Former Sharks goalie Evgeni Nabokov did something on Tuesday night that he hadnt done since the very first win of his NHL career.
When Islanders goaltender Al Montoya was hurt at 18:40 of the second period in Winnipeg, Nabokov was called upon to play for the first time since he injured his groin on Nov. 17. Nabokov stopped all 19 shots he faced, and two more in the shootout, in helping the Islanders to a 3-2 victory over the Jets.
Islanders defenseman Travis Hamonic told NHL.com:
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Bay Area and California sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
"I'm not a goalie and I couldn't imagine coming in cold like that, but I thought he played a great game. He gave us an opportunity to win, and he was stellar in the shootout, so you can't ask for anything more."
The other relief win for Nabokov came on March 2, 2000 against Nashville, when he came on in relief of Steve Shields at 4:47 of the second period. The Sharks trailed 3-1 at the time, but rallied to win 4-3 in regulation to give Nabokov his first ever victory.
RELATED: Isles top Jets 3-2 in OT
In nine games with New York this season, Nabokov is 2-5-0 with a 2.65 goals-against average and .918 save percentage.