Tag Search Results for "Islander"
The last time that the New York Islanders clinched the playoffs on THE last day of the season, it didn't come without a price. Going back to March 31, 1990; the New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers, and Pittsburgh Penguins were all vying for the fourth and final playoff position in the Patrick Division. The Islanders were playing the Flyers and the Penguins were playi...
Everyone knows that the Buffalo Sabres are 1st seed. Everyone knows that the Buffalo Sabres won the Presidents Trophy. Everyone knows that every Buffalo fan says "This is our year!". I am pretty sure the upstart New York Islanders will have something to say about that.
Coming in 8th seed with a thrilling shootout win over the New Jersey Devils, the Isles rode 3rd str...
In a week, you will choke down wings, drink lots of beer, and scream at your television sets. In a week, you will throw your Wii controllers aside, and watch small animals grow from the faces of your hockey heroes and heels. In a week, the season travails will wash away to a giant magnifying glass and pressure-cooker called the [b]NHL Playoffs[/b].
Our blood will boil, ...
Well folks, it finally has arrived! The playoffs are here and I couldn't be more excited. A great slate of games tonight with what will probably be one of the most exciting series being Ottawa V. Pittsburgh. So much speed and talent on the ice between both teams and two young upcoming goaltenders. Ray Emery has a lot to make up for from last year's run when he laid a f...
With hockey fever raging through Buffalo unchecked, that can mean only one thing. We are one day from game one. Sabre players have said they are not looking beyond the Islanders and have laid very classy praise on Ted Nolan and his boys from the Island. Are the Islanders equally prepared?
[img:left]http://msn.foxsports.com/id/6198854_36_2.jpg[/img]We have not heard m...
Ditch the razor and hide the shaving cream its playoff time! The time of year when your stomach turns to knots at every odd man rush.
As many players in the Sabres room have said, this is the "Real Season." That is the attitude they have had since dropping Game 7 of the 2006 ECF with a battered blue line.
From training camp to this past Sunday it's been all about ...
With the Oilers being out of playoff contention for sometime now, I've been debating who to root for in the playoffs. I thought I'd cheer for the Islanders with Smytty, my favourite player of all time,on the roster. Maybe the Sabres with them being a local team.
Islanders? With my favourite player of all time now on the roster. Sorry, not you Bergy. They beat out th...
With the Oilers being out of playoff contention for sometime now, I've been debating who to root for in the playoffs. I thought I'd cheer for the Islanders with Smytty, my favourite player of all time,on the roster. Maybe the Sabres with them being a local team.
Islanders? With my favourite player of all time now on the roster. Sorry, not you Bergy. They beat out the ...
Thursday evening at 8pm in front of a packed HSBC Arena the Buffalo Sabres will begin the 1st round of Stanley Cup Playoff action against the #8 seed New York Islanders.
Many storylines come to mind when it comes to this series. From Rick Dipietro's mysterious head injury to the well awaited Jack Adams award winning battle between Nolan and Ruff, as the Replacement look...
I was at my first Wachovia Center Flyers games this weekend. What a great venue for hockey! Even though the Flyers were out of it, the fans were relativley high spirited. The Saturday game against the Islanders was a stinker for 55 minutes, but Finnegan's Wake took my mind off of it. Sunday against the Sabres was more fun. The fans and the game were very entertaining....
This is how I see this game and theseries breakdown!
Special teams throw out what we have done for the year vs everyone else lets go head to head!
Sabres PP 6 of 23
Isles PP 3 of 19
Buffalo also has added 2 Shorties into the mix! Advantage Buffalo!
Breaking down the Centers:
Drury--- Yashin...
This is it Sabres' fans. We have been waiting for this since we watched the Hurricanes raising the Cup last year. I think the team has been waiting for this since THEY watched the Hurricane's raise [i]THEIR[/i] Cup last year.
In my second blog, I wanted to just take a brief look at the series.
I think every publication has already made the world aware that Buffalo ...
psycomkl writes...
Buffalo Sabres vs. Wade Dubielewicz: David vs. Goliath?
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
No. Buffalo is not David. The President's Trophy winning Buffalo Sabres take the ice at the HSBC Arena against the "projected longshot" New York Islanders tonight at 8pm. The Islanders know that tonight marks the start of their season.
3rd string goaltender Wade Dubielewicz gets the nod from coach Ted Nolan to face this powerpacked Sabre squad for game 1. Is he worr...
Tonight starts the quest for the Cup
Lord Stanley will come to it's rightful place in BUFFALO, NY
Thomas Vanek will score 2 goals
Other scores: Connolly, Drury, Briere
Tonight starts the Journey that will be finished when Buffalo Wins the Stanely Cup right here in BUFFALO,
Join Sabres fans during the game at [b]www.sabreschat.com/chat.shtml [/b]to talk a...
Well, Game 1 is finally here! The past several days have inched by as I've waited for the playoffs to start. It should be a good game. I think the Islanders will really work hard and battle. The Sabres have waited for this all season, so they better be ready. I expect them to play like they were at the start of the season and during the playoffs last year. At times t...
Sabres are up 2-1 after 2 periods. The Sabres are playing pretty well, but they aren't capitalizing on some chances that they usually would. Roy's giveaway was terrible and led to the Isles only goal so far. If the Sabres can score on the PP at the start of the 3rd, they should be in good shape. Should be a good 3rd period!
What a game..... 4-1 score. close to the 5-1 prediction
This was a solid strong performance by the Sabres. Nothing more and nothing less.
Brian "I can score in the playoffs" Campbell brings home two goals and 1 assist.
then you have
Chris "I will lead you to the promise land" Drury who played one hell of a game and had 2 goals
and in goal
Ryan "It's Mi...
The only thing the Islanders did good tonight was save the embarassment. The score (4-1) was a lot better then I thought it would be and still the Sabres crushed them. Dubielewicz was the only player on New York actually keeping his team in the game. The Sabres outshot them, out hit them, out scored them, and simply out played them. It was a well deserved and expected win ...
I've been waiting for this game since the Sabres dropped Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals at the RBC Center in North Carolina last summer.
Little did I know I would BE at this game.
I gambled a bit and bought my first ever Mini Pack last August, with the assumption that the Sabres would be back and have another great season. More than anything, it was good for...
Watching the Sabres vs. Islanders game last night I made an observation about the Islanders that I wanted to share. I don't get to see them play too often, so I'm making this assessment based only on one game (maybe not a fair thing to do).
Anyway, the Islanders have a lot of talented players, but too few of them are actually good players. Under the heading of [i]Tale...
Local reports in the Buffalo News seem to suggest that the NY Islanders may not have been prepared for Game 1. See Tim Graham's article in the Buffalo News at [url]http://www.buffalonews.com/111/story/52798.html[/url].
To quote the article, "[i]Signs of slapdash postseason preparations were troubling. Star winger Jason Blake peeked at the Sabres morning skate and asked...
I did full-game recaps in the past, so how about bringing it back out for the playoffs?
[b]Notable Statistics:[/b] [url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/boxscore?gameId=270412002]Box Score[/url]
Powerplay: Buffalo 2/6, New York 0/3
Giveaways: Buffalo 7, New York 14
Shots: Buffalo 11-11-13 (35), New York 1-9-11 (21)
[b]J's opinion:[/b]
1. [u]Rockin' the HSBC pre-gam...
After reading Garth's blog, the Islanders certainly have a problem on their hands. Ricky D, who you'd have to think when healthy, is far and away the better of the two if not a straight up world class goalie. Dubielewicz is a young, upstart guy with a lot of potential: I really like this kid, he's not afraid of anything and challenges the shooter very aggressively. But nev...
psycomkl writes...
Return Of The Rick - Is It Just What The Doctor Ordered?
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Rick Dipietro, Islanders first overall draft pick, Islanders number one goaltender, and generally all around good guy. Islander Nation was all smiles when it was announced that Dipietro has been cleared to play. That smile, although splitting their faces from ear to ear, was tinged with a little bit of worry.
Dipietro suffered 2 concussions within a week of each other...
Here are how the options stand. (1) DP stands on his head, steals a game for the Isles, and Ted Nolan comes out a hero. (2) DP stands on his head, but Sabres still overpower the Isles as a team, and it's a huge risk with little reward. (3) DP comes out rusty, Sabres run over the Isles, and it's a huge risk with NO reward. (4) DP gets hurt (long- or short- term) and Ted ...
First off, let me say that at the beginning of the season, I said that the Islanders would make the postseason, largely on the coaching of Ted Nolan. What can I say? I love the guy. He coaches a great style of hockey. He put together my favourite Sabres line of all-time in Ray, May and Barnaby the "dog line".
Now, I have to question what Nolan, and Garth Snow are thi...
What a game so far.
The Islanders have turned up the heat
But just when you thought they would turn it up higher.....
HERE COME THE SABRES
Sabres score late to come within one goal of the Islanders
remember [url]sabreschat.com/chat.shtml [/url]
I guess Rick Dipietro was exactly what the doctor ordered after all. Coming off a 3 week hiatus, Dipietro backstopped the New York Islanders to a 3-2 victory over the Presidents Trophy winning Buffalo Sabres Saturday night.
The entire team looked electrified by the return of Dipietro from the drop of the puck. The Islanders shook off game 1's timid attitude and explod...
So here we are with another Saturday loss. (Don't worry, I'm not panicking over a 3-2 loss anytime soon...) One thing I've noticed over the season was the lack of real grit or passion when playing on Saturdays. I went back through all of the games and the Sabres were a disappointing 10-13-3 when playing on Saturdays (including the loss to NYI)
I'm not a superstitious...
So I'm busy AGAIN tonight, and this would mean missing TWO broadcasts in a row, which I don't think I can handle. Does anyone know if a radio station in New York City plays it? Normally, I listen to all the game on internet radio so I can hear Rick Jeanneret's broadcast. If RJ's play-by-play is unavailable, what is the radio station that has the Islanders' broadcast? I...
Here we are, game three of a series some Sabre fans were calling an easy sweep. With the Islanders 3-2 win on Saturday, the brooms are back in the closet and the game moves to the Island.
Led by Rick Dipietro and a suddenly re-energized roster, the Islanders know that the battle has only begun. Buffalo is known for exploding after a loss and the Islanders need to be r...
I'm going to try something different and if people like it maybe I'll do it again in the future. Live updates to tonight's Sabres game...highlighting key plays and my thoughts as the game is going on. I would love to hear feedback, so please leave comments. Enjoy...
[b]10:14 p.m. EST:[/b] And that's it! Not the prettiest ending, but the Sabres hold on. The Isles po...
The Sabres put forth a much better effort in Game 3, resulting in a 3-2 win and the lead in the series. Finally, the Sabres forwards scored all 3 goals, including goals from Briere and Vanek. Zubrus currently leads the team in points, with 4 (all assists). He was great again tonight, providing good offense and defense along with a strong physical game. Both of the goal...
The Islanders played their best game of the year last nite. Miro Satan says "We've never played any better. We were flying." It appeard to be that the Isles were trying to play Buffalo's game in the 1st and 2nd. They had speedy forwards and their forecheck was phenomenal. Teddy Nolan is putting together a good game plan. "Captain Canada" was a horse, he was all over ...
One of the things that I always look for in the NHL playoffs is how teams play with the expectations leveled on them. Do the top point getters continue with the style of play that got them into the position they are in, or do they grip their sticks a bit tighter, when they get down a goal? Do the teams that snuck their way in, who may consider themselves to be playing wi...
Beasts. Everywhere. It's a good thing I have my trusty guide with me. We step out of our vehicle and onto the dilapidated lot in Uniondale, Long Island. Nassau Coliseum stands like some archaic ruin, except the ancient Roman and Greek ruins are far better managed. My guide carries our hidden snacks and drinks in her deep-pocketed coat. The rain bleats down like the hammer ...
I've had the pleasure of being a Wild fan since the begining, and I've seen this team go through a lot. The team started as any new team does as the joke of the league, they've now turned it around to being a good team. However in this year's playoffs they've taken a step back in a lot of people minds not being able to get a win against Anaheim. Tonight will start the come...
Cleon_Daskalakis writes...
Pens or Sens Will Have Nothing Left for Round Two
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I wrote yesterday about how the Sabres need to ratchet up the “physical” play if they expect to make a serious run to the cup. After watching game 4 of the Pens & Sens… maybe the Sabres plan will work out just fine if they meet one of these teams in the ECF.
To put it simply and succinctly, these teams are absolutely KILLING each other. I have to believe that ...
Game 4 between the Sabres and Islanders is tonight at 7:30 in New York.
Buffalo currently leads the series 2-1 and could take both away games along with a commanding lead with a win tonight. Games 2 and 3 were very close games, though I thought the Sabres were much better in Game 3 than in 2. If the Sabres come out to play from the start, I don't think they'll have any ...
10 Reasons the Sabres will win tonight
1 – Sabres skate like the wind, Witt and co. is just too dam slow
2 – Islanders have nothing left after giving max efforts in games 2 and 3
3 - Roy, Afinigenov, Vanek line will dominate
4 – Miller is better than Dipeitro
5 – Mike Schopp says so... and Bulldog agreed (imagine that?)
6 - Chris Drury is a hockey god and t...
6:44
just got off the train and walked one block to the bus station and now I'm heading to the Coliseum. by the time we got to Hempstead, not many people on the train still remained -- most being SABRES FANS, which was amusing, to say the least. on the bus right now, several more. we are packing the arena!
7:07
just got into the arena ... testing it out AND I HAVE ...
The Sabres won Game 4 by a score of 4-2. However, when it was 3-2 Sabres, the Isles put the puck in the net. The refs ruled no goal on the ice and Toronto also ruled no goal. However, was this the right call? I am a Sabres fan, so I want to believe it was the correct call. But there have been too many occasions where the Sabres have been screwed by bad calls for me no...
Well, goal or no goal, it doesnt matter. The Islanders drop 2 straight at home and trail Buffalo 3-1 headed to friday at the HSBC. Was it a goal? Was Miller pushed in by an Islander? It doesnt matter, does it? They are not going to start up the game again or "make it up" to the Isles in game 5. The Isles lost because they didnt bury their early chances.
Hey, remem...
These calls NEVER go Buffalo’s way… EVER!
Vanek’s goal – Common sense tells you it was clearly a goal… however I was fully expecting that to be disallowed.
The Afinegenov powerplay – Max somehow drew 6minutes in penalties with a hard play to the net that we see over and over again. Again, I live in Buffalo, I expected co-incidentals at best.
Game 4 N...
Okay, I just want to make a few things clear. I have now attended three Sabres games in three different arenas: HSBC Arena, Madison Sq Garden, and Nassau Coliseum. Of course, the crowd at HSBC is unbeatable when you're rooting on the home team, so I'll leave that aside. As for the MSG crowd, they were more than friendly and I struck up a good conversation with the guy n...
My evening started typically enough. Stuck in unmoving traffic to get over to JFK. My future brother-in-law was coming in for the game tonight...taking off from work as a chef in a very highly respected restaurant in Florida. I look up, half expecting to see bats, but instead the sky is thickly overcast in the gray fog which has enveloped Long Island since hockey came to t...
...it appears that the puck was indeed across the goal line before Miller got pushed into the net. From all I'm hearing this morning, it appears the league got this one wrong and the goal should have counted. A camera angle from in front of the net shows the puck across the goal line between Miller's pads.
That being said, there's nothing that can be done about that n...
To read Part I:
http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=567&post_id=557
[i]We last left our hero, yours truly, with his trusty guide, her brother (the former Islander fan trumpet player) watching Game 4 of the Islander/Sabres series. A man donned in a Ranger jersey has sat in the seats, and bad vibes are back in the Coliseum.[/i]
"Leave it all on the ice"
...
Enough crying about how mean the Isles fans are, you would be pissed if you got screwed out of two games too. However, let's look at those two games. For one, Vanek's goal was not CONCLUSIVELY across the goal line. I know it was, you know it was in. However any camera angle did not show it to be conclusive, it was assumptive. Which it does not say in the rule book. Flash b...
Before I even get started, I just want to make clear that, even as a Sabre's fan, I feel the Isles got the shaft on wednesday night. Not once, either, but twice; of course, the obvious shaft was the "no-goal" call that, from what I saw immediately, should have been a goal. In all honesty, when they went to the phone, I was sure the referee's call was going to be reversed. ...
Playoff elimination seems so final. Your team is done...there will be no Stanley Cup parade down main street this year.
It's a fact of life for 8 teams after round 1. Then 4 more in round 2. Then 2...then 1...
Yeah, in this crazy cup chase only ONE team gets to raise the hardware at the end of the road...and the other 15 playoff teams get to think about "what might h...
Avenged Sevenfold blasts through my apartment, good thing the other half of my life isnt home. I am a bit more optimistic about tonights game, but believe me. . .I dont expect a win.
Instead of chewing on old soup about refereeing and no-goals/goals/beer bottles/etc, I am going to recap on what has come of our rag-tag group of boys out on Long Island this season.
[b...
Islander Sean Hill has been suspended for 20 games for violating the league's Performance Enhancing Substance Abuse policy.
Hill will not dress for the balance of the playoffs.
When the Islanders acquired both Michael Peca and Alexei Yashin on consecutive days surrounding the 2001 entry draft, it signaled the dawning of a new era for the franchise. Despite paying the high price of Zdeno Chara and the draft pick that would eventually be used to select Jason Spezza (as well as throw-in Bill Muckalt) in return for Yashin, initial reactions were posi...
A blog isn't journalism. However, if you're a professional commenting on an issue in your area of expertise then you should be held to a higher standard, even in a blog. Jim Kelley fails in this respect in his Sportsnet.ca blog "The Dope on Suspensions",
(http://www2.sportsnet.ca/blogs/jim_kelley/2007/04/23/the_dope_on_suspensions/#comments ). I wish he was just being ...
Without question, the biggest issue surrounding the New York Islanders this off-season will be the efforts to re-sign Ryan Smyth. The Isles, as usual, have many other outstanding issues to resolve before the 2007-08 campaign, including the possible buyout of captain Alexei Yashin, re-signing leading scorer Jason Blake, and whether or not to bring back two suspended players...
Talk about bad calls, when it is assumed Thomas Vanek snuck one around Rick DiPietro it was called a goal, although the video was inconclusive.
Sabres fans: WELCOME TO PLAYING THE RANGERS!
The Sabres are apparently more important than the Isles, and the Rangers are more improtant than the Sabres.
The goal that Briere scored, or "was inconclusive" looked pretty da...
Jon Jordan writes...
You Break My Heart, Dad ... But That's OK (I Guess)
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I love my family.
I love my friends.
I love hockey.
Sometimes numbers two and three on this list are in a good, old-fashioned tie. (Sorry, amigos, but you have hefty competition come playoff time. It's not your fault and, honestly, you don't stand much of a chance.)
Hockey and family, for me, have always had a tight connection. I fell in love with the Islanders la...
Every hockey web site, message board, forum, or mailing list at this point in the off-season has one Ryan Smyth rumor or another almost daily, so placing faith in any one rumor at this point is just about as sure-footed a strategy as throwing darts at a map of NHL cities. Personally, I've remained optimistic about the Islanders chances of bringing Smytty back, despite much...
"Mad" Mike Milbury is no longer an ISLANDER. MM has stepped down from his position today, and will only be an advisor to Wang's Chineese Hockey Project. But he no longer has reign over anything Islanders Related! Did you hear that, Pierre McGuire? MM is Gone.. we don't wanna hear of any more of his draft picks or trades!
-----------------------------------------
The ...
And, in the end, after making us sweat it out for a couple of months, they got it right!
Alexei Yashin’s tumultuous tenure as captain of the New York Islanders has finally come to an end. Whatever sales pitch Ted Nolan and Garth Snow threw at Charles Wang worked, though it must have been a tough decision for the Islanders owner. Regardless, as I have written in previo...
As we approach the draft, several teams are looking to free up cap room to either make a bigger trade, or sign a big name free agent (and if you've checked out our top 35 list, there are a lot of tem). With this activity, the rumours are starting to swirl.
The Leafs would love to move one of their two high-priced defenseman. Freeing up the 5+ million that both Kubina an...
(A Near Flawless Prognostication Through Slightly Orange-and-Blue Colored Glasses)
So, here we are, less than a week to go before this year’s free agent frenzy. We’ll start to find out who’s going where on Sunday, if not sooner. For the New York Islanders and their fans, it’s hard to start throwing any new names out there at this point, what with very little res...
HyeDray writes...
Hello...Hello....Hello....anybody alive on Long Island?
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Not only do we lose our own top free agents, but apparently we will not be signing any. Can anyone at Hockeybuzz or anywhere else please explain to the 5 remaining Islander fans what the plan is going to be?
Are they going to go with youth and try to build through the next 3 drafts a la Pittsburgh?
Are they going to get a bunch of reclamation projects for Ted Nolan w...
On Trade Deadline Day 2007, the Islanders made a bold statement to their fans and the rest of the league that the organization would no longer settle for mediocrity. Trading former first-round picks Robert Nilsson and Ryan O'Marra, along with their 2007 first-round pick for Ryan Smyth was a loud and clear message that the fans would no longer be asked to look to the never ...
As I sit here, at 4:30 in the morning, not being able to sleep due to numerous reasons, I search my feelings on what has happened over the last 40 hours. "Marketplace, marketplace, marketplace"... I hear it over and over in my head. It's like a bad dream. I have tried, without much success, to look on the positive side of things when it comes to the Sabres situation. As I ...
As I sit here, at 4:30 in the morning, not being able to sleep due to numerous reasons, I search my feelings on what has happened over the last 40 hours. "Marketplace, marketplace, marketplace"... I hear it over and over in my head. It's like a bad dream. I have tried, without much success, to look on the positive side of things when it comes to the Sabres situation. As I ...
Lord knows all of the Islander fans that remain—the dozen or so that have been up the last several nights—are upset, angry, frustrated. Not a single tier one or tier two free agent has signed, and the Islanders have little hope of starting little more then a n AHL level team come October.
So maybe this is the Real Plan A?
I have posted on many blogs that if this ...
***This article is featured at newyorkislanders.com as the debut article for the innovative NYI Blog Box!!! See it there at [url]http://islanders.nhl.com/team/app?articleid=328634&page=NewsPage&service=page[/url] !!!***
All of us throughout Islander nation have been holding our collective breath waiting for a monumental signing since the opening of “Free Agency Frenzy...
July 5th Free Agent Signings:
Tom Kostapoulos: Montreal Canadiens 2 years 900 Thousand per year
Ruslan Fedotenko: New York Islanders 1 year 2.9 Million per year
Grant Stevenson: Calgary Flames 1 year deal
[b]Le Affaire Du Vanek[/b]
As we all know, Thomas Vanek signed a seven year, $50 million offer sheet from the Edmonton Oilers on Friday, which was matched in about 13 second by the Buffalo Sabres.
The surprise is not the offer sheet, the player, or even the amount, really. The surprise is the team making the offer and the reaction it elicited from the Sabres front o...
As many of you are aware, earlier in the summer, the New York Islanders announced plans for the "NYI Blog Box," a consistent feature on newyorkislanders.com, where a select group of Islander fans become actual "correspondents" for the team. The Blog Box itself will be similar to the press box only in that members will be issued credentials for post-game interviews, etc. Ot...
The naming of Bill Guerin as captain of the Islanders today is great news to hear as an Islander fan. Not only does this give the isles a scrappy vet that will be a scoring prescence, but also a natural leader who will stick up for his teammates. It seems apparent that this team is finally heading in the right direction in the years since the Yashin, Osgood, and Peca days....
As most Islanders' fans knew, Snow gambled the Isles future on Ryan Smyth. Not only at the deadline giving up two former 1st rounders along with a future one, but after the season ended with the 8 Year, $40 Million Contract Smyth was reportedly offered. Putting all his eggs in one basket, Snow battled until Ryan signed the dotted line with Colorado missing out on a few key...
Bill Torrey had a difficult job in 1972. He was the General Manager of the expansion New York Islanders, graced with the blessings of several excellent draft years to come. But the difficult part had to be the other 16 GMs burning his ears with trade offers for his early draft choices.
Torrey was smart. He held on to his picks despite the temptations to play "lets make ...
It wasn't long ago when this attachment was thrown my way:
[img]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/3008/nyi2008hr6.jpg[/img]
My reaction was... well... YUCK!
Before believing that Charles Wang had this baby lined up as the next jersey of the New York Islanders when the league-wide "tight fit" jerseys come into play next season I gave it some thought. The #79 right...
DanNOLA writes...
A new team, a new season...and, well, I just don't know.
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
This is the first year since 1996 that I just flat out have no idea how the Islanders are going to do. Remember during the wonderful Colgate-and-Stan Fischler looking jersey era the teams that we had? I pretty much knew out of the gate that we were going to suck that year. And remember when we got our real jersey's back the teams that we had ('99-'01)? Man, I DEFINATEL...
Jon Jordan writes...
Guerin Named Captain, so What's Next for the Isles?
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
At Monday’s press conference, the Islanders introduced new acquisitions Jon Sim, Ruslan Fedotenko, Mike Comrie and Bill Guerin. GM Garth Snow held the surprise of the day in his hands as he approached the podium, said a few words and handed Guerin his new # 13 Islanders jersey with the captain’s “C” sewn into place. So, the Isles have named the 11th captain in team...
[img]http://www.blazingconcepts.com/img/syd/kinghenrik.jpg[/img]
As I sat in my bedroom in the nude, watching reruns of Miami Vice on TV land and eating some cold pizza my red emergency Dr. Teeth phone rang. I reached over my pile of feathered boas, empty condom wrappers, ruffies and paternity suits I picked up the receiver and belched into it. A loud voice boomed in m...
Every year, one of the days that I look forward to more than any other, is that sweet summer day when the NHL releases its schedule. In a way, for me, my personal fall, winter, and early spring are being scheduled "for me" right before my very eyes. But in what I should now come to expect, every year, this "holiday" turns into a nightmare.
This year, the Islan...
DriveForFive21 writes...
Isles ink Johnson and Campoli....Morris or Markov next??
Posted Monday | Comments 0
The islanders continued to make improvements this week by signing two young defensemen with alot of offensive potential. Aaron Johnson, a 24-year-old defenseman, was picked up on Thursday and i am very pleased with this signing. It gives the islanders something they really lacked last year, defensive depth. Think about it instead of our only backup plans being Allan Rourke...
Ok guys this is my first blog, so ill start out by saying i am an 17 year old islander season ticket holder of believe it or not 15 years. Ive been watching the islanders disappointments year in and year out and i really think we have a chance to start to turn things around if not this year in the years to come.
For the first time ever we finally seem to have a couple ...
Well, it appears pretty simple to me. However, I'm not the General Manager.
The Leafs lack depth at right wing. Plain and simple.
It's time to bring in a top line right winger to complete the trifecta. Blake, Sundin and .............
Hejduk (4m) and Svatos (1.2m) are obviously being targeted by the Leafs management. After hearing Giguere today, commenting on possib...
With over two months till the season starts, and then 8 more until it ends, its impossible to try and guess the final standings. But, with over two months till the season starts, and nothing else to do, its fun. The following is my prediction, based on the current lineups and my opinions and thoughts about the game.
The atlantic division (in addition to being the one ...
With all the action in the Northeast (Edit - Atlantic), it's going to wind up being a very interesting year.
I suppose these would be some of the bigger questions on one's mind at the moment:
Will the Rangers actually benefit with Gomez and Drury?
Can the Flyers make a move up the ladder?
Will the Penguins be able to rally behind Fleury?
Has Guerin warranted...
As per Newsday:
[quote]"I managed to survive that long against long odds," he said. "It was an interesting time on Long Island." Of the ownership turmoil, he cracked, "We were leading the league in convicted felons."
That's the kind of funny, edgy line NBC is counting on from Milbury, who essentially will replace Brett Hull, another quote machine who left to work in ...
Leave your coat at the door, because Psycom is back with some recapping of this long summer out of Islander Country.
On a personal note, I have been hard at work this summer with college classes, work, and the woman who shares my life. I have been watching and waiting for a chance to say what I think about the state of the Islanders and hockey on Long Island. My chanc...
Taking a look at the current roster, one would think the Islanders can't be done shaping the team for the 2007-08 season. The additions that have been made thus far have been significant, surely, but have a glance at the depth chart (or the way I project it anyway) with me and tell me you don't see a little room for improvement.
For the purposes of this blog, let's simp...
First, an amendment to part 1 on the forwards. From all that I can gather, Sean Bergenheim inked a 1-way contract with the Isles and, thus, will more than likely be with the team post-training camp. (Thanks to psycomkl for the tip.) This is not necessarily a bad thing as, like I said in part 1, I like what Bergy brought to the table before he took his ball and sailed overs...
3 yrs:
Salary Breakdown: 2.5 , 3, 3.5
9 mill total.
Andy adds a little bit of everything both on offense and defense and we really like what he brings to the table,” said Islanders head coach Ted Nolan. “We talk about heart, grit and character and Andy Sutton has a ton of it all. He’s a big guy who plays big and isn’t afraid to do the dirty work. He fills ...
or, Can "playing the system" work out? I'm curious, what do people think about this?
Over this off-season, for example, the rangers spent nearly 20 mil per year on Drury and Gomez alone. Noone can deny that these are premier players, and these additions have caused talk of the rangers being the powerhouse of the atlantic division. The islanders, on the other hand, se...
IslandDynasty writes...
Islanders Will Make the Playoffs Come Next March...
Posted Monday | Comments 0
I think they will.With the offseason coming to a close in a couple of weeks,you can almost get a grip on which teams are going places,and which teams arent.But what teams look like on paper does [b]not[/b] mean theyre going to preform that way.Perfect example is this past season's Islanders.Were thought to be the worst team in the league going into the season,thought by th...
A lot has been happening in the hockey world over the past few weeks. Many signings that will set the direction of clubs for some time as long contracts seem to be the off season flavor.
The Islanders have been making waves by signing Guerin, Fedetenko, Sim, Comrie, Sutton, and Vasicek. This is a major overhaul for a club that squeezed into the show last year and is lo...
A lot has been happening in the hockey world over the past few weeks. Many signings that will set the direction of clubs for some time as long contracts seem to be the off season flavor.
The Islanders have been making waves by signing Guerin, Fedetenko, Sim, Comrie, Sutton, and Vasicek. This is a major overhaul for a club that squeezed into the show last year and is lo...
In the past, the Eastern Conference's most feared division was the Northeast division, which consisted of the Ottawa Senators, Buffalo Sabres, The Toronto Maple Leafs, the Montreal Canadiens, and the Boston Bruins.
However, due to an eventful free agency, the division of [b]Devils, Penguins, NY Rangers, Islanders, and Flyers[/b] are going to be extremely tough to beat....
Although I don't doubt a single division is capable of locking down 5 of the 8 playoff slots, I tend to think even if so it wouldn't be the Atlantic. Last year, all but the Flyers made a show in the playoffs. The Devs and Pens each finished well up in the standings, while the Rangers and Islanders just slipped in towards the last week of the season.
The hardest part...
Nolanitis writes...
2007-08 NY Islanders: A year to prove the hockey world wrong
Posted Monday | Comments 0
I have been on various blog websites and no matter which one I read there seems to be one similarity, write-off the Islanders. This blog will explore why other fans in the NHL (even some Isles fans) are doing so prematurely.
Gone from the team this year are the following players: Yashin (buyout), Blake (FA), Smyth (FA), Kozlov (FA), Poti (FA), Robataille ...
Ron Guillet writes...
The Wang Enterprise : Projection Of The New York Islanders
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Alrighty, brotha's and sista's. With the Leafs, Habs, Sabres, Bruins and now Sens done in the projection departement, I thought I'd turn my attention to the Islanders. An orginization which has been the peak of many hockey jokes, kind of the like the Spanish News Team but IMO wrongfully so. They fought the odds last season and shut the door on my lovely Leafs and the clima...
I have found a bunch of pictures of about 1/2 of teams new look Jerseys wil or might look like for the upcoming season.
Here are the links to the jerseys. Some look official and some are concepts. Some are nice and some are garbage. Cast your votes for best & worst.
[b]UPDATE(s)[/b] Leafs & Nucks
[b]Leafs Jersey Video[/b]
[url]http://www.cbc.ca/sports/player/index.ht...
steal_your_faceoff writes...
Billboards/Bumper Stickers for the 2007-08 Flyers season
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[i][b]*warning - Please check any kneejerk reactions at the door - this is all in good humor*[/b][/i]
I was thinking about the very clever way the Dallas Stars used billboards/bumper stickers to get a new and funny message across to their current and potential fans. I thought it something that the Flyers might want to take to heart and show the fans that they are excit...
This will end up on the main site, also, but I was tired of looking at my old blog from 6 months ago on this page. So here's a new one...
The new face of hockey lies under the current face of what you may be used to. The new face is not on Versus,, or even TSN. It is certainly not going to be between the few people who tune into NBC this season where we will watch Pie...
Minor league roster, circus-like uniforms and a plethora of penalties (again) aside, it was nice to see the Islanders back on the ice last night in North York, Ontario taking on the Atlanta Thrashers.
Garnet Exelby's overtime goal ended hopes for a win but the Isles should be encouraged for a handful of reasons.
Freddy Meyer scored a nifty goal, nearly going end-to-...
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
Moncton's motto reads: [b]Resurgo[/b], which I can assure you that it is not a Harry Potter spell. It is latin for [i]I rise again[/i]. And in 'Hub City', who hasn’t had a NHL game in over 30 years, NHL hockey is rising again - as it did when [b]Ted Nolan[/b], current coach of the Islanders, took the Mo...
Jon Jordan writes...
You Break My Heart, Dad (But That's Okay ... I Guess)
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
([b][i]NOTE:[/i][/b] This is a retread of an old post, resurrected (and re-edited) for the launch of the [i][b]NYI Blog Box[/b][/i], which you can find here [url]http://islanders.nhl.com/team/app/[/url]. Enjoy!
I love my family.
I love my friends.
I love hockey.
Sometimes numbers two and three on this list are in a good, old-fashioned tie. (Sorry, amigos, but you h...
It is time for the third edition in my series of blogs about the new NHL jerseys. For those who still have not seen the all new jerseys:
http://www.fartfignewton.com/rbk_edge/
For those who missed Parts 1 and 2:
http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=2407&post_id=2473
http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=2407&post_id=2499
Next up is the Atlanta Divisi...
[b]Tonights Exhibition[/b]
Some quick words on how to watch tonight's game vs. Montreal. Evidently, due to 'broadband limitations' at the Bell Centre, Montreal, it cannot be seen live. Sacre le bleu! Are they kidding? Sadly they are not.
So, you can check Islanders TV on Friday for pre-game analysis. But can only see the game on Saturday to view the complete game an...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Last Night's Game in Montreal, Plus Defensive Assessment
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Last night Montreal beat the Isles in OT.
[b]Jeff Tambellini[/b] had a good game, obviously been jumpstarted by some comments by Ted Nolan. Nolan recently picked him out saying basically he is expecting more from him consistently. Tambs had a goal and had been all over the ice. [b]Jon Sim[/b] has been plugging away like he has the last few games.
[b]Sean Bergenheim[...
Now that the Isles are back at home, several have been sent to Bridgeport. Thus, those player's presence on the waiver wire, as many have noticed. No reports have come in that anyone was grabbed by another team thus far.
Still on the Islander's roster: Jeff Tambellini, Aaron Johnson, Jeremy Colliton, Blake Comeau, Darryl Bootland, Kip Brennan (reported on waiver wire, b...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Pucks, fists and teeth fly at the first NYI/NYR game
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
It was in the air.
The Rangers had a stinker versus the Flyers over the weekend. The Isles were now back home, facing their nemesis from the big city. And, of course, it was the preseason. No points on the line. Players playing for spots, or just to fit in with the rest of their team.
So, as the game started, it was not surprising to see Andy Sutton give Ryan Callaha...
Perhaps my Islander pal B.D. Gallof will chime in on this issue, but as I simultaneously watched both the Red Wings/Lightning and Rangers/Islanders games last night, I had a passing thought that made more than a little sense (I know ... crazy ... but it does happen sometimes!)
Having lost Dan Boyle for at least the first month of the regular season and in dire need of s...
DoctorTeeth writes...
Preseason Blues, why can't I watch my team on TV?!
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
An open letter I sent to the Madison Square Garden Channel and to the NY Rangers
9/25/07
Dear to Whom it may concern,
I'd really like to know why last night's and now tonight's game are not being televised. I mean really, is it that important you guys show the 1978 Harlem Wizards vs. the cast of Fantasy Island on Al Trautwig's "the Vault"?
I know I'm itching...
Here's an oldie but goodie to share with you, originally written Aug 21st.
For the newest expert criticism, see my newest team blog which takes on ESPN and E.J. Hradek: http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=9654
[b]The Experts?[/b]
So you are at your local magazine shop, or perhaps you are perusing your usual sports website...and suddenly you see a Hockey fo...
