An independent blog on the New York Islanders, the NHL and AHL by a guy from New York.

Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Islanders Off-Season 2015: Quick on JT, LIRR & NHL's MLBAM Media Deal



Jonathan Quick wrote a two-part series on NHL snipers where he gave an interesting perspective on the top offensive talent in the NHL from the viewpoint of an elite, Stanley Cup winning goaltender.  Both parts are worth the read, but Isles fans should take note of Quick’s observations on Tavares in Part 2.  He said that JT was "insanely balanced & tenacious."  He mentions the ability of Tavares to use his strength to shrug off defenders and mount a dangerous and elusive attack on net in a pretty deke, passing play or dirty goal.  His hockey IQ and off-the-ice regiment is also praised by Quick.  “You have the work he puts in in the weight room in the summertime to have the strength to shrug off defenders and maintain balance after 60-plus minutes of hockey, plus you have the hockey IQ to map out how to get past three defenders.”




The @LIRR is adding increased service to and from Barclays Center for all Isles homegames.  These services will include additional, non-stop trains to help Long Island residents make the trip a little easier.  There was no mention of reduced fares or specials for Isles fans using the LIRR at this time.  I can appreciate the concern that some fans are voicing about a longer trip to attend games.  As a resident of Putnam NY, my trips to the Coliseum could take over 2 hours by car.  But with our team remaining in NY, it is something we can all get used to if we want to see the team live.  Even if it means less visits to the BC for some fans.

And on the subject of 15-16 Isles games, the following 2015-16 match-ups can be seen nationally on @NBCSN @7:30pm: 11/25 vs. PHI 12/2 vs. NYR 2/4 @ WSH 3/8 vs. PIT 3/21 vs. PHI.



The NHL made a major announcement today.

MLBAM announced a “Historic” media deal with the NHL that will launch in January.  Charles Wang’s former provider, NeuLion is slated to assist MLBAM and aid them in the transition to full creative control.  They will create new digital products & platforms in a state-of-the-art production facility. “The partnership will transform the fan experience by creating a fully integrated global hub of digital content that encompasses video, live game streaming, social media, fantasy, apps, along with statistical and analytical content.”  It is also important to remember that although MLBAM will control NHL.com, "The NHL and its member clubs retain editorial control across all platforms."  Any fears that MLB will control how NHL hockey is depicted shouldn’t be validated by the new agreement.  It is also notable that the product perfected by MLBAM is recognized as the “gold standard in streaming sports” per The Hockey News.  It should be a win for hockey fans everywhere if it’s as good as advertised.





AHL Notes:


New season, new teams, new rules. Read up on the changes coming to the AHL. 



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