Matt Martin Knocks Out Tom Kostopoulos, Motions To Have Bench Collect Him

The Islanders beat the Devils 3-1 Monday night in New Jersey and continued an improbable, late-season push for a playoff spot. John Tavares scored his 22nd goal of the season, Evgeni Nabokov out-tended Martin Brodeur and the Islanders have now won four of their last five.

The game started with some early fireworks when Josh Bailey scored the Islanders' first goal 52 seconds into the game. About 10 minutes later, Matt Martin's fist found Tom Kostopoulos's chin. He was out immediately and, judging by the fencing response, concussed.

Martin, for his part, realized Kostopoulos was in rough shape and immediately motioned over to the Devils bench to get someone out on the ice to help him. It's weird to watch someone go from punching another person in the face to expressing concern for that same person seconds later, but when it's in the job description, like it is for Martin, it's probably easier to separate the emotions.

Islanders finish strong trip with win against Devils [NHL]