“They have assimilated with this group very, very well,” New York coach Barry Trotz said.
Palmieri led New York with four goals and tied Mathew Barzal and Pageau for the Islanders lead with six points against Boston.
Neither Zajac or Palmieri played in the playoffs since losing to Tampa Bay in the Eastern Conference First Round with New Jersey in 2018.
New York gave up forwards A.J.
“I can’t say enough good things about those guys, not only as players but people,” Islanders forward Josh Bailey said.
It’s the second straight season the Islanders were able to acquire key pieces before the NHL Trade Deadline that helped them go on lengthy playoff runs.
Trotz credited general manager Lou Lamoriello, a three-time Stanley Cup winner as general manager of the Devils, with acquiring players who fit well.
He understands the intrinsic value of a player in tough games and in the locker room and as a teammate and as a pro, all the stuff that you don’t put a lot of numbers to.
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