tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58143578282429430682024-02-19T00:28:22.112-05:00Knight of CupsJoe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.comBlogger780125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-32034911977495796062019-12-01T12:06:00.001-05:002019-12-01T12:08:27.905-05:00What's up with KoC?<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
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What is unfolding as the greatest season since the
Islanders cup era has been amazing to watch as a fan. So many topics and subjects that
raced through my mind each week. From the streak to the players, its been a
treasure trove of excitement.</div>
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Unfortunately, I haven't written since the season
preview. Each time something else broke or the Isles smashed another record, I
formulated portions of my next article in my head, but I never wrote it.</div>
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For those of you who know me, you've been following my
struggles helping my Father fight against his losing battle with Alzheimer's
and Dementia. You may know something of his 7 successful bouts of cancer he has
gotten through and the immense struggle the role of caretaker has taken on our
family. Finding and hiring home health aides in Putnam County New York seems to
be an impossible climb year in and year out. Reliability and compassion are a
dying commodity. My wife and I haven't been able to live our own lives in 6+
years due to his care, and we have been grateful for every day we have been
able to do so. He means that much to us. <o:p></o:p></div>
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After a bout of weakness, he went to the E.R. and then to
rehab. We intended to monitor him for a week or so and bring him back after he
was stronger, then manage his care from home. I kept his home-based care
notified and juggled his insurance, agency and medical care while we got
transport ready. He was set to come home on a Wednesday, and his primary aid
quit on that Monday after telling me everything was good. Dad remains in the
rehab facility, confused and anxious to come home, and my stomach turns as I
struggle to find replacement aids, speak with his insurance, and consider our
options.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have missed weeks at a time in the past due to family
obligations, and as a solitary, uncredentialled blogger, it's not something I
could ever help. I have a career in marketing and a lot to see too at home.
Like so many others, time for me is a fantasy. I squeeze in a visit with
buddies here and there, a Troop with the 501st now and then or manage a few
hours to shop or watch T.V. with my wife when possible.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This year, my wife was hit with an illness that has local
and specialized medical professionals in NYC's top hospitals confused. She's
been trying to fight through it, but it eventually caused her to focus on her
own well being over everything else. That's included missing months of work and fighting through disabling pain and discomfort every day. It's taken its toll on me as well. Watching her endure this has
been and continues to be crushing. Her current courage in the face of this
unknown illness is inspirational. Dad's understanding in his fleeting moments
of clarity has been another humbling experience in this journey. I hate not being able to change our situation but I'm relentless in our fight.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The future of 'Knight of Cups' remains very important to me. I love this team and enjoy my interactions and
friendships built with other Isles fans through games or social media. I'm not
sure when I will get back to writing in the near future. I may just do an
article here and there when I can master my anxiety and caregiver stress. What
I wanted to say was don't ever think my absence from a place I've built over
the last eight years is easy or isn't something I take seriously.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you to everyone who has supported me since day one,
joined somewhere along the journey, or met me at a store or out of my car at a
traffic light (what's up Ryan) trying to forge my way through the New York
Islanders blogosphere. Let's enjoy the season together and keep cheering our
guys on. I may be at the Coliseum with the 501st legion for Star Wars night on
December 14th and still hope to make a game or two this season. I'll look for you guys in the parking lot. =)<o:p></o:p></div>
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See you soon. Keep bleeding, Orange, and Blue.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-5528191786700749632019-10-02T18:56:00.001-04:002019-10-03T15:54:27.416-04:002019 KoC New York Islanders Season Preview<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">What we
know:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/04/new-york-islanders-2018-19-season-recap.html">Last season</a>,
Our Isles surprised the hockey world by finishing 5th in the NHL (4th in the
east) with a 48-27-7 record for 103 points, taking an NHL worst defense to best
overall (league-best 196 overall, 100 goals off prior season's total) under new
head coach, Barry Trotz and <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/04/sweeping-pittsburgh-koc-new-york.html">swept</a> Pittsburgh in the first round of the NHL
playoffs. Fans wanted a top forward to add to the mix. This summer, the Isles went for
Panarin, who ultimately chose the Rangers (7 years at $81.5M). Per Andrew
Gross, "Asked Lou whether he was confident in Isles scoring potential,
particularly among top six Fs: "I'm one who doesn't worry about scoring.
