Nabokov & DiPietro

Per Arthur Staple, "As for Nabokov, source says he is "probably" headed to FA next week." 


"Just talked to Evgeni Nabokov, who says his first choice is still returning to the Isles."

 

"We couldn't find the middle ground right now, but I never close the door on anything. That's where we're at. I'm still hopeful something will get done."

 

 

"Isles have no decision on buyouts (i.e., DiPietro) as of now."

Per Katie Strang, "The compliance buyout window begins tonight at 11 p.m. and ends on July 4 before free agency opens the following day."

Sound Tigers Notes:

The Bridgeport Sound Tigers kick off their 2013-14 home schedule on Saturday, Oct. 5 at @Webster_Arena! Six guaranteed dates to start can be found here.

 

The Draft, Free Agency & Your New Look Islanders

Your New York Islanders fell short last year when they were eliminated in the first round by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 6 games.

Your New York Islanders put on a tremendous 11-2-4 run towards the end of the season and made the playoffs for the first time since the 06-07.

No matter which sentence fits your idea of the Islanders playoff appearance this season, you know that they improved as a team and did several things right.  Their improvement through adversity, especially to close the season can not be ignored.

Although Evgeni Nabokov was a huge reason the Isles were able to reach the playoffs, he also was 2 & 4 with a .842 Sv% & a 4.44 gaa while in the playoffs.  Despite their improved defensive play, the Isles patchwork defense needs an upgrade as well as their top two forward lines.  John Tavares needs a bonafide top forward on his line.  This will allow him more room and open up the Isles offense.  Last summer, the Isles went all in on D, how about this summer?

This summer, your New York Islanders will have the 15th pick in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft.  Additional 2013 draft picks include the 76th, 106th, 116th, 136th, 166th and 196th.

Although their biggest need is on the blue line, and in net, the Isles have a deep stock at the position.  Quality forwards may be the way to go this summer, because there are some talented guys available if the Isles hold their 15th position.  There are at least two defensive prospects that stand out to me as well, but I don't see a 1st round pick used for a goaltender.  Maybe a second round pick, but the Isles don't have one of those.  Garth Snow has said he might trade up, back or trade the pick outright if the offer was right, lets look at a few scenarios that the Isles could do with using the pick.

Bo Horvat, C, London Knights, OHL, 6-0, 206#:

Horvat had 33 goals and 61 pts in the OHL this season with London.  Well known for being a smart, gritty, two way player, Horvat has a strong defensive game and a quick release on his shot.  Among the forwards available, he is said to be the most NHL ready.

Anthony Mantha, RW, Val D'QR, QMJHL, 6-4, 190#:

Mantha reached the 50 goal mark this season with Val D'OR this season. As a forward with good size and skills to match, he can also power by defenders on his way to the net without being called flashy.

Darnell Nurse, D, Soo Greyhounds, OHL, 6-4, 185#:

Nurse is an active and hard nosed defense men with positional awareness on the blue line. With his size and skill already playing close to an NHL game, he could fit in well with the future Isles defensive core.

Max Domi, C, London Knights, OHL, 5-9, 195#:

With NHL bloodlines, Max Domi is a skilled center men that was able to put up 49 and 87 points in his first two seasons in the OHL despite his smaller size. Much like his dad, Domi is an energetic player who is tenacious on the ice and makes his team mates better as they feed off his energy.

Valentin Zykov, LW, Baie-Comeau Drakkar, QMJHL, 6-0, 208#:

Zykov had 40 goals and 70 points in the first QMJHL this season. Solid on his feet with good skating, Zykov is said to be a character guy who shouldn't be compared to players who make it all about themselves.

Nikita Zadorov, D, London Knights, OHL, 6-4, 200#:

Standing an impressive 6-4, Zadorov is what NHL teams are looking for on defense. Although he will need more experience before reaching the pro level, with the right "schooling," he could be a punishing and powerful force on defense. 

Pavel Buchnevich, LW, Cherepovets, KHL, 6-1, 161#:

Touted as a pure goal scorer and complete offensive talent, Buchnevich has the potential to be a top NHL forward. Will his Russian roots affect his draft selection hopes?

