"An old face was back on the ice Saturday in the Nassau Coliseum as New York Islanders goaltender Rick DiPietro started against the Buffalo Sabres in his first game at home since Dec. 26, 2008.

DiPietro, who signed a 15-year, $70-million contract in 2006 that was openly reviled throughout the NHL, has gone through hip and knee injuries and had a pair of surgeries on the knee in the last two years. He played just five games last year and only one this year, a 4-3 loss Jan. 8 at Dallas.

"Health is a main goal here but I don't want that to overshadow the fact I have to play well and have results," DiPietro said. "When you're back in the NHL, all that matters is wins. That's what's really important."

DiPietro did a four-game conditioning stint with Bridgeport of the American Hockey League before rejoining the Islanders. He got the start Saturday even though ex-Sabre Dwayne Roloson is 7-0-1 with a 2.02 goals against average in his last eight starts. That's because Roloson's career numbers versus Buffalo are ugly — (0-5-1, one tie, 3.46 GAA).

DiPietro, of course, was the starting goaltender for the 2006 U.S. Olympic team in Torino, Italy. Miller is almost certain to be the starter next month in Vancouver after getting passed over four years ago.

"I saw him briefly on the way in to the building and talked to him," Miller said after the Sabres' morning skate. "I'm really happy he's playing. You don't want to see someone with that much talent and leadership on his team have his career threatened, especially at his age.

"Down the line, I'm glad he's back and he's healthy. This is what he was meant to be doing.""