All I worry about is goal differential. If we score two goals every night and
give up one, I'm not worried about scoring."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">What we look
like:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our 2019-20
New York Islanders announced their 23-man roster. As expected, they will carry
14 forwards, seven defensemen and two goaltenders. The Islanders open the
season on Friday, Oct. 4 at NYCB Live, Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial
Coliseum against the Washington Capitals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Forwards:
Josh Bailey, Mathew Barzal, Anthony Beauvillier, Derick Brassard, Casey
Cizikas, Cal Clutterbuck, Michael Dal Colle, Jordan Eberle, Ross Johnston, Leo
Komarov, Tom Kuhnhackl, Anders Lee, Matt Martin & Brock Nelson.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Defensemen:
Johnny Boychuk, Noah Dobson, Nick Leddy, Scott Mayfield, Adam Pelech, Ryan
Pulock & Devon Toews.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Goaltenders:
Thomas Greiss & Semyon Varlamov</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">What we
expect:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lamoriello
didn't add much sizzle this summer but put faith in the core. He re-signed unrestricted free agents <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/07/koc-isles-2019-free-agency-part-1.html">Anders Lee</a> (& years at $49M), <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/05/islanders-lock-up-brock-nelson.html">Brock Nelson</a>
(6 years at $36M) and <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/06/islanders-extend-jordan-eberle.html">Jordan Eberle</a> (5 years at $27.5M). Fans expect big things from these three this season. Eberle has been on fire in the preseason, while
Lee looks ready to block goaltenders and generate chances. "I think he
likes the group we have," Nelson said. "The chemistry we had last
year. It's a testament to the guys we have and that everybody believes in each
other." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Barzal had less scoring (13 fewer points) in 2018-19 but vastly improved his overall game and was a significant asset for New York. This season, Trotz has him taking time on the PK to generate some shorthanded chances. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The rest of
the guys need to keep the pedal down too. Bailey was great last year and
should only improve as his linemates get better. <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/08/islanders-re-sign-beauvillier.html">Beauvillier</a> wants to start the
season well and make an impact to improve his future with the Islanders. Dal Colle earned his spot and looks to continue
improving while Johnston & Kuhnhackl have added depth and shown to be ready
when called upon. <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/08/islanders-add-brassard.html">Brassard</a> (1 year, $1.2M) replaces Filppula (Detroit) and has all
the motivation in the world to make an impact that started with a strong preseason. Komarov was as advertised with his leadership qualities and the character.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Casey
Cizikas, "We had our expectations last year, and we knew what type of
group we have, now, the whole world knows what type of group we have. Going
into this season, we're just going to try to replicate that and outwork
teams." Cory Wright wrote, "The Isles were 35-16-6 when its 'Identity
Line' consisting of Matt Martin, Casey Cizikas, and Cal Clutterbuck played
together and are 13-11-1 when one or more missed a game."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Defensively,
the gauntlet has been thrown again. Mayfield, Pelech, Puloch, and Toews will
need to continue their evolution and answer all challenges on defense and special teams. No opponents will be surprised this season. The rest of the NHL will be
looking to question their legitimacy. What about the new guy? Per Andrew Gross,
"Isles rookie D Noah Dobson says he's not taking it for granted that he's
made final roster even with veteran Thomas Hickey placed on waivers.
"Being here today, being on the ice today is definitely a good sign,
hopefully, I get the opportunity to be on the final roster." An opportunity
has been granted. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Cory Wright, "Trotz on Dobson: "The vision for
him is pretty clear in terms of what we think of him... Through training camp,
he's given us no reason to think he can't handle the workload."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Goaltending
will be a bit of a question mark, at least to start. Greiss has proven to be a
workhorse and gives the Isles a chance to win every night. The loss of Lehner
has to be mentioned. He and Greiss made a good tandem. The best tandem in the
NHL actually. They won the Jennings Trophy for the fewest goals allowed last
season. Per Cory Wright, "Robin Lehner (6) and Thomas Greiss (5) combined
for an Islander record 11 shutouts throughout the regular season. The 11
shutouts led the NHL in 2018-19."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">"Robin
Lehner set an Islanders single-season record with a .930 save percentage this
season. Lehner, who is a finalist for both the Vezina Trophy and the Bill
Masterton Memorial Trophy, went 25-13-5 with a 2.13 GAA, .930 SV% and recorded
six shutouts. Lehner set career highs in wins and shutouts." Lehner signed
a 1 year, $5M deal with Chicago after unsuccessful negotiations with Lou
Lamoriello.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Goalie
Semyon Varlamov signed a 4 year, $20M deal. At 31, the Isles brass feels
Varlomov can contribute and even take control in net. He has been an excellent
goaltender in recent years and will probably benefit from the direction of