Zach Fucale, G, Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL, 6-1, 181#:

Fucale is probably the consensus pick for best goaltender in the draft and his resume shows it.  He has won all-rookie, all-star, goaltender and players awards, including an Ivan Hlinka gold medal, QMJHL champion award and CHL cup.

The top players in the Isles system on offense right now are Ryan Strome, Brock Nelson, Nino Niederreiter, Kirill Kabanov and Anders Lee.  Defensive players include Calvin deHaan, Griffin Reinhart, Matt Donovan, Aaron Ness, Ville Pokka, Adam Pelech, Scott Mayfield.  The top prospects in net are Kevin Poulin and Anders Nilsson with Mikko Koskinen.  The rest of the system has several good prospects, but all are far from even the AHL level at this time.  Although a few of the prospects, namely Brock Nelson & Matt Donovan could crack the line up out of training camp, infusing too much inexperience could set this team back instead of help it surge forward.

The chance that the Isles are approached to trade the pick for an NHL level prospect or for interesting salary cap moves is also a real possibility.  Nino has been in the news again for the wrong reasons and perhaps Poulin could be traded if the right deal came along.  If we did lose players with upsides like that, I would hope for a lot in return. The Islanders have talented prospects that could be packaged with picks to bring more high level talent to the team as well.  I think trades will need to be made and something will have to be given up to get the battle ready players that are needed in the line up now.  We wont really know what the picture starts to look like for the Isles until after the NHL Entry Draft, Free Agency period opens and the time leading up to camp reveals how the market is looking.  Technically, better quality players should be available for less because several teams need to shed salary and have too many assets.  And remember to never count out the waiver wire while the Isles remain in good position to poach any missing pieces. 

Going into the NHL Entry Draft weekend, here is my veteran free agent want list for the Isles to fill from:

F:

David Clarkston, RW, age 29             Grit & scoring touch would compliment the Isles.

Mike Ribeiro, C, age 33                      Scoring touch, special teams.

Patrik Elias, LW, age 37                     Scoring touch, Veteran leadership, winner, Some. to prove.

Daniel Briere, RW, age 35                 Scoring touch, Veteran leadership, Something to prove.

Bryan Bickell, LW, age 27                Big, Strong, Offensive awareness, Strong in playoffs.

Pascal Dupuis, RW, age 34               Veteran play maker, winner.

D:

Keith Yandle, D, age 26                   Offensive defense men with strong +/-.

Rob Scuderi, D, age 34                     Veteran defender could use change of scenery.

Ian White, D, age 29                        Offensive upside when healthy, strong +/-.

The goalies listed below are talented & expendable on the teams they currently play for.

G:

Jaroslav Halak, age 28                 Solid veteran could respond well to opportunity w/ Isles.

Ray Emery, age 30                       Ready to breakout, better than a back up.

Ryan Miller, age 32                     Solid veteran, Reborn, sound example for prospects, winner.

With Bernier off the market and going to Toronto, where will the Isles look for a net minder capeable of big things?  I would prefer to stay away from Luongo or Bryzgalov.  I feel for different reasons, both would become a distraction to a team that needs to focus on themselves as a team and look ahead to their collective future.

Its all been said by myself and countless others.  The Isles have made strides last year, but there weaknesses were also evident.  While drafting well is important, Garth Snow needs to feel the Islanders growing pains while maintaining his core group.  That means adding a few veteran pieces from out of house are necessary to take the next step.  I believe certain prospects will step up soon, but in my opinion, a top Forward and defense men is needed badly for Long Island.  A solid, veteran goaltender who is ready to take the starting position and fight for it must be counted on to win big games and do better in the playoffs as the team matures until their prospects are ready.

I trust in Garth Snow and I hope quality moves that make sense can be made to improve our team.  But I also hope a big name or coveted player can be won over to our side to quiet some of the unsatisfied in Islander country. 

 

 

 

In the end, we just want to win for a little while and capture another cup.  A changing of the guard.

Is that so wrong?

Notes:

See you at the Isles Draft Party!  Get your free tickets here.

Thanks to Chris Peters for some well written insight on eligible draft prospects.

KoC: 2013 Playoffs - Round 4, Chicago Wins The Stanley Cup.