One has to wonder who paid the most attention to the Anaheim/Ottawa finals - where despite the Senators finally being able to put it together to dispatch a myriad of good to excellent teams, they got run over by a meaner and tougher team who simply shut them down. It was clear on paper and it was even clearer as the games went on.
So now you have to wonder how much GM G...
Jon Jordan writes...
Isles/Rangers, Round 2: Live on NHL Center Ice Online!
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Round one on Monday night featured 10 fights, including the goaltenders squaring off, 6 ejections and 9 goals ... and, oh yeah, it also went to overtime!
Round two happens live tonight on NHL Center Ice Online through Islanders TV!
We're talking Islanders/Rangers, folks and, yes it is still the preseason but if Monday's contest is any indication, this one should be a...
Good things to take away from last night's win:
1. Mike Comrie scored with a Bill Guerin assist. They just continue to produce on that first line. Ruslan Fedotenko is the unsung hero of this line, even when not on the stat chart, he does things that help his linemates pass and score.
2. Miroslav Satan scored two goals. We can talk about that 1st line all we want, but...
By Tuesday Afternoon, the Isles are expected to FINALLY release the upcomign roster for the season. Reports coming out now still have Berard unsigned, but Berard has no plans to sign elsewhere, and is willing to wait for Snow and Nolan to sort out the mess of fowards..
The Clock is back on you Snowy.. you got Less than 12 Hours to decide!
[url]http://weblogs.newsday....
It's done. Of course, as I sit and wait for people to get back to me on who is on the ice in Syosset, the Islander's finally announce it:
[b]DEFENSE[/b] Berard waiting for trade to make room there is likely
They are carrying 8 for now
2 Aaron Johnson
8 Bruno Gervais
14 Chris Campoli
24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton
32 Brendan Witt
44 Freddy Meyer
47 Ma...
I starting thinking about the roster decisions yesterday as I waited with extreme curiosity to what [b]Ted Nolan's[/b] take on the decisions made would be. I, like many of you, did not understand why Hilbert was on the 2nd line. Or why the gaggle of dmen still stood as a gaggle of dmen on the NHL roster. And I began to see it from another angle:
[b]When a 2nd Line isn...
As a general rule, I am done with making predictions as they pertain to the world of sports. This offseason, I had a blog titled, "Ryan Smyth [b][i]WILL[/b][/i] Remain an Islander." I also predicted that the New York Mets would once again run away with the National League East Title. (Ugh.) On the demerits of these two statements alone, I should be permanently banned from ...
[b]Question 1:[/b]
[i]Is Berard on this team or what?[/i]
All signs are to YES. Bryan Berard has been working out with the team, and also on the ice leading the powerplay. So evidently a contract is being hashed out between his agent and the team.
[b]Question 2:[/b]
[i]Trade happening?[/i]
This is unclear right now, even with so many Isles dmen sitting around....
I walk to work with a kick to my step. Not that it's that great of a day. A foggy murk lays about the morning like a Yashin knee-injury. The air is humid. The city is its usual stale self. I walk outside MSG, home of our dreaded rivals. They won their first game, kicking off two lackluster periods where they were being booed by opening night fans. Chris Drury scored the ga...
First off, on my last blog, I lied. The Phoenix Coyotes are not just ready yet for a playoff run. After plenty of thought, I made my decisions. Before I go ranting on about how the season starts, let me publish here and now the season predictions I have going on:
Eastern Conference:
1) Ottawa
2) New York Rangers
3) Atlanta
4) Pittsburgh
5) Buffalo
6) Tampa Bay
...
B.D. Gallof writes...
View From The Blog Box: Isles Home Opener is a Win!
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
I am sitting in an empty blog box, watching them practice the opening to the Isles home opener. I am jawing with one of the staff, as they work out the kinks with the sequences that includes kid skaters who will be dragging an American flag across the ice.
As I sit here, I can see that Eklund, and now Newsday have already reported that Meyer has been put on waivers. An...
Hey all, I'm back. Wow!!! what a couple of days for the Islanders as they sweep the home and home against Buffalo and shining brightly throughout are our new players, especially Mike Comrie. Comrie is really starting to shine and prove himself as player and I am sensing a breakout year for him due to his incredible skill play against Buffalo, not to mention 4 goals in 2 ga...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Columbus Day: Discover the Isles vs Washington at 2pm
Posted Monday | Comments 0
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
While some celebrate Columbus Day, where he discovered the Americas in 1492. Well, he didn't really. The Vikings and even the Chinese actually might have found these lands long before. But, what is more important is that in 2007-2008 season, the NY Islanders found their first line and some offensive threa...
Did the departure of two good hockey players really make the Buffalo Sabres that much worse? After watching the Islanders sweep Buffalo this past weekend, folks are starting to wonder.
It is only two games, but that is more than enough for some fans to hit the panic button and start throwing the blame around.
The co-captains are gone. The defense is lousy. Miller ...
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
It was a strange sight to see my name on Sport Illustrated, yet there it was:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/richard_deitsch/10/08/islanders.bloggers/index.html
So, for those checking in to see what it is all about, here are some blogs worth reading that run the gamut from the [b]Island...
[i]The Bloggerazzi Peeks Out From Beneath An Article About The Isles Blog Box[/i]
As soon as the Sports Illustrated article hit the wire, I waited for it. That invariable swipe by those in a malleable establishment to judge and pigeonhole the Islander Blog Box. It didn't take long. The bash was led by one who was at the very most top of the hockey blogging food chain....
It may only be one early season game, but it has the opportunity to be so much more - especially for the Islanders.
Sure, they had a doozy of a preseason game but (to borrow a phrase from Major League Baseball's All-Star Game) [i][b]this time, it counts[/b][/i]. (And far more than a mid-season exhibition baseball game, mind you!)
Both teams, really, have a lot riding...
mapleleaf92 writes...
The Maurice Gurantee already in danger not Toskala's Fault
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Leaf fans, on October 9th 2007, we have been disgraced 7-1 to the Carolina Hurricanes. So early in the season, the leafs defense has collapsed us, and Vesa Toskala.
You may all remember Maurice guaranteeing us a playoff series in Toronto. Last night's efforts made him look bad. It started on William's goal. He was wide open and was able to walk in about 4 feet before sna...
[i]"There are must win games in October."[/i] - Islander captain Bill Guerin.
Yesterday I briefly blogged on how last night's game vs. the Rangers was "statement time" for the Islanders. The 2-1 Isles victory may not have been domination, by any stretch, but the win over the heavily hyped, heavily favored (and heavily paid) rival Rangers was huge for the hard working cr...
Anyone still looking for my cannon past the Bloggerazzi's bow: http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=567&post_id=2810
But, enough on that. Now onto Toronto:
Bury them.
Toronto, a team that should be a winner, in a city that is hockey-crazed. I remember my brother and I heading there and experiencing the Ottawa vs Toronto game, smashed at some bar, along w...
First off, everything I said yesterday and earlier on in the year still applies ... I am still wildly optimistic about this team.
Losses happen.
Even 8-1's happen.
But this "post-Ranger game" thing ... it's gotta stop. And it's gotta stop [i][b]this season[/b][/i].
Why? Because when you muster up a solid game like last night's 2-1 win over your [i][b]hated[/b][...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/enemywithinisles.jpg[/img]
The Isles flew out from LI the other day on a high. A 3-1 record, their only loss outplaying, outshooting, but not out scoring Washington and Kolzig. Everyone was happy, everyone was chipper.
But then something happened on the way to Toronto. A transporter malfunction seemed to come into play, and the plan...
Sun, 14 Oct 2007 8:44pm
I sit here writing this from my Blackberry, soaking down a brew and smoking a stogie on this brisk autumn eve.I feel a bit like the Isles in that I've had a tough weekend of work, actually hit with three huge deadlines at my job, just as we are understaffed. I won't bore you with the details, just that after giving close to 15 extra hours of my t...
I've seen the replay of the Weller Tootoo dust up about 15 times at least. Here's my opinion for what it's worth and I've been throwing it around since the Sutton hit and no one's paid me a dime.
The Tootoo hit was at least as bad as the Downie hit. Both hits were against a guy coming around the net and not paying attention but Downie stopped skating at the blue line, ...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Who's Line is it Anyway? Guerin to 3rd line. Hunter to 1st.
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[img:left]http://boredplanet.com/img/whosline.jpg[/img]
Upon a 3-3 start, which isn't bad. But then again, if you hold the "not bad" mantra, than you are not buying into the Isles brass and player expectation to be a playoff team. So, 3-3 is, in lieu of that, not acceptable. Furthermore, some habits and tendencies have been seen and adjustments seem to be being made.
...
So, I'm officially [i][b]loving[/b][/i] this whole Billy Guerin, Islander captain thing!
In the preseason, I made a sarcastic comment along the lines of, "[i]Hey, a captain willing to fight! How about that?[/i]" That wasn't so much a tip of the cap to Guerin as it was one more, "Piss off!" to Alexei Yashin (whose name I will now refuse to utter ever again in my blog. In...
The Isles came to Washington last night with a lot of questions, being put back to earth with a .500 record. However, some of those got answered last night with wild game that saw [b]Bill Guerin[/b] tear it up with 3 goals, and a stellar performance by [b]Rick DiPietro[/b] in goal.
By no means was this a one-sided affair. Before Guerin led them to closing the Capitals o...
No, Im not an Islander fan. This is coming from a die-hard Rangers fan who knows an undeniable fact when he sees one.
The Rangers came off a brilliant second half and playoffs last season and looking poised to make a Cup run. [img:left]http://ordinaryleastsquare.typepad.com/blueshirtbulletin/images/jagrgroin.jpg [/img]In the offseason they added Drury and Gomez and los...
Just when you were wondering: Why are the Isles carrying so many defensemen?
Just announced by the Isles:
[i]Islanders defenseman [b]Bryan Berard[/b] will be sidelined approximately 2-4 weeks with a groin injury suffered during the team's 4-3 overtime victory over the New Jersey Devils on Saturday night at Nassau Coliseum.
Berard two goals and two assists for ...
First and foremost, this is my first blog and I will hopefully get the hang of this very shortly. I am a sophomore student at Connecticut College and I am a tremendous New York Islanders Fan. Although I attend college in Connecticut, I still have season tickets for the past 5 years (obviously excluding the lockout season), and I attend an average of 36 games at the ...
-As I stated in my last blog, I have some basic predictions for the output we can expect for some of our players this year. I obviously am making these predictions based on what I have seen thus far, and please feel free to leave your own predictions or comment on mine:
-[u]Forwards[/u]:
Comrie: 36 Goals, 35 Assists
Guerin: 27 Goals, 40 Assists
Fedotenko: 2...
Another fantastic Islander win Saturday night, this time in OT against the rival Devils, has Islander nation buzzing with excitement. Personally, I went to bed with a huge smile on my face after Bill Guerin's OT winner, just [i][b]completely [/b][/i]unable to wait for the next game!
This wasn't a back to back weekend, though, so no game Sunday ...
No Islanders to riv...
Well, as this long week of no Islander's hockey continues because of a terrible NHL schedule as usual, we can definitely take the time to think about our season thus far. Specifically the injuries to Jon Sim, Bryan Berard, and our offense and defense.
-[u]Jon Sim[/u]: I don't know about the rest of you, but this is definitely one of the most dissappo...
Sometime over the course of this week, I lost it. I shouted from the window at work, as if I was the publishing version of Howard Beale:
[b]'I'm pissed off and I'm not going to take it anymore!'[/b]
Unfortunately, my only reaction was some homeless man cheering, yelling me to jump. Heathens in this town.
What in hell was the NHL thinking? Herr Bettman, I'm goin...
I'm sitting here in Uniondale talking about life, liberty and blogging with my fellow blog-boxer in Kevin Rosenblatt, who has an excellent blog http://islandersoutsider.blogspot.com as the Islanders Outsider. We are commiserating on our career paths, which are a lot alike.
Word has come down on Boston's Patrice Bergeron, who was hit from behind by Randy Jones from Phil...
"I find your lack of faith...disturbing"
- Darth Vader
I feel Gary Bettman's hand around my neck. Or perhaps, like Darth Vader, he's using the force to clamp my ability to breathe. Hockey has been just too few and far between. The schedule this season is just screwy and self-destructive to the game.
2006 11 games:
Oct 5, 2006 AWAY Coyotes
Oct 7, 2006 AWAY Shar...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/greatpumpkin.jpg[/img]
[b]The Great Pumpkin, Gary Bettman[/b]
A Thumb-in-Mouth Commentary
B.D. Gallof
Dear Great Pumpkin,
I am looking forward to your arrival on Halloween night. I hope you will bring me lots of presents. For it is another season of hockey. Despite the NHL's pigeonhole into the depths of Comcast's outhou...
I knew it would come, of course ... eventually ... (and I'm not talking about the Islanders next game, though it does seem like, oh, I don't know, ABOUT SIX YEARS SINCE THEIR LAST ONE!) I digress ...
I knew that, inevitably, the first Isles/Lightning game of the year would arrive and that I may have to field all sorts of questions about my allegiance(s) once again. You ...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Sillinger's Night of 1000 Games: Isles Beat Tampa 4-0
Posted Friday | Comments 0
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
So finally, here we are. A game. Tampa comes to town off a bad loss. Hmmm, don't they all come to town this way. Well, the Isles best be ready. Tampa comes in with defensive inconsistency and no top tier goalie. Even Holmquist is not playing. In goal is Marc Denis. But this will be far from a pushover. Ta...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/superarbour.jpg[/img]
Legends are hard to come by. Yes we hype the hell out of that flavor of the week/month/year. We heap accolades on them. Especially when a sport has been devoid of that and buzz for years. But they haven't accomplished even a dent to surface of what makes a legend. True legends are those we will talk about d...
Hey pens fans,
Tonight, the Pens played the Isles on the Island. Malone had the Pens' first goal on the night. Tyler Kennedy's first goal that almost was not definetly stands out as a moment to remember. It also put the Pens up 2-0. The Islanders came back to make it 2-1. In the third Satan tied thae game at 2 for the Isles. Satan scores again to make it 3-2 Isles ...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Al Arbour Night: Magic Sweeps Long Island with Win 740!
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Please read my Hockeybuzz blog:
http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=10812
In it you have images and words that try to capture the magic that was a special night for Islander fans.
- BD
Funky vibes right from the start. First of all, a pitiful crowd for a NYI/NYR game. I see as many Ranger jerseys as Isles jerseys. Here is a prime example of why Isle fans need to show up for their team. Too many ticket were left available. Now, its not empty. Far from it. But NYI/NYR should be sell-outs, don't you think? Filled in a bit more now. Might be 60/40 Isles to R...
I did not have the privelege of catching the game, largely as a result of my van being pulled over for speeding on the way back from school. Nonetheless, the Rangers lost 3-2 after leading by a goal twice in the 3rd period. The Islanders got goals from Fedotenko and Satan to make it 3-2 after alternate scoring by Drury, Hunter, and Mara.
From looking at the stats, I hav...
It is [i][b]extremely [/b][/i]rare, in these days of rapid player movement and free agency sweepstakes, for a professional athlete to admit that they made a mistake in signing with a new team. It's just about [i][b]nonexistent[/b][/i], actually. While Toronto winger Jason Blake may not have done exactly that in a recent article in the [i]Toronto Sun[/i], he came [i][b]awfu...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/returnoftheking.jpg[/img]
http://new.wavlist.com/movies/093/aod-hailking.wav
Garth Snow hemmed and hawed when he had to figure out a solution to his horde of defensemen at the start of this season. Bryan Berard sat for days waiting as the season started, and all he could do is practice on his own dollar as the Isles looked f...
[img]http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/th_PHI_161.jpg[/img][img]http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/th_Penguins-1.jpg[/img]
[u][b]Peco Perfect[/b][/u]
[u][b]PECO[/b][/u]
[img]http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:kcwzRy_DHguSQM:http://www.handhonline.com/images/PecoEnergy.jpg[/img]
For those of you not familiar with the Delaware Valley of Penn...
So here we go another year... and another year at that in the shadows of the other various NHL teams. Picked my many so called experts to come in 30th place in the league. Some even went as far as saying "ok 29th at best." But yet another year of the Islanders battling not only for just a playoff spot, but this year it seems the division or home ice advantage in the fir...
This for me is a long time coming. I have been an Islanders fan for as long as I can remember. I was born one day after they last won the cup. My dad says my first game I attended was at the age of one where he caught a puck, i guess i looked like good luck. Well, for the last 24 years I have pretty much nothing but sorrow in my hockey world...that is until Garth Snow ...
[b]Pain[/b]
The Merriam-Webster's dictionary describes the word as follows:
[i]noun[/i]: acute mental or emotional distress or suffering.
We all know the feeling of missing the nail and hitting your thumb with a hammer. We all know the feeling of stepping on a child's toy with an armful of groceries and ending up looking at the ceiling with a swollen ankle. Ya ...
In the summer of 2005, the Gallof boys took a roadtrip to the city of brotherly love. I have been to Philly several times, almost going to college there, but neither of my siblings had ever been there. As we walked the streets on a July 4th weekend, cigars clasped on our maws, looking for a bar with Magic Hat #9 on tap, some local Philadelphian blue-collar man looked at ou...
Yesterday the Islanders found themselves in unfamiliar territory. They were on the road and actually played a game for the second time in a week. All scheduling jokes aside, the team wearing the white sweaters seemed like a very different team that became very used to wearing those home navy blues.
At home in those close battles with division rivals you saw the Isles ...
Scottie Upshall plugged in two goals, and Marty Biron stopped 24 shots as the Flyers roughed up the New York Islanders in more than one way. The Flyers remain undefeated at home this year going 6-0.
Once again the Flyers look fantastic in their transition game. I really haven't seen a bad transition game so far this year, maybe with the exception of the Devils game.
...
Jon Jordan writes...
If He Said It, Sean Avery Deserves Everything He Gets
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Howard Berger, you have my utmost support.
Wade Belak, you do too.
If Sean Avery did, in fact, make comments directed at Jason Blake regarding his battle with cancer, bigger questions still remain.
(For the record, I have no reason to believe that he didn't make these comments, considering the source(s) on two levels ... one, it came from Mr. Berger, whose reput...
Ok, so the Rangers are playing the Devils this evening and I'm pretty amped about it. I haven't been in the Tri-State area for that long but I'm really liking the whole 'Metro Ice Challenge' the Rangers, Devils and Islanders have going on, especially the charity portion of the competition. Apparently the team with the most points and wins is awarded $50,000 to donate to th...
Howdy Pens Fans! It will be a big night for our men (and boys) in Black and Vegas Gold tonight, as the Islanders come to the Igloo looking to bounce back from a tough 3-2 loss to the Flyers on Monday night.
Tonight marks the first game this season for highly touted defenseman Kris Letang, who was recalled from the baby penguins and he should see some considerable PP...
So a little more than 5 weeks into the NHL season,the Islanders are already proving the so-called 'experts' wrong.Expected to finish dead last once again,we are nearly in 1st place in the Atlantic Division,and have 3-4 games in hand.Last night,I was watching Sportscenter.And then comes the NHL round up on the night,with their 'expert' Barry (Lose the F**king Mullet) Melros...
Hey pens fans,
Tonight, the Pens defeated the Islanders 3-2 at the Mellon Arena. Gonchar and Sykora had the first two goals and Georges Laraque got the game winner. Marc-Andre Fleury was in goal and was playing like the Fleury we remembered, that had recently seemed like a distant memory. He needed a good game and he got it. This should do wonders for his confidence. ...
Yesterday the seasons seemed to change here in Pittsburgh straight from summer to winter, and this morning around Pittsburgh we saw our first snow on the ground. So with this change it also should be said that the Penguins showed a new face last night in defeating the Isles.
As I wrote yesterday, I felt that the game versus the Isles would show a different Penguins tea...
Sorry it's been a while. I was on deadline in my glorious job in the world of publishing last week, and then, went away for the weekend.
Check out my newest Battle NY: Sibling Rivalry 2, which is a debate with my Ranger fan brother:
http://islanders.hockeybuzz.com/index.php?post_id=11195
Now, let's get to business . . .
So here we are, upon a Monday night dreary...
The Isles put together another defensive gem to beat the Rangers in MSG last night, giving Rick DiPietro 100th win, and fittingly versus his nearest competitor, Henrik Lundquist.
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/100wins.jpg[/img]
"Isles Beat Rangers at MSG". A simple title to a simple win. Not easy. But, somehow automatic for a team that in the last several years, ...
The more i continue to watch the play of this New York Islanders team, the more respect I earn for Mr. Snow and the Islanders front office.
Who would think that Josef Vasicek (the last islander pick up in the offseason) would not only be leading the Islanders in goals scored with 8, but also be leading the NHL in shooting % with 33. Again Teddy Nolan is proving to be a ...
So says Islander defenseman Radek Martinek.
This was Martinek's response to how he was told to react to Sean Avery's constant yapping, as he experienced last night in the Islanders 2-1 win over the Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Perhaps it's something even I should take into consideration.
Martinek has long been a favorite of mine. In fact, I'd call him one of the...
Save for the drubbing against the Hurricanes, DiPietro has kepted his head in the game, and most importantly his butt in the net.
Tonight is sure to bring on a heart stopping match up of the east's most prolific Power Play Team(MON 11-6-3 25pts) and the Team(NYI 11-6-0 22pts) with the 2nd best penalty killing in the east. Lets examine some numbers for the game.
So ...
So here we are, upon a Thanksgiving, with many fans talking turkey about the dreaded post-Ranger malaise, which we now might need an inoculation for instead of the usual Flu shot. You know the drill. Where the Isles come off a big win with a hazy dull outing the very next game.
Now, despite the denials, there will always be a letdown after a big game, but this was the t...
It had to happen. After all, there were articles on how the Isles were better than predicted. Lots of revisionist pieces from the same usual suspects who slopped down the usual naive vitriol about the Isles at the start of the season. Lots of opened eyes. Lots of kudos. And then they lost two in a row after big wins versus NJ and NYR.
So the panic monkeys all pushed the...
Don't let anyone ever tell you that hockey is just a physical game. It might be a game of snap decisions on the fly in such a fast-paced flow, but any professional player who has found success has mastered or at least, faced, the mental aspects of competition.
None could tell you a better tale of this process than [b]Andy Hilbert[/b] who hit so many posts, despite his t...
Ok, so I'm pretty obsessed with this challenge so I took it upon myself to post the current standings. The next game isn't far off so it's definitely going to heat up when my friends and I get together to watch it. One of my college friends almost got in a fist fight with some dude at the bar because the Devils are doing so poorly, Metro Ice Challenge-wise.
My New York...
Here’s a note to all local NY media. DO NOT,DO NOT ,DO NOT, mix the Rangers with the Knicks in the same conversation. With all the turmoil going on surrounding Madison Square Garden, writers and broadcasters are quick to make broad statements lumping them together. I’m not quick to burn Charles Dolan at the stake either. Sure he’s like a glorified fan buying up as ma...
Ottawa rolls onto LI, with a giant mist of doubt for Isles fans.
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/themist.jpg[/img]
It rolls in like a blanket, covering Long Island from shopping mall to shopping mall. It unfurls itself right to Nassau Coliseum, laying right onto the ice. It is doubt and expectation as one of the top teams in the league comes to town.
When...
Jon Jordan writes...
Slaying the Ottawa Monster Would Take the Isles a Long Way
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
12-8-1
25 points
3rd in the Atlantic Division
3 points behind 1st place Philadelphia
7th in the Conference
Should the New York Islanders be happy with this start to the season? [i][b]Absolutely[/b][/i]! Factor in the reality that no team in the entire National Hockey League has played fewer games than the Isles (21) at this point and you'd have to consider t...
I spoke earlier of the kind of statement the Islanders could have made tonight by beating the Ottawa Senators. Well, they got the 'W' alright, mustering one hell of a collective effort all night long and pulling out a 3-2 shootout victory. But, in the end, the strongest statement of the evening was made by Mr. Rick DiPietro.
So what if Andrej Meszaros scored a couple of...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Live Blog . . . Without a Net as the Isles Beat Ott S.O.
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
***[b]RETRACTION TO THE NYI/OTT LIVE BLOG LAST NIGHT:[/b]***
Bergie not the one on crutches as I walked down into the lockerroom area. Your moronic and tired Isles blogger mistook Aaron Johnson.
Anyone who missed my leadup on what this game means and all the doom and gloomers who felt the Isles were going to get torched: [url]http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user...
Any game against the hated Rangers always carries a little extra [i]umph [/i]for the Islanders but tonight's contest at The Garden has more weight than at first glance and could make a [i][b]huge [/b][/i]difference for the Isles as they continue to move up the Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference standings.
The Islanders, fresh off a 3-2 shootout victory over the Ea...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Rangers Beat Isles, Ricky Needs to Sit, and Stitchgate!
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Isles are still amidst a complete powerplay outage. However, luckily, they had nary a chance as they let the NYR practice theirs instead. A tired and out-of-sorts team came to MSG, and got called for a lot of infractions, and somehow didn't get called for a few others, as they struggled against a Ranger team determined to stem the tide.
Ranger coach, Tom Renney, tol...
B.D. Gallof writes...
When Bloggers Trailblaze Themselves Into A Mistake
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
I've written quite a few things about the meaning and differences of bloggers to journalists. I have written about the meaning of the Isles Blog Box program, and even had to hammer back at those who used their lofty perches to criticize something before it even had much time, besides one game or two, to establish itself. Well, today is a new tale to tell about the life of ...
To read my latest on bloggers, including my own trials and travails, check it out:
[url]http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=11499[/url]
So here we are. Isles vs the Thrashers. Looks like Dubie starts against a returning Lehtonen. It looks like a better crowd than the shameful fan support for the Ottawa game.
CJ Papa reminds us how poor the Isles PP has bee...
It's frustrating. Two periods into a matchup with the Bruins and I can't take it anymore. Just put the puck in the net already!!
This offensive struggle has the Isles on the verge of losing [i]3 out of their last 4 [/i]and continue to slip in the standings.
This day last season the Isles were 14-9-3 (31 Points in 26 games). Viktor Kozlov netted 4 as the Isles beat th...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Panic on the Streets of Uniondale as Isles Fall to Bruins
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Boston extends the Isles stumbling. Fans boo their team in the Coliseum. People seem to getting a bit panicked.
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/bostonpops.jpg[/img]
Suddenly there is panic on the streets! After all, the Isles have lost 3 in a row. The first time this season, amidst a power outage on offense and the powerplay. The holiday crowds, who were reeled i...
Matt Cullen and the Carolina Hurricanes came into Madison Square Garden last night and throughly spanked my New York Rangers. Still riding atop at Atlantic Eastern Conference standings, the Rangers are still doing well despite the temporary setback.
What really interests me, though, is how everything ends up with the [i]HUMMER 'Metro Ice Challenge'[/i]. Currently the Is...
Nyi28nhl writes...
The problem isn't only adding... but subtracting as well
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Many Islanders fans are calling for a blockbuster trade where the Isles would land themselves a top line scorer (such as Martin St. Louis, Patrick Marleau, etc.). Not that I would say know to getting a guy like St. Louis, but there is another dilemma that comes up.
[b]Who gets demoted?[/b]
[b]Mike Comrie[/b] and [b]Josef Vasicek[/b] are our #1 and #2 centers. Despite...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/getsmartisles.jpg[/img]
The Isles came out to Atlanta with some pop to their step. Yet, it all turned around quickly when giveaways on the powerplay led to two shorthanded goals. Looking at a 3-1 Atlanta lead, instead of laying down to die, they tied it up. Yes, they lost the shootout, but got a point back instead of nothing due to bungli...
Don't look for me - [i]I'll be hiding[/i].
Another interesting night for yours truly coming up, as I'll attend my first Isles/Lightning game since taking over the Lightning team blogger position for hockeybuzz.com. (I'll be safely tucked away in a luxury suite, borrowing one of Ek's disguises, hiding my face for a plethora of reasons. I'm a pseudo-professional, people. ...
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
There is no amount of tweaking and humor that will seem to carry across what I thought was a defining moment to the Islander season last night. Last night's game versus the Florida Panthers was a very important barometer to the Isles fortunes. After a slide, and then a game against the Thrashers they shou...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Isles Pick Themselves Off the Floor on Saturday Night
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
So just when you think it might get worse, the Isles pull one out. Sure, it doesn't mean all is well. But it does show there is some signs of life from the waterslide lately. On Saturday night, Bill Guerin scored. Andy Hilbert scored. And Mike Sillinger, fresh of chewing Campoli's ear off, scored.
It reminds one, at least I have to speak for myself here, that despite s...
The Isles return to Buffalo tonight, back to where this season started. Where two teams passed one another from last season's playoffs. Sure, there are only 3 points between the two teams thus far, and the Isles have been Jekyll and Mr. Hyde oft-times. But Buffalo's struggle in lieu of what a strong team they were last year is sobering for all.
Buffalo's step back can ...
I feel as if the Rangers are gonna take the charity money that's up for grabs (for the HUMMER Metro Ice Challenge taking place between the Devils, Rangers and Islanders) due to their recent play. Currently they're trailing the Islanders by just two points but I think with the upcoming games scheduled, that'll completely change. Additionally, they beat the Devils 1-0 in Ove...
After 29 games this season, the New York Islanders are just a game above .500, the sheer definition of mediocrity.
What's that sound you hear coming from Uniondale, you ask? That collective groan that echoes throughout Islander Nation?
It's the big, fat, "[i]Uggggggghhhhhh[/i]!" of being a fan of a perpetually mediocre hockey team. It's what we've come to expect fro...
We are not going to rehash last night's game. Most of us saw it. Otherwise, you read about it. Some articles were less harsh, while the Isles broadcast was plenty harsh. But, that all aside . . .
What I'd like to talk about is Nolan's demeanor after this loss, and the steam coming out his ears.
"We just need more and have to have a better effort."
- Ted Nolan
Ted...
I thought Charles Wang was crazy? I thought this would never happen again? I thought this was "bad" for the sport?
Apologies, anyone?
I'll wait ...
[email protected]
The Islanders came out last night like it was October. I saw hits. I saw chaos. I saw hard-work. I saw effort. And from it, things happened. Comrie worked the puck, causing a ruckus. Bill Guerin sat at the doorstep with his stick on the ice, at the ready. Bergie was pinballing and driving the Yotes nuts. Trent Hunter was hitting like he wanted to start quoting Ezekiel 25:1...
A little blogging piece about yours truly for your Saturday afternoon.
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/iamblogger.jpg[/img]
My mother always told me that there would be days like these. Then again, she also told me to wear clean underwear, clean my room, finish my vegetables, remove the cat from the oven, and PLEASE don't run around the house with a live hand gre...
You know, the (1-goal) win over Phoenix did [i][b]NOTHING [/b][/i]for me, in terms of being impressed with this team right now. Tonight's debacle took things a step further ...
A few points from tonight's horrendous effort:
1) Chris Simon [i][b]has [/b][/i]to go.
That was as bush league a move as I've seen in a long, long time. I gave him the benefit of the doubt ...
[url]http://youtube.com/watch?v=3hKeVb_G-PI[/url]
[url]http://youtube.com/watch?v=IzUPO3fadkc[/url]
I had missed this play, having had to head down to section 201 to join my fellow Blog Boxers. I had watched the game from seats in section 302, slapped inbetween the second-coming of Rosanne Barr, complete with Lee Press-On nails, and an updated version of Thelma and Lou...
It's clear that the Rangers are having problems with their defense. After four or more goals in the past four games, King looks tired ( wrist & flu). Most goalies in the NHL strive to be the #1 keeper,while others are content to be the # 2. Those that are happy playing the backup role need to be real artists. They need to stay sharp,play locker room good guy,and step ...
This just in, thanks to an Islanders official statement and Newsday.com:
Isles owner Charles Wang:
"[i]The actions of Chris Simon on Saturday do not reflect what the New York Islanders stand for. They were reckless, potentially dangerous and against out team concept of grit, character, and heart. The Islanders are going to provide some time for Chris away from the te...
It's clear that the Rangers are having problems with their defense. After four or more goals in the past four games, King looks tired ( wrist & flu). Most goalies in the NHL strive to be the #1 keeper,while others are content to be the # 2. Those that are happy playing the backup role need to be real artists. They need to stay sharp,play locker room good guy,and step ...
Chris Simon and Jarko Rutu are very common names to those who follow hockey, both are well known for being "tough guys", and who have crossed the line on numerous occasions. Chris Simon has been suspended a total of seven times (assuming he gets suspended for this latest incident) in his 15-year career.
1) 1997 - Chris Simon, while a member of the Washington Capitals w...
Somewhere, amid my day, I forgot to upkeep my petulant and crabby laptop. It's been screaming for a drive cleaning. So live blogging is out tonight as my laptop stutters like a 1970's Volkswagen.
Instead, we can chat about all the craziness that has gone on. Between the 30 games earned by Chris Simon to now word...confirmed by the Isles...that their blue chipper, Kyle ...
The Islanders continue to prove that, no matter how hard you may be working and no matter how many of the "little things" you're doing right, if you don't score goals, you just won't win.
I'm as frustrated as anyone when it comes to this team right now, mostly because of the inept offense. When you watch a hockey game, particularly one in which [i][b]your [/b][/i]team i...
Later today, I'll be taping a guest spot on The Hockey Ticket with Noah Borer on mvn.com. Noah had Steven Hindle, hockeybuzz's Capitals blogger, on a recent episode and his show is really beginning to take off.
We'll be discussing all things Islanders, as well as my thoughts on the Tampa Bay Lightning (as hockeybuzz's official Lightning blogger.) I hope to avoid spendin...
Hey all!
I just completed a guest spot with Noah Borer for The Hockey Ticket on mvn.com.
We talked Lightning and Islanders hockey, as well as some general NHL issues during what turned out to be - in my humble opinion, of course - an outstanding conversation!
Some of the things we covered:
Chris Simon
Colin Campbell's slip-up
The Isles goal scoring woes
Kyle...
[img:left]http://cdn.nhl.com/islanders/images/upload/2007/12/balke_jason_n1.jpg[/img]
Every so often, at the mention Jason Blake, an Isles fan will spout off on how selfish he was with the puck. How he was a lockerroom cancer. How he was this. How he was that. What I will always recall of Blake, despite perhaps a mixed-bag of attributes, is that he was a 4th liner who m...
So, lets all take a moment to review the trials and tribulations of what 2007 has meant to us as Isle fans. Well, it's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride. The Nolan era has put us in the playoff picture, but it is still fuzzy to see how that Polaroid will develop. It certainly got more in focus when the likes of Alexei Yashin hit the bricks. It also was more in focus when ...
Twas the night before my short vacation to Los Angles and the second day of this new year. So I've decided to come up with a list of New Years Resolutions I believe our New York Islanders should have for the year 2008. If you have more ideas than what I came up with.. please leave a comment on this blog or drop me an email at [email protected]
1. [b]STAY HEALTHY[/b...
2007 had its share of ups and downs for the Islanders and their fans. From being a team picked to finish dead last, to clinching a playoff berth in the last game of the year, and the anointment of a new captain, there were some great moments this year. Without further ado, here are my Islander awards for 2007:(I'm going by the calendar year 2007. Late 2006 does not count.)...
I feel for the Panthers. I just left 80 degree weather for over a week and come back to this weather. That foul wind this morning made me want to turn around and go home. Florida comes into this freezing stretch with a third loss in a row, last one coming from NJ last night. The Isles are looking for their six win in seven games. Wade Dubielewicz performed admirably and on...
Jassen Cullimore ripped a slapshot from the top of the left circle that blew past Rick DiPietro for the Panthers OT victory Thursday night! Cullimore aquired in late October to help provide some veteran leadership on defense has been playing extremely well of late and is one of the few Panthers players with a plus rating.
The former Lightning and Blackhawk defenseman ha...
Isles and Ricky lose to the Panthers in OT. But what becomes a bigger story is the pads the NHL confiscated from DP after the 1st period. DiPietro could face a 2 game suspension. But is it really such a big deal?
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/rickydipietropadsofdoom.jpg[/img]
[b]NHL Rule 11.8: a goalkeeper who plays with equipment that has not been inspected and ...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Isles Head To Edmonton, Nolan on Nilsson, Okposo to Bridge
Posted Monday | Comments 0
If anyone still was not over the love-affair with Nilsson, who went to EDM as part of the Ryan Smyth trade, one should read Nolan's latest quotes on the subject to prove what has been written about many times here and elsewhere:
Nolan was not a Nilsson fan, and that made him expendable.
Nolan told it plainly to Robert Tychkowski, of the Edmonton Sun:
[i]"Nilsson ...
Steve Downie may have avoided a suspension for his sucker punch on Toronto's Jason Blake on Saturday night, but all eyes will continue to be on him each time he laces up the skates for some time to come. His antics in the infantile stages of his NHL career may just be the tip of the iceberg. If he keeps it up, his run as a pro may end up being over almost before it even tr...
hckyplayazt16 writes...