Mitch Korn and Pierro Greco just as Lehner did. "[Varlamov has] been
working with our goaltending department, and they've been giving him some
things to work on to get his game to the level that he needs to [to start the
season]," head coach Barry Trotz said recently. "Hopefully, as we go
along here, he'll settle in."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Some
interesting storylines from camp were centered around a few guys that didn't
make it but remain in the system. <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/08/islanders-re-sign-rfas-ho-sang-dal-colle.html">Ho-Sang</a>, Fritz and Hickey have all cleared
waivers. Per Andrew Gross, Barry Trotz on Josh Ho-Sang being placed on waivers:
"I think it was his best camp, the reason being he was consistent. His
attention to detail was much better. He's made strides. Every time he gets an
opportunity at camp or regular season, he's closer and closer." Trotz on
Ho-Sang and Hickey: "I'm disappointed for them but I'm happy for us. They
are very much in the mix for us still."</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">UPDATE:</b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span><i style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">10/3, Per
Arthur Staple, “Lamoriello: Ho-Sang's rep asked for a trade, so we told him not
to report for a few days while we worked on that. Didn't want to disrupt
Bridgeport's prep for their season starting this weekend. If there's no trade
to be found, Ho-Sang will report to BPT. "Once he goes to Bridgeport, he's
there." Even though you know you're being fair and honest with a player,
sometimes they don't see it that way. So we take a step back and see what's out
there. "Then you can look somebody in the eye and say, it is what it
is." Added that Ho-Sang has done nothing wrong.”</i><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I understand Ho-Sang’s
frustration, but he wasn’t claimed on waivers. I don’t think there’s a trade
partner out there at this time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Look for
Wahlstrom and Jobst to be super motivated to look for a call-up. They were
reliable in camp and showed some threat level around the net.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">It should be
an exciting start to the season. Lamoriello has his playbook, and Trotz has the
reigns with a new look power play under coach, Jim Hiller. The guys have their
next challenge ahead of them and should hit the ice skating hard. There is
always a possibility they may find a trade or two available to improve if the
player fits into the plan.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Can't wait
until Friday.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">A reminder
Islanders fans can listen to every game on ESPN Radio streaming platforms, as
well as broadcast 59 live games on ESPN 1050 and seven games on ESPN 98.7. As
part of the agreement, the broadcasts will remain available on the NHL and New
York Islanders mobile apps and website, as well as WRHU (Hofstra Radio 88.7)
and 103.9 Long Island News. Fans can visit the Islander's official website
(https://www.nhl.com/islanders) for information on what station each game will
be on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Some of the
last players sent to AHL Bridgeport were Aho, Bellows, Durandeau, Eansor,
Hitchcock, Hutton, Jobst, Koivula, Kubiak, MacLean, Schilkey & Stevens.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Micahel
Fornabaio, "Sound Tigers announce that team president Michael Picker, a
longtime Islanders executive, will retire next month."</span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-14111152290159653632019-09-23T19:08:00.002-04:002019-09-24T16:38:18.558-04:00Islanders Break Ground at Belmont & add 7 to Coliseum Schedule<br />
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Our New York Islanders held a press conference today on the
Belmont arena site. Governor Cuomo joined Isles Co-Owner John Ledecky, National Hockey League Commissioner
Gary Bettman along with the Empire State Development, Oak View Group, local
town politicians and some Isles faithful to officially break ground on the
$1.3B redevelopment project. The future is a state-of-the-art Sports Complex,
Luxury Hotel, and Retail Village along with a new stop on the LIRR in Elmont
that will bring Long Islanders to the new complex and NYC. A plan the Governor
said would create a premier destination on the Island and give a boost to the
economy. It was fitting that John Ledecky mentioned Charles
B. Wang as a champion for his team’s destination home and his commitment to
keeping them on the Island. The arena will seat up to 19,000 for events and
17,113 clear sightlines for hockey. The <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2017/10/isles-arena-news-ownership-answers.html">Barclays center</a> seats 15,813 with some
obstructed views.</div>
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"The Islanders belong on Long Island - and today we start
building the state-of-the-art home this team and their fans deserve while
generating thousands of jobs and billions in economic activity for the region's
economy," Governor Cuomo said. "With seven more Islanders games at
the Coliseum this season, fans will have even more opportunities to see their
favorite team and generate momentum for the move to their new home in two
years. At the end of the day, this project is about building on two great Long
Island traditions - Belmont Park and the Islanders - and making them greater
than ever."</div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Isles will play seven more games at the Coliseum (total of 28)
this season. Games included are Oct. 6 vs. Winnipeg, Oct. 8 vs. Edmonton, Oct.