 

Stanley Cup Finals, Round 4 Matchup:

My Prediction:

Chicago vs Boston (An original six match up, first since 1979)

Boston in 6

 

 

Nope.  How about, nope.  0.0

 

 

What an awesome series with back and forth momentum shifts, goal scoring and goaltending.  Congratulations to the Boston Bruins for a mostly well played series and to the Chicago Blackhawks for a perfect end to a record starting season. 

 

Patrick Kane was deadly while Corey Crawford silenced his critics.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nino, Bernier, Briere, Kirill & Ullstrom

After Arthur Staple announced that the Isles would hold their annual Blue & Orange scrimmage on 7/11, he also noted that Nino Niederreiter has declined to attend prospect camp this year. He explained that players are required to attend 3x, and after they have participated in 3, they can choose on whether or not to attend after that.  This might not raise any pulses if it didn't follow a rumor put out by Nino's agent that he wanted to be traded from the Islanders.  He is still a solid player and could be a star in the making.  I'd really like to see him make some noise and show his mean streak for New York.

 

The rumor of Jonathan Bernier being sought by the Isles is interesting.  He is a young, talented NHL back up who could have starting goaltender potential if given the right opportunity.  On the Isles, he could get that chance while Poulin and Nilsson had more time in the Isles system to develop.  I think that although he is unproven beyond his 14-9 record over the last two seasons in L.A. with 1 shut out, a .915 Sv% and a 2.12 gaa., he could break out with the Islanders.  But its always about what the Isles would have to give up.  Oh, and how many times has Snow let a move like this leak to the press?  We shall see if it has any merit.
 

 

Daniel Briere was told by the Philadelphia Flyers that he would be bought out.  That would give Briere an opportunity to test the free agent waters in the NHL with 29 other teams.  I wouldn't object if the Isles elected to take a short-term chance on Briere, despite his age and statistical decline.  I still think he can be a dangerous player, especially on a line with John Tavares.

 

 

 

 

Remember this?   "Kirill Petrov - no plans of playing in NHL" and "Snow said - he likes playing in Russia."

Well, aparently, Petrovs' agent said the Islanders wanted Petrov to join the team next year.  He also said that the Isles, "guaranteed" a roster spot for Petrov if he came to the Island after his KHL contract was up in 2014.  To me, it sounds like another ploy by his agent to stir something up.  We all know Garth Snow doesnt like outspoken players, Just ask Brenden Kichton.  In addition, Petrov hasnt even lived up to his billing while playing in the KHL.  He tallied 28 and 21 for 49 pts in 99 games played with Kazan Ak-Bars over the last two seasons.  Who will make it to the NHL first, Kirill Kabanov or Kirill Petrov?

 

 

This morning, Twitter reports came in that Isles forward, David Ullström signed a deal with Lokomotiv Yaroslav of the KHL.  If Ullstrom wants back in the NHL, the Isles will still hold his rights and could resign him much like they did with Jesse Joensuu did last season.  I have always been a fan of Ullstrom, and thought he had 20-25 goal scoring potential in the NHL, but it seems his development has faltered and has not been retained by Management.

Ullstrom is a talented scorer who found the last few seasons of his development marred by injury and setbacks.  It will be a hard fought battle to make it back to the NHL and if its with the Isles, another battle to fight his way back to their roster in a deep prospect pool.

"David Ullstrom‏@d_ullstrom16h

Thank you to the Islanders organisation, teammates and fans for three unforgetable years. We created memories that will remain forever. Thx"

 

 

Isles Notes:

The New York Islanders announce that the Blue & Orange prospect scrimmage will be played on Thurs, July 11 at 7 pm at Coliseum. Tix on sale tomorrow at the teams site.

Per Arthur Staple," Isles have @strome18, @GriffinReinhart, Brock Nelson, @leeberr09, Andrey Pedan and Scott Mayfield for 4-day prospect camp and scrimmage.  Find out more here. 

 

Is the Barclays Center set up for NHL Hockey? 

 

NHL Notes:

The league will experiment with Hybrid Icing in the 2013-14 preseason.  A vote will be held afterwards to see if it was good enough to be put into regular season play and added to the NHL rules.

Per Darren Dreger, "The NHLPA also has significant input into the banning of the spin-o-rama. NHL may not fight if there's too much pushback from PA."

