Palat scores, assists in Islanders' 5-2 win over Rangers

January 29, 2026 - 05:18

Ondrej Palat made an immediate impact in his first game for the New York Islanders, scoring the opening goal and adding an assist to propel his new team to a 5-2 victory over the New York Rangers on Wednesday night. The win marks the Islanders' second consecutive triumph.

Palat set the tone early, finding the net to give the Islanders a lead they would not relinquish. He later helped set up another score, showcasing the veteran presence the team sought when acquiring him. Simon Holmstrom also had a standout performance, contributing a goal and two assists in the decisive victory.

Goaltender David Rittich provided a steady presence in net, turning aside 14 shots to secure the win. The Islanders' offense received contributions from throughout the lineup, with additional goals from Mathew Barzal, Jean-Gabriel Pageau, and Emil Heineman. The team's cohesive effort proved too much for the Rangers, solidifying a successful night at home and generating positive momentum early in the season.