Jack Capuano getting to know newest Islanders

Islanders coach Jack Capuano mentioned earlier this week that he met first-round draft pick Ryan Pulock for the first time at the 2013 NHL Draft, when the Islanders took him with the 15th pick. So you can imagine the unfamiliarity that Capuano has with some of the other prospects at the camp, especially the undrafted invites who are unsigned.

Not only has this camp given him an opportunity to see some of the young talent in organization firsthand, but it has also given him a chance to get to know them, as well.

“These couple days here for us, we’re still getting to know some of the guys, and that’s what this is all bout,” Capuano said. “Garth [Snow] and I addressed them, and as I mentioned yesterday, we want them to practice with a good pace and have fun out there. It’s a good chance for a lot of the guys to introduce themselves to one another and meet.”

The players have had a hectic schedule while at the camp and the organization is trying to provide time-filling activities for the youngsters while they are off the ice. Jack Capuano said that the prospects went to the Yankee game last night and had other events planned for the rest of the week.

Capuano also mentioned that the prospects’ time at the Colliseum has given the organization a chance to work with them in the weight room and set up a strength and condition program for them to follow.

“For me, more than them just being on the ice, it’s about getting familiar with what it takes to be a pro and what they have to do with our strength and condition program and our nutrition [program], and what they can take out of these and the knowledge that they need to better themselves,” Capuano said.

As for what he’s seen on the ice, Capuano said that he’s impressed with the talent, but sees a lot of areas of improvement with most of the participants.

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“I think the biggest thing for these guys, whether its defense or forwards, is the time and space and how fast the game is,” Capuano said. “For them, not only being mentally focused about where you need to be, but understanding that one second or two seconds away from the puck can cost you a hockey game.”