Per Pierre LeBrun, " Further to the new 2 min penalty for fighting with a helmet off; league will scrap the penalty for fighting with a visor on..."

 

Hockey Notes:

 

Per Bob McKenzie, "Hockey Canada simultaneous news conferences tomorrow in TOR and MTL to announce they're sharing both 2015 and 2017 World Jr. Championships.  MTL will host preliminary round and TOR the medal round in 2015. Then it reverses in 2017 with MTL getting medal round and TOR preliminary."

No Respect & Streit The Bully

Islanders stat master, Eric Hornick put up some information based on this years NHL awards.  I used it as a reference as I added my own commentary on the NHL and their official voting process.  Getting the most votes doesn't seem to mean what you think it means.  Even when the most are given, it's usually not due to anything but a popularity vote rather than personnel contributions and the spirit of the award.

 

2013 Hart Trophy voting results:

 

1. Alex Ovechkin, WSH        1090             (50-43-40-27-8)
2. Sidney Crosby, PIT          1058             (46-42-41-29-12)
3. John Tavares, NYI             919             (38-38-33-29-21)
4. Jonathan Toews, CHI        886             (39-35-29-29-19)

 

So Alex Ovechkin gets the Hart because he was invisible for 2/3's of the season and had a strong finish?  Some say because he "revitalized his career"?  Pathetic "Old Guard" move.  The fact that Crosby was voted into second place when the Pengwhines didn't skip a beat in the 12 games he missed is just sad.

 

How about an emerging superstar helping his team reach the playoffs for the first time since 2007?  How about that same player leading by example in a battle with the Pittsburgh Penguins and pushing them to 6 hard fought games, exposing weaknesses that teams in their later rounds would use against the Penguins with great success.  JT and the Isles should continue to improve and force the hockey world to take notice.  Until then, respect will be limited it seems.

 

 

2013 Lady Bying Trophy voting results:

 

1. Martin St. Louis, T.B.           824             (47-29-21-12-10)             Total votes: 119
2. Patrick Kane, CHI                785             (44-28-20-13-10)             Total votes: 115
3. Matt Moulson, NYI               750             (35-28-27-17-18)             Total votes: 125

 

"Isles Moulson gets most votes, but finishes third in Lady Byng again. Moulson recorded only two minor penalties all season; the last came February 7th at MSG. Ironically he received a misconduct penalty at the end of Game 1 of the playoffs. Kane had four minor penalties, while St. Louis, who is looking to become the first player since Wayne Gretzky (1994) to win the Art Ross and Lady Byng Trophy in the same season, finished with 14 penalty minutes.  It's the 7th time in the last 8 seasons that either St. Louis or Pavel Datsyuk has won the award. Datsyuk finished fourth this year."

 

"It's the second straight season that Moulson was name on the most ballots but finished third in the voting by points. Last year Moulson was named 98 of 147 ballots, to Jordan Eberle's 91 and Brian Campbell's 89 but Campbell won the Award."

 

Matt Moulson can't get respect from his native Canada by being invited to its national team despite averaging over 30 goals in his last 3 seasons with the Isles.  This season was only 48 games due to the lockout, Moulson was still able to net 15 and 29 for 44 pts.  He is rarely in the box and seems to get written onto most of the balloting, but has been ignored twice already.  The respect Moulson gets from his peers is obvious.  Not sure what more he has to accomplish to win the award.

 

 

2013 Selke Trophy Note:

 

"Islanders forward Frans Nielsen finished 11th in the Selke balloting (won by Jonathan Toews)."

 

The skill level possessed by Nielsen is high, but is no match for the level of play he brings to each and every shift.  He is either jumping into the play or defending the Islanders net with nothing left by the time he makes it back to the bench.  Still, Nielsen has mastered the two way game and gets his share of special teams play and is feared in the shootout.  Before this season, his hard work was for a string of losing seasons.  This year, he was a big part of the Isles success and their ability to reach the next level as an organization. He should be at the top of this list for this award.