Isles + Kings = Cup and recap from Isles Road Trip so far
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Just got home from my recent trip to Los Angeles. I spent a few days there, but i kept myself busy to say the least with major highlights being 2 kings games, a lakers game and a stop at Universal Studios Hollywood. The Kings shockingly sold out 19000+ both games I attended which really shocked me since they are at the bottom on the NHL. What shocked me more was the fac...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Serious Questions Need to be Asked as Isles Tank at Oilers
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The Islanders came into 2008 by nipping a slide at that was from the end of November until mid-December. They came out of Colorado OT loss being railed on for not having their head in the game by the coach and captain. So, if this was still the Isles stepping up, you would have thought that the team would be raring to go at it versus Edmonton. Right?
Instead, they got l...
It has been rumored for a while that Jaromir Jagr could be on the move from the Rangers. According to sources Pittsburgh was looking into #68 coming back to ride shotgun along Sid. This season JAGGS has looked dynamic at times and far more often, lost at others. One can sense that this is how fires started in Cap city with the foward coming to Broadway for Anson Carter. Ca...
The upcoming Islanders home game on January 19th against the Philadelphia Flyers could turn out to be a very important night in team history. (And, no, not just because I'll be making the trip up for my first home game of the year either!) The Islanders are promoting this evening as "Town of Hempstead Night" and Kate Murray, the Presiding Supervisor of the town of Hempstea...
Unlike the likely telegraphed tear from Hillary Clinton just a few days ago, designed to appeal to the New Hampshire woman voter, the Isles show of vulnerability last night in the first period was NOT the same thing. There was no "plan". No play of the media. Just an absolute flat rollout as one man somehow kept them in the game.
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/DP.jpg[...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/glasshalfislanders.jpg[/img]
So, if you've sat and thought about this team this season, have you come to the same conclusion I have drawn? When asked: Is the glass half empty? Is the glass half full? My answer is:
"The glass is half Islanders"
Which is my witticism for neither. Both. Or that giant question mark that slams into our h...
[b]Freddy Meyer[/b], god of thunder, strode across the ice, his eyes seeing opportunity. Jason Spezza, of soft hands and softer body, was about to gain the puck from Wade Redden. Meyer crashed into him with a mighty howl that careened off the Ottawa seats and turned cheering Canadian mouths into what resembled Cheerios. Spezza hit the ice, and it was like he and the Senato...
Jon Jordan writes...
Now That Was a Hockey Game! / Support the Lighthouse!!!
Posted Monday | Comments 0
From Freddy Meyer's [i]Witt-esque[/i] crunch on Jason Spezza to Rick DiPietro's near-miss empty netter, that was as complete a hockey game as the Islanders have played all season.
Of course, Ottawa fans and Islander haters alike will protest that the Sens were coming off a highly emotional contest against the Detroit Red Wings the night before and that they were without...
Hey guys. Sorry it has been awhile as I have been very busy with some school work, regular work and my own hockey games. Since I have last blogged there has been a lot of good and bad that has been going around the Islander organization.
First from the recent road trip. A bit of a rough start with the OT loss in Colorado and the blowout in Edm, but the Islanders real...
[i]"Control, control. You must learn control!"[/i]
- Yoda
Coach Ted Nolan said words to this effect. As did words come from some players. Keep focused. Don't come home and then come out flat. Be consistent. Be ready. Obviously, they all know what this team sometimes does. Add to this, ,most road-traveled teams tend to come home and stink up the joint. And for the 11,0...
[i]"Come inside, the shows about to start
Guaranteed to blow your head apart
Rest assured youll get your moneys worth
The greatest show in heaven, hell or earth.
Youve got to see the show, its a dynamo.
Youve got to see the show, its rock and roll . . ."[/i]
- Emerson, Lake, & Palmer
The Isles went to NJ, and if you watched the pre-game show, you would hav...
Hey hockey fans across the US and Canada. Earlier in the week the Isles continued their own version of the pursuit of perfection against the New Jersey Devils. Unlike in their sub par performance against the Habs, the Isles came out to play, immediately stopping a Devils attack. The Isles drew two quick penalties on the same shift and turned that into Bill Guerin's hig...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Call to Arms! Lighthouse Project and more on a big weekend
Posted Friday | Comments 0
For anyone who follows sports or goes to concert on Long Island, they have suffered. It’s not that Nassau Coliseum is a bad place. Just an arcane relic to another time and place. We can sit in its cold embrace and shiver, and then tell people, well its a piece of old time history. But let's be real. It's time for something new. When Charles Wang took over the Isles, he s...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Live: Flyers Comeback 5-3. Nolan Not Happy with Effort
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
[i]"No time for love, Dr. Jones"
- Short Round, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom[/i]
What's more important that Hilary beating back Obama in Nevada. Or Romney taking another for the Republicans. It is that I make my return to the Isles Blog Box to kick off 2008. Ok, not that stupendous. But, throw me a bone here.
I met Jon Jordan, our Tampa Bay blogger and fe...
1,168 miles.
That's the distance from my front door to the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
The last two times I'd made this trek, the home team had been shut out - once in a disappointing season opener, the other in a horrendous showing that turned out to be Butch Goring's last stand as Islander coach. On Saturday night, Richard Park made sure that wouldn't happen...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Isles Finally Beat Carolina 6-3 and Some Defensive Talk
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Two bitter defeats and the news on Campoli had to be on their mind. This team was facing a challenge. Nolan added to this by resting [b]Rick DiPietro[/b] (more on that later). So with Dubie in goal, the Isles went to Carolina in the daunting task to notch a win against a team that beat them twice. Once was a blowout, the second a come from behind win that whitened Isle fan...
[i]"Charlie, here comes the deuce. And when you speak of me, speak well. "
- Crash Davis, Bull Durham[/i]
We should have known what was coming. After all, Boston had an embarrassing and bitter defeat at the hand of the Montreal Canadians the game before. Meanwhile, their goalie, Tim Thomas was tapped to be an all star and to join Isles goalie Rick DiPietro when Marti...
Thank you, Bill Guerin ...
I've been yapping all year long (for years, actually) about how just getting into the playoffs should [i][b]never [/b][/i]be [i][b]any [/b][/i]team's goal. Ties may be gone in the NHL, but mediocrity is also about as satisfying as kissing your sister, so the analogy remains. While I [i][b]am [/b][/i]grateful to have the Islanders qualifying fo...
Here we are, post All Star game, staring at the last 32 games this season. The games that will make us or break us. It will answer the question, are we playoff contenders or pretenders.
Of course, we start this chain of games off with another visit by one of the top teams in the NHL, the Ottawa Senators. The Senators came into the All Star break halting a 3 game skid wi...
Hello All, I havent posted anything a little over a week, I decided I didnt want to get going about the Sens last week and really, theres not much to say about the All-Star weekend, it is what it is!!! Im also going to stay away from the Ray Emery saga, all I will say is this kid has to get his crap together, act like an adult rather than a spoiled little kid, and frankly ...
So, you want to be a playoff team? This has been the Isles wish since back over the summer, when Ryan Smyth evaded their extended grasp, and they were forced to change their free agent direction. It is why the Isles will likely not sell off pieces, making all efforts to achieve a spot and a chance at glory.
So, you want to be a playoff team? They've made strides with th...
I did some calculating last night.
By my count, the Islanders have now been in rebuilding mode for 15 consecutive years. Since the 1992-93 season, they haven't made it out of the first round of the playoffs. With 2001-02 now nothing more than a minor blip on the radar screen, in terms of regular season success, the Isles have remained stagnant for almost 5,500 calendar ...
Survivors on a deserted island.
No hope of rescue.
For the next 30 games, they will be tested beyond their limits.
For the Islanders are . . .
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/lostisles.jpg[/img]
Each player joined this club with hopes of success, but also leaving behind perhaps their troubled past of unfulfilled potentials. They gave themselves to a ...
Brock was the next big thing. A huge specimen of a man who was NCAA Wrestling champ and best in the country. He, right after college, signed a big money deal with none other than Vince McMahon's World Wresting Entertainment. He was developed, cultivated, and went up the ranks with a huge push right to the top. Brock was champ. He was physically imposing. He was a hilarious...
[i]"It's tough. I'm not going to lie . . . Now is a time when we'll see what sort of character is on this team. We'd like everybody healthy and going, but that's not the case. We have to buckle down and right the ship."
- Ted Nolan[/i]
[i]"There are plenty of teams with guys hurt . . . We have to find ways to win. We can't focus who's hurt. We have to focus on who's h...
Currently the New York Islander's sit in the 13th slot of the Eastern Conference. Fortunately for them, they are only five points out considering how deep they are in the standings..but this only adds to the frustration and confusion of what the Islander's should do.
If you ask me...(and I know that no one has so far, but I'm going to give my two cents anyway), the Isla...
Following Tuesday's night's loss to the defending Stanley Cup Champs, the news got worse for the Islanders as Miroslav Satan has been declared a no-go for tonight's game against the surging Pens. Despite being without Sid the Kid, the Penguins sit in third place in the Atlantic, just a win behind the top-seeded Devils and a point behind the second place Flyers. With Mike S...
[i]"I got up feeling so down
I got off being sold out
I've kept the movie rolling
But the story's getting old now
I just looked in the mirror
Things aren't looking so good"
[/i]
Here we are . . .
[b]
Feeling Minnesota[/b]
You can almost hear Chris Cornell's throaty growl as you stare at the TV screen or read your morning paper about last night's game. Once ...
Before I go on any further, I just read the article on TSN about Richard Zednik's most unfortunate accident in tonight's game against the Buffalo Sabres. When horrible mishpas like this occur in any sporting event, one cannot find themselves caring about the outcome of any hockey game. Hopefully Zednik will be out of the hospital very soon and have a fast recovery without ...
So here we are on a gray, dreary, snowy eve. Or as they call it in Buffalo and Toronto . . . [b]Tuesday[/b].
[i]"One game at a time"
- Ted Nolan[/i]
Ted is being interviewed for a pregame where he is talking about the good things in the last two games. And no matter the doom and gloom, they have played far better the last two. The pressure is on tonight. The colise...
For the first time in the New Year, the Islander's have [b][u][i]FINALLY[/i][/u][/b] won a home game. And despite all the talk of trading for the future and forgetting this season...I gotta say this win did feel good. And you know the Isles were feeling it too, watching Park celebrate after the final buzzer as if he had just scored his first NHL goal.
It is pretty depre...
[i]"I missed being around the guys and the team," said Simon after practice. "I'm ready to get back out there and help the team. I've learned from my mistakes. I'm going to try and be the best I can be when I come back. What happened in the past is always going to be there, but I look to now and getting ready for tomorrow."[/i]
Luckily when he says tomorrow he means it ...
In case you haven't heard, oft-suspended Islanders forward Chris Simon is back practicing with the team as of yesterday, is eligible to return February 21st against Tampa and will do so immediately, according to coach Ted Nolan:
[i]"I can't see why he wouldn't get right back in the lineup. Other guys get injured and then get right back in. I don't see this as any differ...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/nolansimonempire.jpg[/img]
I like pugilists just like the typical hockey traditionalist. I spy Pierre MacGuire with his mug looking like someone just spilled his Chablis as he is forced by the NBC producers to watch fist fly. It is then that I pray that Mad Mike will then just lose his sanity, a la an Isles trade, and then take a swing...
With the Islanders once again currently sitting in 13th place in the East, I'm sure Garth Snow is contemplating the best approach on what to do with the Islanders at the deadline. The Isles are only five points away from the playoffs, but also only 4 points away from finishing last in the East.
Five points is not the most difficult task, but with five games remaining un...
If you ask me, right behind our timid, inconsistent offense that has had great difficulty burying the puck this season, this team has been lacking something else from last year that was notable throughout the season. It's not just Jason Blake's 40 goals or the fearless leader in Alexei Yashin....JUST KIDDING! No, it's not baseball swings with hockey sticks or number 3 expl...
[i]Cage goes in the water, Isles go in the water. Shark's in the water. Our shark.[/i]
Isles are on a three game win streak. Sharks on a 3 game losing streak. Trade deadline, meanwhile, which might be influential to both teams, is just over a week away.
Think this game doesn't mean much?
Au contraire.
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/islesvssharks.jpg[/img]...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/islesmagic8ball.jpg[/img]
So the Isles have a streak of 4 wins going now. They finally beat the Flyers. TO has fallen. Atlanta went down in flames. The Sharks angrily lost another on the road. How quickly fortunes change in the thick of the close throng in points of the Eastern Conference.
So, step right up and see what the future ho...
Don't worry, I'm not implying that the Islanders are going to win 7 games in a row after losing 7 in a row, but they are making one hell of an interesting playoff push. With less than a week to go to the deadline, most fans have been speculating as to what Garth Snow will do. Will he pull the trigger on some firesale deals? Will he make a Stillman + Commodore/Eaves + Corvo...
Rob McGowan writes...
Why Blake Returning to The Isles May Be a Good Thing
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
I've finally decided that instead of continuously posting on the boards about the potential trade of McCabe and Blake back to Long Island, that I'll just rant and rave here for my second post in one day....yes...I sadly do not know where my priorities are...or maybe I do ;) And since my last blog had plenty to say about Bryan McCabe, this one will discuss that speedy cog, ...
Why This Latest Pulp Fiction Making the Rounds Will Likely Not Be Happening
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/pulpgm.jpg[/img]
GM Garth and former GM, JFJ
Reports are flying around that Cliff Fletcher, the new GM for Toronto and our Garth Snow were discussing McCabe. Let's look a bit more into that and debunk the rumormill which has heated up due to it.
Bryan McCab...
Isles shutout the Lightning, extending the win streak to 6. Simon returns to boos, and the Isles seem surprised? Let's give them a reality check . . .
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/greaselightning.jpg[/img]
There several stories to come out of last night's big win over Tampa. The obvious one is that our streak is now 6 wins. Another is that despite these last cou...
Man, do I wish that I DID predict that the Islanders were going to win 7 in a row when I wrote, [i]7 Down to 7 Up[/i]! But what are you going to do? With my luck if I go ahead and say that "you know what" will definately happen, then they won't accomplish "you know what"....confused yet? Okay good.
[img:right]http://assets.espn.go.com/media/nhl/2004/0129/photo/a_hunter...
So here we are less than four days until the trading deadline this Tuesday at 3 PM and the Islanders are left with much more questions than answers. I have arrived home from my trip along with 89 other screaming Isles fans at "the rock" as the booster club made its first trip to the Prudential Center. We watched and learned that the Islanders are indeed human and can los...
Apparently I should have kept my mouth shut; the Isles looking for their seventh win in a row faltered under a young and weak defense, allowing the New Jersey Devils to win their first game against us in almost a year. It honestly was only a matter of time before the Atlantic Division leading Devils recorded a win against our 5-0 season streak. It was also only a matter of...
A quick glimpse into how my brain works around the deadline ...
Last year at deadline day, before the Isles acquired Ryan Smyth, I had a dream the night before that they traded a first round pick to the Florida Panthers for some guy named George Walter (no, I don't know who he is either) and then went on to win the Stanley Cup.
Last night, or perhaps early this morn...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Live Blog From The Isles Blog Box: MAB & Simon Dealt
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Here we are. I'm sitting next to Jim Baumbach, of Newsday. He's decided to blog about us blogging about the trade deadline. You might remember him from the hubbub over asking if the Al Arbour game should count. He's been a good sport, despite his baseball background and hockey noob question that caused a ruckus with Isles fans.
His live blog: http://weblogs.newsday.com...
Salvador to Jersey..
Richards traded to Dallas..
Campbell to San Jose...
The frenzy is just starting to begin...
And Snow is in his office...ready to pull the trigger on a deal...and it is.......
A 7'TH ROUNDER TO SAN JOSE FOR ROB DAVISON!
Whew...almost worried we were out of the hunt for a second. What a relief. Hey I almost feel as good as when we lost out o...
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/bloggingheathen.jpg[/img]
Today was a big day. Just for me, as a hockey fan. I love the trade deadline. I love the energy and excitement. I was at ground zero of trade happenings in Isles land. Yes, many things did not happen, but alas, we will go more into that.
...
Flyers quiet on Tuesday... Were in talks with Buffalo about D Brian Campbell and the Islanders about Ruslan Fedotenko, notable among other possibilities. Holmgren balked at both because the price was too high and confirmed both asked for Jeff Carter in return. Being that Holmgren kept Carter, you figure he wants to sign the kid in the summer. Campbell would have fit a s...
Like all trades, yesterday's Lightning/Stars swap primarily involving Brad Richards and Mike Smith will need some time before any fair evaluation can truly be made. Bolts GM Jay Feaster is putting himself on the line in bringing in yet another goalie to fill the seemingly "unfillable" void left when Nikolai Khabibulin departed after capturing the Stanley Cup in 2004. Many ...
NYIsles16 writes...
NYI: Post Deadline Thoughts on the NYI and Other Deals
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
So here we are, February 27th, and the trade-deadline has come and gone. The anticipation is over and we can freely analyze every move that was made, or not made. As always, there is much criticism on Long Island, including some radicals going as far as saying that Garth Snow should be fired and shipped off the Island immediately. Before I analyze the Islanders and why Gar...
How Garth Snow refused to be seduced by easy answers or swayed by buying or selling. Instead, he graduated this season, making careful and difficult considerations this trade deadline. Whether the fanbase agreed with it or not.
((Cue the Simon and Garfunkel))
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/thegmgraduate.jpg[/img]
I'm not sure what everyone expected of this...
We, for the most part, are on the final turn to the yearly horse race of the NHL. This is where either riders and horses pick it up, or fall away into the pack. Right now, the Isles are fading into the pack.
The Flyers had their tough spot a couple games back. A freefall that has them climbing out with now 3 straight wins (i should have been clearer in my yesterdays bl...
So the ceremony begins at 2 o'clock, with a glorious walk of champions. And no, I'm not talking about the bar and grill inside the Marriot. The 17 members that played for all the Islanders' Stanley Cup Championships will walk from the Marriot to the Coliseum, with Lord Stanley's Cup present, in honor of the hard-fought battles they endured during all those playoff years.
...
steal_your_faceoff writes...
Familiarity Breeds Contempt - Flyers' Battle to the Playoffs
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
"Vulgare proverbium est, quod nimia familiaritas parit contemptum"
[b]Familiarity breeds contempt[/b]
[img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/crystal_ballcopycopy.jpg?t=1204518503[/img]
It doesn't take a medium or a seance to know that coming away with points on a nightly basis during the final six weeks of regulation games is of paramount importance. The...
[i]"I think the most frustrating thing is letting four points slip away this weekend"
- Mike Comrie[/i]
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times . . .
There is a line that succinctly embodies a weekend of festivities and games which I had miss seeing in person. Apologies to those who were hoping to meet me there at the Blog Box. My next date there is at...
First off, for any Islander fans interested, I have been writing regularly at http://islesnation.com/matt.htm . In order to expose my blog to more people, I decided to post my latest entry here:
[i]
"I want to be a lion,
Everybody wants to pass as cats.
We all want to be big big stars, but we got different reasons for that.
Believe in me because I don't believe in a...
Today is March 4th, and the New York Islanders currently sit in 10th place in the Eastern Conference. With a record of 31-29-7 for a total of 69 points, the Islanders are only five points of the final playoff spot. We also sit six points behind the New York Rangers, who have a record that is good enough for sixth in the Eastern Conference. With two games coming up this wee...
Isles at Rangers notes: Dubie in goal again!
Gervais still day-to-day
On Friday, February. 29th, at 8pm, at my swanky apartment in Freeport, was another first for sport bloggers. A blog box cocktail party. A giant leap for blogger kind as they descended his abode for booze, wine, beer, soda, cheese platters, shrimp, veggies, dips, and all sorts of goodies.
There...
Islanders vs. Rangers
Many fans on both sides have been waiting for this re-match. I remember 2 years ago when they decided to have each team play their division rivals 8 times a piece, how excited I was knowing that meant 8 Islander-Ranger games a year. I just can't get enough of these games.
Regardless of playoff positions these games seem to fire up both teams, th...
Most Isles fans like myself will be quick to point out most Islander Ranger games are do or die, but non more than the game that took place at the world's most famous arena last night. The Rangers came into the game rolling not losing in regulation nine straight games whereas the Islanders despite working hard over the weekend had only one goal to show for. The odds were...
The Flyers have Danny Briere officially listed as day to day with the right shoulder sprain suffered when he crashed into the boards in the 2nd period Sunday against the Rangers....
But after seeing Briere myself after Tuesday nights game and talking to a couple of people close to the situation, I feel confident to say Briere will definitely NOT dress tomorrow night agai...
[img]http://www.blazingconcepts.com/img/syd/blog/sibrivalry4.jpg[/img]
Two men enter. One man leaves.
Two bloggers from opposite sides of the hockey rivalry sit in the same box. And share the same questionable DNA. Yes, it can only be the Gallofs.
[b]B.D. Gallof, NY Islanders Blogger: [/b]
Well, here we are. Scott follows me like a puppy through the throng ...
Once again the Islanders sit in 11th place, nine points from last in the East, and only five points away from a playoff spot. Tonight they play a Flyers squad that has only won four games in their past ten, but holds onto that 8th seed in the east that the Islanders have set their desperate eyes on. All of this just leads me to one question.
[b]Can anyone figure this te...
This is my first attempt at any type of blog here on HockeyBuzz. I've been a long time reader of the site and read just about every thing posted here. I've been wanting to do game previews and recaps for awhile now and I have finally went ahead and did it! I hope you enjoy it and I hopefully I can improve in the future.
A more graphical version can be found on my n...
It's a huge question many fans have to ask themselves. Do we all want our team to be in the playoffs? Absolutely. What fan doesn't? Do we want our team to win and advance, and hopefully make it to the Cup Finals? Without question. Are these questions feeble-minded? Without a doubt. But how about this one...Does this team deserve to make the playoffs?
Unfortunately, I do...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Monday Morning Playoff Burger and Blues. Hold the Burger.
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Last week, the Isles went to MSG and brought back a hard fought win. It was probably their biggest win of the season due to the timing, rivalry and issues on their plate. It was a win in which we hoped would be the impetus to changing the gut-wrenching inconsistent mess they turned into mid-season.
Well, on Saturday night, they managed their biggest loss against a team ...
It's frustration versus disappointment tonight at the St. Pete Times Forum. Or is it disappointment versus frustration? (Disappointment versus disappointment? Frustration versus frustration?) It's difficult to tell, exactly, which franchise has more of which, though we can be certain that both the New York Islanders and the Tampa Bay Lightning will carry with them a hefty ...
There are a few reasons this incarnation of the Islanders for the 2007-2008 season failed. It has little to do with buying out Yashin and not going over-the-top to retain Blake. Though, if the Isles had just gone up one more year, he might have been retained. The thought that Blake is over-the-hill and ineffectual now in Toronto is just premature. When TO swept in, evident...
So much for the Lightning's problem of not being able to close out games!
As the Islanders closed the gap to 5-3 with 9:38 to go last night, I wondered if we were in for another late game collapse. Many others, I'm sure, feared the same. Goals by Vinny Lecavalier (completing a hat trick), Michel Ouellet and Jason Ward quickly - and by quickly I mean in a span of 42 seco...
I've always wanted to offer something different to the standard moderated forum fare. Well, I've always been looking for some different from the standard moderated forum fare. In terms of talking Islanders Hockey we haven't had that in a long time. Probably since the day when YahooGroups were en vogue and people were separated into their own little private communities.
...
[i]"We ask him over and over again not to play the puck as much," Nolan said of DiPietro. "He's one of the best puck-handlers in the league, but you just can't overhandle it. When you overhandle it, you get yourself in trouble a little bit."[/i]
Sounds like Ted Nolan is just a tad bit frustrated with DiPietro making mistakes handling the puck in consecutive games which ...
We all know there is a slight rumble behind the scenes between GM Garth Snow and coach Ted Nolan. The discrepancy of DP's status/sitting. Perhaps even the moving of Simon. Sure, an eyebrow or two got raised. But to construe any rumble as the beginnings of large discord seems to be premature. TSN did not help as last night, the braintrust of Bob MacKenzie (who I do love), a...
And the mountain spoke down to Chris Pronger . . . 8 games. Methinks he got off a bit light, but better than the big fat zero flub they made the first time round. Plus, Isles take on Montreal tonight.
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
Chris Pronger, according to TSN, you know, the guys where they think grainy footages are non-crim...
"It would be foolish to think we're rushing him in any way," Snow said. "He's been one of the best forwards in Bridgeport, averaging just under a point a game.
"He's earned a chance to put on an Islanders uniform and play at the NHL level. At the end of the day, it will be a good opportunity for him to compete. In no way are we rushing him. He's proven he's capable of p...
With most teams now around the 10-game mark before the playoffs, battles for the top spot are fierce and today's games could see a lot of shifting in the Eastern Conference standings by end of day.
The New Jersey Devils maintained their hold on first place with a 4-2 win against an injury plagued Colorado Avalanche team, in which goalie Martin Brodeur had to be sharp in...
B.D. Gallof writes...
OkposoMania Running Wild as Isles Fall to Montreal Again
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
So after another drubbing upon the Isles, the Official Isles website has 4 stories and features on Kyle Okposo, along with the China story. And nothing about the 3-0 loss to Montreal last night. The game recap is buried. If you watched the game, you watched an ineffectual offense unable to make a dent in Halak, making him look like Hasek. And despite a better effort and go...
All the Isles fans know that Kyle Okposo will be playing his first game as an Isle but is everyone just geting a little to worked up?Don't get me wrong,with the Isles not perfoming as good as us Islander fans would like getting anyone fresh and new who could help this team is a very good thing!
But then I've heard some people say Kyle will be the next Jarome Iginla or M...
Isles have Okposo and 50% off tickets so you can see him. But, they also plead for you not to buy into the hype. A mixed message if I ever saw one. And perhaps a slight schism in the internal politics of sales mechanics versus team dynamics, as a season is awash in disappointment. There is no doubt that people like the coach, GM and VP of Media Relations, Chris Botta (who ...
[i]Wade Dubielewicz gets the start tonight and Joey MacDonald has been recalled from Bridgeport of the American Hockey League. Rick DiPietro will have an MRI on his hip this afternoon and the Islanders expect to have results on Wednesday.[/i]
-Taken from the Isles web-site
Isn't that fantastic?! Our star-netminder that is here for another 13 years is having an MRI on...
[b]DP Iced: Gone for Season [/b]
DP is now out for the year, as now his right hip will be operated on. The poorest kept secret in hockey is now done. Rick has likely been hurt since the all star game, and has clearly contributed to his second-half falter. It might also explain his extended sitting after his grandmother passed away.
So, surgery on his left hip after ...
Hockey has been one of the greatest things to ever enter my life. In most generations, kids get into hockey when they're young, very young. Sometimes even at the ages of five or six. I know a lot of people that have played hockey up through the years of middle school and then drop it like a bad habit. But the ones who continue on and play for their high school, play colleg...
OHHHHHHHHH BABY! Man as good as Joe Micheletti has been , man do I miss that phrase by John Davidson. Last night was an OH night as in the Rangers are now 6 and 0 Vs the Devils this year.
The Rangers stayed patient and played there system and with a beautiful Callahan pass to Drury in the slot ,OHHHH what a goal! There are a lot of un canny similarities to the year...
I just wanted to get some feedback from the Fishstick squad. All jokes aside it was nice to team up with my foes last week or so. With the Islanders and Rangers going to war a few of us had to inform the world just how intense the battles are. After seeing the Rangers/Devils last night, god it's great being a hockey fan in the NY area. Hats off to you who took the time...
What better way to score your first NHL goal than on one of the greatest goaltenders of all-time, Martin Brodeur? How about the fact it was the game winner with just under a minute or two remaining in regulation that ended a six game skid?
[img:left]http://cdn.nhl.com/islanders/images/upload/2008/03/okposo_032108.jpg[/img] You can tell he felt all that and more with a ...
Pics
http://www.flickr.com/photos/neat1325/sets/72157604220361470/detail/
Thank you Erica! That was fun.
Erica's pics
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rickilynn7/sets/72157604228050714/
Shout out to #23, Jsaq, Sandy and the Fly Ladies, Karen, Brooke, Roseanne, Joyce & Steve, Theresa & Caroline and anyone else I may have forgotten.
My signs for the night (accor...
[img:right]http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/afp/20070408/capt.sge.nek63.080407234906.photo00.photo.default-512x379.jpg[/img] So the silence has been broken and Wade Dubielewicz has come out to say like many other players heading towards free agency, that Long Island is his home, he wants to stay and remain an Islander, and is happy playing for them.
But when did he actu...
[img:right]http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/afp/20070408/capt.sge.nek63.080407234906.photo00.photo.default-512x379.jpg[/img] So the silence has been broken and Wade Dubielewicz has come out to say like many other players heading towards free agency, that Long Island is his home, he wants to stay and remain an Islander, and is happy playing for them.
But when did he actu...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/neworleanstrip3.jpg[/img]
New Orleans is haunted. They say this as a matter-of-fact. Sure, there is that touristy aura to the French Quarter where drama club dropouts hark silly stories and half truths to Pa and Ma with the kids who have come in from Memphis. That's not the part of the French quarter I frequented. Instead we delved dee...
I was unable to make the game in the Blog Box. Instead, I elected to watch it with my wife and two heathen Ranger fan brothers at Chez Gallof. We ordered in Sushi. Both my brothers were in the odd position of having to root for the Isles since Philly was right on their tail. Scott seems to feel that the Ranger's best matchup is with Carolina. He might be right, but it gets...
Jeff Tambellini, who was one of the main reasons Chris Simon was moved which thus allowed him a full-time position, has been sent down to the Islanders Bridgeport affiliate once again this season.
I really have to wonder what the organization's feel for Tamby is at this point in his career. He was the first round pick of the L.A. Kings back in 2003, picked at 27th over...
Ok folks I don't have a ton of time until later tonight to post a report.
Here are just pic links for now with more coming later. Enjoy
Devils Game
http://www.flickr.com/photos/neat1325/sets/72157604314558899/
NYC day tripping
http://www.flickr.com/photos/neat1325/sets/72157604314620453/
Islanders game
http://www.flickr.com/photos/neat1325/sets/72157604...
[b]With two games versus the Rangers this week, the Isles stand poised to spoil their playoff party[/b]
As the Isles season comes to a close with young players taking more and more minutes, one interesting thing has developed. The Isles might hold the key to the Rangers fortunes. The Rangers, Bruins and Flyers are knotted up at 91 points. Meanwhile, the Washington Caps ...
Last night, at 11pm, I got the call. I had heard rumors back when I was traversing the French Quarter of New Orleans early last week. But I held off, thinking it would not happen. That it simply could not happen. Could it?
Last night, it did happen.
Alexei Yashin will be returning to the Isles for a 4 year, 16.5 million deal. This was done between his new agent, Bori...
Rob McGowan writes...
Brodeur and The Devils Aren't Fools This April Fools Day
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Sure, it's a day of practical jokes and funnies, but there was nothing funny about the Devils victory tonight at the Coliseum. Tonight Brodeur captured his 40th win of his career against the Islanders, leading his team once again to clinching a playoff spot for the 11th year in a row against our lowly Islanders. Just add Brody's accomplishment to the list of others that ha...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Some Points to be Made as the Isles Fall to NJ in OT
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
As you all watch the games and read the same articles, I won't bore you with the usual recap and such. I always assume you all saw what I saw. But I will share some of what I came away with from my last Blog Box Isles game for this season . . .
[b]BD's Game Key Stats [/b]
Matt Spiller getting HUGE...
Yes, the season has been over for a while now for Islander fans. Instead, we've at least been treated to a glimpse of the future. Anyone who has not been able to make a Bridgeport game now gets a good look with the Isles. The kids playing have created a lot of energy on the ice. And, despite the losses, they are still competing and playing hard, which shows Ted Nolan's ski...
This Monday at 8PM we will be able to witness the lottery draft for the first overall pick in what is one of the deepest drafts in years. Right now, although it hasn't been solidified as definite, the Islanders sit in what appears to be the fifth worst spot, prompting the possibility of getting that 1st overall pick.
Sure, many probably figure the odds are not on our si...
Rangers clinch their spot versus the Isles. There has to be nothing more satisfying to them. And that should be a stick in one's craw.
Ted Nolan seemed to satisfied with the Isles effort. Obviously, he is easy to please these days. The way the Isles played this game as compared to the NJ where they competed, is just night and day. And I find it hard to believe someone ...
No Islanders, despite any spin otherwise, was happy with their disappearance at the Coliseum. As the post-game words were apologist effort, not a one sat satisfied with a 3-0 loss at home against their rivals. In fact, it only added to fan disappointment to the team and the season. It did not sit right.
So, last night, they ended it properly. With some respect for the ...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Lighthouse Project Update and Reasons for Optimism on LI
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
At the Town of Hempteads public meeting on April 8, the Town Board will vote on a resolution to designate itself as Lead Agency under the State Environmental Quality Review Act as well as issue a Positive Declaration on the application. These actions lead to the public scoping process, which defines the analysis required for the Environmental Impact tatement.
If possib...
A few years back, awaiting the first round of the playoffs to arrive, I found myself in the midst of a marathon channel surf. I was waffled on my comfy sofa, with Stanley Cups dancing in my head...Why can’t those playoffs start already!!!!
Then it happened. I came across a French TV show that has marked me ever since. I sat up, eyes focused to the little screen like...
Rob McGowan writes...
The Dust Has Settled, So How Do We Clean This Mess?
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
It's been a few days now since the season has ended for our beloved franchise, and once again we are sitting on the outskirts of the playoffs looking in, watching other teams compete. All we had was the draft lottery to look forward too, and the hype faded for me almost immediately. Something about seeing Mike Milbury at a panel near the table that would possibly hold the ...
Much like the words of the Great Ricky Bobby of Talladega Nights, a lot of the Islander skaters were playing for the right to keep their jobs. The season started with Mike Comrie, Trent Hunter, Wade Dubielewicz, Miroslav Satan, Bryan Berard, Josef Vasicek, and Ruslan Fedotenko facing free agency in the 2008 off-season.
You can now add Rob Davison to that list as well, ...
After spending my entire afternoon at a local outdoor roller hockey rink, soaking in the playoff atmosphere of phlegm and teary eyes combined with the hint of summer break on the horizon, I decided it's time to assess what team I want to make the most out of their playoff opportunity.
In the West I have always liked the Sharks, Ducks, Stars, and Calgary. The Ducks in p...
For those of you who did not see the game, here is the YouTube link that shows what the notorious NHL pest, Sean Avery, did during Game 3 in Round 1 of the Rangers' series with the New Jersey Devils.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ec_2oKWe2Gw
This is absolutely atrocious, a joke, and by far an embarrassment. Sure, as a reader you may feel that I am being a biased Islande...
"Average is as close to the top as it is to the bottom, and I'm sick of being average," said Snow. "We've developed a strategy to become competitive every year, which is the key to winning the Stanley Cup. It's called "The Plan." And it involved three parts: drafting wisely, developing prospects and sprinkling in free agents. We're putting in all the resources to bringing ...
You want find me saying this often, but I stand by Brodeur in his decision to not shake hands with the notorious pest, Sean Avery. The handshake is meant to show respect to one another after a hard fought series of the most demanding games of the year. Personally, I only think you should show respect for someone if you honestly have it. Avery does not respect anyone at all...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Cold Hard Truth for NJ, Isles Futures, Milburied, etc
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Hard Truths in NJ, NYR Carries On, Islanders Focus On Futures, more...
[b]The Cold Hard Truths of NJ's Fall[/b]
NJ has been one of the most consistent top teams in the east for a long time now. And it is probably that fact that seems to blur some harsh realities that they are facing. Lou Lameriello is one of the best GMs in the league. And their scouting and draftpic...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Sillinger on the Mend plus some Lighthouse Tidbits
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Canada's Leader-Post has an article Monday on the recovery of Regina native, Mike Sillinger. The article, written by Greg Harder, talks about how he just resumed walking without crutches after his initial surgery back in late February.
http://www.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/sports/local/story.html?id=1ef4f9ad-180e-4be3-b2d4-8510ebedefd0
In the article, Silling...
When I wrote my first blog for all the hockey fans watching their team on the golf course while other teams competed in the playoffs, I announced that the Washington Capitals were my choice to go as far as possible. Unfortunately that all came to an end two days ago and now I have to sit back in my chair and decide once again.
We're left with Detroit playing the Avs and...
With work, school, and final papers/exams, it has been a bit tough to catch a lot of these playoff games, and it truly does disappoint me. Today I just had enough time to only catch the final buzzer of the third period of Game 2 in the Pens/Rangers series, and you can imagine that I liked seeing Avery get what he had coming too him...but there is a lot more to be seen from...
The Pittsburgh Penguins look like they have made enormous strides. They have matched the Rangers in two heavy weight matches. In the first they were able to take three blows to the head and then come back with some cheap jabs and then one knockout punch. Yesterday, they held their own in their own corner playing defense until Staal roofed a shot past the King. As muc...
Barring some unexpected, significant Isles news between now and then, I don't plan on doing any Isles blogging until some time in between the entry draft and free agency. I had a blast this year - with the Blog Box and all - but between that, a rough season all around and my Lightning responsibilities here at Hockeybuzz, it was taxing ... and I need a break.
