Nielsen plays for Islanders without missing time
ATLANTA - Frans Nielsen, who was listed as day-to-day with an upper-body injury this week, was given the green light in a game-time decision by coach Scott Gordon last night.
Nielsen, who suffered the injury after taking a hit from Devils defenseman Bryce Salvador on Saturday, did not miss any action because the Islanders had a four-day break between games.
After yesterday's morning skate, Nielsen said he felt good and was ready to play if needed.
"I was sore the first couple of days, but I made big steps the next few days,'' Nielsen said. "I feel like I can play.''
Nielsen said he was relieved that his most recent injury won't cause him to miss time, especially given his six-game absence to begin the season because of his injured right knee.
"It's tough not being able to play. Being hurt is the worst,'' said Nielsen, who was on ice for 14:34 in the Islanders' 4-1 win over the Thrashers. "I'm just happy that I'm already back on the ice.''
Nielsen and fellow center Rob Schremp skated in pregame warm-ups and Nielsen ultimately got the nod, leading Schremp to be scratched for the ninth straight game and 20th game this season.
"It's frustrating, but I could definitely be in a worse position," Schremp said. "I'm closer to playing in the NHL than I was last year at this point."
Not caught short
Entering last night, the Islanders and the Detroit Red Wings were the only teams that had not allowed a shorthanded goal.
