BUFFALO -- Goaltender Rick DiPietro's concussion is only one of several Islanders injuries that seem to mount by the day. Forwards Ryan Smyth and Andy Hilbert did not practice with the team yesterday and are listed as day-to-day for tonight's game against the Sabres at HSBC Arena, and general manager Garth Snow addressed problems on the injury-depleted defense by importing two defensemen from Europe.
As reported yesterday on Newsday's Web site, Snow signed defenseman Todd Simpson, 33, a 10-year NHL veteran who was playing in Germany. Snow expected to reach a similar agreement with another defenseman last night. Neither one will be in Buffalo, and both must clear waivers to take part in the five remaining regular- season games.
The Islanders recently lost defenseman Freddy Meyer, who is out for the season after undergoing surgery for a broken finger, and defenseman Bruno Gervais (high ankle sprain) likely is done for the season. Defenseman Sean Hill has been nursing a groin strain but is expected to play.
Smyth (leg) skated before practice but spent the rest of his time in the weight room. Hilbert (shoulder) also did not practice. Forward Steve Regier was called up from Bridgeport as a potential replacement tonight, but fourth-liners Arron Asham and Richard Parks are slated for more ice time if Smyth and Hilbert don't dress.
Coach Ted Nolan said Mike Dunham will make his second straight start, but he would like to have DiPietro back if possible. "Rick's as much a warrior as any player I've ever been around," Nolan said. "You know he's really hurting if he's not in our lineup."
As reported yesterday on Newsday's Web site, Snow signed defenseman Todd Simpson, 33, a 10-year NHL veteran who was playing in Germany. Snow expected to reach a similar agreement with another defenseman last night. Neither one will be in Buffalo, and both must clear waivers to take part in the five remaining regular- season games.
The Islanders recently lost defenseman Freddy Meyer, who is out for the season after undergoing surgery for a broken finger, and defenseman Bruno Gervais (high ankle sprain) likely is done for the season. Defenseman Sean Hill has been nursing a groin strain but is expected to play.
Smyth (leg) skated before practice but spent the rest of his time in the weight room. Hilbert (shoulder) also did not practice. Forward Steve Regier was called up from Bridgeport as a potential replacement tonight, but fourth-liners Arron Asham and Richard Parks are slated for more ice time if Smyth and Hilbert don't dress.
Coach Ted Nolan said Mike Dunham will make his second straight start, but he would like to have DiPietro back if possible. "Rick's as much a warrior as any player I've ever been around," Nolan said. "You know he's really hurting if he's not in our lineup."