Thanks to a...
I'm not surrounded by many hockey fans where I work...but somehow I managed to get the Pens/Rags game on the tube to help pass time on a slow day. Let me tell ya it was much better than watching baseball...and the fact that the Pens held off the Rangers after erasing a 3-1 deficit made it all the better.
But I cannot ignore to mention the fact that a typical hit from b...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Blog Box Loses Their Blogfather: Botta Resigns from Isles
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
My first interaction with Chris was way back in 2000 when Wang just assumed ownership. I was just a regular overopinionated fan (like that has changed) and they had asked through the Isles website for questions and feedback. I had always found him pretty open and candid, even back then.
Flash forward to today, as I read the newsfeed at 5:45am where there is an article b...
[b]Money for Nothing . . . and your chicks for free[/b]
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/moneyfornothing1.jpg[/img]
It seems that the Isles are much like beachcombers these days. They have become that old frizzled sun-gnarled guy, complete with one of those metal detectors that used to be a minute fad in the late 80s. You know the sort; the ones who shuffle arou...
We're down to the final round before the Stanley Cup. The remaining two teams after the Conference Finals will own some minor bragging rights to the East and the West, but the Cup is what defines it all. It defines every injury that was played through; every broken bone, blood gushing wound, any limp or ache: everything. And now we're only 14 games away from it all, at the...
One of the worst things about the offseason is that there is a media blackout. In this cacophony of media silence, there will be slight reprieves as we approach the draft and then the leading up to the UFA period. But, most of us have either found themselves watching the playoffs or frustrating themselves with following baseball. Most hockey teams basically shut down and w...
Jon Jordan writes...
The Coaching Carousel Could Soon Hit Full Spin Cycle
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
***This is a reprint of today's entry from my main page Lightning blog.***
Ron Wilson's ousting as head coach of the San Jose Sharks makes him the latest name to be added to the ever-growing list of NHL coaching candidates. Technically, there are six vacancies at present - Atlanta, Colorado, Florida, Ottawa, San Jose and Toronto - with three other intriguing situations ...
Rob McGowan writes...
Could Blake still be missing LI? Here we go again...
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
As recently reported per TSN, Blake is open to the possibility of being traded this summer.
There's no question that the Leafs had a very poor season and have spent too much money on players that were not worth the cash, Blake being one of them. His 40 goal season from two years ago was not a part of his game play this year, as he finished with 13 goals and 52 points. ...
It was the X-mas of 91-92 I was 12 years old and already bleeding Red,White,and Blue. Having started watching Ranger games with the names of Kisio,Mallette,Turcotte,Beezer,Jonnie "O",and Mullen in the mix. There was Domi and "Knuckles" Nylan fading out his career,while a fresh kid from team USA named Mike Richter was knocking on the door of greatness. In 89-90 Neil Smi...
B.D. Gallof writes...
NY Islanders Creating Dialogue And Accountability With Fans
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Last night, with both Ranger fan brothers in tow to do a dry run on something we will be working over the summer, we went to the sparsely attended, yet extremely insightful and inclusive new initiative of the NY Islanders. The Isles plan on having these meetings every month, the next is likely June 4th. At these meetings, you have the opportunity to intermingle and kibbutz...
I have to say, although I was the one who was duped it was actually pretty clever, and I have to admit, one of the better pranks that I've witnessed. And I will have all of you know that I am not as gullible as you will soon think. I actually am typically the one who is doing the pranking.
For instance, a few years ago I had my friend who was the back-up goalie for my ...
Here we go, the last "Outsiders Looking In" Edition of the summer, and with only two teams remaining there should be plenty of us, so let's start talking some Stanley Cup hockey.
[b]The Pittsburgh Penguins vs. The Detroit Red Wings[/b]
A battle of talent that at times is so good it's obscene. Strong, impressive goaltending on both ends, young and rising stars that ha...
Thanks to Larry Brooks stirring the pot just a little, there is now word circulating the internet that Avery could be an Islander come next year. We can all agree he loves being in New York and that he can spark a team, but is it really possible he will go to the Islanders? Many people say that if he doesn't get the money he wants from the Rangers, he could seek to stay in...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Call to Isles Fans: Town of Hempstead Town Hall 7pm Tonight!
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
http://islanders.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=364301
Visit the Town of Hempstead Town Hall on May 27 at 7 pm to join your fellow Isles fan as the Town of Hempstead has it's 2nd Scoping session. This is where towns come out to support, complain or harp about issues. It is a good time for Isles fans to also make their presence known, to...
So the Latest from the NY Post has the Rangers walking away from Sean Avery. Are we missing something? Does Aves have pics of Sather in Marv Albert gear? Did Sather have his heart set on dating the Olsons? Well it looks like the closest Glen will get to one of them, is watching his Full House DVDs on the plane. What makes this situation even worse is that it looks Long Is...
Lighthouse Project's scoping sessions seemed to go well. Unfortunately, yours truly could not make these sessions. However, with contacts in the Town of Hempstead and those who are in the know, I've been given a unique eagle eye view of the process thus far. And today I am going to share that by giving you Nick Giglia's observations from both Lighthouse scoping meetings. N...
With the Playoffs underway and the Stanley Cup taking center stage, there hasn't been too much talk in Islander Country of what to expect at the draft or next season. It's been pretty quiet, and I'll admit I've been waiting for some news, good news in particular...and it seems that I'm still waiting.
[b]Wade Dubielewicz will hit the open market[/b]
It was stated in N...
Last night, before we were treated to another barnburner from two of the best in the NHL (I called Detroit in 6, by the way), I joined the Isles for another open house. This time it was the rolling out of the Business Club.
The description on their website nor emails did not quite touch how classy and a treat this would be. This food spread put the [i]Gallof hosted Blog...
With 12 days separating us from the NHL Draft, I believe it's time for the Isles to start locking up some of their key RFA's, but with the exception of Tim Jackman they have yet to do so.
Jackman was a solid fourth liner when called upon, but his role is to serve a spot in the minors. That leaves us with Bergenheim, Colliton, Tambellini, Nielsen, Walter, Regier, Brenna...
So we know what the fans all want. [b]Nikita Filatov[/b]. No matter the site, Filatov seems to be far and away the top choice of Isles fans. Now before all those Russian bashers all come flying in, lets talk about this kid who just turned 18 years of age.
Unlike some others, namely last year's Ranger's draft pick, he is know for a great work ethic. Filatov brings his to...
Marty Brodeur may have had to have his best season to keep this Devils club stay in mix this year. His defense is a shell of it's championship days ,with two former devils d man winning cups in back to back years. Congrats to Scott Niedermayer and this years champ Brian Rafalski, good job Lou. With the likes of Rangers give away Karel Rachunek and Jonnie O' umm you bet...
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/eternalyashin.jpg[/img]
(Our hopes, dreams and our future fortunes are only possible if we forget our past. )
Let me all welcome you to the crossroads. The crossroads of where there is two different paths. One path is some hype and hopes, but likely mediocrity. The other is a tougher road ...
Ok,Ok this is just speculation but the Rangers and the Pens have a deep history of making trades. So no one can respond that the Pens would never move one of the best centers in the game to a division rival. But with hints in the air that Malkin may become expendable if Hossa signs back on in the Steel city,it's got to be explored.Looking back on past trades,the two teams...
Before I get started with what to and not to expect this evening on Draft Day, I feel there are a few hot topics that should be addressed (and I know I'm a little late on these).
First off....Alexei Yashin. It's been causing massive hysteria on our island to think that our so-called youth movement may be quarterbacked on the frail shoulders of our former captain that w...
The draft is at 7pm which can be seen (hopefully) on Versus. Isles draft party doors open at 5:30pm. Two Blog Box members are in Ottawa on-hand. A gaggle of others, including yours truly will be on-hand at the Coliseum tonight. I have not decided if I will be live-blogging or just soaking it all in via camcorder and recorder, and then just doing a wrap-up later tonight or ...
So I'm sitting back on a lawn chair outside of the cheap motel my friends and I were staying at out in Montauk. Nothing special, just a nice weekend away with everyone on the beach....bonfires, beers, mallows....good times. As a few of us are sitting back with our cold brews, we listen intently to phone calls from home with updates of what's going on at the NHL draft. It w...
New blog. Old slogan.
This is the [b]Drive for Five[/b].
[img]http://nycya.com/5/images/CupBanners.jpg[/img]
Past, present and future guide to the Islanders
(and their fans) quest for a fifth Stanley Cup.
Stories, tales, lies and exaggerations from an Islanders Country expatriate, living in the heart of arch-enemy territory.
[url]http://my.hockeybuzz.com/5[/url]
...
Looking into the Panthers draft day move that brought in two more young defenseman,they may be gearing up for a deal. With Jay Bouwmeester's status as an RFA the Panthers may be smelling a huge offer sheet or looking into dealing his rights for a new team to hammer out a contract. I was surprised they moved Jokinen for a deal involving two more D-men,but they may be co...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Isles Draft Analysis, including Matt Ebbs, from ISS Hockey
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
In days of yore, we'd be recovering from some sort of catastrophic calamity whose reverberations would be lasting years, not just days. Or in this case, one Friday evening. In the past, we'd wave goodbye to Luongo, the pick that was Spezza, the hulking brut of Chara, and sit and try convince ourselves that all would be ok. Even though, somewhere within us, we knew better. ...
[i]Did you feel it too?[/i]
That brief, awkwardly off balance moment. Like taking the extra step in the staircase that isn't there, or lifting the empty milk carton you thought was full.
Filatov! Schenn! Wilson? Filatov!
Trade!
[i]Wait, what?[/i]
Trade again!
[i]Really?[/i]
Josh Bailey!
[i]Who?[/i]
What just happened?
[i]I need to lie down.[/i]
[b]Someone call...
By this time tomorrow, many Isles fans may be sitting at their computers disappointed with lackluster results on the day of Free Agency...but many may not. Snow has all ready set up the safety net for the strong possibility of his club not signing any marquee free agents. We saw last year's Free Agency period kick start many Isles fans into an uproar, demanding refunds on ...
The Ricky Deez one man show! This looks like it will be a rough one. If we add Weight it will be great (was that like "if the glove doesn't fit".....?). He is a vet presence that will help Neilsen develop and it would give us a secondary threat down the middle. Bailey with Comrie and 2 others a few years from now, we will need someone else over the next couple to step in. ...
Over the last few years the Rangers have made excellent moves in signing veterans.They signed Shanahan and his leadership had proved to be key in the development of the forwards. Shanny also took some of the pressure of Jagr in the locker room,allowing Jagr to concentrate on his Einstein books. The Rangers brought Jason Strudwick back in to the fold last year and his o...
Drive for Five writes...
'Streit' Jackets on sale now in the Islanders Store
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[img]http://nycya.com/5/images/streitjacket.jpg[/img]
With the recent signing of former Canadiens defenseman Mark Streit, what better way to make a buck off of the fans you've driven completely insane? The Islanders 'Streit' Jacket is here just in time to protect you from yourself and others. Yours for the low price of $71.08, to commerate the signing date of our new powe...
NYIsles16 writes...
NYI vs. NYR: Mark Streit vs. Wade Redden and Michal Rozsival
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
As we all know, I am an Islanders fan and I usually write only Islanders blogs, but I felt I should address the signing of Wade Redden as I see it. As July 1st came for the Islanders and the Rangers, I made sure that this year I would be better prepared for the sounds of crickets and mice running through the Coliseum, while also preparing myself to hear announcements all d...
The New York Islanders announced today the signing of Doug Weight to a one year, $1.75 Million contract. It is a bonus laden contract and could add up to $4.3 Million if he is to trigger every bonus. While many fans are already complaining of Weight being extremely past his prime, I will not argue with them in that light, but I will argue that it is a good signing for many...
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 [i][b]right[/b][/i] 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,...
I am not going to go crazy about the Islanders draft or their free agent signings to this point because I am somewhat encouraged by what has gone down over the last few weeks. Garth Snow is nothing but honest. He said he would do things to facilitate the rebuilding process and help the club wins some more games. He did, albeit on a minor level. As currently constituted, I ...
With three days all ready passed since the opening of Free Agency, the Islanders seem to be pretty settled with their signings. With the exception of a few possible signings for their AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, it's safe to say the Isles are done.
First off, before I go on any further, I would like to say, did I call the Doug Weight signing, or did I c...
For the third summer in a row, the Islanders and Sean Bergenheim continue to be on complete opposite sides when it comes to a contract. Obviously, Sean Bergenheim and his agent Marc Gandler feel that he has proven himself worthy of a long term, lucrative contract, while Garth Snow still feels Bergenheim has some proving to do and should receive either a one or two year, lo...
Drive for Five writes...
Why We Deserve the Winter Classic at Yankee Stadium.
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[img]http://nycya.com/5/images/wcsnoglobe.jpg[/img]
I can't get the thought of an Islanders Rangers Winter Classic at Yankee Stadium out of my head. I want it. Bad.
Ya know what else? I think we deserve it. All of us. Islanders fans, Rangers fans, hockey fans, baseball fans, New Yorkers, Long Islanders, Earthlings, and my dog.
We put up with a lot of garbage. On the...
Rob McGowan writes...
Quiet on the Island With a Few Rumblings Here and There
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Since the start of free agency not much has occurred in Islander Country, but the media continues to draw attention to the Snow and Nolan rivalry, and it seems that there is definitely something brewing.
The early extension of Brendan Witt definitely raised a few eyebrows. Almost every fan I know was happy about this signing as Witt has been one of our most consistent ...
The Associated Press is reporting Ted Nolan has been fired by the New York Islanders. The team's official Web site has confirmed the move.
General Manager Garth Snow on Nolan's ouster:
"Ted has helped us achieve some success over the last two seasons, however it has become clear that we have philosophical differences and have decided together to part ways," said Snow...
[img]http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20080714/nolan_47149.jpg[/img]
Ted Nolan's rocky reign as Islanders coach is now over. According to reports GM Garth Snow and Ted Nolan have decided to part ways. Kudos to Owner Charles Wang and Co. for giving Ted another go at an NHL bench and getting his foot back in the door, and at YoDingDong we wish Ted the best.
This is th...
To say I was expecting this would be a tremendous understatement. For the past two weeks I have been saying how we will not be seeing Nolan behind the bench to begin this season. There have been too many problems encompassing our poor Islanders this off-season, and now we've reached the pinnacle.
For a long time now, we have seen this tremendous (and public) debacle th...
[b]Current Events[/b]
So you thought it was going to be just another boring summer? As Isles fans well know, boring it never seems to be. Many Isles fan harp on that the coaching change is just another dreaded blemish to the cavalcade that have traipsed past us over the long and arduous years as Isles fans. Those dubious bruises to our fan egos that have hit us over and...
Points to note: McCabe has not been benched or told to stay home, reporters keep suggesting that it may happen, but Fletcher has so far dealt in good faith. Howard Berger seems to keep bringing it up on Hockey Buzz, but Fletcher so far seems to me to have been avoiding the public bashing that some few fans and media have been employing.
Second point: As a media generate...
Now, depending on who you read and which NHL insiders you trust, the next coach of the Islanders will be someone who is accepting of a massive youth movement. No, wait, he will have to be able to deal with disgruntled veterans. Hold it. That is not it either. I got it. I think.
He willl have to be a little crazy. Why? Besides the obvious reasons like a terrible arena, d...
[b]The Last Word[/b]
Authority. A yoke that fits some, and others not so well. When Ted Nolan and John Muckler clashed in Buffalo, stories littered the landscape in their wake. Hasek vs. Nolan and other more seedier tales that seemed terribly unfair. But perhaps not more unfair as the many years it took for Nolan to return.
When Snow and Nolan crossed swords, there ...
There's not much to say now about the Ted Nolan firing as it's all been taken care of. From my perspective I have to say that I am not happy that we have lost the best coach that we've had since Peter Laviolette. Teddy was one of the only few bright spots on this team, causing a team of underachievers and overrated veterans to actually be a competitive hockey team. But whe...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Quick Hits: Isles Training Camp, Coach Interviews, Gervais Resigned
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Isles will be doing their training camp once again in Moncton later this summer.
Of course, this year will be without their favorite adopted son, Ted Nolan, who led their Moncton Wildcats before his 2 year stint with the Isles. Nolan has some saying will one day likely return there after being paid off this year.
The Isles sans-Nolan will be interesting for ticket ...
Let me know what you think.. I put forth a few hours of effort into this one:
http://img507.imageshack.us/my.php?image=isleslighthousejerseycoup5.jpg
With the summer coming to a close (as much as I want hockey season back, I hope this next month moves like a glacier) the Islanders are working hard to fill the vacancy left by Ted Nolan's removal.
The potential candidates have been mentioned constantly in the media. I am confident in who I think should be the next one to take the bench, but the list is filled with man...
B.D. Gallof writes...
PuckDaddy Provides Summer Fun with Bettman Photoshop Contest
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Summer post Free Agency and draft is usually dog days to whip up hockey interest. Not on Greg Wyshynski's Puck Daddy blog, on Yahoo. Greg and Puck Daddy contributor, Sean Leahy (also of the excellent Going Five Hole Pens blog), came up with a brilliant contest this summer.
[b]The Puck Daddy Art Contest: Gary Bettman, Portraits in Heroism[/b]
http://sports.yahoo.com/...
Holy smokes batman! The Isles have fired and hired yet another coach!
Yes, for the umpteenth time the Isles have brought in a new vict-...er I mean coach to lead our guys in the blue and orange. However despite my sarcasm, I do believe this is a coach that can lead this team through changes, necessary changes to help reestablish a winning team on Long Island.
Scott ...
With the exception of Scott Gordon becoming the new head coach, Isles news has been pretty dry lately. However there has been one issue that has been on my mind lately, and that is the yet to be announced destination of 2008 first round draft pick Josh Bailey.
Word going around is that Bailey was asked by the Isles to move to Long Island. I haven't seen this published ...
[i]With his latest Sundin blog, TSN's Darren Dreger cites the Isles as a dark horse. Has Garth stared too hard at Brett Farve from across the street? How does this follow the plan? Well, it doesn't.
[/i]
A quick word on the latest rumor du jour, before I head out for some R&R upstate.
Dreger on TSN: "[i]One thing is certain, Sundin won't be pushed. His future...
This merry go round continues with the major question still being: Who will be able to land Mats Sundin? Considered to be the top player in this years free agent pool, Mats Sundin has had not only his agent in a tangle, but the media coming up with all different types of headlines and stories about if and where he might play. In recent rumors that have been stated by TSNs ...
Here you go.
http://www.640toronto.com/HostsandShows/LeafsLunch/Podcast.aspx
This morning some scientists cheered, others were thinking we were doomed. Not sure if anyone else has been following the story, but if you check CNN you will find one of the most interesting, and yet, disturbing, scientific stories in quite a while. One of the largest physics experiment ever conceived began just this morning as you were swilling down a Latte. Protons were...
Early morning hits, I wake up, slowly stretching like a fat old cat lying comfortably in the sun. I sense something is different today but I am too confused and tired to realize why. The smells of coffee and burnt toast fill the air of my place, and as I do every day, I walk over to the kitchen window and stare aimlessly outside at what is the end of another fun filled sum...
It was an honor and a privilege to be selected as an inaugural member of the NYI Blog Box over a year ago. It was an absolute thrill to be asked to pen the debut feature on Ruslan Fedotenko's signing with the Islanders. As the only member of the bunch outside of the state of New York, it was a classy move for the organization I grew up loving simply to include me in the fi...
The2ManAdvantage and Shawn Arseneault are on the scene, reporting back on day one:
[b]The2ManAdvantage's eyewitness report[/b]
[i]Training camp is a bit different this year. Instead of scrimmages, Scott Gordon is running practices. The drills are focused on speed, driving to the net, quick passing, and transitions. Gordon is fiery. Its great to watch and his energy ...
Kyle Okposo, Jeff Tambellini, Frans Nielsen, Sean Bergenheim, Blake Comeau, Chris Campoli, and Bruno Gervais.
What we have listed here are the members of the upcoming youth movement for the New York Islanders. Some of these names carry pressure filled shoulders, while others are looking forward to making their first real mark in the NHL, but I think it is important tha...
Instead of working on a team-by-team preview for the entire league, I wanted to zoom in a little closer, to the division I'm most familiar with. Arguably the most (if not second most) competitive division in hockey, the Atlantic Division enters 2008-09 with lots of unanswered questions, which I will now attempt to answer. I went through the teams in the reverse order of wh...
One of the stronger divisions (and arguably the strongest) in hockey last season, the Atlantic sent four teams to the playoffs, three teams to the second round, and two teams to the conference finals. The scary thing is that the division may have gotten better.
[i]Penguins[/i]
Division winners Pittsburgh lost Marian Hossa, Ryan Malone, Gary Roberts, but signed vetera...
Today the Islanders picked up Thomas Pock, a young offensive minded defenseman who in 59 games played in the NHL has recorded 7 goals and 7 assists for 14 points. In the AHL of last season, he ranked 11th in the league for assists by a defenseman with 37, tallying 44 points overall.
Not a bad pickup if you ask me. But what is the meaning behind this? We already had 7 de...
What's more disheveled than the status of the US economy these days? How about the Isles defensive core. Sutton is injured from training camp drills. Campoli from a crushing hit in a preseason game. What are those injuries and for how long....your guess is good as mine, because the Isles won't tell due to the newest slab of insular policy-making in the NHL. They don't have...
Hey Everybody,
This is my first time making an NHL prediction, as I do not really like to throw myself out there, because it is almost a certainty to be wrong. However, I will give it a go this time, and I would like to see what everyone thinks about these picks.
[u]Eastern Conference[/u]
1. Montreal Canadiens
2. Philadelphia Flyers
3. Washington Capitals
4. Ne...
While ago I wrote a blog on saving the Preds, this is the part 2 of the Series on saving the NHL. Today's Story is on saving the Islanders in the NHL. Please excuse my writing skills by no means am I a good writer, I just say how I feel now on with the Blog. The Flames Blog will later in the Week.
Flamestr
[b]Introduction[/b]
First of all, let me apologize...
It's a rather atypical day for your hockey season to start. I've gone from freezing at night, wearing my footsie pajamas and electric blankets to wearing a short-sleeved shirt with the A/C running on my commute home from school.
I'm kidding, I don't own footsie pajamas, but I would look damn cute if I did.
But yes, back to the important stuff. Every year I would get...
I don't care what year, who is on the roster, or who might be coach. When it's the start of the season, there is an electricity in the air just the same. Even when Mad Mike was spinning us to oblivion like a Texas Twister, I still sat at this juncture with the same bustle and trepidation.
If you think about it, we came from a proverbial desert as sports fans. The late 9...
Ok Ok, I may be the minority here but...
The goal song really isn't THAT bad.
Personally it was fine. It had some guitar, a few HEY's, a chorus, and no sex offender attached.
BTW, did you know that the Devils have the same EXACT Gary Glitter goal song that we just got rid of? I don't know about you but don't want to have the same song as the Devils.
Kudos for ...
10/13/08
It was Kids Day on Long Island, and fans came out as the Isles tripped, clutched, held sticks, grabbed, fought, slashed, roughed, hooked, cross checked and probably did about 80% of it all over again.
Buffalo worked hard with their 7-1 drubbing of the Islanders, but perhaps not as hard as the refs. The refs called a total (at this time..it might still not...
I can't catch up with the last year and a half of non-blogging with all the Sabres news, but I will always have faith in this team, especially in Ruff's decisions and the Regier management, despite on the flak they get. With that said, welcome to the Buffalo Sabres 2008-2009 season of awesomeness.
I mean, is it bad to have expectations for the team? Ahhh well, playoff...
Last Friday night the season started with the hopes of a shining youth movement getting underway to a successful first game. We saw Okposo make a good attempt on a penalty shot with Joey MacDonald putting on a promising performance in a 2-1 loss to the New Jersey Devils. It wasn't a win, but it left optimism for the following night's home opener at the Coliseum against the...
From Notes & quotes: Goalie Rick DiPietro underwent treatment for his undisclosed injury yesterday but is expected to return to practice today ...
Whom do we believe?
The Isles? (Any reason to believe them?)
or Newsday?
I can't begin to explain how good it felt to see the Isles give up a 2-0 lead and manage a win. Yeah I know...how can anyone be happy that their team gave up a 2-0 lead in the third period? It's pretty simple.
Dating back for say the past four or five years the Isles maintained this identity of "roll over and die" as opposed to the "never say die" Isles that they used t...
What a game What game. Sabres Fab Five is not on:
Thomas Vanek continues to dominate this opposition. One Goal and One Assist. That makes 6 goals in 4 games. Well on his way to the 50 Goal Campaign and leading this team back to the playoffs.
The power play i was tough on them during the first game. Well so far they have been very good in the last couple games.
...
The pest that we all love to hate will be making his return to Coliseum ice this Thursday when the New York Islanders host the Dallas Stars. Last night he made a more notable return to Madison Square Garden to face the Rangers. I didn't expect him to be out of line when playing against his former team, and from the little I saw my prediction was proved correct. But as usua...
Rob McGowan writes...
Tiger Tips: Parrish Plays With Tigers, Not the Islanders?
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Islanders traded away Mark Parrish along with Brent Sopel to the LA Kings a few years back in return for Jeff Tambellini and Denis Grebeshkov. That year he missed a chunk of the season to a high ankle sprain but in 57 games with the Islanders he managed to put up 24 goals and 41 points, contributing as one of our more consistent forwards despite him being one of the st...
Dallas came to town with a thunderous ZZ Top crescendo. The Isles unfortunately channeled Lisa Loeb & Nine Stories as they gave away pucks to the Stars team as if they were going out of style. Add to all this is that Brendan Witt might be out for a spell. He left the game with a "Lower Body Injury" which looked a lot like a knee injury.
Don't let the 5 to 3 score fool y...
A good pass. Of course there are players who score their goals with impressive dekes and flashy moves, but those players are called stars...superstars. Not the Dallas Stars. But last night the Isles got trampled by Mike Rebeiro and his career-high four assists.
This brings me to my point. What does it take to score a goal? We know that the Isles were going to have trou...
Oh boy... here we go again.
Another player out with a concussion after a great big shot to the head.
For those who havent seen it yet (which is highly improbable, as it's one of the biggest hits of the past couple seasons)....
[code][/code]
After I had a minute to cool down, as any fan would be upset watching their teams top prospect go down in such a way, I st...
[b]POST-GAME[/b]
There were two mindsets in the locker room. One was the Isles were victimized by bad breaks and bounces. it was a close game until near the end. This is true, but good teams make their own luck or overcome.
Isles coach [b]Scott Gordon[/b] and team captain [b]Bill Guerin[/b] had another take: Isles lost when people broke from the system, out of positi...
The first year I got into hockey and became a lunatic was the 1992-1993 season. I broke my finger on a field trip when I was in 8th grade and refused to let my mother take me to the hospital because the Islanders were playing game 7 in Pittsburgh that night. So, I sat in my room on that Friday night with my hand soaked in ice incredibly nervous but also confident. ...
Rob McGowan writes...
Okposo Needs To Play - Plus My First Blog Box Experience
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
This past Monday was the first Islander-Ranger game of the season, so I figured, what better a game to get my first taste of the NYI Blog Box? Unfortunately the Isles didn't finish with the expectations that I had hoped, but it was an exciting game that showed areas of promise...and areas of concern.
Joey MacDonald cannot be blamed for the Isles poor start. That has to ...
steal_your_faceoff writes...
Oh Atlanta, A Touchdown and Flyers Lessons Learned
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[u][b]Oh Atlanta...got to get back to you[/b][/u]
[img]http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b3/Little_Feat_-_Feats_Don%27t_Fail_Me_Now.jpg[/img][img]http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:WeWCWF99sb00fM:https://admin.imodules.com/s/324/images/editor/Thrashers%2520logo%25201.gif[/img]
I bet if you listened closely you could almost hear Joffrey Lupul, Mike Knuble, S...
So the Isles go into the third period against R.J. Umberger and the Columbus Blue Jackets with a 3-0 lead...very reminiscent of the 4-1 lead the Isles held going into the third against the Montreal Canadiens...but the Isles couldn't blow a 3-goal lead in two consecutive home games...could they?
...yes...yes they could.
And they did. Going into the third period the Is...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/electiondaywin.jpg[/img]
There are always a few factions after an election day. Those happy or at least satisfied. Another angry, with bitter canned rhetoric looking for anything that can assuage that sour taste in their mouth. Politics can bring out the best and worst of us.
I think any reaction to the election is valid and true to ...
Rob McGowan writes...
It's a Win, It's a Streak, But Isles Still Look Weak
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
You will never hear me complain of the New York Islanders beating the New York Rangers. Ever. Although the rivalry may have died down on the ice over the years, it has not died down for the fans, and a win is a win however they may come. Despite the Isles being on a two game winning streak after playing back to back games, the Isles were lucky to come out with a "W" after ...
I can't say that every Isles fan wanted a youth movement, but close to the majority did. The result thus far has been tough games with blown leads, merciful losses, and pounding headaches, but I hate to say it, this is what we asked for.
This is not a bad thing. It is what's to be expected. I'll admit, I myself was making those typical claims of 'trade this guy' or 'bri...
On a busy Thursday evening in the NHL an early season quirk in scheduling saw the leagues four bottom feeders come together in what could be glibly dubbed the battle for the wooden spoon. Of course none of the four teams entering their respective pre-thanksgiving matchups would be playing without designs on a playoff place with seventy or so games remaining. Indeed the fur...
B.D. Gallof writes...
IMAGINE: Controversial Shoot Out Loss vs the Penguins
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
[i]Imagine if 40 minutes meant anything. Imagine if 5 straight games, the Isles owned more than just the 1st and 2nd periods, Imagine if you could have seen under Dany Sabourin's 1/8 piece of blockers to see the puck which crossed the line for the tying Shoot Out goal.[/i]
The Isles led going into the 3rd period. Therein lied the problem. They have been unable to ment...
For the past few games we have watched this Isles squad play an impressive 40 minutes of hockey to conclude to the dismay of many fans with a 2 or 3-goal give-away resulting in a loss.
I was in Connecticut on Saturday and was unable to watch Satan and Fedotenko make their returns to Coliseum ice, but I got a text message from a buddy of mine that said it all in two wor...
The Isles were down early against a struggling Ottawa Senators team last night. Sure, they were under .500 going into the game, but you cannot undermine the power of Heatley, Spezza, and Alfredsson. The early lead had many pundering how bad this game could get, but then the impossible happened...
A "stale" Kyle Okposo, (as described by head coach Scott Gordon), newly pa...
Isles have a shot of a home-at-home sweep of the Senators. More interestingly, Josh Bailey has a shot of sweeping out a vet as a mainstay this season if he performs well in the next handful of games.
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/sweeptheleg.jpg[/img]
Ottawa comes to town probably pretty hyped up over a few things. Their stinker at home in Ottawa where those...
Rob McGowan writes...
Mac'in Net: Joey Comes Up Big as Isles Win Two Straight
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Last night's game against Ottawa started off with a fearful barrage of shots from the Sens. Almost 6 1/2 minutes in the Isles were being outshot 7-1, forcing Joey MacDonald to commit with some big saves to keep the game at a scoreless tie. At the end of the first the ice was tilted in the Senators favor. I looked up to the score board to see the Sens were not out-shooting ...
I love these ferry rides from Long Island back to school in Connecticut. They allow me to sit down and write up speculation pieces without worrying about having anything else to do. While most of my blogs usually contains facts or fun opinions, these ferry ride blogs are usually speculation pieces simply because I do not have internet, and I like to write down some fun tho...
The Isles shootout victory over the Vancouver Canucks Monday night lifted them to 12th place in the Eastern Conference. Sure, that's right around where this team finished last year, but keep in mind just a few days ago we were sitting at the bottom of the standings with thoughts of Tavares and Hedman swirling around our brains.
It's still a possibility (and a very good ...
I guess a lot of fans in Montreal now miss Mark Streit after his departure via free agency to Long Island.
Montreal had last year’s number one power play in the NHL, but they are now sitting 26th with a poor 14.6% success rate, while the Islanders power play has improved slightly from 29th to 25th overall. Streit has 12 points (he would be the Habs' 5th scorer) in 18 ...
The Sabres continued their slide after a torrid start in a 4-2 loss Saturday night against the NY Islanders at home. The Islanders were out shot by 11 in the game, but came out on top with a good performance to bring the Sabres to a five game losing streak.
Andy Hilbert had 2 points for the Islanders and Mark Streit played a great game on the numerous power plays for th...
Rob McGowan writes...
Nielsen's Injury Brings Attention to Void In Isles Line-up
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
This is not going to be a typical blog by a fan that will rant about the Isles receiving a lack of justice in regards to the suspension laid upon Mike Mottau of the New Jersey Devils. As far as that subject goes I will say that it does seem a bit odd that Thomas Pock got five games for his hit the head of Ryan Shannon of the Ottawa Senators while Mottau only got two. Shann...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Want to incapacitate a player? Per the NHL... AIM LOWER
Posted Monday | Comments 0
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/aimlower.jpg[/img]
[i]"I know it was to the head. I know Mike Mottau. He's not a dirty player, but it was a dirty hit. Thomas Pock is not a dirty player, but he had a dirty hit against Ottawa and he paid for it."[/i]
- Bill Guerin
When [b]Mike Mottau[/b] slammed into [b]Frans Neilsen[/b], it lit off a bright light on the ine...
We're 21 games into what has been a very up and down youth movement. This team started off with a 1-1 start, losing a close battle to the New Jersey Devils for a season opener, then winning their first home game of the season against the Blues, before being dismantled by the Buffalo Sabres a few days later. Fans got to see their beloved Isles at the bottom of the standings...
That's right, Josh Bailey is checking out. He's played nine NHL games and tonight will be his tenth, sending him packing.
I know you're all saying, "Wait...what?"
Yes...he's packing his bags and checking out of that hotel he's been living in for the past two months to live in a house with Okposo, Gervais, and Thompson since he now rightfully owns a roster spot with ...
Your centers are Weight, Thompson, Bailey, and Sillinger...the Isles are up by a goal with less than a minute remaining in the third period with a face-off in their zone. Who do you put out there?
Mike Sillinger. His value on face-offs while with the Islanders has been paramount over the past two seasons and has been greatly missed in his absence. Weight and Nielsen ha...
The news only got worse for Kyle Okposo yesterday...he was was expected to return to the lineup Thursday night to face Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals, but unfortunately he will be out of the line-up for another 4-6 weeks with a sprained right wrist.
Whenever I hear that one of the core factions of the youth movement are going to be out for a significant...
If there were doubts, at least in fans eyes, they were erased Saturday night. Somewhere in a horrific loss to Atlanta, a beacon on light turned on upon a youth who more fits the Isles plans than the young man who went to Bridgeport for a conditioning stint.
There is not a doubt in my mind that Jeff Tambellini simply does not fit the Isles needs whether he blooms or not....
It may come as a bit of a surprise to some, but as reported on Chris Botta's blog at Islanderspointblank.com, Jon Sim is officially on waivers and available to any of the other 29 teams in the NHL.
[img:left]http://www.cbc.ca/includes/promos/promo/sports/images/hockey-sim-jon_200.jpg[/img]So far this season Sim has 5 goals and 2 assists for a shallow 7 points. He was ...
The GM meetings just happened in Florida. Much of the groundwork for some winter trades gets laid during these meetings. [b]Garth Snow[/b] knows his team needs some adjustments and tweaks. With [b]Mike Comrie[/b] and others coming back on the horizon, he's going to need to crafty making room since he's chosen to have[b] Josh Bailey[/b] remain on Long Island. Thus, [b]Jon S...
How does one take a bad loss? And I don't mean just any loss. But, a REALLY bad one. The kind that is like a karate kick to the gut after eating a bowl of chili and half an apple pie. The kind that leaves you just plain stumped. Numb. Daffy. Pissed. Furious. All of the above. Or none of the above, and just a bad case of gas.
There is no two ways about it. Last night wa...
I never want to see my team lose as bad as this...but it happens...hell, in Jagr's debut game for the Rangers they lost 9-1 to the Senators and I think Jagr was held to one assist (don't ask me how I remember things like this, I just do). The major problem with last night's loss was that there was no heart in the Isles game. They quit once they were down 3-1. Their shifts ...
[img:left]http://artfiles.art.com/images/-/Mats-Sundin-Photograph-C12544663.jpeg[/img]I can't start heavily criticizing Mats since he is not the first player to do what he is doing: sitting for half a season before deciding where he wants to play. But I have to say, it is completely wrong for athletes to do this.
I'll be the first to admit that I really do not know too ...
I originally thought that for this blog I would write a Christmas list to good'ol St. Nick listing all the necessary presents my Isles can use...but then I realized that list might be way too long. I have a list that not only addresses this season, but the years that follow. So instead, I broke it down to the basics, and it all comes down to one issue: this team needs work...
