Getting it Right?

Posted 12:10 PM ET | Comments 1

The Islanders might finally be doing it right.

In adding defenseman Mark Streit to nurture an ailing power play on a 5-year deal for the right price, Garth Snow did his job well. This addresses a need and doesn't take away from any deserving youngster looking for ice time.

In bringing in cagey veteran Doug Weight to center the top line on a 1-year deal, he does a few things all at once. First and foremost, you've got a tutor for the kids. An on the ice teacher, if you will, experienced and talented to lead the youngsters. Two, you've got someone to play with Bill Guerin and not just anyone. In Weight, you've got a guy who has experienced success with Guerin years ago. These two are at the end of their careers, yes, but the talent is still there. And third, you're allowing Mike Comrie to relax a little and play where he needs to play - on the second line. A first line center, as is well chronicled the hockey media world over, he is not.

And Blake Comeau and Kyle Okposo on the wings with Comrie in the middle sounds like fun to me!

Something else to ponder : if, as is probably expected by many, the Islanders are nowhere near contention come deadline time, Doug Weight is a guy you can definitely move. I'm sure he's well aware of this as well.

It looks like this could be it for the Isles and free agency and, for once, I'm okay with that.

Bravo, Garth ... you have regained my confidence (and patience.)

Filed Under: Islanders free agency NHL

floridaislefan

July 5, 2008 8:26 PM ET | Delete
Hey Jon...like you, I maintain my attachment to the team from the Sunshine State. Unlike you, I struggle to remain optimistic. It is not that I lack confidence in Garth Snow, and it is not that I question the potential of some of the younger players, but rather a lack of patience worsened by the Milbury years. I had the good fortune of being able to visit the Joe Louis Arena and watch a Western Conference Final game against Dallas. Granted, the Red Wings are a special group...highly talented...but I couldn't help but to make comparisons to the Islanders. Will this group ever be able to play at such a level? Regular season games are not a true indication of talent. The playoffs are a wonderful litmus test as to the talent and grit that your team possesses. When can we expect this group to be mature enough to compete with the elite teams? Will they ever? I'm excited about Mark Streit...I truly am...but wouldn't it have been a good sign if we were more aggressive in the UFA market? Doug Weight is a fine veteran, and will provide guidance to the youngsters, but he is 37. I know that the Islander Stanley Cup teams were built over time...but even the years prior to the first cup were years of solid play and successful finishes. What's your take on all of this?

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