27 vs. Flyers, Jan. 2 vs. Devils, Jan. 6 vs. Avalanche, Jan. 16 vs. Rangers
& Feb. 25 vs. Rangers, all 7 pm starts. Islanders Co-Owner, Jon Ledecky
said, "We celebrate this historic day with our loyal fans and thank
Governor Cuomo, who has championed the Belmont Park Arena project from the
start. The Islanders also thank the elected officials and our community for
their support in helping reach this franchise milestone." Per Brian
Compton, "Playoff games at Coliseum are TBD, per Lou Lamoriello."
Fans embraced team members on the dais, Isles celebrity fans Ralph Macchio and
Kevin Connolly along with even Gary Bettman. You heard me. Well, there was a
lot to celebrate.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said, "Thanks to the
commitment, dedication, and vision of Governor Cuomo, Islanders fans are
getting the world-class home this team deserves. The Islanders belong on Long
Island, and the future is incredibly bright for this franchise." Bettman
also said the Islanders have twice as many season ticket holders now than they
did a year ago.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Per Release, "Announced in December 2017, the Belmont
Redevelopment Project will turn 43 acres of underutilized parking lots at
Belmont Park into a premier sports and hospitality destination, including a new
19,000-seat arena for the New York Islanders hockey team and other events, a
250-key hotel, a state-of-the-art retail village and office and community
space. In addition, the project developers - New York Belmont Partners - will
improve two local parks in the surrounding community. It is said the project
will create 10,000 jobs and sustain, "3,200 new full-time jobs, produce
$858 million in annual economic activity and generate tens of millions of
dollars in new annual tax revenue." Despite some ongoing, local opposition
and lawsuits, the project has many people happy in an economically struggling
Nassau County.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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But Isles fans are passionate. Not easily impressed. We are
thrilled to see Belmont <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2017/12/islanders-and-belmont-done-deal.html">officially</a>, <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/08/approved-esd-approves-13b-islanders.html">officially</a> become a thing. Excited to have
the promise of last season as we enter this one. And to want more from the team
on the ice. We are happy, more optimistic, but not satisfied just yet.</div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Isles fan, Frank Kowalczyk had this to say on Twitter. "I was
young, but witnessed the dynasty. I watched the amazing '93 season from the
stands. We've been complaining since Milbury, and it's going to take a while to
get rid of that stench." Like many of us, Frank is a loyal, passionate
fan, but he gets it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Some prospects that have impressed. Koivula has been turning heads
with the BST (46 pts last Ssn) and has been sharp in camp. Dobson and Wahlstrom
have looked good, and you might want to grab a Jobst jersey. Where will Dal
Colle and Ho-Sang fit in?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Per Arthur Staple, "Few guys who'd been in camp appear to
already be headed to BPT: Helgeson, Durandeau, Eansor, Hitchcock, MacLean,
Stevens, Kubiak not on ice here today."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-66556277232103435372019-08-28T18:03:00.002-04:002019-08-28T19:55:04.959-04:00Islanders Re-Sign Beauvillier<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our New York
Islanders announced that 22-year-old, forward Anthony Beauvillier agreed to
terms on a two-year deal. Staple (per @PuckPedia) reports it’s a $2.1M AAV. “<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hashtag_click" target="_blank">#Isles</a> now
have a little over $4.6 million in cap space and 25 one-way contracts, not
including Barzal and Dobson on ELCs... Crowded roster with camp 15 days away.”
It should indeed be an exciting camp and a preseason that could see some late
additions and demotions within the organization based on who wants to impress.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Beauvillier, a
28th overall selection for New York in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, scored 18
& 10 for 28 points in 81 games last season and notched a goal and an assist
in the 8 postseason appearances for the Isles in his 1st career playoff
appearance. In his 218 NHL game career, Beauvillier has 48 & 40 for 88
points. Beau has been one of my favorite Islanders based on his hustle and all of his charity work to benefit Alzheimer's research in Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">We were <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/08/islanders-re-sign-rfas-ho-sang-dal-colle.html">waiting</a>
for the big RFA signing to happen, and today it did. The great Stan Fischler
said of Beauvillier, “Among my favorite @NYIslanders, #AnthonyBeauvillier </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">is one who could be ready for a
real, break-out season. The kid sure has the goods.” Lou Lamoriello said ‘Beau’
was on board to re-sign prior to September and he was. Beauvillier is a resilient player and works
hard to improve his game. Without much of a free agent splash this summer, the
Isles forward should get his shot to make some noise at the top of the Isles lineup.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">@titobeauvi21, “Thrilled
to be coming back to the island. Couldn’t be happier. Let’s get the season
going.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Beau'ty.</span></div>
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Isles Notes:</div>
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Per Andrew Gross, “<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hashtag_click">#Isles</a> confirm
Scott Gomez has left organization and will not return to coaching staff for
2019-20. He was not fired.”</div>
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Per Cory Wright, “Varlamov on working with Mitch Korn
& Piero Greco. "I’m open to learning something because the league is
changing, the game is changing, so goalies need to come up with some new ideas.