Two points. That's the stat that matters here. But, as Harry Neale put it, "The Sabres got two points the hard way, when they should've had them the easy way." Everyone at the HSBC Arena thought that Clarke MacArthur was the hero with his goal in the third period, as it gave Buffalo seeming insurance and a 3-1 lead. Key word: they [b]thought[/b] he was the hero....
The Mismanagement of Rick DiPietro
By: Steve Kotchek
Complete and utter frustration and disgust is the only way I can describe the saga that is Rick DiPietro’s 2008-2009 season. At this point, we all know that him backing up Joey MacDonald for the first few games of the season was a desperate public relations stunt gone horribly wrong. Any player who can sit on a ben...
B.D. Gallof writes...
HOW THE OTHER HALF LIVES: Why Are There Two Set Of Rules?
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
When Mike Sillinger made his return from surgery, he was tested on a Bridgeport stint. The Isles were careful, applying the use of a conditioning stint to do just that, condition a player to the rigors of the AHL as a prelude to a return to the faster, stronger NHL. Bridgeport was then used for Jeff Tambellini to just to gain confidence, under the same idea. It is a tool f...
DP is hurt practically just as soon as he comes back from his umpteenth injury; Sillinger keeps bouncing to and from the IR; Martinek continues to hurt himself if he blows his nose too hard; Sutton blocks shots like an animal, but pays a price each year; and Nielsen is missing out on the first year of his NHL contract.
The list can go on and on. It's been hard to watch...
Every year there is a consistent trend that the Isles pick up. I'm not talking about the never ending changes to the Isles third jersey, (which actually looks mighty good this year) but the way they start and finish their games.
First they went through this stretch where they would score the first goal and establish a comfortable 2 or 3 goal lead and then blow it eithe...
With the Isles off for the next few days, I figured I'd discuss with you my thoughts on what is probably the most intriguing trade rumor that I have read thus far. Again, they are just rumors, and although Hockeybuzz gets these rumors from "reliable sources," they are still just rumors that may not develop into anything more than just food for thought. But here we go.
W...
The heavily-anticipated trade deadline is less than two-full months away, and it seems as if the Isles veterans can sense that their terms with the Islanders may be coming to a close. We all know that this year is the start of a long growing process for the younger players that are supposed to be the future of the franchise. The veterans that were brought over the last two...
Every Isles fan and hockey fan by now has to have come to a complete understanding in regards to this dismal year for the blue and orange. This season was designed to ignite a maturation process for all the young, inexperienced players; to learn from mistakes, to understand the game, yada yada yada. But in a youth movement, there are supposed to be signs of progress. Each ...
CAPMESS11 writes...
DOC EMRICK DRINKING GAME! EDDIE NO CHECK CALL PENS LOVE FEST
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
So the Rangers lose in Pittsburgh, and all you have to do is ask every other team what they think of the officiating when you play SID. It's almost predictable what happens ( sure the pens had some jump) the Pens get the first few spotted. Then when they have a few on the board the Rangers can have a turn . I hate these NBC Games and anything on VS involving NY. It'...
When I logged onto Hockeybuzz this morning, I discovered that B.D. Gallof has been completely erased from this site. No more past blogs. Obviously, nothing new. No mention or explanation as to why B.D. and his many blogs have been erased off this site. B.D.'s entire presence has been erased.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out exactly what's going on he...
When I logged onto Hockeybuzz this morning, I discovered that B.D. Gallof has been completely erased from this site. No more past blogs. Obviously, nothing new. No mention or explanation as to why B.D. and his many blogs have been erased off this site. B.D.'s entire presence has been erased.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out exactly what's going on here. ...
Ring of Fire writes...
Journalism or not journalism? The hockey blog question
Posted Monday | Comments 0
[b]RING of FIRE[/b]
[img]http://www.tuthq.com/images/fire-1.jpg[/img]
#1
I was trying to think of the best way to do my first blog. I mean, what is a blog anyway? Its a bunch of words on the internet, right?
WIKI says
[i]A blog, a contraction of the term "Web log", is a Web site, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, des...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Just Droppin' Like Flies: Silly Done For Year
Posted Tuesday | Comments 1
This week has been a little crazy. My break came to an end and I had to quickly shift gears from being that lazy bum that sat on a couch playing Call of Duty: World of War and NHL 2009 to a student again. So far, it's not going so well. I go to class, but start writing down line combinations in my notebook on what I think the team might look like next year or go over who m...
CAPMESS11 writes...
Fritsche ON WAIVERS, ISLANDERS? ROZSIVAL FOR PRONGER NEXT
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
With the lack of flexibility in the lineup and the Rangers strong need to carry a 7th D-man, Dan Fritsche was placed on waivers. I'm almost positive that a team will claim him and his salary of 875 k isn't a back breaker. I wouldn't be surprised to see him on the Island as Mike Sillinger is done for the year. Dan would get tons of ice time and can play both wing and ...
I think now is a good time to address the young defensive players for the Islanders and how they seem to be doing. There are several of young, developing forwards, but really only two main defense-man that stand out with the near future, and a third that may end up as a contributor later in his career: Chris Campoli, Bruno Gervais, and Jack Hillen.
[b]Chris Campoli[/b]
...
Tonight's shootout loss was a hard fought defeat to the Los Angeles Kings, a team that the Isles should hope to reflect one day. The Kings have a nucleus of young skaters ranging from Kopitar, Frolov, and O'Sullivan to Doughty and Johnson. For the past few seasons they have sat at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, frustrating themselves and their fan base. No...
The second I saw Doug Weight flex his knee and slam his stick on the ice in frustration I knew right away that Isles fans were going to be hit with bad news once again. All I hoped was that it wouldn't be for an extensive period of time...but then today at work I get a text message from a friend of mine who is constantly sharing the same woes as I do when it comes to this ...
Ok lets break down the Isles roster & see what's left for the 2009-10 season starting at the net & work our way out.
Ricky is our starter & lets say either Joey or Yan is our backup at 500,000. Where set in the net.
On defense, we let Hillen & Pock walk, & are left with these 7 signed & bring up a man from the farm when needed. Streit Sutton Witt Martinek Gervais Cam...
Note: Nitty is out with the flu. Hopefully Marty takes advantage.
[b]1st Period[/b]
Much better start today as the team did not take any penalties and was able to get all lines rotated through their shifts. More energy and better gap control by all units.
Carter is a beast. He looks like a more focused Mats Sundin. He takes every puck to the scoring areas! T...
Last night's 6-2 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes was a tough pill to swallow, and it's never easy to deal with losing to our LIRR rivals the New York Rangers, but this team is working towards something a little more important than adding points in the win column: this team is working towards building an identity.
Islander-Ranger games, which are always exciting for the ...
General Manager Garth Snow decided to pull the trigger on a deal yesterday instead of waiting until the heavily anticipated March 4th trade deadline madness. In a deal with the Ottawa Senators receiving young defense-man Chris Campoli and center Mike Comrie, the Isles got back in return left-wing Dean McAmmond and San Jose's first round pick in this year's draft.
With ...
[img:left]http://images.google.com/url?source=imgres&ct=img&q=http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/images/sports/photos/2009/02/03/danis-yann-ap-090203.jpg&usg=AFQjCNF2jQ4J8TjnDJSvhyq6xgplJIE1fw[/img]Yann Danis came to an Islanders team that had two goalies signed with one-way contracts, one of which belonged to Rick DiPietro who is here for the next decade and then some. It was all but ...
There is plenty to discuss when it comes to the New York Islanders lately; tonight they host the all but forgotten 2007 trade deadline acquisition of Ryan Smyth and the Colorado Avalanche; our captain is floating in trade limbo as March 4th approaches; Sean Bergenheim is elevating his game to a potential leadership role; and of course, more trades are probably on the way. ...
[img:left]http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m31/tonyjetblue/89and13.jpg[/img]Besides the swap of Comrie and Campoli to Ottawa for Dean McAmmond and San Jose's first round pick, the Islanders were quiet today on the trade front. I'm sure Snow had a few other offers on the table for other players on his roster, but the only deal in which Garth pulled the trigger sent Captai...
[img:left]http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m31/tonyjetblue/89and13.jpg[/img]Besides the swap of Comrie and Campoli to Ottawa for Dean McAmmond and San Jose's first round pick, the Islanders were quiet today on the trade front. I'm sure Snow had a few other offers on the table for other players on his roster, but the only deal in which Garth pulled the trigger sent Captai...
[img:left]http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m31/tonyjetblue/89and13.jpg[/img]Besides the swap of Comrie and Campoli to Ottawa for Dean McAmmond and San Jose's first round pick, the Islanders were quiet today on the trade front. I'm sure Snow had a few other offers on the table for other players on his roster, but the only deal in which Garth pulled the trigger sent Captai...
[i]The following is a 'review' I wrote of my first (and last) trip to Nassau Coliseum, for the Rangers vs. Islanders game on 3/5/09[/i]
I'm walking up to it from the abomination of a parking lot, and the first thing that catches my eye is that they are pimping the lighthouse project with banners all over the outside of the arena. Smart idea I guess. I walk up to the ...
I do agree that AHL playoff experience can help some of the eligible players, but I don’t think it’s a good idea - just like Bailey not playing for Canada in the WJC. Some of these guys wont gain anything by playing in the AHL playoffs that will directly translate to NHL success. A player like Jesse Joenssou is a different story, the more competitive hockey he plays t...
Rob McGowan writes...
Okposo vs. Bergenheim...Who Will Lead the Isles In Goals?
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Who would've thought that near season's end we would be discussing Sean Bergenheim and Kyle Okposo in a battle for leading the Islanders in the goal scoring department? Of course we can't forget Mark Streit, the very talented veteran defenseman who is only two goals shy from tying the previously mentioned.
Although Streit is a defenseman, he definitely cannot be counte...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Giving Fans a Reason to Look Forward to Next Year
Posted Friday | Comments 0
They are winners of five in their past seven; Kyle Okposo leads the team with 16 goals; the original third-string goalie is playing at the level of a number one starter; Bailey, Okposo, Nielsen, Comeau, and Bergenheim are all in the same point range; Gervais is starting to look like a real defense-man playing along Mark Streit; Mike Iggulden comes up and has a very impress...
It seems as if the rest of the Islanders season will conclude without any player donning the heralded "C" over their heart. It's very possible that head coach Scott Gordon will appoint one of the current roster players the captaincy, but with only 12 games remaining, I have a feeling that Gordon is going to see which of his players seem fit to handle the responsibility at ...
The Islanders seem to be having the time of their lives; having a fun time enjoying playing hockey. Young players have been getting their chance in the NHL. I wonder how they feel about trying to tank every game for the rest of the season. Of late, I have heard fans yelling and being happy about losing a game, with their teams being out of the playoffs. I can understand th...
Bruno Gervais has always been one of the players on the Isles roster that has given his free time to charity and/or social events while also being very vocal and outgoing with the fans. However, after not scoring a goal in 100+ games and at times looking out of position and frustrated on the ice, Gervais was becoming a question mark for the Isles future on the blue line.
...
I will start out by saying that I have yet to see Kyle Okposo play a game with as much intensity, energy, and fire in his short time spent wearing an Islanders jersey as I did last night against the Wild. All it took was for him to see his linemate Blake Comeau get drilled by one of the Minnesota players and suddenly fans had flashes of Dan Cloutier challenging the Islande...
In a season that started out with mixed vets and kids heading for a downward spiral to the bottom of the standings pretty much from the get-go, to a release of some "bad apples" and increased reliance on prospects and AHL fill-ins, the year is coming to a rapid close with only seven games remaining. During the usual fun-filled playoffs, 16 teams will compete for a chance t...
Rob McGowan writes...
Not Weighting Around; Doug Extended For Next Season
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Before I begin, I just want to inform my readers that my former username was TopRtLW76. Being that I write for the NYI Blog Box, I felt it would be more appropriate to have my real name displayed instead. Sorry if this has caused any confusion.
But yes, Doug Weight has been extended for the 2009-2010 season. This is a great signing and one that fans should be happy to s...
Alright Isles fans...take a collective sigh of relief. We've made it through 82 games...82 long, injury riddled games. Some were exciting, some were let downs, and some just plain ol' sucked. But there seems to be a very bright light at the end of the tunnel with the draft lottery tomorrow night on Versus.
I know, we're all salivating over the possibility of drafting J...
First off, I would like to thank the New York Islanders for running the NYI Blog Box for a second straight year and allowing me to be a part of it this season. Over the course of the year I have met a lot of great people that helped me get adjusted to something that was very new to me while never making me feel like that "new guy." Despite the season being a long, hard sea...
Rob McGowan writes...
Let's Back Up Here, MacDonald? Danis? Or Neither?
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
For the overwhelming majority of the season the Islanders played their back-up and third string goaltenders, Joey MacDonald and Yann Danis. DP's injury forced him to pretty much sit out the entire season allowing these two net-minders to have a quality chance at proving themselves at the NHL level. But which one will be back next year to serve the role that was initially i...
It recently dawned on me that our former captain will be searching for a new home once his playoff run comes to an end with the Pittsburgh Penguins, whenever that may be. The trade that sent him to the Pens has been finalized with that conditional fifth round pick going from a fifth, to a fourth, and finally to a third with them advancing to the second round of the playoff...
With 55 days until the one of the biggest drafts in Islanders history, the Islanders were helped out by the Pittsburgh Penguins and Anaheim Ducks this week. Last Saturday the Penguins ended the Flyers season guaranteeing the Islanders a third round pick. And Anaheim’s victory on Monday over the San Jose Sharks guaranteed them the Sharks 26th pick in the draft. So while G...
Rob McGowan writes...
First Overall: A Definite? A Gamble? Or Wishful Thinking?
Posted Friday | Comments 4
The Isles have the first overall pick...blah blah blah blah....Tavares or Hedman? Yada yada yada...we all know this by now. So what's with all the talk? The Isles are going to either draft a franchise defenseman or forward...right?
As usual during this time frame, there are a lot of rumors swirling around the pollen infested air to catch our attention and think, hmm, wh...
There is a lot of obvious attention being paid to the playoff series' that are at hand, and when it comes to Islander country most are focused on the possibility of obtaining John Tavares. But today I am going to take a look at the impending UFA's on the roster and give my reasons for why they should or should not return.
The first two that I will rule out are Yann Dani...
First off, I want to explain that I am aware that it has been almost two weeks since I wrote my last blog. Being that we are in the month of May, although that means fans are in store for intense games of hockey during the NHL playoffs, it also means final research papers and exams are due, and I simply did not have the time to write about my beloved Islanders.
But now...
This will be short and sweet. I've decided, upon the contemplation of my HB sabbatical and working on my own Isles site, www.IslandersIndependent.com, that for now...that is exactly where I want to be.
I thank Eklund and the many excellent bloggers here for their friendship and support. Everyone was swell, and it was a pleasure being here for almost two years.
I am...
While it is an exciting time to be an Islander because of the tremendous hustle and bustle regarding the first overall pick, you can bet your ass no one is having more fun than Penguin and Red Wing fans. For the second year in a row, the Penguins and Red Wings will be facing off in the Stanley Cup Final, and you can bet that both teams will be even more prepared for each o...
It's been a little dry here on the Island, despite the continuous rainfall that has me worried about my upcoming weekend get-a-way to Montauk in two weeks, thus making it a tad difficult to find something to talk about in regards to the Isles.
I typically try to stay away from the Lighthouse talk. I share the same concerns and opinions of most of my fellow bloggers, but...
Rob McGowan writes...
So It All Comes Down to One Game, Plus Some Isles Chatter
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
So after six games we are heading back to Detroit to watch the final game of NHL hockey of the year, with Pittsburgh fighting to win their first cup in over a decade.
Like I predicted, the series has relied heavily on the positive effects of home ice. If it continues to play out as the past six games have, then Detroit will skate away as champions once again. I'm still...
There is no doubt that John Tavares is offensively gifted and has the hands of a magician. But for a team that is in serious rebuild mode, is Tavares the wisest selection for the Islanders to make? As time goes on I'm becoming less sure.
I've always believed the standard for a winner is building from the net out. And with DiPietro lock up for the next 30+ years, it only...
Paper Champions
Since he entered the NHL, Crosby was destined, anointed, and given the road to the Stanley Cup. As it has been written, he is the youngest captain to ever win the Cup. Bettman has been wanting, and willing this to happen since the day he was drafted. To many this is very sad because the game should be bigger than one person but reality as many of us ...
There are a LOT of rumours going around that the islanders are gonna draft Hedman..... that they're gonna take Duchene, but in all seriousness, as it stands now, the top 4 draft picks will be picked in that order.... the respective teams cant afford not to.
New York Islanders- They NEED Tavares, he may not be a defensman but he is still a strong player, he is also one o...
Alot of people have been wondering who the Islanders will select 1st overall in the upcoming 2009 NHL Entry Draft. There have been some rumblings lately that Matt Duchene will be the pick. Should we believe them? I dont think so.
The bottom line is, when the Islanders select a player 1st overall on friday night, that player should be and will be John Tavares. When you a...
The artist formerly known as "The Long Distance Islander" relocated to the main page as your Tampa Bay Lightning correspondent over two years ago.
Please see my work there: http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?blogger_id=90
JJ
As the draft seemingly slowly approaches it is the biggest question in Islanders Country, who will be the 1st overall pick? With rumors of John Tavaras dancing in most Islanders fan's heads and the hope that he will bring a cup to Long Island, it could be clouding what is really behind the exteriors of the "Big 3". Lets take a quick look at each of the "Big 3" in my eyes....
Tonight the heavily anticipated NHL entry draft will be held with the Islanders set to make their first overall pick. The three top candidates are well-known by now: John Tavares, Victor Hedman, and Matt Duchene.
The order in which they should be listed has been debated over the past several weeks with them shifting over and over again. My personal take is that if we dr...
Tonight at approximately 7:17 Eastern time, the Coliseum erupted. That was because Islanders GM Garth Snow announced to the world that the Islanders were selecting John Tavares first overall in the 2009 NHL Draft. The 10,000 people at the Coliseum shook the Coliseum like it hasnt been shaken in years. However, that was just the first step.
Now its time to get John to th...
The 2009 NHL Entry Draft has the possibility of going down in the record books as a major turning point the turning point for the New York Islanders franchise. For a franchise who’s tank has been running on empty for quite some time, this draft brought along several things that the Islanders needed so direly: excitement, possibility, and relevance. Excitement, in the sen...
[img]http://assets.nydailynews.com/img/2009/06/27/alg_tavares-cap.jpg[/img]A collective sigh, or booming scream from the 10,000 plus Coliseum crowd, was let out all at once when Garth Snow stood up at the podium to announce that the Islanders have selected John Tavares as the number one pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
From all the years the Islanders have walked up t...
As I was preparing to write up part two for the Islanders draft recap, I received an email from one of the readers of New York Islanders Net who knows our sixth round pick, Anders Lee, personally. Instead of keeping the draft recap a three part series, I decided to make it a four part series, with this entry focusing only on Anders Lee, and then picking up from there. Here...
With all the hype circulating around the draft, many, like myself, almost forgot that free agency was looming just a few days later. The Islanders were heading into July 1st with one real major concern, and that was finding a suitable back-up goaltender for Rick DiPietro. They did just that with Dwayne Roloson.
At first I was unsure of how I felt with the signing. He's ...
I conclude the Eastern Conference portion of Off-Season Progress Reports with the Atlantic Division. The Atlantic produced 4 playoff teams and the Stanley Cup Champions last season and once again some of the higher profile off-season moves were made in this division. Here’s my take on the progress of all 5 Atlantic Division clubs to date.
New Jersey Devils
In: Andrew...
Now that the Fourth of July weekend has come and gone, and what a great weekend it was all around, it is time to settle back into the work week, and more importantly, some Islander talk. That being said, let’s take a look at Part III of our Draft Recap: the goaltenders. Part I covered John Tavares and Calvin de Haan, while Part II focused solely on 6th Round Pick Anders ...
Finally, part four of a four part series that has seen us recap the Islanders 2009 NHL Entry Draft. While it was somewhat successful for the most part, the two players we will look at today were somewhat off the charts for the Islanders and many other teams, however, they apparently have tremendous upside. Doesn’t it always seem as if the Islanders are taking the flyer p...
As expected, the John Tavares Press Conference today went rather smoothly and involved very little Q and A with the press. A very pleasing crowd of 350 fans arrived for the first free press conference the Islanders have held, while there was also a fairly large number of media and photographers. Situated right next to the opposing team's bench were Greg Logan of Newsday an...
Although I did enjoy watching the Blackhawks have a great run this year, especially considering I am a huge fan of Patrick Kane, I was still keeping a close eye on the RFA situation that has been playing out over the past several days in hopes that it could benefit the Islanders. I am sure many of you have been doing the same as well. Yes, call me selfish all you want for ...
When we look at the projected Islanders line-up for next season, we are able to notice two things: several important overall changes and several gaping holes that still remain. Obviously the addition of John Tavares will be a pleasant change to an offensively starved lineup, as long as he can transcend his OHL scoring abilities to the NHL level. Besides his marketability, ...
I apologize for being away from the site all weekend. It was a very nice weekend here on Long Island, and I made sure to take advantage of it to the fullest. While I was gone, I did receive a decent number of emails asking for some opinions on some things related to the Islanders, so I figured instead of answering each one individually; I would answer them through the blog...
By Glen Miller
Today I thought it would be fun to look at some of this week’s UFA signings and how they may impact this coming season. Granted, most of the top signings occurred in the first 3 – 4 days of unrestricted free agency, but there were some interesting signings this week; some that affect the Rangers....
To read the rest of this article, please go to Ne...
I understand the Islanders wanting/needing to rebuild with young talent. The problem is that they have very little young "talent". If you look past Bailey, Okposo and Tavares, there is absolutely no young talent what-so-ever.
Bergy is nothing that we thought he would be, Neilsen is OK at best and Tambo is a complete failure. I don't mind these guys being on the team,...
Garth Snow and the New York Islanders entered the offseason with quite a bang. The anticipation and excitement leading up to the draft party, the draft party itself, the selection of John Tavares, and the signing of a quality netminder in Dwayne Roloson all helped to give Islander fans a sense of rejuvenation and renaissance. However, since then, all has been pretty quiet ...
By Glen Miller
Today the New Jersey Devils have announced the hiring of Jacques Lemaire to take over the reins of the club that he originally led to their first Stanley Cup, which was won in 1995. This was long rumored since Lemaire left the Wild organization after coaching that program since its inception in 2000 and also since Brent Sutter left his post as Devils head...
http://islesnet.blogspot.com
As you can tell, it has been quite the confusing day or two for Islanders fans in terms of the Alex Tanguay race. As of yesterday morning, there were about ten different opinions floating around the hockey blogosphere as to which teams were still in contact with Tanguay and his agent. I figured it would be an appropriate time to organize the...
Article taken from:
New York Islanders Net - http://islesnet.blogspot.com
Although the dog days of summer are here, it has been quite easy to continue the hockey talk considering the number of free agents that are still available, and the numerous trade winds that all seem to be blowing in the New York Islanders direction. Obviously, as I mentioned in a previous articl...
Last year, the Islanders led the National Hockey League with more than 500 man games lost to injury. That is a pretty obscene number, taking into consideration the fact that these human beings are professional athletes, and they should be physically prepared for a grueling 82-game season. I will not begin to point fingers at the Islanders strength and conditioning staff, a...
The summer started off with the possibility of the Islanders not selecting John Tavares first overall and taking either Victor Hedman or Matt Duchene. But they did what was right and took the kid who has been watched and predicted for the past four years to go at the top with their first choice. Since then the Isles have been rumored to be in on the Sedin twins, Mike Komis...
[b]By Glen Miller[/b]
New York Islanders Net
Compared to most teams, the Islanders’ off-season has been very quiet. While that might upset some Islanders fans and would certainly upset the fans of most every other NHL club, this is certainly the best move for the team. After several years of losing and trying to bring in veteran players to boost the club’s fortunes...
So as it turns out, Martin Biron was indeed able to find a home before the end of the off season.....
Unfortunately, he found his home with one of the worst clubs in the NHL...
Yes, the Islanders are in the middle of a "rebuilding phase," but I, for one, am having a tough time trying to reason the signing of a THIRD veteran goaltender to a team that has less than ade...
It feels good to talk about how well run the Redwings are as an organization. You'll find no shortage of praise for Ken Holland or Brian Burke and the like. It's much more fun to rip apart the organizations that just don't seem to get it. So in the spirit of being cruel (summer is tough on a hockey fanatic), here are the Top 5 Worst run NHL franchises.
#5 - NY Ranger...
After quite the busy and hectic weekend, I am very happy to be sitting down and just getting back to what I love to do: discussing hockey.
The hockey world seems to have come to quite the standstill over the past few days, with media outlets and bloggers alike scratching their heads for an idea to write about. These are the days when we begin to see prospect articles on...
New York Islanders Net
http://islesnet.blogspot.com
Do you recall about two to three years ago when a simple look at the Islanders prospects would bring about a nauseating feeling? Between lack of depth and lack of quality, the Islanders were truly a team without any hope to compete in the future. After his first two seasons as general manager were quite unsuccessful...
August is usually a quiet time in the NHL. Most of the relevant free agents have been signed, the big trades have been made and teams are just gearing up for training camp. There are still some interesting story lines out there and I've decided to take a closer look at a few of them. In no particular order:
Heatley to San Jose?
First, confirming a rumor I initially...
New York Hockey Net
(http://islesnet.blogspot.com)
Commissioner Gary Bettman stepped to the podium yesterday at the Adam’s Playhouse, received a tremendous ovation from the 1,150 citizens in attendance, thanked the good officiating from the night before for the ovation (a joke, obviously), and then he proceeded to deliver a well-articulated speech. In his speech, Bet...
jnizza writes...
The Lighthouse Project.....A Long Island Rangers Fan's View
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Potvin may indeed suck.....but not as badly as the economy on Long Island.
Despite being the 8th most affluent county in the United States, Nassau County is essentially broke ([url]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highest-income_counties_in_the_United_States[/url]). For people not familiar with Long Island, it is a collection of great contradictions. There is almost incom...
New York Hockey Net
http://islesnet.blogspot.com
With the great success of the Lighthouse Conference past us, it’s time for the speculative fun to begin. Here at New York Hockey Net, I can tell you that the minds are drying with topics to write about as the hottest days of August arrive. Here, and everywhere around the league, it is a sure-fire bet that you will star...
Before everyone jumps on me all at once to kick the crap out of me for providing false hope in regards to the Isles actually making the post-season, let me just say I don't see it happening either. This is just a thought that maybe Garth has higher expectations for this team, or maybe he's just doing some smart planning ahead.
I'd also like to say yes, I am well aware ...
With the great success of the Lighthouse Conference past us, it’s time for the speculative fun to begin. Here at New York Hockey Net, I can tell you that the minds are drying with topics to write about as the hottest days of August arrive. Here, and everywhere around the league, it is a sure-fire bet that you will start seeing speculative pieces about the thirty respecti...
Danny Heatley is running out of options. In reality, he has to reconsider his decision to demand to be traded to certain cities. I have heard only rumors on which team he has on his list. But for someone who wants to leave Ottawa, he sure is making it hard on himself. Think about it, don’t you think that if you wanted out of somewhere, you would be as accommodating as yo...
Rob McGowan writes...
The 2009-2010 Islanders: How They'll Look and What to Expect
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Although many are holding on to that thin thread of UFA hope where the Islanders will sign an enforcer as well as some type of play-maker/scorer, it seems that the Islanders roster is all but set.
Here are my line predictions. They may look somewhat similar to other bloggers, but I have a few scenarios in mind that may come into play over the year.
(In order)
...
Today I am going to write a general hockey blog avoiding the DP talks, Tavares interests, and disappointing predictions that many have for the Islanders next season. Instead I'm going to write about what I was just doing on my laptop, and it's something I frequently find myself doing when I'm bored. Or when it's the school year, I usually do this when I have to write a pap...
The Atlantic Division proved to be one of the toughest divisions in hockey last year, with four of five teams making the playoffs and one winning the Stanley Cup. This year things don't look any easier for the New York Rangers, with division rivals adding key assets to their teams. Here are my predictions for the Atlantic Division.
1. [b]Philadelphia Flyers[/b]
After...
With training camp set to open soon with the start of the regular season just weeks behind, you would think fans would be gearing up and getting amped to watch Islanders hockey.
For some, that really isn't the case.
I have said it before and I will say it again, I am not one for politics. I am not well-versed in the matter (although I know I should be and have been ...
Alright...here is my attempt to revive a blog that I lost a few weeks ago. It's my own fault really. I wrote a blog of about maybe six paragraphs about three players I thought fans might want to keep an eye on throughout the year, to hit submit on the tab and realize that my connection to the wireless router was lost. Just freakin' dandy.
So here we go, with a little ad...
The playoffs are in full swing and the Flames are rocking the Islanders after game one!! What's that? It's the pre-season? You would never know it if you were at the game last night, the crowd was on another level of excitement after hearing that Theo Fluery was playing in addition to J-Bo, Backlund, Jokinen, Dawes and several other players we want to see. The only let dow...
A few days ago, Kyle Okposo was the recipient of a devastating open ice hit in a pre-season game against the Calgary Flames, delivered by none other than Dion Phaneuf. Since then he has returned to New York for further testing for what has been diagnosed as a mild concussion. After watching the hit several times, I will state my opinion: it was clean. Perfectly clean. He n...
Has anyone noticed the flux in Newsday reporters, I mean hacks, trying to make a name for themselves by bashing the Islanders, isn't newsday a long island paper? Unfortunately instead of reporting they've taken the Post route and are quickly becoming a tabloid......I got use to the Eden Laiken? crap a while ago on her Lighthouse reporting, but in the past few days I've no...
I can't remember the last time the Islanders had their first game of the season be their home opener. If my memory serves me correctly, they usually started on the road, but tonight they have the privilege of opening up in front of their home town fans. Lucky for us we get to watch them start against the defending Stanley Cup champs.
The lines are predicted as follows:...
The Iceman writes...
The Games They Play: What Happens If The Islanders Move?
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
This is the 1st time I have ever written a blog on this site so bare with me. Being an Islanders fan since I was 4 years old (that being 18 years) I have seen some crazy and stupid things when in regards to what has happened to this once great and feared franchise. Like many of us, we have been increasingly frustrated with what the previous powers that be in the front offi...
Rob McGowan writes...
Although They Lost, Isles Home Opener Was A Success
Posted Monday | Comments 0
...and I am not just saying that because John Tavares scored.
The Isles were playing host to the defending Stanley Cup champions, a roster that includes Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Jordan Staal, Marc-Andre Fluery, Chris Letang, and so on. After the first period we were tied at one and John Tavares had his first NHL point. And let me tell you, the second that kid touc...
After the season opener, the Islanders proved that they were capable of coming out strong. To prove that it was not a home opening fluke, they needed to start tonight's game the same way that they did last Saturday. For the most part that is exactly what the Islanders did; they came out with energy and chances in the first ten minutes or so, but that fell short once the Se...
And no, I'm not talking about the amount of work they will have to do IF the Lighthouse Project ever passes.
The Islanders had a typical let down Saturday, scoring three goals in a solid 50 minutes of hockey to watch it fade away in the final 10, losing in the shootout to a team they had all but beaten in regulation.
Monday they had a chance to make up for it with a...
Let's put it this way folks; there are only two full weeks left in October and the Isles have seven games left to play. So far they've played six and have done everything but win. Throw in the fact that both goalies have combined to let in 10 goals in the past two games and the same forwards are the only ones contributing on a nightly basis.
TIME TO WAKE UP GUYS!
The...
Finally this season, I was able to get to a Buffalo Sabres game. What's even more incredible is that I talked my girlfriend into going to two games, back to back. I'm not sure she liked me taking notes on my cell phone. SO, here is a recap of two very different games played at HSBC arena this weekend.
New York Islanders, 10/16/2009
This was a great effort by the Buff...
As per Islanders trend each year, the roster currently includes an extra skater for the defensive department. The core consists of Mark Streit, Bruno Gervais, Andy Sutton, Freddy Meyer, Brendan Witt, Radek Martinek, and Jack Hillen. With an extra d-man, Gordon has been sitting Bruno for the past two games in order to get Hillen some playing time. Although injuries always s...
What's the date? Are we still in October? We are! And the Isles won a hockey game?!
Pinch me, I must be dreaming.
Wait, no I'm not...the Isles still managed to give up a two goal lead late in the third period and went to the shootout, once again.
Being in the Blog Box last night provided for some gut-wrenching moments. One in particular was when John Tavares was...
Once again, Isles fans are getting to see an Islanders team that is incapable of holding a lead. I cannot stress enough that this is a result of having a young squad, but it is also due to the fact that some of these guys should not be playing in the NHL. But of course, fans are starting to point fingers, looking for a scapegoat.
Let's start with the fourth-liners, and...
I attended last night's first Islander/Ranger tilt not as a blogger, but as a fan. At times in the blog box I may shout or slam my first on the table, but for the most part, I try to keep myself contained since I'm representing the Islanders as a member of the media. But as a fan, I get to let loose.
And boy, did I enjoy this one. The perspective you get as a blogger in...
Rob McGowan writes...
Catching Up With Islanders Draft Pick Travis Hamonic
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
This past Wednesday I had the privilege of catching up with Travis Hamonic, the Isles 53rd overall selection in the 2nd round of the 2008 NHL entry draft. He is currently playing for the Moose Jaw Warriors in the WHL up in Canada. Right now he leads the league in scoring as a defenseman. He’s played in 15 games, scoring 7 goals, 13 assists, and is a +3 with 23 PIMs. I th...
I sat down Friday night to watch the Sabres pound Toronto. On paper, it looked very simple. Buffalo, vs Toronto. Buffalo should have run away with this one before it began. Surprise, it didn't happen.
Buffalo had fairly good pressure all night long. However, Gustavsson was impressive, but Buffalo couldn't put it home. Numerous attempts failed, and the evening culminated...
[img]http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20091105/capt.9b3a594a46c74bba91f2a9b29324310b.islanders_sabres_hockey_nydh108.jpg[/img]
Miller vs. Marty: Round 2
Ryan Miller and Martin Biron faced each other this past Saturday, with Biron getting a 38 save shutout. At the other end, Miller was pulled midway through the game and sat on the bench watching the rest. The Islanders beat b...
Rob McGowan writes...
Streak Comes To An End With A Rough November Ahead
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Last night the Islanders completed a trade with the Buffalo Sabres. A swap of shut-outs between Ryan Miller and Marty Biron as the Isles lost 3-0 in their visit up north.
The Islanders did not play their best game. As a matter of fact, you can see the expression on Okposo's face in the post-game that he was very disappointed with his play, as well as the rest of the te...
Well the injury bug has finally lost its patience with the Islanders and has decided to bite our d-core right in the ass once again. Islanders fans knew that it was inevitable that Martinek would go down with an injury at some point...unfortunately it will sideline him for the rest of the season.
Freddy Meyer, welcome back to the line-up. He never really deserved to si...
Rob McGowan writes...
Lift The Puck! Isles Lose to Caps In 11-Round Shootout
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Islanders managed to get a quick 3-1 lead after being scored on within the first eight seconds of the first period against the Washington Capitals tonight. However, the score was eventually 4-3 Caps by the end of the second period. The Isles were granted two late powerplays, the latter resulting in the game tying goal that got the Isles that point that they would have ...
Yeah, I know the Meat Loaf song goes "Two out of three ain't bad," but three out of four is even better.
The Isles started off their road trip with an over-time loss in the shootout, an 11-round one at that, to the Washington Capitals. It was a game in which the Isles let the Ovenchkin-less Caps back in after gaining a 3-1 lead in the first period. Last night the Isles ...
Rob McGowan writes...
It Wasn't a Hat Trick, But Isles Walk Away With Two Points
Posted Monday | Comments 0
"It's weird!" - This was Matt Moulson's post-game answer when asked how it felt to win a game in regulation on the road.
Well, it should feel weird considering that the Islanders have gone to over-time or the shoot-out in their past three away games. From 3 points, to 4, to now 6 points taken out of a possible 8 and the team moves to 7-2-2 in their past 11 games.
N...
There are not too many Friday night games for the Islanders, and that's usually a good thing for me. Being that I am 21 years old, I usually like to go out on my Friday's. I also work until 9 and will miss most of the game since they usually start at 7, and being that I work with people who despise hockey, I will not get to watch it on TV.
But I will get to watch tonigh...
The Islanders gave away a win last night that they should have easily held on to. The Wild were playing with a depleted roster that is trying to perform under a new system, much like the Islanders of last year. Despite gaining a 2-1 lead after being down a goal in the first period, the Isles failed to hold on in the final minute as Owen Nolan buried the puck passed Biron. ...
So the Islanders have not gained a point on this second leg of their first real road trip of the season. Tonight the Islanders and John Tavares make an appearance in Toronto. And of course, the media is going to have all their attention on JT’s first return to his home on ice.
Hopefully Tavs will put on such a good show that Brian Burke will want to find Garth Snow a...
