting to Pete DeBoer’s system, and Bob Boughner’s impact.
EAST MEADOW, NY — Defenseman Isaiah George, after working his way back from multiple injuries this season, appeared in just two games before the New York Islanders acquired Carson Soucy from the New York Rangers.
However, injuries to Ryan Pulock and Tony DeAngelo opened the door for George to rejoin the big club.
Despite the recall, George had to remain patient, sitting in the press box for six straight games before former head coach Patrick Roy turned to him during the second leg of a back-to-back, slotting him alongside Scott Mayfield against the Carolina Hurricanes last Saturday.
He played alongside Mayfield more often than not through his 33 appearances last season.
Saturday’s game marked Roy’s final behind the bench on Long Island, as he was relieved of his duties following a 4-3 loss in which the Islanders were outshot 14-6.
The good news for George is that he has remained in the mix through the first few practices under new head coach Pete DeBoer.
I caught up with George following Tuesday’s practice to discuss where his game is at, his early impressions of DeBoer, the system changes, and working with defensive coach Bob Boughner, whom DeBoer praised for his communication skills.