 

 

2013 Jack Adams Trophy voting results:

 

1. Paul MacLean, OTT         206             (28-19-9)
2. Joel Quenneville, CHI      160            (22-13-11)
3. Bruce Boudreau, ANA      88             (6-15-13)
4. Michel Therrien, MTL        78             (10-6-10)
5. Jack Capuano, NYI           47             (5-5-7)

 

"Islander coach Jack Capuano, who led the team to their first playoff berth since 2007, finished 5th in the balloting."

 

I killed Jack Capuano for much of this season.  I was disgusted at the inconsistency of the team and the fragile nature of their psyche.  Capuano seemed to never deviate from his plan and often seemed unable to answer a change in the oppositions game plan.  But the truth is, he has improved the Isles play as a team and as their late season winning streak has shown, his system has shown improvement by the players within in.  And in the playoffs this year, the Isles had a lot more composure than most of the hockey world game them credit for.  As long as they cycled, finished hits and pressed the opposition, they dictated play and had a lot of success.  I am not saying I have bought into him completely, but he too deserves more respect than he has been shown.

 

 

2013 GM of the Year Award voting results:

 

                                                Pts.          (1st,2nd,3rd)

1.         Ray Shero, PIT             94            (14-6-6)

2.         Bob Murray, ANA         88             (11-9-6)

3.         Marc Bergevin, MTL     75            (7-12-4)

4.         Stan Bowman, CHI       36            (3-6-3)

5.         Bryan Murray, OTT      23            (2-2-7)

6.         Garth Snow, NYI           8             (0-1-5)

 

"Garth Snow was named on six ballots, and finished 6th."

 

Garth Snow's rebuild has come to show some teeth in 2013.  His draft picks, waiver wire pick ups and free agent signings don't seem like the "dumpster diving" he had been accused of.  The truth is he has a real understanding of the game and the way the NHL works and navigates it pretty well.  Of all the GM's that placed above him in voting, his team achieved the most for what they could bring to bear.  As previously stated, no other GM's had budgetary the constraints of lack of facilities that Snow had coming into last season.  Brooklyn will help their cause, but the young team with limited experience put together by Snow should continue to fight their way onto the front page, and force the mainstreamers and haters to look upon them with respectability.  If there was one thing shown to us this season, it's that they will work as hard as anyone else to earn it.

 

 

Per Darren Dreger, "Told Streit deal with Flyers is 4 years, $5.25 mil per.  Streit's agreement will also include a limited no-trade. He would submit a list of teams he would be willing to move to."  The final trigger wont be pulled until the Flyers make the required cap space to accomodate Streit's 35+ contract. (Brierre & Bryzgalov per McKenzie)

Best of luck to Streit when he isn't playing the Islanders, but man, what a bad deal for a Philadelphia.  Thats why he wasn't making JT money playing for us while in a defensive decline on the blue line. They had better hope he stays healthy.

 

 

Isles Notes:

 

 

Per Brett Cyrgalis, "NHL source says Shane Harper will likely not get a qualifying offer from Isles. In deal so Flyers get under 50 contracts."

 

Per @H_P_Hockey, Former Islanders defenseman Dylan Reese signs one-year deal with Amur Khabarovsk (KHL).

 

NHL Notes:

 

Per Chris Daniels, "Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn acknowledges recent discussions with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.  I can also now confirm Lanza and Bartoszek are the two investors interested in bringing Coyotes to Seattle."

Streit to Philadelphia?

The Philadelphia Flyers traded prospect Shane Harper and a 2014 fourth round pick to the Isles for negotiating rights to D, Mark Streit. 

 

 

This means Philadelphia has exclusive rights to negotiate with Streit until July 5th.  If Streit isnt signed by the opening of free agency, he will be open to offers from all 30 NHL teams.

Per Arthur Staple, "Source indicates Streit "likely" to sign with Flyers, but Philly needs to shed salary first. Have to wait til buyout window opens."  

 

Probably an amnesty buyout for Bryzgalov and Briere to make room for Streit.  Bob McKenzie reminds us that compliance buyouts can't happen until 48 hours after the end of the Cup final. 

Per Anthony Stabile, "Shane Harper is a 24yo RW, spent the last 3 years in ADK he was 19-21-40 in 138gs. spent 15gs in ECHL last year and had 27 points."  Harper is an RFA who will attain UFA status if no qualifying offer is made by the Isles.  He will most likely be a depth signing for Bridgeport if he stays with the Isles organization.