It's the time of year when you take a minute and reflect upon your life and the things in it that you are thankful for. If you haven't done that already...make sure you do before this holiday is over.
With me...first and foremost...it's my family...and the fact that we are all healthy. You can't really enjoy the other things in life the way you should, without that. It'...
The Islanders finished the month of November with a 6-6-2 record, bringing them to an overall record of 10-10-7 with 27 points at 11th place, just one point out of the final playoff spot. I’m sure many fans would agree that if anyone said over the summer that the Islanders would be a .500 team on the cusp of a playoff berth by the start of December that they would have t...
Rick DiPietro will be playing in net for a professional hockey team for the first time in over a year this coming Saturday for the Bridgeport Sound Tigers. All I have to say is ...FINALLY!
It's been a long time since Isles fans have seen Ricky on the ice in game action. Since his absence began, Joey MacDonald, Yann Danis, and the newly acquired pair of Dwayne Roloson an...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Fall to Lightning, DP Makes It Through 40 Minutes
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Last night the Islanders lost 4-0 to a team that had played the night before and did not return until very early Saturday morning after their flight back from New Jersey. It was also a showdown of Victor Hedman vs. John Tavares, two draft picks that that will be debated for many years to come.
It would only be fitting for Hedman to score his first NHL goal when he woul...
It had been leaked on the Internet that Garth Snow is looking to add a mobile, veteran defenseman to the Islanders thin blue-line. If Snow finds a willing trade partner, he might want to add someone with size, grit and the willingness to stick up for his teammates.
The Islanders lost a tough one tonight, 6-2 to the Flyers. It's never encouraging to see your team let up ...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Secondary Scoring Remains As A Major Problem
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
As is the case with most young teams, the Islanders have had many interesting third periods in which they either lost the lead, or fought their way back after being down early. (Ahem…hence the abundance of overtime losses). Last night was a case of the latter, but not all late efforts will be rewarded, and Jason Blake made sure to remind us that with his late goal with ...
In my last blog, I felt the Islanders should give players like Trevor Smith or Jesse Joensuu a chance to play with the big club if they were going to continuously sit guys like Comeau and Tambellini over fourth liners such as Jon Sim. The next day Jesse Joensuu was called up from Bridgeport and played his first NHL game of the season.
"It was awesome. It's part of livin...
The laundry list of Islanders problems can start at the top of a 12-story building and flow all the way down to the pavement at Charles Wang's feet. It can start from way back when the Islanders chose to trade away players such as McCabe, Chara and the first-round pick that turned into Spezza, to the constant Lighthouse debacles.
This team has been struggling for what ...
Although I didn't write it in a previous blog, I PROMISE you that I believed that the Islanders were going to split the home-and-home series with the Rangers, and that the visiting team would win each game. Yeah, I know that sounds like complete BS since I am speaking in retrospect, but that WAS my prediction.
The first game at the Garden was a well-played game by the I...
Thanks to everyone that voted. The fans have voted and the result is that 50% of the voters chose Cammalleri to be the next captain of the Habs. Go to Habs To The Top to see complete results:
http://www.HabsAddict.com
K.
Remember to check Habs To The Top daily for all your Habs links!
http://www.habsaddict.com/2009/12/daily-habs-links-markov-isles.html - Daily...
As I start this blog there are only 28 minutes left on Christmas. The last blog I wrote was a week ago on the 18th and I am actually annoyed at myself for not having a chance to write in the mean time. But I will say it has been a hectic week as I'm sure it was all the other bloggers and readers out there.
During this week, yours truly finished all of his assignments a...
The Islanders lost a rough one to the Flyers yesterday for their matinee game on a Sunday afternoon. It was a tough loss to swallow, especially for Marty Biron, a goaltender looking for just his third win of the season. Although the Isles played hard, it was frustrating to watch them make a pass that should have been a shot or struggle to carry the puck out of their own zo...
You had to know with the way that the National Anthem was sung that this game was going to be ugly and at times filled with disappointment. Before I even get to the way the game was played, the Islanders might want to start having try-outs before they let just anyone sing on the ice. The woman that sang had such a hardcore accent that it was hard to understand her, and whe...
HunterRules writes...
Did you miss this? Schremp's Baseball Goal vs Avs
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBcKHrTyG0I[/url]
[img]http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/3967/schremp.jpg[/img]
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Avoid Snowballs, Robbie Schremp With Goal Of The Year?
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Alright...it is a bold argument to make being that 2010 is just a wee seven days old, but if anyone saw Robbie Schremp's goal last night, they would understand why he might have a case for the best goal of 2010.
Over the course of his young career, Schremp has had a very difficult time finding his way onto an NHL line-up. If you watch him play, it is evident that the k...
Turco finally showed up (I Think),but this time it was for the last 5 minutes of the game..
The guys from the Islanders TV (MSG) nailed it on the head- Turco is feeling the pressure of a contract season,and he has ZERO confidence..heck Robidas made better saves in the last few minutes.
Rick DiPietro made his first star since Jan 2,2008 and he looked like he did way ba...
Rob McGowan writes...
Chris Osgood and Kenny Jonsson Return To The Coliseum
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Being that the Islanders are going to play host to the Detroit Red Wings tonight, I knew right away that Chris Osgood would be in the building. It was then posted on Twitter and Chris Botta's blog at Islanders Point Blank that Ozzie will not be the only former Islander returning to the Coliseum tonight. Kenny Jonsson will be in attendance as a fan to support his former tea...
Anytime you win a game against an opponent by the score of 6-0, you will obviously have plenty of positives to talk about, but the most important part of this Isles win is that the younger players are owning the score sheet.
Chris Osgood was forced to return in net at the Nassau Coliseum last night. He heard a few cheers from the crowd that remember him from his brief ...
Hey everyone...
As many of you know, the first major trade rumor regarding the Isles has been spread about all over the web, and it involves Ilya Kovalchuk of the Atlanta Thrashers.
If you want to read my thoughts on the subject, go to http://thehockeywriters.com/isles-in-on-kovalchuk/ as I wrote a blog all about it.
As you can see, I have started blogging for The...
Rick DiPietro made his first return on Coliseum ice last night against the Buffalo Sabres, the second placed team in the East with 64 points and a 29-11-6 record. It took Overtime and a shootout for a decision to be made, but DP shined in a 3-2 win and a shootout that lasted 8 rounds.
It only took a matter of 20 seconds or so before Ricky made his first save of the gam...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Win Four In A Row And Hamonic Visits The Coliseum
Posted Monday | Comments 0
The Islanders hosted the 2nd placed New Jersey Devils today at the Nassau Coliseum and won a decisive 4-0 victory for Rick DiPietro's first shutout of the year in only his third game played, putting the Isles to 9-2-1 over their past 12 games.
You can tell that the Isles 15-year man is regaining his confidence in net. At least twice he was seen catching the puck with h...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Fall To Devils In First Loss At Home In Seven Games
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
At this point of the season, every game needs to be looked at as if it is a playoff game if the Islanders hope to make it passed 82 games for 2010. Last night the Devils came back with a point to prove; they are at the top of the standings in the East for a reason, and after being shutout by the Isles 4-0 last week, it had to be expected that they were going to come out st...
The Islanders had recent success against some of their more challenging opponents in the Red Wings, Sabres and Devils over the past week but have been unable to stay on board that train to the end of January. First they lost a tough one to the New Jersey Devils, and last night they were embarrassed by Alexander Semin and the Washington Capitals.
It was a rough one to w...
The Islanders have had Joel "The Wrecker" Rechlicz sitting in the minors but have felt that he needed time to develop his game, as an enforcer, in the AHL before he could be considered as a legitimate NHL fighter.
Trevor Gillies, an AHL journeyman, has been playing with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers this season as well. Last year he played in 30 games with the Albany Riv...
Here we are with a just a few games left before the Olympic Break and the Islanders roster is in a spin-cycle. As of today, Marty Biron has been sent down to Bridgeport for a conditioning stint that will last out for the weekend, Brendan Witt may be close to a return, and Trevor Gillies previously passed through waivers and has returned to the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.
...
Every Islander fan has seen that Garth Snow is capable of making a shake-up when the time is right. Last year he moved from the bottom of the first round all the way up to the 12th overall pick to select defenseman, Calvin de Haan. The year before that he moved down from the 5th overall pick to the 9th to take Josh Bailey. And in his first year as General Manager, Garth Sn...
Hey everyone,
Today I attended the Islanders morning skate and had the opportunity to interview John Tavares, one-on-one, after their practice, courtesy of the Islanders PR staff Seth Sylvan and Kimber Auerbach.
If you would like to check it out, head over to this link:
http://thehockeywriters.com/one-on-one-with-john-tavares/
Feel free to leave comments and se...
Rob McGowan writes...
As Isles Start To Sink, Joensuu and Martin Get The Call
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Seven losses in a row, folks. That's how many consecutive games the Islanders have surrendered to their opponents in a stretch where they have only scored nine goals. Secondary scoring has always been an issue with this team, but when the top guys of Tavares, Okposo and Moulson aren't getting the job done, and Josh Bailey is on the Injured Reserve, this team will really st...
Rob McGowan writes...
Matt Martin Makes Most Of Opportunity In Isles Win
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
An Islander forward last night, making his NHL debut, had an immediate impact with each shift he took in the Islanders first win in the past 8 games. Could it have been a case of first-time nerves and adrenaline working it's magic to help the youngster provide the spark this team needs? Possibly. But what we might also be seeing is the toughness and grit this team has lack...
Rob McGowan writes...
Live Blog From Nassau Coliseum: Isles vs. Lightning
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
For anyone who is watching the Isles/Lightning matinee tilt that is at Nassau Coliseum today, I have been live blogging from the NYI Blog Box in Section 201. Head over to The Checking Line.
The direct link is as follows: http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/live-blog-nassau-coliseum-isles-vs-lightning
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
h...
The Islanders have gone 2-9-0 in their past 11 games heading into the Olympic break, lowering their spot in the standings to a disappointing 13th seed with 58 points, trailing the 8th place Montreal Canadiens by 6 points while only maintaining 3-point lead over the Carolina Hurricanes.
"It would have definitely been more enjoyable if we had a bunch of wins before the b...
I purposely did not put an "equals" sign at the end of that equation for two reasons. One - I was never good at math and definitely do not plan on solving it or using any algorithm's where I can substitute numbers to come up with an answer; Two - because the end result is yet to be determined, and although DP and KO are not part of this year's winter Olympics, I still hope...
Rick DiPietro is out indefinitely with swelling of his left knee and was unable to practice this morning at Syosset as a result.
Check out my article at The Hockey Writers to read up all about it!
http://thehockeywriters.com/rick-is-out-once-again/
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/RoMac76
In an hour the Islanders will be hosting the Boston Bruins, the seventh placed team in the East that sit seven points ahead of the orange and blue. The Isles are only six points out of the playoff race but only have 18 games remaining, including this afternoon's tilt.
Here's the long and short of it: If they play today's game the way they played the Atlanta Thrashers T...
Rob McGowan writes...
Two Points Fly By As Isles Still Have Growing Pains
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
If the Islanders were looking to make a statement, tonight was the night. If the Isles were looking to prove that they were due for a win on the road as they have lost their last seven road games in a row, tonight was the night. If the Isles really wanted to end a 14-game losing streak against the Philadelphia Flyers, tonight was the night. If the Isles wanted to win in an...
As the Isles playoff hopes became more and more of a dream rather than a reality, the team decided to do what's best for one of the most respected leaders in the game. Team Captain Doug Weight will miss the remainder of the season with surgery in his left shoulder to repair a torn labrum and torn rotator cuff. He had been battling the injuries since November.
"If Thursd...
There was a point in the season when #57 would not be seen on the ice, but over a recent stretch that extends beyond the Olympic break, Blake Comeau has been finding a way to make each of his shifts count.
He currently has 12 goals and 15 assists for 27 points, a new career high in all three categories. Those may not be top-six forward numbers, but Comeau has emerged a...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Send Gold Medalist To The Bench, Silence Media
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Put that as your headline, Vancouver.
Last night the Islanders visited the Canucks and defeated them 5-2, ending their seven game home winning streak. John Tavares exploded with a five point effort, a new career high that paved the way for the win.
The Islanders started the game with a very strong first period, coming away with a 2-0 lead on eight shots. The goals c...
Frustrating. That about sums up how the Isles and head coach Scott Gordon felt after last night's collapse to the Anaheim Ducks. Gordon was so frustrated that when MSG Network's Rob Carlin questioned him about the team's third period let downs throughout the year, he walked away without giving an answer during the live post-game show.
That can be seen as a sign of a co...
“You're not, you're not good, Al. You stink.”
That was Ty Webb referring to Al Czervik’s golf game in Caddyshack.
He might as well have been referring to the 2009-10 version of the Calgary Flames as they all but sealed there playoff fate Thursday night on the Island with a 3-2 loss to the third worst team in the league.
With only eight games remaining and ...
The 'we'll be better next year' mantra has already started on Long Island. The season has 8 games remaining on 2009-2010, and the Islanders have almost solidified themselves with either a top-3 or top-5 pick in this year's upcoming draft. Throw in to the mix that Rick DiPietro has yet to play another game, allowing many to assume that his come back year may be shut down pr...
Last night the Islanders faced off against the New York Rangers for the last time this season at Nassau Coliseum, losing 4-3 in regulation. After a strong start where the Islanders scored a power play goal early and then added to it with another tally before the end of the first twenty minutes, the Isles would come out flat in the second and fail to connect on a 5-on-3 opp...
Hockey players are some of the most athletic, flexible and well-built athletes in professional sports. Not only are they trained in strength and endurance, but they also have to have the ability to skate; a skill that is not easy to acquire. Think about it: hockey players add the skills they develop with their hands to the use of a hockey stick, and then combine speed, agi...
Many of you probably looked at the headline and said, "Uh, who?" But many Islander fans know plenty about Michael Haley and are very excited to see him dress in an Islanders uniform for the first time when they face-off against the New Jersey Devils tonight at the Prudential Center.
Haley is a pugilist at 5'11 and 198 pounds that loves to drop the gloves, sticks up for...
Head over to The Hockey Writers to see my blog about the last Islanders home game of the season with a few quotes and opinions about the direction of this young hockey team!
http://thehockeywriters.com/the-isles-have-a-bright-future-in-sight/
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Fingers were crossed and prayers to the hockey Gods were made, but it all came down to the luck of the draw - something the Islanders did not have land in their favor. The draft lottery was conducted last night and the Isles went in with the 5th worst record in the NHL. That gave them an 8.1% chance of moving up to grab the first overall pick. Instead, they ended up standi...
Check out my seasonal review for the New York Islanders at The Hockey Writers!
http://thehockeywriters.com/2010-islanders-seasonal-review/
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Yes, I am FULLY aware that the playoffs are going on right now. About every other blogger on this site is having a field day with playoff blogs - and I don't blame them. Whether or not their respective teams are in it, they are doing a great job providing their perspectives on the most exciting time of the year for the NHL.
I am still rooting for the Hawks, Kings, Coyo...
Doug Weight is the current captain of the New York Islanders, but for how long?
Weight appeared in only 36 games this year due to injuries to his shoulder that eventually forced him into shutdown mode since his ailments required surgery. In that short time-frame, he scored 1 goal and 16 assists for 17 points. Despite having a solid outing on offense the year before, th...
Have you ever had an inkling or a feeling that something is going to happen to a player? Because I am having one of those today. This really bugs me, because I consider him a friend. Eric Nystrom is in line for a huge pay day. Not only is he a useful third liner, he is a great penalty killer. You want to talk about speed, he has that to burn. So where do I think would be a...
Hey everyone, remember me? Yes, it has been almost a month since I've posted a blog. I got very busy with finals around the end of May. But I will also admit that I have been enjoying some time off to myself to relax a little after completing my first semester of Graduate school. For those interested, I got a 4.0.
It has been relatively quiet in Islander country lately...
As promised, today I interviewed Kyle Okposo over the phone to talk about the World Championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, and more! Check it out here!
http://thehockeywriters.com/one-on-one-with-kyle-okposo/
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Dwayne Roloson answered any question that lingered about who would be the Isles starter by the end of the 2009-2010 season. During last year's off-season, the Islanders signed Roly to a two-year deal to be Rick DiPietro's 1-A back-up that could handle a heavy work load if he were to injure himself for the umpteenth time. However it became clear that Rick wouldn't be ready ...
Annotated Mock NHL Draft 2010
V-3.0
1. EDMONTON OILERS TAYLOR HALL – F
*Halfway between Stamkos and Taveres as an NHL prospect *
Edmonton’s rabid fans are salivating at the ‘idea’ of getting Taylor Hall, and Steve Tamballini is not going to let them down.
Yes, the Oilers really, really need a top line center, but Hall is just too good to pass up...
If you haven't bought your tickets, now is the time...the Islanders draft party is set for this Friday at the Nassau Coliseum with the 5th overall selection solely in Garth Snow's hands. Yours truly, (as usual every year) will be unable to attend due to work obligations...but here is a brief primer of the scenario's that I think might go down on draft day.
In order...
...
Been a little more then 8 months since I last wrote a blog, and since we are just under 24 hours from the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. I have been keeping tabs on many of the mock drafts and many bloggers predictions on what the 1st round will look like. Most especially the top 10. We all know Taylor Hall and Tyler Seguin will be the 1st 2 players selected come friday night, but...
Only a few hours remain until draft and I am having difficulty containing my excitement. I didn't sleep much last night but that isn't much of a big deal. I was reading some of the blogs on here, and Eklund who is the one who updates regularly on rumors regarding FA's, UFA's, and possible trades said in his post late last night to keep a VERY close eye on garth snow and th...
Check out my post at The Hockey Writers talking about the newest addition to the New York Islanders, 2010 5th overall pick, Nino Niederreiter!
http://thehockeywriters.com/el-nino-storms-into-long-island/
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
There were 4 players that most fans felt the Islanders would end up with at the 2010 draft with the 5th overall pick. Every mock draft had the Isles taking one of either Gormley, Gundbranson, Connolly or Fowler. when Garth Snow walked up to the podium at the Staples Center on Friday night, he proved that every mock draft, every fan, (including me) and every pundit was dead...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Create Roster Space, Changes Coming July 1st?
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The Islanders have decided to not tend qualifying offers to Sean Bergenheim and Jeff Tambellini, making them set to become Unrestricted Free Agents on July 1st. Nathan Lawson, Dylan Reese, Dustin Kohn, Rob Schremp and Matt Moulson were tendered their offers, extending the Islanders rights to keep them with the big club. You can expect that they are likely to accept their o...
Breathe in...breathe out....
I have been on several Islander message boards and blogs—and there are some pretty irate, zany, wacky and down-right pissed Islander fans throughout Long Island. Trouble is—I can't quite understand why.
Okay–I know today was July 1, and I know everybody figured the Isles would do something to address the holes in the line-up, but ...
New post at The Hockey Writers discussing the rumors of Ilya Kovalchuk and a 10-year $100-million deal.
Check it out!
http://thehockeywriters.com/is-kovalchuk-island-bound/
and please, feel free to leave comments there too!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
No sports athlete is really "worth" most of the salaries they are being paid. On that front, we can agree. Not Jeter. Not Tiger. Not A-Rod. No one. That includes Kovalchuk. But I think that you are purchasing a lot more then a single player for the on-ice product for $100 million—that is if indeed, the Islanders should win the Kovalchuk sweeps.
ON THE ICE
Perhaps a ...
Check out my piece at The Checking Line discussing the Isles actions thus far in Free Agency! And if you're not already a member, sign up! It's free and there are plenty of blogs to read covering all topics around the league. Or check out the Fan Forum where you can share your thoughts as well!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/grading-isles...
So rumor has it that Ilya Kovalchuk may settle for something less then a billion dollars over 2 years. Apparently, the Flyers have shown direct interest in signing this 50 goal scorer. But with cap issues already a problem, this may be a little more difficult then it appears.
With Simon Gagne rumored to be on his way out, this will bring the Eastern Conference Champions t...
10 year deal.....12 year deal.....15 year deal.....17 year deal.
Which of these deals is related to the New York Islanders? Any and all would be the correct answer in a previous year—but not in 2010.
How many of you fans have come onto these boards and poked fun of, cried, and lamented about how pathetic our team owner—Charles Wang has become. And that lame brain...
Check out my article at The Hockey Writers with quotes from the future stars of Long Island including Nino Niederreiter, Travis Hamonic, Brock Nelson and Kirill Kabanov!
Here's the link: http://thehockeywriters.com/isles-prospects-shine-in-summer-scrimmage/
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Rob McGowan writes...
Whom Should The Isles Target? Are The Isles Finished?
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Check out my post at The Checking Line, talking about the Isles current roster and how I see them producing! Register and leave comments!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/your-2011-new-york-islanders
And also, check out my post at The Hockey Writers, taking a look at the remaining NHL Free Agents and whom I think the Isles should target!...
Check out my post at The Checking Line regarding the New York Islanders most recent trade acquisition in James Wisniewski! Please register and leave comments! It's a great site with a new fan base that could use a few Isles fans that could share their thoughts with hockey fans around the globe!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/wizzing-isles...
Check out my blog over at The Checking Line discussing Jon Sim's contract renewal with the New York Islanders! Register and leave comments!! They are ALWAYS appreciated, whether positive or negative!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-take-simple-route
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my interview with Josh Bailey over at The Hockey Writers! Please feel free to leave comments!
http://thehockeywriters.com/one-on-one-with-josh-bailey/
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my new post at The Hockey Writers discussing the teams' contract issues as many of the players on the current roster will be looking for long-term contracts after next season!
http://thehockeywriters.com/garth-snows-toughest-job-lies-ahead/
Please feel free to leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my post at The Checking Line discussing Rick DiPietro's next step in his road to recovery with the New York Islanders! Please register and leave comments!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/dipietro-shoulders-weight-next-season
Also be sure to check out the article on the front page of the New York Islanders official web-site dis...
New Jersey- The Devils made some great moves in the offseason to already improve a team that finished 2nd in the Eastern Conference last season. The Devils added Anton Volchenkov and former Sabre Henrik Tallinder. Along with those two big defenseman, the Devils also acquired Johan Hedberg, who will backup Martin Brodeur, and Jason Arnott, who is now in his second stint wit...
Rob McGowan writes...
Rob Hisey: Potential Goal Scorer Finds Way To Isles
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Check out my recent post at The Hockey Writers, taking a look at Rob Hisey and his value to the New York Islanders line-up! Leave comments!
http://thehockeywriters.com/rob-hisey-potential-goal-scorer-finds-way-to-isles/
Also check out islanders.nhl.com to see featured articles from the Blog Box that were recently written by Dee Karl, Ken Dick and myself!
-Rob McGo...
Check out my new post at The Checking Line discussing who may be the likely candidate to have a breakout season in 2010-2011! Register and leave comments, feedback is always appreciated!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/who-will-be-next-unsung-hero-isles
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
I've also start...
Check out my recent article at The Hockey Writers as Doug Weight's contract is finalized for the 2010-2011 season! Leave comments under the blog, it's always appreciated!
http://thehockeywriters.com/isles-keep-on-the-weight/
P.S. Check out my Facebook fan page for my blogs and add it to one of your pages!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rob-McGowans-Islanders-Blogs/13...
New post up over at The Hockey Writers looking for YOUR predictions as the Islanders head into the 2011 season. Will they make the playoffs? Will they get better production from their offense? What are your thoughts on Rick DiPietro continuing his come back?
http://thehockeywriters.com/nyi-2011-a-playoff-team/
Leave comments under the blog, they are always appreciate...
Check out my post at The Checking Line discussing the possibility of Nino Niederreiter making the Islanders roster out of training camp! Register and leave comments to talk about whether or not you think he should make the team!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/will-el-nino-rain-down-long-island-year
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!...
When the second round of the 2010 draft was coming to a close, I kept hearing the talking heads all comment on how Krill Kabanov, a world class talent had slipped so far out of round one, and now what appeared to be round 2. At that moment, I began thinking, here is a player who is destined to be an Islander.
My take on Krill v2.0 and the "incident"
http://hockeyinde...
There is little doubt in my mind that the two Rookie games are more or less meaningless in the grand scheme of the 2010-11 NHL season, the position the Isles will finish, or the state of the franchise as a whole. It would have been nice to win both games, see some more scoring and dominate the “baby bruins.” Though the Islander rooks managed to lose both games — last...
Check out my post at The Hockey Writers discussing who may or may not surprise Islanders fans with a chance to be part of the starting line up at the Islanders home opener on October 9th!
http://thehockeywriters.com/islanders-training-camp-roster-spots-are-open/
Leave comments in the comments section under the blog!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on twitter!
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Check out my post at The Checking Line with predictions for the Atlantic Division for the 2010-2011 season. I'm sure many of you will either see where I'm coming from or completely disagree - and I want to hear it on The Checking Line! Register and leave your comments at the end of my blog!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/atlantic-division...
El Nino to Long Island
A summer mini camp, a rookie training camp and two all-rookie games into his Islander career, Nino Neiderreiter has been signed to an entry level contract by the New York Islanders brass. Upon learning the news this afternoon, it did make sense to me for this signing to occur.
And whats with Charles Wang?
Charles Wang used today’s presser to ...
There's a new post up at the new and improved "The Checking Line" web-site! If you haven't already, you need to register and get involved on the forums and comment on the blogs of this site as it continues to head in a great direction!
Here's the link to my most recent post: http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/sending-message-kabanov
Leave ...
Rob McGowan writes...
Streit Out Of Luck, D-Man To Miss Six Months Of Action
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Check out my latest post over at The Checking Line discussing Mark Streit's injury and the affect it will have on the upcoming season for the New York Islanders!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/streit-out-luck-d-man-miss-six-months-action
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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In just under a week the Islanders went from a team feeling optimistic about their chances of making a serious run at a playoff spot, to a non playoff team and then finally what fans are starting to call a "count the days to the april draft lottery team". Top defenseman Mark Striet will be out till march at the very least with a torn rotator cuff, and a torn labrum in his ...
Check out my recent post at The Checking Line, reporting the latest news on Kyle Okposo and the recent addition of Mike Mottau to the Islanders defense!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/misery-loves-company-okposo-out-indefinitely
Also, check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers that covers injuries, training camp, and the upcoming p...
Frazier writes...
My Two Cents: Underrated Rookie of 09-10, and Rookie Preview
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
The 2009-2010 season wasn't a very good year for rookies. No star breakouts.
Being a Buffalo fan, I love Tyler Myers. And I believe he did deserve to be the rookie of the year. However, I think that someone that could really have given him a run for his money is (*Cough* Tyler Ennis *Cough*) the NY Islanders' own John Tavares.
Let me break this down into why he's an...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Grab A Waiver Pick Up And Head For Opening Night
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Check out my two most recent posts:
Here at The Checking Line I take a look at the Islanders recent pick up in Michael Grabner. This site has taken off over the past year and has really developed into a solid and entertaining hockey site. Register and become a member so you can enjoy the forum and leave comments on each blog that you read!
http://thecheckingline.com/...
Tonight the Islanders open their season at home against the Dallas Stars in what starts year 3 of the slow painful rebuild and also year 1 of the remaining 5 years on the lease at the once glorious Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. As we all know owner Charles Wang stated at the Islanders media day last month that he will no longer be silent or keep the media and fans in ...
Today I will be doing a live blog for the Islanders/Rangers game today from the press-box at Nassau Coliseum for The Checking Line!
Stop by a little before 1 PM to join in on the chatter! http://bit.ly/9JHL85
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers discussing the Isles recent loss to the Washington Capitals and Nino Niederreiter's first NHL goal!
http://thehockeywriters.com/el-nino-strikes-in-washington/
Leave comments in the comments section under the blog if you think Nino will end up remaining an Islander for the rest of the year!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line with a recap and thoughts on the Islanders OT loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins: http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-force-ot-cant-get-w
Register and leave comments in the comments section under the blog!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Like my Facebook p...
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers that takes a look at how Trevor Gillies and Zenon Konopka are doing what they do best and helping the Islanders win hockey games...leave comments under the blog in the comments section!
http://bit.ly/aAa4lF
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Tonight, the Toronto Maple Leafs will play host to the New York Islanders as they search for the fifth straight win to open the season. The Islanders are searching for their first road win of the season and hope to earn it tonight by crashing the Leafs winning party.
Tyler Bozak, who took a Phil Kessel puck to the face at practice yesterday, seems to be fine and will be...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing the latest injury to the Islanders defense. Register and leave comments under the blog!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/macdonald-out-four-six-weeks
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out my recent post at The Hockey Writers discussing John Tavares' first NHL hat trick in the Islanders loss to Florida last night. Leave comments!
http://bit.ly/cwnHL4
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing Parenteau's latest hot streak as he leads the Islanders in points!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/pa-parenteau-finds-success-isles-uniform
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-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Stop by at The Checking Line for my Isles/Habs live-blog tonight from the press box at Nassau Coliseum around 7 PM. The Isles look to take a win after being defeated in Montreal, as the two teams will conclude their home-and-home series tonight on Long Island!
Here's the link: http://thecheckingline.com/calendar/habs-isles-liveblog
Hope to see you all there!
-Rob ...
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers covering Matt Martin's first NHL goal with my take on why the Isles have hit a 3-game losing streak:
http://bit.ly/9gzWEg
Feel free to leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as I take a look at the recent four game losing streak that has the Islanders in a slump:
http://bit.ly/chvweL
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as I report about Rob Schremp's season debut tonight as they visit the Carolina Hurricanes!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/rob-schremp-returns-isles-line
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-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
This is my first blog on here so let me take a minute to introduce myself to all of you.
My name is Mike and I am a DIE HARD Islanders fan. One of the few remaining since the golden era of hockey here on Long Island.
I tried not to get caught up in all the hype to start the season with the Islanders making a miracle run to start things off. I will be the first to a...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line with a preview of tonight's grudge match between the Islanders and Flyers!
Register and leave comments!!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-will-look-revenge
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers analyzing the Islanders recent seven game losing streak as fingers are starting to point at who is to blame and what should be done:
http://bit.ly/aizxI5
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as the Isles embark on their annual West Coast road trip looking to shake off their seven game losing streak:
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-head-out-west
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-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Head over to The Hockey Writers to read my latest post discussing whether or not it is time for Garth Snow to shake things up as the Islanders losing streak has now hit eight games.
http://bit.ly/aEMWIj
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as I take a look at the Isles goaltending situation and whether or not Rick should play the last game on their current west coast road trip!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/when-does-gordon-bring-back-dp
Register and leave comments at The Checking Line!!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitt...
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers discussing Jack Capuano's recent promotion as head coach of the New York Islanders!
http://bit.ly/bZPZNH
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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New Isles post over at The Checking Line! Check it out here as I take a look at the Islanders recent struggles:
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/will-it-reach-12
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-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Rob McGowan writes...
Looking For Help From Within; Isles Call Up Joensuu
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as the Isles have called up Jesse Joensuu in search for offense as they face the Florida Panthers tonight at the Nassau Coliseum!
http://bit.ly/bTtcJa
Also be sure to stop by The Checking Line tonight as I will be contributing to the live blog George Prax will be hosting with updates from the press box at Nassau Coliseum...
Rob McGowan writes...
"We Had A Couple of Passengers Tonight." Isles Lose No. 12
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as the Islanders have now lost twelve straight games in a row and head to Atlanta, looking to avoid loss number 13.
http://bit.ly/coTzRG
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Stop by for tomorrow's Isles/Devils matinee game as I will be hosting a live blog, along with George Prax, for The Checking Line from the press-box at Nassau Coliseum! Be there for the start at 12:45!
http://thecheckingline.com/calendar/isles-vs-devils-liveblog-special-1245pm-start
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as the Islanders have loaned Josh Bailey to their AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers...
http://bit.ly/dIGra8
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Head over to The Hockey Writers for my latest post as the Islanders have ended the 14-game losing streak with a 2-0 shutout victory of the New Jersey Devils this afternoon
http://bit.ly/hQcuYW
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers that takes a look at the Islanders offensive struggles as Jack Hillen and Andrew MacDonald are close to returning to the line-up
http://bit.ly/gGoVL2
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as the Isles prepare to square off against the New York Rangers tonight at 7 PM!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/time-restore-rivalry
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-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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The Iceman writes...
Islanders Lack Offensive Attack, And Protection In Own Zone.
Posted Friday | Comments 0
With the Isles set to concluded there home and home mini series with the Rangers tonight at MSG, they are once again trying to dig themselves out of a hole that they themselves have dug. A sloppy yet gut wrenching 6-5 loss last night at the coliseum can be blamed on turnovers, countless defensive lapses, failure to clear the puck, failure to protect the puck, failure to cl...
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as the Isles have completed their home-and-home series with the New York Rangers!
http://bit.ly/eJz3u7
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line with a fun little bet between myself and Mark Trible, the Flyers blogger at TCL, after the Isles lost to their division rivals 3-2 in their Sunday matinee match-up.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/orange-and-black-years-end
Register and leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitte...
Head over to The Hockey Writers for my latest blog about the Islanders, discussing the effect the lack of a veteran presence in the current line-up can have on the development of the younger players
http://bit.ly/eriC4N
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as the Isles fell last night to the Atlanta Thrashers in a 5-4 loss, but there were some unsuspecting visitors at the Coliseum last night that made the building a rocking place to be...
http://bit.ly/dVtavP
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Stop by tonight around 7PM as I will be hosting a live blog for the Isles/Coyotes game live from the Nassau Coliseum press-box with George Prax from The Checking Line!
www.thecheckingline.com
Don't miss it!
-Rob McGowan
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers discussing the trade rumors that surrounded Dwayne Roloson as the Isles lost in the shootout to the Phoenix Coyotes
http://bit.ly/gtSp18
Leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
There is no doubt in my mind, and in the minds of all Islanders fans, that Dwayne Roloson is playing like an all-star lately. He has had to carry the team for the past few years, and has always been a great fit for this team. What might be very troubling to the fans is the fact that rumors have been surfacing of a possible trade for Rolie. In my honest opinion, trading him...
Read my latest about Josh Bailey's return to the NHL after a succesful demotion to the Bridgeport Sound Tigers at The Hockey Writers!
http://bit.ly/h0I1sS
Happy Holiday's everyone!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
The blizzard worked in the Islanders favor as they continue to snowball along after a big win against the Montreal Canadiens tonight at Nassau Coliseum...check out my post at The Hockey Writers for more!
http://bit.ly/gNM5ny
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Rob McGowan writes...
The Kids Are Alright, Isles Youngsters Aren't The Problem
Posted Monday | Comments 17
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line, taking a look at the current core of this team and how the 2011 year has been treating them statistically
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/kids-are-alright-isles-youngsters-arent-problem
Register and leave comments! Also be sure to check out Better With Popcorn (BWP) at betterwithpopcorn.com...
As New Year Day fast approaches, there are many teams and players in the NHL who would like a fresh New Years start.
I'll start out with one of the bigger stories in this NHL season, New Jerseys inability to win. The Devils have been a long time power house in the Eastern Conference, who have always achieved success by playing a strong defensive game. However this year...
Check out my latest post over at The Hockey Writers as the Islanders head into the second half of the season riding a two-game winning streak and having gone 6-3-1 in their last ten!
http://bit.ly/e73mBS
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as I take a look at Garth Snow's recent move of trading Dwayne Roloson to the Tampa Bay Lightning
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/roloson-dealt-tampa
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-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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The New York Islanders have became a little younger as Islanders GM Garth Snow sent veteran goaltender Dwayne Roloson to Tampa Bay for 22 year old D-man Ty Wishart.
This deal provides the Lightning with some goaltending stability which the club very much needs. So far Tampa Bay has gone with Mike Smith and Dan Ellis, both of whom have not been able to claim the number o...
Check out my recent post at The Hockey Writers as Kevin Poulin makes his NHL debut with Rick DiPietro sidelined with another injury
http://bit.ly/e2gq1o
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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The Islanders have extended a one-year contract for one of their defenseman and recalled a familiar face from Bridgeport. Head over to The Checking Line to read the article!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/jurcina-extended-and-colliton-recalled
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-Rob McGowan
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http://twitter.com/Isl...
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as the Kevin Poulin is giving Nathan Lawson a run for his money to remain with the team once Rick DiPietro returns to the line-up
http://bit.ly/gLhtTE
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at THW discussing John Tavares recent scoring streak
http://bit.ly/eF8wqS
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as Kyle Okposo will make his season debut tomorrow night against the Washington Capitals
http://bit.ly/eLJH3q
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Rob McGowan writes...
What Does Matt Moulson Mean To The New York Islanders?
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Check out my most recent post at The Checking Line discussing the rumors that are swirling around Matt Moulson's future with the New York Islanders
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/what-does-matt-moulson-mean-new-york-islanders
Register and leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Head over to www.thecheckingline.com tonight for my live blog as the Islanders will host the Washington Capitals in Kyle Okposo's season debut!
