Al Montoya faces former team tonight at MSG

Al Montoya will start against his former team at Madison Square Garden tonight.

Montoya, drafted 6th overall by the Rangers in the 2004 draft, enters tonight's contest with a 7-2-3 record, 2.09 GAA and .926 save percentage. A win tonight would give him the team lead in wins this season.

"It's going to be great," Montoya said. "I had a great time here and they treated me well. Eevry day you step on the ice it's an NHL game with something to prove and this game will be no different. It will be exciting, a great atmosphere."

Capuano hopes that Montoya, who was traded by the Rangers to Phoenix in 2008, can channel his emotions into a strong performance against their division rivals.

"I think there will be some nerves. I think it's always exciting when you get a chance to face your former team. I'm sure he's looking forward to the opportunity."

Although Montoya was slated to start tonight's game originally, there were some concerns after Saturday's game in New Jersey. Playing back-to-backs, Montoya suffered some cramping after the team's 3-2 OT loss to the Devils and didn't feel well.

Montoya felt better after a light practice yesterday, but Capuano hinted that he may hesitate to use him in the back-to-back set this weekend (Friday in Carolina, Saturday in Florida).

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Optional skate for the Islanders this morning; six skaters and goaltender Nathan Lawson were on the ice.