 

 

 

Isles Notes:

"Frans Nielsen will sign autographs for fans at the Islanders Team Store located next to the Nassau Coliseum Box Office on Thursday, June 13 from 6 – 7:30 p.m.* As an added bonus, all Season Ticket Holders in attendance will receive exclusive pricing which includes up to 50% off all merchandise and will have VIP access to meet Nielsen."
 

Per Arthur Staple, Source: Nassau Coliseum proposal by MSG would include Isles sports bar. 

Wow, Seriously. 

 

NHL Notes:

 

Per Pierre LeBrun, "Bill Daly also said work continues on the Olympic agreement... should be some movement on that in the "neat future."

 

"Bettman said they've chosen new division names for re-alignment next season but won't announce it until next month."

Garth Snow: New York Islanders Booster Club Meeting on 6/10/13

Yesterday, I traveled in the pouring rain from Mahopac after work to the Mariott on the Colisieum grounds for something special.  The New York Islanders Booster Club was meeting, featuring special guest speaker, Islanders General Manager, Garth Snow.

Despite the weather, it was a good turnout for the Booster Club.  Islanders fans are serious about their hockey, and I am no different.  I set myself up directly in front of Garth in hopes of asking a few questions.  I was able to ask plenty along with the rest of my peers in the basement ampitheature.

My live tweets came as the subject matter shifted, changed and sometimes repeateded itself, but here is what I was able to report on while trying to listen and type at the same time:

"On DP, Isles haven't made a choice on direction." 

There are plenty of rumours, trading assets and draft picks, etc to a team just for taking him or trading for another underperformer with high valued contract.  Even an exchange with Vancouver for Longo. I know Luongo is a class act and solid goaltender, but I'd rather not lock the Isles down to a long term contract with him.  Ryan Miller, Johnathan Bernier or Jaroslav Halak.

"Hamonic extension is ongoing", per Snow.  Bailey negotiations incoming.

I would be happy to have them both back, for a multi year deal.  Hammer struggled last year, but is relentless in his task while Bailey seems to be finding more of his game and should be a good fit on most lines.

"Cizikas, McDonald & Martin have made impact in big way. When asked if among best 3rd or 4th lines, he smiled n said "They played like it."

What more can I say on these guys.  Anyone who has watched N.Y. last season knows their ability to change or aid the Isles with quick recovery in a game.

"Just a mention on Boyes, he did say it was possible he would/could be resigned. But no real tell either way."

Boyes fit well and was a big player in the regular season.  I'd welcome him back, but I'd rather go after an upgrade if one is available.

"Snow says they have a lot of good options on possible Captaincy, nothing has been decided yet."

There are many leaders on this young Isles team.  K.O, Bailey, Nielsen, MacDonald and Hamonic just to name a few.  But in my estimation, John Tavares needs to be Captain of this team.  I applaud Garth Snow's Islanders team for always weighing out their options and taking their time with big decisions.

"Snow says PP has gotten "too cute" due to confidence of his players. Need to focus on improving."  PK will also be a focus.

Special teams was something Snow brought up a few times.  They were happy with their success, especially towards the end of the season.  The focus for this season will be to build on their success of last season and correct what went wrong. Easier said than done, but that why I am not the coach.  Although I love studying film.

"Snow follows up how to replace Streit with Matt Donovan. Snow wants him on roster.  Donovan & Nelson have best shot of making roster this season", per Snow.

Based on last season's call up performances and time in the system, Snow feels they are the most ready and their skill sets will be the most needed.  Camp performances will be the final factor, but these guys are close in managements eyes.

"Camp will open competition and that will give Snow clearer picture. Options are there for guys to win jobs. (Nino, Strome)  Anders Lee will get his shot to make the team, after playing well last season. Camp will tell.  Snow is thrilled with depth, loves the competition."

With the depth of the system, the Isles have some seriously talented guys that will have a chance to make the team.  Nino and Strome atop the list.  We will see what happens.

"Kirill Petrov - no plans on playing in NHL."

Snow said, "He likes playing in Russia."  Ok, then.

"Isles will most likely start season with 7 defensemen for depth, worked well lat season."