Don't miss it!!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as the Islanders have claimed Evgeni Nabokov off waivers for the remainder of the season!
http://bit.ly/gUu5Tb
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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I can't seem to vent enough about this and this isn't as a Red Wings fan. I think they'll be fine either way, and I'd be just as pissed as if this were the Caps, Avs or Tampa signing him only to lose to the Islanders.
The Islanders claiming Nabokov off waivers was flat-out disrespectful to the guy. Say what you want about his stats in the playoffs, but he put in 9 yea...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as Evgeni Nabokov has been suspended by the New York Islanders for not reporting to the team!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/its-official-nabokov-has-been-suspended
Also check out some other great articles with plenty of thoughts on the All-Star game:
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/matt-...
HunterRules writes...
NHL Guardian Project.. aka The Guardians of CORRUPTION
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The Islander has been put up for vote numbers of times, only to lose out by slim margins, but was the vote actually legit? It Appears the Answer was NO.
The Guardian Website suffered a slipup today and some Islander fans caught their Reveal today of the Islander Guardian, but that is where this story turns to Corruption:
[img]http://i54.tinypic.com/2he991w.jpg[/img]
...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as the Islanders have signed Matt Moulson to a three-year contract extension
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/moulson-extended-three-years
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers discussing Josh Bailey's season and what his future may have in store for him
http://thehockeywriters.com/whats-buggin-bailey/
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Let me begin this post by congratulating our very own Michael Grabner on his stellar performance this evening in Carolina. I don't think anyone is shocked by the outcome and like I have said a million times before, THE BEST IS YET TO COME!!!!
To catch up a little bit, I know I am a few days behind but the blog went live last night so I wanna address some recent headl...
The Islanders kick off the second half of the season against the Atlanta Thrashers on Tuesday night, game #50.
So what should we expect to see from this team in the remaining 33 games?
In my opinion we are going to see the Islanders improve. I think their second half record will be a nice improvement from the first half. I also feel that this second half will be a...
First off, WELCOME back Kyle Okposo. He picked up his first two goals of the season. Travis Hamonic also grabbed his first of the year and first of his career. So it was a great night for the first timers.
I will keep this short. It was a great night all around. A few minor breakdowns and 1 fluke goal. I'd say if they keep up this play and this strong effort they will p...
So after listening to all the feedback from last nights game I have thought long and hard about what I would say on here today.
I realize a little extra caution is necessary since I am the new kid on the block. So allow me to express my opinion and not use a single vulgar word in the process.......this time.
I am as big of an Islanders fan as anyone out there. I am a...
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers, taking a look at Rick DiPietro's season thus far...
http://thehockeywriters.com/?p=24101
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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The word is spreading like a wild fire, Rick DiPietro's selfish flashy play once again bites the Islanders in the butt and this time the pain will last 4-6 weeks.
I can't say I am all that unhappy, I am glad Poulin should get the nod as starter.
I have been following the blogs, tweets, and other forums and people seemed to have mixed reviews on the fight the other ...
Head over to The Checking Line as I report about Rick DiPietro's latest injury and the questions it creates for the goaltender's future for this season and the one that follows
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-between-pipes
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Head over to The Checking Line (www.thecheckingline.com) for a live blog of the Islanders/Senators match-up, as well as the Philadelphia Flyers vs. the Dallas Stars, all starting at 6:45 PM!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Head over to The Hockey Writers for my interview with Matt Moulson after the Islanders 5-3 victory over the Ottawa Senators!
http://thehockeywriters.com/?p=24164
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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First I want to apologize for the late post. We were celebrating my 30th birthday and what an ending to an awesome night.
The game was action packed from start to finish.
I was lucky enough to be sitting in section 118, so I got an up close look at Matt Martin pounding Z. Smith of Ottawa.
So during the week people were taking jabs at the Isles saying they lack hea...
Isles suffered yet another goaltender injury, with Kevin Poulin hurting himself during warmups. He will have an MRI tomorrow, and will likely miss the opportunity to play in his hometown, Montreal when the Islanders take on the Canadiens Thursday night. AHLer Mikko Koskinen was forced into the starting role, and if there were any questions about whether this kid was NHL re...
Isles suffered yet another goaltender injury, with Kevin Poulin hurting himself during warmups. He will have an MRI tomorrow, and will likely miss the opportunity to play in his hometown, Montreal when the Islanders take on the Canadiens Thursday night. AHLer Mikko Koskinen was forced into the starting role, and if there were any questions about whether this kid was NHL re...
Head over to The Checking Line for my latest post as the Islanders have acquired Al Montoya from the Phoenix Coyotes in the absence of Rick DiPietro and Kevin Poulin
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/ring-around-goalie
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Head over to The Checking Line tonight for my live blog from the Coliseum press box as the Islanders and Penguins go head-to-head at 7 PM!
www.thecheckingline.com
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
What a 2 days it has been. I didn't blog about last nights game because my goal wasn't to do a blog after each and every game breaking down the periods. I wanna write about what is happening with this team.
I have said a million times we are building a winner. I have been laughed at, made fun of and insulted. I have tried explaining to people the transition that the tea...
4 video live right now
http://nyi247.blogspot.com/
NYI247 writes...
New Picture of Max Talbot after last nights game posted
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
http://nyi247.blogspot.com/
first pic on right. Check it out, Oh an I added the Pens fans right below it
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line with a full recap of all that transpired in last night's grudge match between the Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Islanders
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/pummeling-penguins-isles-win-9-3-fight-filled-match
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out the new post. The Pens, their owners and their fans are such little babies and I have fun with that
http://nyi247.blogspot.com/2011/02/21310-pre-game-post.html
I am not a fan of brawls. Never have been. They are the ultimate way for a lesser team to equalize themselves with a better team.
But why all the blame on the Islanders? Are they not just another team that has had to compete in a league that is so uncoodinated with discipline and suspensions that it encourages teams to handle things themselves?
After all, the...
This guy has some nerve coming out and BASHING the league and the Islanders for what took place Friday night.
Learning starts at home, and this idiot signs a weekly paycheck to probably the dirtiest player in the NHL.
I don't like what Gillies did. I will say that first. It was careless and tasteless. Had he taken a shot like that at Cooke I would be singing a diff...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing Mario Lemieux's stance on Friday night's game between the Pens and Isles, including Zenon Konopka's reaction
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/lemieux-laces-isles
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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What an ending!!!!
I am ALMOST at a loss for words right now. 2 months ago this would have been another loss however this new and improved version of the Islanders continues to shock and awe people.
Michael "The Rocket" Grabner scored AGAIN and Josh Bailey notched his first goal in 20+ games.
This team continues to amaze me. I can't say I am all that surprised how...
What an ending!!!!
I am ALMOST at a loss for words right now. 2 months ago this would have been another loss however this new and improved version of the Islanders continues to shock and awe people.
Michael "The Rocket" Grabner scored AGAIN and Josh Bailey notched his first goal in 20+ games.
This team continues to amaze me. I can't say I am all that surprised how...
Check out my latest blog at The Checking Line as P.A. Parenteau has been extended by the New York Islanders beyond this season
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/parenteau-pay-off
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Before I launch into my game analysis I just wanna thank everyone who took the time to introduce themselves to me at the game tonight. I also want to say what a pleasure it was to meet the one and only Dee Karl. I also had the honor of meeting Dani, the NY Islanders social media manager. A true professional. Oh and I got to meet Stan Fischler. I even took a picture with hi...
You know how every single time something that you are doing is coming to an end you reflect back and imagine a million ways you could have made it better? Well the 2010-2011 season is coming to a close and looking back at all the ups and downs of the season so far, I have made a top 10 list of things I wish would happen in the 2011-2012 season.
List is subject to chang...
Over the past few days we have continued to see the Islanders keep their hot pace going. They are slowly creeping up the standings at a pace of 2 points a night. Right now the main focus is on the Devils but keep watching the Islanders, as they have one of the best records in the second half so far.
I was fortunate enough to secure my $20 tickets early however I was on...
Head over to www.thecheckingline.com tonight for a live blog from the Nassau Coliseum press box as the New York Islanders host the Washington Capitals tonight at 7 PM!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Well Long Island wasn't a happy place to be tonight.
I was totally amped up to attend tonights game after the amazing ending to the Philly game on Thursday. I thought for sure the team would come out on fire against the caps who got tossed around by the Rangers last night 6-0.
On Thursday they didn't play their best hockey of the season but their heart and determinat...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line covering what did and did not happen for the Islanders before today's trade deadline
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/quiet-day-garth-snows-office
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Some people seem to think that something good always comes away from something bad.
Well that just may be what happened to the Islanders after Tuesdays tough loss in the winding down seconds of the third period and ultimately finalized in OT.
Holding a 1-0 lead with just a few seconds remaining to the game they gave up the tying goal and later in OT Ovechkin sealed t...
Rob McGowan writes...
Trevor's In Trouble: Gillies Faces Another Likely Suspension
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Head over to my article at The Checking Line to read more!
http://bit.ly/gSK7Cy
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Come stop by at www.thecheckingline.com for a live blog from the Nassau Coliseum press-box as I will be covering the Islanders matinee against the visiting St. Louis Blues!
Join in at any time during the game to talk about what's happening on the ice or anything that's going on in the hockey world!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
New post over at The Checking Line covering the Islanders 5-2 win over the St. Louis Blues this afternoon at the Nassau Coliseum
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-defenders-tune-out-blues-5-2-win
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Well another phenomenal weekend in the Islanders world has come and gone.
On Saturday we were witness to the destruction of another west coast team, the St. Louis Blues.
The game started with a highlight reel goal by John Tavares (1G, 1A-2 Points) breaking his 9 game goal slump. Mark my words, that will be a top 10 finalist when they vote for the best goals of the se...
http://nyi247.blogspot.com/ GOTTA SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing the possibilities and consequences of Garth Snow's ability to sign Devils forward Zach Parise to an offer sheet this summer.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/will-garth-snow-sign-zach-parise-offer-sheet
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line covering the Isles/Bruins game last night where the Islanders came back for a 4-2 win
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-come-back-and-defeat-bruins-4-2
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
As the season comes to a close and the Islanders off season quickly approaches, the issue of the new arena will once again become a talking point. I decided to take a little road trip over to Jersey and check out the new arena.
In my life I have been fortunate enough to visit several Baseball stadiums across the U.S. . In my travels I made it a point to visit Wrigley F...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing the possibilities on whether or not Jack Capuano will return as head coach for the New York Islanders next season
http://bit.ly/eo6AN9
Also keep a look out at The Checking Line (www.thecheckingline.com) for a contest that will be starting tomorrow if you follow our twitter and facebook pages! Prizes will be re...
http://nyi247.blogspot.com/
The Buffalo Sabres were in the midst of one of their most successful seasons in franchise history, and were looking to tie a historical achievement on this night at HSBC arena.
The Sabres jumped out to an early lead on a goal by Derek Roy at 2:14, which was followed by a score for the Islanders by Jason Blake to tie it at one.Thomas Vanek, two goals by Chris Drury and one...
Rob McGowan writes...
Islanders Agree To Terms With Prospect Aaron Ness
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Check out my latest article at The Checking Line as the Islanders have agreed to terms on a contract with 2008 2nd round pick, Aaron Ness
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/islanders-agree-terms-prospect-aaron-ness
Also be sure to check out the facebook and twitter contest that is going at The Checking Line! Prizes are available!
http:/...
Head over to The Checking Line for my latest piece as Rick DiPietro will likely be starting one of the next two games for the New York Islanders
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/dipietro-ready-return-line
-Rob McGowan
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Check out my blog http://nyi247.blogspot.com/
I spoke with Stu Siegel today, former Long Islander and current owner of the Florida Panthers.
Stu set the bar for NHL owners by donating $10,000 to the Japan relief fund.
follow him on twitter @StuSiegel . Tell him you heard about his donation and send him some love.
I hope my NY Islanders step up.
Lets see w...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as DiPietro made his return to action as the Islanders downed the Panthers 4-3 in the shootout!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-tame-panthers-shootout-win
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Hey guys...I'm looking to help promote The Checking Line, as well as the Islanders blogs that I post there. I am the head Islanders blogger for the site and have a facebook page where I post links to all of my blogs. Be sure to click the link and "like" it so you can keep up throughout the year!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rob-McGowans-Islanders-Blogs/137174856326185
...
After the Islanders played the Penguins a couple of months back in what is now labeled the fight night on Long Island, I wrote a blog about the game, the outcome (suspensions), and Mario's feedback afterwards.
While I am not a big time journalist or even a well known blogger I still feel that I have a responsibility to my readers to be fair when it is called for.
A...
New post over at The Checking Line that takes a look at Frans Nielsen's season with the New York Islanders that may warrant consideration for the trophy that is awarded to the best defensive forward of the year.
http://t.co/NwesXnd
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Head over to The Checking Line for my latest post discussing Zenon Konopka's impact on this team and why he should be resigned for next season
http://bit.ly/fF1hJl
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my blog http://nyi247.blogspot.com/
Follow me on Twitter @nyi247
I have been discussing Zenon Konopka's role on the Islanders for a pretty long time now and as the season wraps up there are more and more people discussing his future on Long Island.
There is no denying what he has brought to this team over the past season and how big of an impact he has h...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as the Islanders lost a hard fought battle last night to the Philadelphia Flyers
http://bit.ly/ekBdp8
Also, The Checking Line is working on putting together a team of Isles writers. So far, I am the only Islanders blogger on the site so I am looking to see if anyone else would consider joining our team. Send me a messag...
check out my blog http://nyi247.blogspot.com/
Now that the Islanders are officially out of the playoff race it is time to start looking towards next season and see what improvements need to be made to become a contender next year.
First let me say, I think this season was a huge success. Sounds crazy, I'll explain. As last season concluded, myself and many other fans...
Head over to The Checking Line to see all about the news as Al Montoya will be kept in an Islanders uniform through the 2011-2012 season!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/al-montoya-extended-one-year-contract
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Head over to The Checking Line for my latest post that takes a look at prospect Matt Donovan and his first professional contract wit the Islanders
http://bit.ly/fW9rhd
Don't forget to check back tonight at TCL for Daniel Friedman's post-game blog of the Isles Devils game and definitely stop back tomorrow night for a LIVE BLOG for the Islanders/Rangers game, coming to...
Head over to The Checking Line at 7 PM for a live blog of the Islanders/Rangers game at 7 PM coming to you from the Nassau Coliseum press-box!
http://t.co/L1ynuyS
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Head over to The Checking Line for my latest post, taking a look at the Islanders defense and it's depth that has helped the team through it's injury struggles throughout the season.
http://bit.ly/dHnJGk
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Rob McGowan writes...
Could Haley Be Next Year's Konopka For The Islanders?
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Head over to The Checking Line (and register and leave comments for your thoughts on the matter) for my take on whether or not Micheal Haley will have Zenon Konopka's job next season.
http://bit.ly/huL2qg
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my interview with top Islanders prospect, Nino Niederreiter at The Checking Line!
http://bit.ly/gT1Uun
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my interview with top Islanders prospect, Nino Niederreiter at The Checking Line!
http://bit.ly/gT1Uun
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
The Islanders and Penguins had their final meet of the season that ended in a 4-3 SO loss for the home team. Rob McGowan reports.
http://bit.ly/gclFJ2
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
The Islanders season has sadly come to an end, but there are plenty of reasons for optimism heading into next season...and concerns as well.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-2011-end-year-review
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Garth Snow will have his hands full when it comes to retaining the core of his team as there are several RFA's heading into this summer's off-season
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-rfas-who-will-stay
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line that takes a look at Sean Bergenheim's recent success and how Josh Bailey's future should be considered when comparing him to the former Islander.
http://bit.ly/iGWFFs
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Rob McGowan writes...
Have The Islanders Finally Gotten Their New Arena?
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The Islanders are holding a press-conference tomorrow with Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano about a plan to renovate the Nassau Coliseum. Head over to The Checking Line to read my take on the news that is at hand
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/have-islanders-finally-gotten-their-new-arena
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http:/...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Fans Will Vote To Decide Fate Of Arena Proposal
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Read my latest post at The Checking Line covering the press conference today from Nassau Coliseum as Islanders fans have been given the opportunity to decide the fate on the new arena proposal
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-fans-will-vote-decide-fate-arena-proposal
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Rob McGowan writes...
Right Now Commitment Is Key For The New York Islanders
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Check out my latest post discussing which RFA the Islanders should look to sign next as well as a recent run-in with an ex-Islanders defenseman.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/right-now-commitment-key-new-york-islanders
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Evgeni Nabokov's agent has stated that his client will be reporting to Islanders training camp in September. Head over to my post at The Checking Line to read more...
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/will-evgeni-be-ready
Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Rob McGowan writes...
Islanders Fans Urged To Rally at Tomorrow's Hearing
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Tomorrow the Nassau County Legislative hearing will be held to determine if the arena proposal will be turned to a public referendum on August 1st. Read on more at my post at The Checking Line to learn more
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/islanders-fans-urged-rally-tomorrows-hearing
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter....
Read my latest post at The Checking Line discussing the busy week that just passed for the New York Islanders and what might be the next move made by Isles GM Garth Snow
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/islanders-are-making-noise-early-off-season
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
It makes you cringe, as a Rangers fan, just a tiny bit.
It is not even June and the next door Islanders have already made a splash on the restricted free agent market, re-signing core young guns Michael Grabner and Kyle Okposo to five year deals. It is even worse when you see that the Islanders - yes those Islanders with the worn down stadium and the uncertain future in...
The Islanders are just weeks away from selecting another top prospect with the fifth overall pick at this year's NHL Draft. Whom might Garth Snow choose? Head over to The Checking Line to find out!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-look-another-big-draft-day
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out this interview at The Checking Line with New York Islanders forward Blake Comeau, as we discuss playoff hockey, the arena proposal and his off-season plans!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/one-one-blake-comeau
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
The Iceman writes...
Pre-draft Trades. Will Isles Make Huge Noise 10 Years Later?
Posted Friday | Comments 0
We are just 15 hours away from the 1st round of the 2011 NHL Entry draft. Already some major moves have been made by the Philadelphia Flyers. Moves that quite frankly shocked myself, and the rest of the hockey world on the eve of the draft. The flyers first traded Jeff Carter to the Columbus Blue Jackets for the 8th overall pick, Jakub Voracek, and a 3rd round pick. Carter...
Check out my coverage of this year's Islanders activity at the NHL Entry Draft with a look at 5th overall pick Ryan Strome and more!
http://t.co/T1muBIv
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Read the latest at The Checking Line with updates from Micheal Haley, Travis Hamonic and Matt Moulson as to their thoughts on Ryan Strome and what they have planned for the summer!
http://t.co/B1X18Ae
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
P.S. I apologize for the multiple posts of the Strome article, my browser was not working properly.
While the[b] Islanders[/b] made a move. They traded for the [b]rights to Christain Ehrhoff's contract[/b]. Ehrhoff is fresh off of a run to the Stanley Cup Finals with the Vancouver Canucks and the 28 year old Defenseman will be an[b] UFA[/b] on the First of July. The Isles received these rights after giving up their [b]fourth round pick[/b] in the [b]2012[/b] draft to ...
2011 Devils Draft/ Free Agents Possibilities
RESTRICTED
Parise
Vasyunov
Zharkov
Corrente
Salmela
Taormina
Fraser
UNRESTRICTED
Greene
Hedberg
Mair
Mills
POSSIBLE DRAFT CANIDATES FOR FIRST ROUND
Jonathan Huberdeau C QMJHL
Dougie Hamilton D OHL
Sean Couturier C/LW N/A
**Edmonton will pick Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
The Devils First Pick was D...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Get Reasonable, Sign Marty Reasoner to Two Year Deal
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Check out my take on the Reasoner signing for the Isles this afternoon as free agency continues at The Checking Line
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/%5Bfield_full_story_ref-title-raw%5D/isles-get-reasonable-sign-marty-reasoner-two-year-
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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psycomkl writes...
New York Islanders = NHL Laughingstock? Only to fans...
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Everyone has heard the jokes about the Islanders, their General Manager, their Owner, the players, building, and so on. The people cracking these jokes are on message boards, in bars, blogs, etc. They are the fans of the NHL, both of the Isles themselves and of other teams. The people not cracking jokes? The coaches and players of other NHL franchises.
"But, if that...
Will it be Mark Streit? Kyle Okposo? John Tavares? Or could it possibly be some else? Head over to my post at The Checking Line for a look at who might be next to captain the New York Islanders.
http://t.co/J8juNlB
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out what's new at The Checking Line to read about the Islanders prospect scrimmage which included Kirill Kabanov, Nino Niederreiter and Ryan Strome's highlight reel breakaway goal
http://thecheckingline.com/node/4353
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing the New York Islanders rally that will soon be held to encourage people to vote yes in favor on August 1st to build a new Nassau Coliseum!
http://t.co/7BFHgix
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Hi All! Hope all of you on the East Coast are enjoying this brutally hot stretch of weather! As I sit here and observe the temperature outside rising to over 100 degrees, I figured this would be a perfect time to try to predict the final standings in the Atlantic Division.
Now granted, it is VERY early and there are certainly still roster decisions to be made by each ...
Read my latest at The Checking Line as I take a look at the Trent Hunter/Brian Rolston trade with the New Jersey Devils
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/islanders-acquire-brian-rolston-devils
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Read my latest post at The Checking Line as I put aside the political hogwash that takes up most of the talks in regards to the Islanders arena as I share my reasons for voting yes on August 1st.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/were-all-islanders-reasons-voting-yes
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
The August 1st referendum failed, Blake Comeau has been re-signed, the realm of uncertainty looms about the aging Coliseum and a third jersey has been leaked on the Internet. Read my latest piece at The Checking Line as I report what has been happening on the Island.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-fans-ask-whats-next
-Rob McGowan...
The Islanders have made some adjustments to their forward lines but have been quiet when it comes to shaking up the defense. Could Garth Snow make a few changes before the start of the season? Rob McGowan reports at The Checking Line.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/look-defense-island
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitt...
Today Brian Rolston and I discussed his anticipated role with the New York Islanders for the upcoming season, his past experiences with the New Jersey Devils and his thoughts on the possible changes to the game that the NHL is currently considering.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/one-one-brian-rolston
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitt...
We all know that an earthquake in Virginia was felt throughout Long Island yesterday, but the question on most minds of Islanders fans is if Nino Niederreiter will be cracking the line-up this season.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/will-el-nino-strike-island
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as former New Jersey Devils forward Jay Pandolfo will be attending the Islanders training camp on a tryout basis.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/jay-pandolfo-gets-try-out-islanders
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Josh Bailey is the last impending RFA for the New York Islanders that still is without a contract for next season. Will he be reporting to training camp? Or will he be without a job in 2012? Check out my report at The Checking Line.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/baileys-clock-ticking
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Rob McGowan writes...
Tavares Nets Six Year Contract Extension With Isles
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The New York Islanders have locked up number one center, John Tavares to a six-year contract extension that will keep him with the organization through the 2017-2018 season. Rob McGowan reports.
Head over to The Checking Line to read more!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/tavares-nets-six-year-contract-extension-isles
-Rob McGowan
...
The 2012 season is just around the corner as the Islanders prepare to embark on the year that will hopefully be different than the previous three of the rebuild. Check out my post at The Checking Line that provides an insightful look at the upcoming season.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/and-islanders-will-finish
The 2012 season is just around the corner as the Islanders prepare to embark on the year that will hopefully be different than the previous three of the rebuild. Check out my post at The Checking Line that provides an insightful look at the upcoming season.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/and-islanders-will-finish
-Rob McGowan
Follow...
To Whom It May Concern,
This is a forewarning to all GMs, owners, and fans who enter the perils of "Player Holdouts". Prepare yourself for a giant letdown. History dictates the player will always win. Not the team or it's fans, the player and his agent always win.
Why does this hold true?
The player has the least to lose. He may not have a salary ...
Yesterday the Islanders announced the new captain of the team, but there was also something else to report: a new proposal for the Nassau Coliseum. Head over to The Checking Line to read more:
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-files-new-captain-new-arena-proposal
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as the Islanders have made a few decisions regarding the roster as training camp and pre-season are quickly coming to a close
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-files-inching-closer-season
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
The New York Islanders have signed Jay Pandolfo and Ryan Strome just in time before the start of the 2011-2012 season. Rob McGowan takes a look at the contracts and what they could mean for the rest of the roster.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/strome-and-pandolfo-earn-contracts-islanders
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://...
Can't make it to the game? Be sure to head over to The Checking Line for a live blog coming to you straight from the Nassau Coliseum press-box at 8 PM, covering the Islanders home opener against the Florida Panthers!
Both Panthers and Islanders fans are welcome, as well as all fans from any team!
www.thecheckingline.com
I will also be on Blog Talk Radio tonight fo...
The Islanders fell short in a disappointing 2-0 loss for their home opener against the Florida Panthers. Rob McGowan reports.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-fall-home-opener-vs-panthers
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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The Islanders managed to pull out a win against the Minnesota Wild on Monday but have struggled to get pucks to the net. Rob McGowan takes an in depth look at the Isles offensive struggles.
http://thecheckingline.com/node/4745
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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The Islanders top line has started to click with Moulson, Tavares and Parenteau finding the back of the net. But will the rest of the team be able to keep up? Head to The Checking Line for a look at the team's offensive depth.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/where-isles-second-act
-Rob McGowan
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Hey everyone...if you like reading my work at TCL, make sure you like the new official page on Facebook! "The Checking Line - Isles Edition"!
Here is the link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Checking-Line-Isles-Edition/189290674480375
Liking the page will bring my work as well as Brian Bock's, Evan Pivnick's and John Madonia's right to your news feed with all your...
P.A. Parenteau has been impressive so far on the season, but what will happen to his spot on the top line when Nino Niederreiter rejoins the Islanders line-up? Rob McGowan takes a look at what might unfold as the season rolls along.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/pa-perfect
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/Isle...
The Islanders have fallen to .500 after losing two straight in Florida. Is it time for head coach Jack Capuano to shuffle up the lines? Rob McGowan takes a look at the Islanders' play over the past six games.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/are-isles-better-500
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Curious as to what is new with top Islanders prospect, Ryan Strome? Well there is plenty, and you can find it all out in my interview at The Checking Line!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/one-one-ryan-strome
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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The Iceman writes...
Could the rebuild be failing? Was the 08 draft good overall?
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
When I look at teams who have gone through the task of tearing it all down and going into the 3-5 year rebuilding program there should be noticeable strides by year 3 and 4. When teams go through the 3 year plan they usually have acquired numerous picks, prospects and other pieces along the way and are usually a top 5 pick or two from being ready to play into late april an...
The Islanders played a full 60-minute hockey game last night but lost in overtime due to a questionable call on Travis Hamonic. Rob McGowan provides the post-game report at The Checking Line.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/islanders-get-hammered-sharks
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Rob McGowan writes...
Nino Niederreiter and Trevor Gillies Assigned to AHL
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Read my latest at The Checking Line to see the latest transactions made by the New York Islanders
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/nino-niederreiter-and-trevor-gillies-assigned-ahl
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
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Be sure to "like" The Checking Line's official Islanders Facebook page to keep track all ...
After a tumultuous start to his New York Islanders career Nabokov showed up to training camp this year and have proved that he is still capable of being a strong NHL goaltender.
Couple that with the emergence last season of Al Montoya and the forever under contract Rick DiPietro and the Islanders have three goaltenders that could be the team’s starter.
If the Islan...
Brian Rolston said he would play better if used on the top two lines; in his first game on the second unit, Rolston scored his first goal of the season and played on the most succesful line against the Washington Capitals last night. Rob McGowan reports.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/time-brian-rolston-revival
Like TCL's Islanders Fac...
Rob McGowan takes a look at the current goalie rotation that is currently plaguing the Isles ability to win hockey games.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/montoya-minutes-al-needs-play
Follow us on twitter @TCLIsles (twitter.com/TCLIsles) and like our Facebook page with all of our Islanders blogs and more!
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Blake Comeau was the subject of several trade rumors for the Islanders this summer and has been struggling offensively this season. With certain prospects pushing for roster spots, will Blake Comeau make it to the end of the year as a New York Islander? Rob McGowan reports.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/comeau-gonna-go
Want a chance t...
Rob McGowan reports the latest Isles news at The Checking Line as Nino Niederreiter has been recalled from his conditioning stint with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/el-nino-way
Be sure to read Brian Bock's post-game report for last night's game against the Vancouver Canucks as well!
http://thecheckinglin...
Evgeni Nabokov appeared to be on the trading block before suffering a groin injury Thursday night that put him on the Injured Reserve. Rob McGowan explains how this may actually increase his value later on in the season.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/nabokovs-injury-may-increase-his-value
I will also be appearing on Hockey This Week ...
Rob McGowan writes...
Their Worst Game Of The Season, Isles Lose 6-0 To The Bruins
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Rob McGowan provides the post-game report at The Checking Line as the Islanders were victimized in an effortless 6-0 loss to the defending Stanley Cup champs, the Boston Bruins.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/their-worst-game-season-isles-lose-6-0-bruins
-Rob McGowan
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Rob McGowan takes a look at the current state of the New York Islanders as well as providing some suggestions as to what needs to be done for both the long and short term benefits of this hockey team.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/where-have-isles-gone
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.faceboo...
Rob McGowan writes...
Still Without Power On The Island; Isles Lose 1-0 To Devils
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Rob McGowan brings you the post-game report at The Checking Line as the Islanders have been shutout for the sixth time this season
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/still-without-power-island-isles-lose-1-0-devils
-Rob McGowan
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Rob McGowan shares his latest on the current situation surrounding Nino Niederreiter and why he might not have been playing the past few games.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/where-world-nino-niederreiter
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
Rob McGowan shares his latest at The Checking Line, discussing the recent play of rookie forward, David Ullstrom since his call up to the New York Islanders.
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/ullstrom-making-most-opportunity-isles
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.facebook.com/TCLIsles
The Chicago Blackhawks will look to rebound tonight from their previous 4-1 trouncing by the defensive-minded Phoenix Coyotes when they get ready to face the struggling New York Islanders at the United Center. This will be the first meeting between the two teams this season.
Corey Crawford, who is expected to get the start tonight, has somewhat unfortunate statistics i...
Al Montoya has been playing excellent lately, making himself the team's number one goaltender. But with Rick DiPietro's contract keeping him here for many more years to come, how long will Montoya's run last?
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/have-isles-become-montoyas-team
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLI...
We have some big news to deliver to our readers at The Checking Line. Make sure to read this letter as you won't want to miss what is in store for you!
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/letter-our-readers
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.facebook.com/TCLIsles
Matt Moulson has been named the NHL's First Star of the Week. Rob McGowan reports for The Checking Line: Islanders Edition with that and more!
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/moulson-seeing-stars
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com
www.facebook.com/TCLIsl...
Rob McGowan writes...
Drawing The Line: Isles Will Move To "Conference D" Next Sea
Posted Tuesday | Comments 1
The NHL Board of Governors voted in favor of a very dramatic change to the set up of the NHL's Conferences for next season. Rob McGowan reports for The Checking Line on how this may effect the New York Islanders and the rest of the league.
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/drawing-line-isles-will-move-conference-d-next-season
-R...
Rob McGowan writes...
Drawing The Line: Isles Will Move To "Conference D"
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Rob McGowan takes a look at where the New York Islanders will fall into the new Conference changes as well as what it might mean for the team and the rest of the league.
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/drawing-line-isles-will-move-conference-d-next-season
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
...
By Ian Cunningham
[email protected]
A 5-1 drubbing at the hands of the league’s lowest scoring team, the New York Islanders, has left the Lightning coaching staff shaking their heads in disbelief. Is this the same team that stymied opponents routinely down the stretch and in the post-season last year? While the personnel have not turned over to any great d...
Rob McGowan writes...
Hit On Nino Warrants Suspsension For Stars Defenseman
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Islanders won a hard fought 5-4 victory over the Dallas Stars on Saturday night, and it can be termed hard fought for many reasons; the Isles saw a three-goal lead get washed away to a tie in the second period; Rick DiPietro pulled his groin, forcing Al Montoya to start the third period; the Stars kept coming back on the score board; and last but not least, Nino Nieder...
Rob McGowan writes...
Hit On Nino Warrants Suspension For Stars Defenseman
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Islanders won a hard fought 5-4 victory over the Dallas Stars on Saturday night, and it can be termed hard fought for many reasons; the Isles saw a three-goal lead get washed away to a tie in the second period; Rick DiPietro pulled his groin, forcing Al Montoya to start the third period; the Stars kept coming back on the score board; and last but not least, Nino Nieder...
Last night was one of the few games of late this season when Blackhawks' team captain Jonathan Toews was not responsible for carrying his team on his shoulder in an effort to come away with two points.
Patrick Sharp and Marian Hossa both had a goal and 2 assists a piece en route to a 3-2 overtime win for Chicago over the New York Islanders at the Nassau Coliseum.
Ray...
The Islanders, who are boasting the worst offense in the league with only a dismal 59 goals for (the second worst team is the L.A. Kings with 63), were heavily criticized for one specific thing over the past three months; not scoring enough goals. (Shocking, right?)
After being shutout several times this year, the Isles were becoming a one-trick pony; if the line of Mou...
Hello all,
Most of you have known me on here for quite some time as one of the Islanders bloggers on the site, via My Hockeybuzz. I have very much enjoyed my time posting here, getting to know some of you and exchanging thoughts about the New York Islanders, whatever the topic might be.
However, most of my posts will not be showing up on the main page anymore as I a...
Brian Rolston, Jay Pandolfo, Marty Reasoner and Steve Staios were added to this Islanders team during the off-season to provide veteran stability throughout the line-up; Rolston was acquired for cap room and an added offensive punch over Trent Hunter, Pandolfo and Reasoner were brought in for defensive support on the bottom line, and Staios added grit and experience to a r...
The Islanders announced on their home page yesterday that goaltender Evgeni Nabokov was close to making his return to the Islanders line-up.
Per the Isles official web-site:
“Nabby is close,” Islanders Head Coach Jack Capuano said after practice at Iceworks. “He’s been practicing. Yesterday and today, he had good days.”
Read more at The Checking Line - I...
So been bored and decided to browse what some of the recently built arena's cost to be built and what they would cost to build now. As we all know the arena referendum would've given the isles $350 million to build a new arena. And that raises a question. Why that much cash for a arena? Now I was all for the referendum as any die hard would've been, but looking back did we...
Rob McGowan reports on the recent accusation against former Islanders GM Mike Milbury; assault and battery on a twelve-year old child
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/former-isles-gm-mike-milbury-accused-assault
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.facebook.com/TCLIsles
Rob McGowan provides a quick look at how some of the Isles top prospects have been performing so far this season
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-prospect-check-12192011
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.facebook.com/TCLIsles
Read my latest at The Checking Line (Isles Edition) where I take a look at the recent injuries to the Islanders and explain what it might mean for the team as the season moves along.
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-injuries-starting-mount
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.facebook...
My latest post at TCL - Isles Edition takes a look at the play of P.A. Parenteau and how he has been one of the best Islanders skaters so far this season
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/pa-parenteau-isles-unsung-hero
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.facebook.com/TCLIsles
Here is an update on the Islanders top prospect, Ryan Strome as he continues his strong play for Team Canada in this year's World Junior's Tournament
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/strome-looks-home-world-juniors
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.facebook.com/TCLIsles
[img]http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6593768465_4fc6277974_b.jpg[/img]
Christmas time
Let me start by saying Merry Christmas / Happy Holidays to you all. I had a great Christmas and spent time visiting relatives all over Ontario, and stuffing my face. The best gift aside from the time with everyone? Box seats, center ice, for the Calgary versus Ottawa game! Now th...
The Isles would go on to win 4-1 over the Edmonton Oilers on Ken Morrow night. The Checking Line - Isles Edition provides you with the post-game coverage.
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-strike-oil-4-1-win-over-edmonton
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
www.facebook.com/TCLIsles
Rick DiPietro was sent home for medical evaluations, despite already being on the Injured Reserve, before the Islanders began their road trip last night in Carolina. Click the link below to read more at The Checking Line - Isles Edition.
http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/dipietro-salt-open-wound
-Rob McGowan
http://twitter.com/...
Dear New York Islanders Players, Organization and Fans-
First, I want to congratulate you on your victory against the Detroit Red Wings last night. A 5-1 score is very respectable against any team in today’s NHL. Also, it’s a great feeling to garner a solid victory at home after a disappointing road trip. Your goaltender seems to have shaken the cobwebs away. Yo...
After readings the comments to my last post, it’s now clear to me that the impression I intended to make was not translated to those who read it. It was never my intention to “bash” the New York Islanders. I was actually “bashing” the Detroit Red Wings. I did not wish to insinuate that, had they played with the intensity they normally do, the Red Wings would h...
Buffalo surprised their fans last night with a dramatic comeback on the Isle to walk away with 2 points. Over the last 4 games, Buffalo has 7 of a possible 8 points. Things are looking up, but a real test comes up on Wednesday against the Bruins.
