Travis Hamonic spoke to the media today
regarding the rumors that he requested a trade from the New York Islanders. He confirmed that the request was made strictly
for personal reasons and had nothing to do with his feelings on the
organization, "The root of all this is a personal family matter of mine
that I hold dear to my heart.”
Hamonic went on to speak highly of his team
and the people he has known since being drafted 53rd overall by New
York in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. “It has nothing to do with the organization
or how I’ve been treated here for six years of playing and another two or three
since I was drafted. I’ve honestly been treated like gold from the start.” He went on to say that he would play the
entire season if the situation warranted that he do so. That particular detail gives Garth Snow much
more formal leverage when dealing with other possible suitors interested in
trading for Travis Hamonic. Head coach
Jack Capuano agrees with the way the team has reacted to the situation. Per Brett Cyrgalis, “Capuano said he's known
about this for months, he and Snow have talked about players in the West. Life
is more important than hockey.”
Hamonic suggested that he respects Isles
ownership, coaching staff and General Manager and it was made clear today that
he always has respect of his organization and his teammates. “When [Garth and I] talked about this, it was
more on a personal level than just a player-GM thing,” Hamonic said. “He
understands what this means for me and how difficult it is. He’s really been
there for me and I couldn’t thank him enough.”
His teammates stood by Hamonic when addressing the media. “He's like a brother to many of us...I've
been with him here a long time and he's a great guy,” John Tavares said. “We're
there to support him, we're there for him and we made sure we let him know
that.” Hamonic addressed that exact
point when he spoke with the media today, "One thing I can guarantee and
promise is it's not going change how I play on the ice." Now that the initial distraction has blown
over, the Islanders can focus on a home at home series against the Montreal
Canadiens over the weekend.
Per Darren Dreger, “Good Insider Trading
segment tonight on TSN. Hamonic's agent (Epp) permitted to speak with GM's
about potential trade among topics.” The
only other detail that remains is to see what deal Garth Snow can make on the trade
front for his star defensemen during the season or into next summer. Whether you support his decision or not, Hamonic will most likely be leaving for another team when the right deal can be made. That choice is yours to make.
NHL Notes:
The NHL, NHLPA announce new format for Honda NHL
All-Star game in more detail.
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