An example of management staying with what has worked for them.  They must improve their defensive core and need to be sure they have serious depth at the position.  Of all the prospects, Many need more seasoning.

"Booster "Is it fair to say Martinek wont be back?" Snow " I wouldn't say that."

In a limited role with limited games played, why not.  Experienced and skilled depth at a great price.

"Poulin will need waivers if he doesn't make roster. Thats a consideration to making team. Nilsson had viral infection that kept him off ice." 

"Goaltending to be known in next three weeks. Open to Nabby, Poulin, Nilsson competing and going outside for a goaltender."

The current mix of signed and unsigned goaltending talent is there.  I think the Isles should improve beyond Nabokov, but keep him in the mix if a trade or acquisition cant be made in the next three weeks.  The draft and free agency pulse will tell Isles management a lot on what the plan might be.

Snow "Isles will probably pick a goalie in this draft." He said it will keep system fresh.

And Snow also mentioned "Isles were happy with Koskinen's development overseas. He is getting minutes he needs & he is still in their plan."

These two points will be spoken about a little further down. *

"Per Garth Snow, Tim Thomas will not be on the team after July 5th."

A money move at the time and nothing more.  Next!

"Snow said jerseys should remain the same. Focus now on an outdoor jersey that is close to Isles current style. No plans for black n white."

A huge deal to many fans, the look of their New York Islanders is important.  Orange, blue and white are the colors and the classic logo is a mainstay.  Another jersey fitting the traditional scheme, but varied for the "outdoor game" was a huge deal with my followers on twitter and why not.  Its exciting and a major NHL event we get to experience as fans of the Isles.

"Snow said Barclay's center is set up well for hockey, seats are right over ice. It will be a loud building."

"Iceworks is still an option for practice facility, but there are many options open to team."

The facilities will work themselves out when the time is right.  Snow and his assistant hinted at many options and possibilities for practices moving forward.  With all thats at stake, I am confident that the Barclays' Center will be all it can be.

*  "After yesterdays Booster meeting, todays goalie talk, I get the feeling Nino & Poulin could be moved if right offers came to Snow. Hunch.  Snow said he was proud of his team, but not satisfied with season. To me it means simple refocusing isn't enough. Changes coming. "

Picking a goalie to keep the system "fresh" and Koskinen still being evaluated, the Islanders have a luxury of young talent with a high pedigree.  Players like Nino & Poulin coupled with other assets or picks may fetch young a promising goaltender, talented defensemen or star forward in the making a little further in thier development while the Isles keep their chosen "prospects" developing at their desired pace.

Some information was not new and was spoken about partly in other articles.

One thing is for sure, the next few weeks could be the most exciting for the organization in some time.  The Booster meeting was filled with passionate fans who have invested years in the Islanders organization and want to start having thie loyalty repaid.  Good for them.  I feel the same way.  But for the first time in a long time, I think Charles Wang, Garth Snow and the Islanders organization are finally in a position to start paying some of that loyalty back.

Brace yourself, October is coming.

Isles Notes:

BREAKING NEWS: Isles to play preseason game vs. Sens in Barrie, ON.

This day in 1974, Isles Denis Potvin is awarded the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie.

This day in 1979, Isles Bryan Trottier wins the Hart Trophy as league MVP.

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I would like to thank all the established and respected bloggers Like Dominik, Dee, Kevin, Anthony and pages like Islander Mania & Isles fans in Brooklyn and my fellow Isles fans on Twitter for their shout outs yesterday in recognition for KoC feeding live tweets during Garth Snows Q&A at the Booster meeting. 

I realize there was a large group of fans present, but I was able to break live news directly from the Islanders General Manager in real time directly to a large group of Islanders fans over Twitter yesterday.  There were even a few bits of information that I revealed to the fan base or even the hockey world as a whole for first time.  To me that was exciting and I was so glad was able to share those things with my followers on twitter and you my readers of KoC tonight in review. 

#beLIeve  #STRONGisland

Thanks to everyone who has helped KoC reach 300 "Likes!!" Tell a fellow fan to come and "Like" us as well and we can watch a most promising draft & free agency period and summer come to pass. The Isles are ready for another run. What pieces will they add?

Hockey Notes:

The CHL is reportedly going through with its European goalie ban starting in 2014.