Buffalo was in an early hole, due to sloppy defensive play, which, continued all night long. As Garth said, “Miller made 3...
Something is happening this year with the St. Louis Blues. Something is different. Things are changing. A 5-1 victory, in years past, would call for a parade down market. Nothing but good feelings. No matter how the team would have played the score would have dominated the coverage, the reaction from the fans, even the players and how they talk about the game. This y...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Beat Islanders: Worth Much More than Two Points
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
It’s tough to measure the impact that one win can have on an NHL franchise. Still, last night’s Lightning win against the New York Islanders should be counted as a big one. It’s not a big one because it keeps the Bolts mathematically alive in the Eastern Conference playoff race; it’s a big one because it showed heart and resiliency from a group that could have ea...
What would Calgary want? A first round draft pick would be the obvious starting point, what else that would be added to any potential trade would be totally up in the air. So in assuming that the Flames asking price is starting with a first, anything less would be not worth moving him, who’s first is most attractive? Obviously Edmonton’s but there is no way on both sid...
There is a #91 Tavares Jersey that is framed and hung on Eric Murphy's office wall on the set of HBO's "Entourage." It's ironic, considering the show had it's final season on HBO last year and the Islanders might not be far behind.
In August 2011, a referendum which would have allowed the Islanders to borrow up to $400 million to modernize the Nassau Coliseum failed in...
[b]For everything hockey - 24/7 news updates, scores, humour, blogs, and everything else in between, please follow me on twitter at https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind.[/b]
LINK TO PART ONE: [url]http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=13838&user_id=131735[/url]
Today is day two of a six-day series that will look at the job done by the 30 GM’s around the league. Fr...
To me, hockey is my escape. I am underemployed, I am struggling to put myself back through college, I have lost most of the luxuries I once enjoyed but I still had hockey.
Hockey to me is pure.
Imagine an office where 99% of the employees loved their jobs and gave it 100% everyday.
Imagine making hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars doing the job that you...
To me, hockey is my escape. I am underemployed, I am struggling to put myself back through college, I have lost most of the luxuries I once enjoyed but I still had hockey.
Hockey to me is pure.
Imagine an office where 99% of the employees loved their jobs and gave it 100% everyday.
Imagine making hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars doing the job that you...
To me, hockey is my escape. I am underemployed, I am struggling to put myself back through college, I have lost most of the luxuries I once enjoyed but I still had hockey.
Hockey to me is pure.
Imagine an office where 99% of the employees loved their jobs and gave it 100% everyday.
Imagine making hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars doing the job that you...
As a follow-up on my recent predictions of the Northeast division, I'll be weighing in today with my thoughts on possibly the best division in hockey. The Atlantic Division contained 4 playoff teams last year, or the number produced by the Southeast and Northeast divisions combined. The fact that the Eastern final was between two Atlantic teams, and didn't feature perenia...
[i]Since I plan on watching every Sound Tigers game I can, even after the lockout (hopefully) ends this season, I thought I’d write about the games here and give my severely amateur views on some of the Isles’ top prospects for Isles fans who are not able to follow the Bridgeport squad. I haven’t watched much AHL hockey before, so bear with me if my observations see...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers put forth a solid team effort from the net out to earn a 4-2 win in their home opener, battling from behind for the second straight night.
Nino Niederreiter scored his second goal in as many nights, and now leads the Sound Tigers with four points. Brock Nelson sits one point behind him after contributing an assist in the game on a shorthande...
The visiting Bridgeport Sound Tigers never trailed in a game they could have easily lost if not for strong play from goaltender Kevin Poulin and some fortunate bounces at both ends of the ice.
Nino Niederreiter picked up his third goal and team-leading fifth point of the season in the 3-2 victory over the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, and Poulin turned aside 34 shots ...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers sandwiched a hard-fought shootout win against the Springfield Falcons in between two forgettable losses against the Worcester Sharks this past weekend.
Kirill Kabanov had surgery on his wrist due to an injury sustained in Friday’s 5-1 loss in Worcester. The AHL Live video feed never really showed what happened aside from a brief shot of Ka...
Storm-stricken Bridgeport Sound Tigers fans took some time off from assessing damage, waiting in line for gas and assisting loved ones, friends and even strangers to take advantage of a thoughtful gesture by the organization: free tickets to last night’s game against the Hershey Bears. And the team rewarded the sellout crowd with a solid effort and a victory that includ...
I’ll indulge in some Ilya Bryzgalov-like philosophizing and say that today’s Bridgeport Sound Tigers game against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins was perhaps the universe seeking balance.
Last time these two teams met, the Penguins controlled the majority of play, but lost the game due to stellar goaltending from Bridgeport’s Kevin Poulin and some fortunate b...
UIF writes...
Bridgeport Earns 4-2 Win Over Norfolk in Wednesday Matinee
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Nino Niederreiter and Brock Nelson both scored as the Bridgeport Sound Tigers put forth a solid effort in a 4-2 victory over the Norfolk Admirals in a game that began in Wednesday’s a.m. hours.
The contest also saw its share of scraps, with enforcer Brett Gallant getting a fighting hat trick, sandwiching a close loss to former Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer Jay Rosehill...
UIF writes...
Nilsson Comes Up Big in Bridgeport's 5-2 Win over Manchester
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
For two periods, last night’s game between the visiting Bridgeport Sound Tigers and the Manchester Monarchs came down to an impressive goaltender duel between Anders Nilsson and Martin Jones. But in the third, the Sound Tigers scored three of the period’s four goals to give Nilsson a 5-2 victory in his first start of the season.
Nino Niederreiter and Brock Nelson s...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers scored three unanswered goals to complete a comeback against the rival Connecticut Whale, overcoming an early deficit caused in large part by former Sound Tiger Michael Haley.
Bridgeport played much of the home game with just 10 forwards, as Casey Cizikas left the ice hurt in the first period and did not return, and Colin McDonald received a ...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers entered last night’s game against the Adirondack Phantoms second in the league in penalties. They did all they could to take first place in that category, and paid for it by surrendering three power-play goals in a lopsided 5-1 loss in Glens Falls.
Bridgeport took seven minor penalties and added three fighting majors on the night. This is...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers head into a three-game weekend in the midst of a three-game losing streak -- their first losing streak of the season.
The team will look for answers beginning tonight when it visits the Hershey Bears, a team Bridgeport beat 3-2 on Nov. 3 in an entertaining game that storm-stricken Bridgeport fans got to see for free thanks to a nice gesture...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers were unable to end their first losing streak of the season this past weekend, dropping all three of their games by a combined score of 13-6.
The team’s skid now stands at six games, although they earned a point in a shootout loss on Saturday to maintain possession of second place in the Northeast Division.
Winger David Ullstrom was injur...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers dropped their seventh straight game 4-2 last night against the Connecticut Whale, but anyone tuning in via AHL Live experienced only a choppy video feed and audio that cut in and out before it got so bad it virtually stopped working entirely.
I consider this another nail in the coffin for my AHL Live experience; dealing with a service that ch...
With three minutes left in the first period of last night’s game in Albany against the Devils, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers were trailing 1-0 and had mustered a measly one shot on goal. They ended the first period with three shots, and at the 10-minute mark of the second period, they still had just six shots on net.
[i]See latest entry with better news on yesterday's ...
If you’re going to end a long and ugly losing streak, you might as well do it with an exclamation mark.
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers beat the East Division-leading Syracuse Crunch at home 7-2 and put a stop to their first losing streak of the season at eight games. Recently-announced captain Colin McDonald led the way with four points, and his linemates, Nino Niederre...
Through the first two periods in Portland last night against the Pirates, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers did everything right but score. They finally broke through Portland goaltender Chad Johnson in the third, but that was only good enough to tie the contest after they had yielded a goal earlier in the frame. And in overtime, a familiar foe -- ill-timed penalties -- struck...
UIF writes...
Bridgeport Takes 3 of 4 Points Against Norfolk; Nelson Hurt
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers never trailed the Norfolk Admirals in the two games the teams played this weekend, but both teams exit action with three of a possible four points, with Bridgeport taking Friday's game in overtime and Norfolk taking Saturday's in the shootout.
Bridgeport’s second-leading scorer Brock Nelson picked up a goal and an assist Friday night in Nor...
Two Islanders’ prospects that might have cracked the big club this season had there not been a lockout scored two goals apiece as the Bridgeport Sound Tigers defeated the Albany Devils last night 4-3.
Casey Cizikas scored Bridgeport’s first and third goals while Matt Donovan scored the team’s second goal and game-winning fourth goal. Johan Sundstrom also had a ...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers were sharp Saturday evening in their 4-1 victory over the Manchester Monarchs, building off of home-and-home wins over the rival Connecticut Whale earlier in the week.
Sean Backman scored twice for the Sound Tigers on Saturday, Casey Cizikas put in his ninth goal of the year, and Nino Niederreiter capped off the scoring in his first game back...
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers blew a three-goal lead on New Year’s Eve, but managed to skate out of Glens Falls, N.Y. with two points thanks to stellar goaltending by Kevin Poulin and three shootout goals.
In the team’s previous three games -- two wins against the Connecticut Whale and one against the Manchester Monarchs -- the Sound Tigers started early, scoring with...
UIF writes...
Bridgeport Notes: A Look at the Prospects as Lockout Ends
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
As the NHL lockout mercifully comes to an end, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers have hit another bump in the road, dropping their first three games of 2013. Furthermore, they stand to lose some key parts of their club to the parent New York Islanders as the NHL season gets underway.
Monday night, the Sound Tigers got a point, but let two separate leads slip away, losing 4-3...
We're five games into the NHL season, and it's fair to say that the Islanders do look better than many, including myself, were expecting. I believe that if Capuano wants them to make a serious push for a playoff spot, which is still quite the task, the lines need to be shuffled slightly. The Isles cannot afford to blow games with dead weight taking up a roster spot.
Wi...
We're five games into the NHL season, and it's fair to say that the Islanders do look better than many, including myself, were expecting. I believe that if Capuano wants them to make a serious push for a playoff spot, which is still quite the task, the lines need to be shuffled slightly. The Isles cannot afford to blow games with dead weight taking up a roster spot.
Wi...
We're five games into the NHL season, and it's fair to say that the Islanders do look better than many, including myself, were expecting. I believe that if Capuano wants them to make a serious push for a playoff spot, which is still quite the task, the lines need to be shuffled slightly. The Isles cannot afford to blow games with dead weight taking up a roster spot.
Wi...
The Flyers just pulled off probably the biggest win of the season against the Islanders today. I think I speak for most Flyers fans when I say it's about time they got a win, especially in blowout fashion. The Flyers needed goals, and badly. Up until today, the boys were having trouble scoring more than one goal per game. The Flyers have definitely been lacking scoring...
Well this is more like it! A lot more of what I expected out of the Habs this year, building a lead through two periods and blowing it in the third. I know it’s a pessimistic point of view, but one thing I’ve learned from Les Habitants is to never count your chickens before they hatch. My one key to this game was to shutdown Tavares and Moulson, the only offensive punc...
[b]Tale of the Tape[/b]
BOS 11-2-2 NYI 8-10-1
Goals For: BOS 2.87 NYI 2.90
Goals Against: BOS 2.20 NYI 3.37
Special Teams BOS: PP 14.9%(23rd) PK 94.8%(1st)
Special Teams NYI: PP 24.4% (5th) PK 84.1% (9th)
Bruins Road Record 7-1-1
Islanders Home Record 2-7-0
Season Series: 1-0 Boston (4-2 January 25th)
Currently Riding: BOS 3W NYI 1L
[b]Pr...
The score does not do this game justice. It’s not too often you can sit down and enjoy a 4-1 loss, but this was the exception.
The first period saw both teams come out physical early on, trading hits and matching each other’s physical agenda. Isles head coach Jack Capuano did his best at the beginning of the frame to avoid the Tavares-Chara match-up that, apparently...
It's an off day, so why not talk about Charles Wang? He's always worth a few words.
Two weeks ago the NY Post came out with a story regarding Charles Wang and his interest in selling the Islanders.
It’s been no secret for the past few seasons that Wang was entertaining the thought of selling the storied franchise, but it’s also been no secret that he’s asking f...
The young Toronto Maple Leafs look to bounce back from another disappointing effort when they take on the New York Islanders on the island tonight.
There is a lot of talk about the reffing in last nights game against the Canadiens with a terrible call on a Mike Brown hit in the 1st period that saw the Buds down a man for 5 mins, and Brown ejected from the game, as well ...
[b]Update[/b]
[i]Boulton IN, Ullstrom OUT
Cizikas/McDonald to 3rd Line
Reasoner/Boulton to 4th Line
Martinek OUT, Finley IN[/i]
[b]Tale of the Tape[/b]
TOR 12-9-0 NYI 8-11-1
Goals For: TOR 2.81 NYI 2.80
Goals Against: TOR 2.43 NYI 3.40
Special Teams TOR: PP 16.5%(19th) PK 81.7%(15th)
Special Teams NYI: PP 23.5% (6th) PK 84.9% (7th)
Leafs Road R...
After fighting back from a two goal deficit, the Islanders came away with a point after Dion Phaneuf scored in overtime to win it for the Leafs.
Both teams came out very physical in the first period, with hits totalling 16-13 in favour of the Maple Leafs. For comparison, hits were 21-16 at the end of the Boston game and that was a physical one.
Kyle Okposo made a sli...
Rick DiPietro probably couldn't imagine a worse way to begin his AHL stint.
In his first start this season for the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, he yielded two goals on the first two shots he faced from the Connecticut Whale. Before the first period was 11 minutes old, the score was 3-0. And by the time the opening frame was over, the Sound Tigers were down 5-0 and DiPietr...
[b]Tale of the Tape[/b]
OTT 12-7-3 NYI 8-11-2
Goals For: OTT 2.14 NYI 2.86
Goals Against: OTT 1.82 NYI 3.48
Special Teams: OTT PP 15.8%(20th) OTT PK 89.2%(3rd)
NYI PP 23.5% (5th) NYI PK 84.9% (7th)
Senators Road Record 3-6-1
Islanders Home Record 2-8-1
Season Series: 1-0 Ottawa (3-1 February 21st)
Currently Riding: OTT 1L NYI 3L
[b]Projected Lines[/b]
[i...
It looked like it was going to be another rough night for Rick DiPietro and the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.
The home crowd was restless. Fans grumbled when DiPietro took a delay of game penalty a little over four minutes in for playing the puck outside the trapezoid. At 8:30 of the first period, the visiting Adirondack Phantoms scored their first goal, and it was not the...
Yesterday the Islanders were able to stop a three game skid by beating the Ottawa Senators on home ice. No, it’s not a typo. The Islanders actually won a game on home ice. I caught only bits and pieces of the game. Afternoon games are not made for people with kids, unless you’re at the game.
Brad Boyes got the Islanders on the board first with a nice shot over the g...
Kiprusoff- Return and potential partners
My last entry regarding Iginla and his value is being discussed once again on Colin`s blog if you want to head over there and put your two cents in.
You can see that original entry here:
http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=33826&post_id=14517
and you can see Colin`s here:
http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog/Colin-Da...
[b]Tale of the Tape[/b]
MTL 14-4-4 NYI 9-11-2
Goals For: MTL 3.04 NYI 2.82
Goals Against: MTL 2.32 NYI 3.41
Special Teams: MTL PP 19.0%(11th) MTL PK 82.6%(15th)
NYI PP 22.1% (5th) NYI PK 84.2% (10th)
Canadiens Road Record 6-1-2
Islanders Home Record 3-8-1
Season Series: 1-0 New York (4-3(OT) February 21st)
Currently Riding: MTL 1W NYI 1W
[b]Projected Lines[...
The Islanders kept up with the Canadiens and battled their way to a 6-3 victory, their second win in as many games at home. A more balanced attack by Capuano and Co. led to fresh legs that were able to keep up with the speedy Canadiens. The Islanders offense is scoring at a rate that keeps them in the tops in the league, possibly something that Montreal didn't consider and...
[b]Tale of the Tape[/b]
NYR 11-8-2 NYI 10-11-2
Goals For: NYR 2.52 NYI 2.96
Goals Against: NYR 2.43 NYI 3.39
Special Teams: NYR PP 14.7%(24th) NYR PK 83.3%(11th)
NYI PP 23.1% (5th) NYI PK 82.7% (14th)
Rangers Road Record 2-4-1
Islanders Home Record 4-8-1
Season Series: 1-1 (4-1(NYR) February 7th , 4-3(SO)(NYI) February 14th)
Currently Riding: NY...
With the New York Islanders just past the midpoint of their lockout-shortened season, it’s as good a time as any to evaluate the three Bridgeport Sound Tigers that made the jump to the big club this season (four if you count Kevin Poulin) -- and to talk about some who might be ready for a quick look sooner than later.
Back when the lockout was just coming to a close, ...
After watching Game 1 between the Penguins and Islanders, every Islanders has the right to be a bit nervous about how the team will play in Game 2 and the rest of this series. I'm hoping the team only needed one game to try and adjust themselves to playoff hockey and be comfortable. Not only did they seem nervous, but like an entirely different team compared to the one tha...
This is a plea to the supporters of all the teams trailing in their series. rnInstead of saying we just stayed alive in the series, it should be: our team forces game 6, game 7. Instead of struggling to keep up with the other team, it should be: our team is about to exploit their weaknesses. Instead of blaming and focusing on a single mistake, it should be our responsibil...
Did you know that $24 Million dollars can buy you a gently used 2007 Gulfstream G450 private jet, or Katherine Hepburn’s oceanfront estate in Connecticut (if you were willing to negotiate a bit), or even the Archduke Joseph 76 carat, D color, flawless diamond (Sotheby’s estimate $15 - $25 Million $U.S.)?
And $24 Million can also buy Charles Wang his freedom from not...
In my last blog (http://my.hockeybuzz.com/...&user_id=183597I) I partially talked about the possibility of Nino Neiderreiter being traded to the Oilers this summer to bring more size to the top 6 (6' 2'') and to get a more legitimate top six left winger. Granted, Paajarvi is bigger than Nino (6'3'' vs. 6'2'') but this past year Paajarvi has become a good power forward and ...
Apparently the Vancouver Canucks and New York Islanders are talking trades. The Islanders have inquired about Roberto Luongo and are interested in the following type of deal. The New York Islanders would move Rick DiPietro and possibly Evgeni Nabokov and some sort of prospect and draft pick for Roberto Luongo.
TSNBobMcKenzie: "It’s believed NYI would, under right cir...
Jayo1808 writes...
Oil Country Exploding!!!!! Part II: Offseason Targets
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Before I get started here, I'm going to apologize for my last blog. for some reason, it didn't register any paragraph separation when it posted. I will try to make sure the format of this one is proper before I post it. Again, my apologies. On with the show.
Oilers GM Craig MacTavish has wastes no time making his mark on this franchise. He has already re...
I am new to the whole blog game. But not afraid to share an opinion. So to start a little bit about myself. I am an avid fan of the NHL, I live it and breath it. I love talking about it, only problem, no one close to me really is into it as much as I am. So that is why I have come here to share my views (and yes some may be biased more towards Vancouver as I have been rais...
Just some late night trade possibilities. Canucks trade Roberto Luongo, Jannik Hansen, 1st round pick and 3rd round pick TO the Islanders for Nino Niederreiter, Josh Bailey, Rick Dipietro, 1st rounder and 2nd rounder. Maybe a deal that doesn't or cant take off but I could see it being a good deal? It would suck to see Hansen go but to bring back Niederreiter and Bailey wou...
Hey I have some more moves that could help the Oilers be a playoff team this coming year.
I'm still hoping for a [b]Ales Hemsky[/b] for [b]Matt Matin[/b] trade, seems like a great fit for both teams. Skilled second line winger and set up man for a third line ball of hate, both teams fill a need.
[b]Ryan Malone[/b] 33 6-4 225 LW/RW 4.5 million cap hit signed until 14/...
willschulme writes...
Why Today's Game vs. the Islanders is so Important
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
At 7:00 PM EST the Devils will greet the Isles in their future home at the Barclay's Center in Brooklyn. For the Devils, this is a very important game: 1.) Today, Schneider has a chance to claim the starting role. Although it will always be said that Brodeur is the #1 goalie, if Schneider displays anything like his game against the Rangers, Brodeur will have to step off. ...
CConlonDevil writes...
Devils Came Out Flying to Gain a Point and ONLY a Point
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The New Jersey Devils played their cross river rivals in the New York Islanders today in speedy fashion. But not so speedy as Michael Grabner with his three breakaway opportunities (two being tallies past Martin Brodeur). The Devils fell 4-3 in a 6 round shootout contest which saw many upsides and down sides in their overall game. The main downside was their defensive brea...
The New York Islanders come home from a road trip that was not to friendly to them playing 4 games and losing all 4 to gain not a single point. The Islanders who lost to Washington, Carolina, Columbus and Montreal respectfully and are actually the favorite to win due to the Nashville Predators coming to town who have lost their past 2 games and also being shut o...
Well, I was finally able to watch most of a Ducks game (some electrical issues kept me blacked out through the 1st 12ish minutes), so I can finally do my next game write up. Last night, the New York Islanders came to the Pond. They had lost 9 straight road games, and the Ducks were coming home from a successful road trip that saw them pick up wins against 2 of the NHL's el...
CaseyPSH writes...
Coyotes Resume Winning Ways at Home By Defeating Islanders
Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]Coyotes Resume Winning Ways at Home With Victory Over Islanders
By Casey Gagnon, Phoenix Sports Hub[/b]
[b]E-Mail: [email protected]
Twitter: @CaseyPSH[/b]
[b]PhoenixSportsHub.Blogspot.com[/b]
Shane Doan felt well enough to make a brief appearance at practice on Thursday morning. He probably felt even better after watching his Coyotes teammates play that sa...
When looking at the standings coming out of the Olympic break, there are only a handful of teams that are considered to be sellers at the trade deadline. With so many 3 point games many more teams are in position to make the playoffs, 5 teams in the east 3 points out or less and 4 teams within 4 points in the west . The only teams that are sellers at the moment are the Sab...
-JCDC- writes...
Sabres and Islanders-rumored hiring of Bryan Trottier
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
With the rumored hiring of Bryan Trottier, another chapter between Sabres and the Islanders is added. So much to review between the two teams, especially with the upcoming season, where as a Sabres fan, we are rooting obviously for the Islanders to be stale potato chip bad....to keep it limited to the Trottier hire.....by this logic, would Trotts be enemies or neutra...
[b]Follow me on Twitter @DailyNHLGRIND[/b]
[b]A Glance Back[/b]
I don’t think anybody could have predicted the outcome of the brutally nicknamed metro-terrible division last season. Columbus impressed while the Capitals faltered. The Penguins took a dip in the playoffs while the Rangers surprised many after a rough start. Other teams sort of slotted right into thei...
AarifDeen writes...
A Night Of Firsts – MacKinnon, Fourth Line Lead Avs to SO
Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b]
It was a night of firsts in Denver tonight. The Colorado Avalanche defeated the New York Islanders 5-0 for their first shutout of the season. The game-winning goal came off the stick of Cody McLeod early in the opening period and the Avs never looked back.
McLeod’s goal, which came off a nice setup from...
AarifDeen writes...
Islanders shut out the Avalanche in a one-sided game
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b]
The Avalanche suffered a 6-0 loss on Tuesday night by the very same team they dominated just 12 days ago. On Veterans Day and on their last trip to the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Colorado was held win-less for the 13th time in 17 games.
Nick Leddy’s goal just 93 seconds into the game was the eve...
When I first heard that the Pittsburgh Penguins had acquired Steve Downie I was excited because he is a guy who can play in a bottom 6 role and even help put some pucks in the net. I still think he can put pucks in the net, however I am getting tired of him playing in the penalty box. He has a league high 78 PIMs which is not helping the Penguins at all. His selfish pen...
This past weekend was not a particularly good one for the Penguins. The New York Islanders defeated the Penguins both nights of their home and home series. What was more frustrating to see though was how the Islanders dictated puck possession and shots. The Penguins essentially played the majority of both games in their own end, a recipe for defeat.
With the loss o...
February 26, 2015 grabo84
As the trade deadline approaches, every team is assessing their wants and needs. Despite reports, the Islanders are no different. Many cup contending teams will tinker with their depth chart at the trade deadline. This Islanders team is built for the future, but there is no need to wait on taking a serious run at the cup. Many rumors around...
Reddevil45 writes...
NY Islanders against Washington Capitals:Series Prediction
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The second seeded Washington Capitals will face the third seeded New York Islanders. Both teams had players who were in the race for the Art Ross Trophy, Alexander Ovechkin (Capitals) and John Tavares (Islanders).Both players have got five points in the four games when these two have faced each other. Both teams didn’t make the playoffs the previous season but have rebou...
I have a dream.... that the Oilers can get impact young d-men to help with their cause now...rnrnSeem like a bit of a stretch? Maybe, but there might be a few trade scenarios that could work well for both sides, therefor making it a viable deal, even in this cap-crazy world we call the NHL.rnrnFirst off, let me just say that I love all the Oilers young forwards. I believe ...
In this article I will outline the top three teams' in the Eastern Conference entering the 2015-16 season. There's some moves still to be made, but I believe that the majority of the blockbuster deals are completed.
5. New York Islanders: ( 47-28-7 : 101 Points)
The Islanders finished the 2014-15 season with a first round elimination at the hands of the Washington...
Zak MacMillan writes...
Game No. 7- Columbus Blue Jackets v New York Islanders
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
In a quest for their first win of the young regular season, the Columbus Blue Jackets will try to do so at home against the New York Islanders.
The Jackets are going with a different lineup for the third straight game. Alex Wennberg is back in the lineup after suffering a concussion on the first game of the season. Rene Borque is also expected to be in after being a la...
Close but no Cigar.
Until the third period.
After a very good game last night played in Nationwide, the Columbus Blue Jackets left the ice in defeat. The New York Islanders shut out the Columbus Blue Jackets by a final score of 4-0.
For the Islanders, Nikolay Kulemin Thomas Hickey, Cal Clutterbuck, and John Tavares scored. Nikolay's goal came off poor defensive...
Over the weekend, it was discussed in a rumor blog that the Columbus Blue Jackets and the New York Islanders were in serious trade discussions. The apparent rumor is Ryan Johansen and a second round pick for Kyle Okposo, a first round pick, and Travis Hamonic (who would then be dealt to Calgary).
For the pieces the Islanders are giving up, that is a lot to give up...
l
On Saturday night, the Columbus Blue Jackets battled the New York Islanders in Nationwide Arena. The final score was a close one, 3-2 overtime.
The Islanders got goals from Kyle Okposo (2), and Frans Nielsen. They also got points from Nick Leddy and Josh Bailey. Jaroslav Halak stopped 28 of 30 Blue Jackets' shots for a 0.933 save percentage (93.3%)
For the Jac...
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ Game No. 55- New York Islanders v. Columbus Blue Jackets
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
After a couple days off from game action, the Columbus Blue Jackets are back on the ice tonight where they are taking on the New York Islanders. The Islanders last played Sunday in a dominating 8-1 performance against the West's worse team- the Edmonton Oilers.
On January 12, the last time these teams played each other, the Blue Jackets fell to the Islanders in their a...
Last night, the Islanders struck early, late, and in extra time to defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets by a final score of 3-2 in a shootout.
The Islanders got a goal from Ryan Strome (my player to watch) 56 seconds into the game. Three minutes into the final frame, Andres Lee ties the score on a power play goal. Other players with points were John Tavares, Kyle Okposo, a...
With the trade deadline inching closer and closer, it's that time of year for us hockey fans to think up those wild trade scenarios that just might make sense. The real key to these proposals it to try to justify it from all sides to make it almost believable. Does it fit the teams needs? Does it work with the cap? Is it a fair value of talent? etc.
What i came up with:...
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ Post-Game No. 77- Brooklyn Blasts Through Blue Jackets
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The New York Islanders defeated the Cooumbus Blue Jackets to sweep them, 4-3.
The Islanders got the upper hand early on, scoring three goals in the first period. John Tavares scored his 28th of the season (7:25); Ryan Strome and Josh Bailey had the assists. Later on, Thomas Hickey scored his 5th of the season (17:51); Kyle Okposo and Frans Nielsen had the assists. 32 s...
The Iceman writes...
Lack of scoring, killer instinct among what dooms Isles
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Frustrating, soul crushing, disappointing are just a few words that can be used to describe the feeling among all in Islander country after a 2-1 overtime loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning in game 4 of this eastern conference semi-final matchup. The lightning now have a commanding 3-1 lead in this best of 7 series with a chance to close it out Sunday back in Tampa Bay. The I...
Is Steven Stamkos going to be a New York Islander come July 1st? Well if you have a copy of the latest NHL video game, then yes he will be. It's time to address this rumor going around in regards to the one who will be the top UFA this summer. Well, more like bury this rumor that for whatever reason won't go away.
It began not long ago by Eklund, the annonyms one who r...
With the Stanley Cup Finals about to get underway, we now have a handful of games remaining for the 2015-2016 hockey season. And with that comes one of the most exciting times for fanbases of teams who are looking to upgrade for next year, the offseason. First comes the draft which is roughly a little more than 3 weeks away. Followed by July 1st, aka free agency.
For ...
It took roughly 5 days for Islanders general manager (buffoon is more like it) garth snow to fail the team and his franchise center in John Tavares. Wednesday June 29th was ruled by a number of trades. Yet none stuck out more for the frustrated Islanders fan base than the trade of now former Edmonton Oilers winger Taylor Hall. The 1st overall pick in the 2010 entry draft w...
For more information--- @PesekWill and @NHLPenaltyBox (Twitters)
It wasn't the start John Tavares and the Isles wanted. Many fans may argue the reasoning behind this is three homegrown players, Kyle Okposo, Matt Martin and Frans Nielsen have journeyed to different locations to continue their career. The loss of the three hurt the fan base but the signing of And...
The Islanders surrendered yet another loss, but this time they register a point. It was a very poor first period for the Isles trailing 1-0 after the opening frame. It was a strong second period for the Isles as Brock Nelson tallied his fifth of the year on the Powerplay. Just two minutes later, Anthony Beauvillier, picked pocketed a Pens defenseman, and undressed Matt Mur...
The Islanders surrendered yet another loss, but this time they register a point. It was a very poor first period for the Isles trailing 1-0 after the opening frame. It was a strong second period for the Isles as Brock Nelson tallied his fifth of the year on the Powerplay. Just two minutes later, Anthony Beauvillier, picked pocketed a Pens defenseman, and undressed Matt Mur...
The Islanders surrendered yet another loss, but this time they register a point. It was a very poor first period for the Isles trailing 1-0 after the opening frame. It was a strong second period for the Isles as Brock Nelson tallied his fifth of the year on the Powerplay. Just two minutes later, Anthony Beauvillier, picked pocketed a Pens defenseman, and undressed Matt Mur...
After a bunch of frustrating loses between Tampa Bay, Pittsburgh and most importantly the Florida game, where, Halak gave up the game-tying goal with 14 seconds left. During every home, the chants of "Fire Cappy" were reigning down from the rafters and when asked by reporters, Snow said "we have faith in the coaching staff......He [Capuano] was in the World Cup so that say...
For more information follow @PesekWill and @NHLPenaltyBox {Twitter}
The Islanders have played majority of their games at home to start the year, and based off their record from last year at home, it was kind of a disappointment to start this year at home. Now after only registering 1 point on the road this year, in a heartbreaking OT loss to the Florida Panthers, they t...
For more information, follow @NHLPenaltyBox {Twitter}
When the Islanders selected Ryan Strome with the fifth overall pick in 2011, they felt he could be that "go to winger" for Tavares. After a dominant 2014-2015 rookie season, posting 50 points, he had a horrid run in 2015-2016 with only 20 points. Strome was scratched in the final two games for the Isles in the first...
For more information; follow @NHLPenaltyBox {Twitter}
After beating the Calgary Flames on Monday night, the Isles had a tough back to back approaching. They would play the defending cup champs, the Pittsburgh Penguins, then the following day, they would play the defending President's Trophy champs, the Washington Capitals. Fans knew that this determined the year, a win ...
In their last four games, the Isles have been 3-0-1, earning points in each of their last four games. That's something they have done for the first time this year. It is baby steps as they dug themselves a pretty big hole, that almost made it impossible to dig out off. But, they are slowly digging their way out of it. The Isles are currently 9-10-5, one game below .500 wit...
It was the type of atmosphere, that the Isles had in the first and second rounds of the playoffs last year, and they did not let down their fans. The Isles advanced to 4-0-1 in in their last 5 games and starting to play like a playoff team. In the 5 game point streak the Isles went from 6-10-4 to 10-10-5 making their presence felt in the league again.
The day started o...
For more information follow @NHLPenaltyBox and @PesekWill {Twitters}
During the Isles hot streak that lasted about a week or so, fans regained hope for this team but after two painful loses to the hot Blue Jackets and the Washington Capitals, things began to unravel for the Islanders. As of December 15, the Isles are 12 points out of the 8th seed in the Eastern Conferen...
Isles fans have not had much news to celebrate over, but Friday they got good news (for some). Net-minder Jaroslav Halak who is statistically the "best goalie" in Islanders history was put on waivers. He was not claimed and was assigned to the AHL team the Bridgeport Sound Tigers on Saturday. One of the reasons why he was not claimed was not because he is having a horrific...
The New York Islanders announced Thursday morning that Adam Pelech has been recalled from BST. This will result in tomorrows contest with the Colorado Avalanche as he will most likely play for veteran Dennis Seidenberg, because the Isles have a history of not playing veterans back to back. Or, this can result for the Isles to carry a 7th Dman before they head West and god ...
The Isles needed four points last weekend, and they ran into slumping teams. The Islanders scored two goals in two games this weekend (one in each) and both were back-to-back 2-1 losses to the Avs and the Coyotes. Johnny Boychuk had a goal on Friday and an assist on Alan Quine's goal on Saturday. Thomas Greiss played both games and was brilliant in both. Staying discipline...
The Islanders’ owners are “committed” to New York but are keeping their options open with regard to Barclays Center, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said during his news conference during the league’s All-Star Weekend.
“They’re committed to the franchise, they’re committed to New York and the great fan base that has followed the Islanders,” Bettman said, r...
Zak MacMillan writes...
Pre-Game No.59: Columbus Blue Jackets v. New York Islanders
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The home stand for the Blue Jackets continues in a final matchup tonight with a battle with Brooklyn. The Blue Jackets are fresh off their mandatory five day bye week, and the team prepares itself to take on one of the hottest teams in the NHL. The Islanders switched head coaches from Jack Capuono to Doug Weight, and the team has benefited greatly from the change. The Isla...
The Islanders enter play on Tuesday sitting 1 point ahead of the Toronto Maple Leafs for the last playoff spot in the East. After going 3-2-1 in the first six games of the road trip, the Isles remain in Western Canada to take on the Oilers. Goaltender Thomas Greiss has started all six games so far, despite getting pulled versus Columbus and Calgary and he has been superb. ...
With the poor play of backup goaltender JF Berube, the Isles had a decision to make. What do they do in the goalie position. Thomas Greiss is the obvious starter for the Isles after stealing the job away from Jaroslav Halak who was sent down to Bridgeport back in December. Since his designation to the AHL, the Isles have went from worst in the league to a playoff contender...
With the Islanders 6 points out of a playoff spot, the Islanders roller coaster season is likely over. The next closest thing for Isles fans is too look is the Expansion Draft and the entry draft. In terms of the Expansion Draft, the Islanders have some thinking to do. What players do they keep? What players do they leave available? Obviously, Tavares, Ladd, Lee and Bailey...
INSIDEEDGEHOCKE writes...
Caps Hoist Cup, Island of the Unknown, and Draft Talk
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
THE DEBATE – Hockey Podcast | Episode 27
Caps Hoist Cup, Island of the Unknown, and Draft Talk
Debate 1 |The Washington Capitals win the Stanley Cup
Debate 2 |New Management for the New York Islanders
Debate 3 |Will the NHL Draft be an active trade day
The Washington Capitals have won their first Stanley Cup in franchise history. How did they do it? Brad Bur...
The New York Islanders acquiring Bo Horvat from the Vancouver Canucks is a significant trade that impacts both teams.
From the Islanders' perspective, acquiring Horvat provides the team with a talented, top-line center who can contribute both offensively and defensively. Horvat is a two-way player who has consistently produced at a high level, scoring over 20 goals in...
The New York Islanders acquiring Bo Horvat from the Vancouver Canucks is a significant trade that impacts both teams.
From the Islanders' perspective, acquiring Horvat provides the team with a talented, top-line center who can contribute both offensively and defensively. Horvat is a two-way player who has consistently produced at a high level, scoring over 20 goals in...
The New York Islanders acquiring Bo Horvat from the Vancouver Canucks is a significant trade that impacts both teams.
From the Islanders' perspective, acquiring Horvat provides the team with a talented, top-line center who can contribute both offensively and defensively. Horvat is a two-way player who has consistently produced at a high level, scoring over 20 goals ...