I know we can trust these two guys and they are going to help us improve our
game." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hashtag_click">#Isles</a>”</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per release, Beauvillier represented Team Canada at the 2018 World Championship (3 points in 9 games) and won a gold medal at the 2014 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament along with a bronze medal with Canada at the 2015 World Under-18 Championships. “Beauvillier served as an alternate captain for Team Quebec at the 2014 World Under-17 Championships, recording four points (two goals, two assists) in six games.”</span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-2500335333982109392019-08-21T18:35:00.003-04:002019-08-22T10:22:27.401-04:00Islanders Add Brassard<br />
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Our New York Islanders announced that Derick Brassard has
agreed to terms on a one-year contract. The deal is worth $1.2 million according
to Arthur Staple. It's a decent, low-risk move that can help push the prospects
hard and yield the kind of results the team needs from their up and comers.
While his career numbers say he's in a bit of slide after playing 70 games
with three different teams (PIT, FLA, COL) last season, accumulating 14 & 9
for 24 points, Brassard can still help the Islanders.</div>
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The soon to be 32-year-old Brassard will give the Isles much
needed veteran depth at the center position. Per release, Brassard has 176
& 275 for 451 points in 786 career NHL games with 6 NHL teams. Initially, a
1st round, 6th overall by Columbus in 2006, the 6'1, 202# Brassard has 60 NHL
playoff points (23 & 37) in 99 games over his career.</div>
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In 2016, his team-leading 11 points (5 & 6) led team
Canada and helped them win a gold medal in the IIHF World Championship. The
former AHL All-Star and QMJHL standout as rookie of the year and league
All-Star. "Back in 2006 when he was tearing up the 'Q' with Drummondville,
he was awarded the Michael Bossy Trophy for QMJHL Best Professional
Prospect."</div>
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Per Colin Stephenson, “On a conference call with Islanders
reporters, Derick Brassard said he hopes coming back to New York can spark a
resurgence in his production after a couple down years. Also, he pointed out
he's played a lot of games and had a lot of surgeries in the past few years.
Brassard added, “I had a rough season last year, bouncing around teams. I met
with Lou and Barry a few weeks back in New York, and when I looked back on
everything, I thought it was the best opportunity for me to be successful to
win some games and to come back to my old self.'' <o:p></o:p></div>
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We can probably look for Brassard to contend the 3rd line
center position and be used as necessary while the 2019-20 Isles find their
stride. I like the move, and the former Ranger is probably looking to prove a
point, and some are calling Brassard this seasons Filppula. Hopefully, depending
on his role, Brassard might add spark to the offense and possibly contribute something
on the Isles new-look PP under coach, Jim Hiller.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-23254872714438040382019-08-19T19:17:00.000-04:002019-08-19T21:06:47.082-04:00Islanders Re-Sign RFA's Ho-Sang & Dal Colle<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Today, our
New York Islanders re-signed two of their RFA's. Josh Ho-Sang signed a one-year, two-way ($874K NHL, $70K AHL) deal while Michael Dal Colle agreed to terms ($770K AAV) on a one-way, two-year contract.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Ho-Sang, 23,
has all the talent in the world and something to prove since being selected by the
Islanders in the 1st round, 28th overall selection in 2014. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">After
missing day 2 of Barry Trotz's first camp as the Isles Head Coach, Ho-Sang was
sent to Bridgeport (for personal reasons) where he had 8 and 35 for 43 points
in 56 games with the Sound Tigers last season and 292 points over his 256 game AHL
career. Per release, his 35 assists were third-most on the team, and he had a
goal and an assist in five AHL playoff games. Ho-Sang had two points with the
Isles last season during his 10-game call-up (Eberle injury) and 24 points (7
& 17) in 53 NHL career games with New York.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Arthur
Staple's recent article had a quote from Ken Strong of the Toronto Marlboros
where he Ho-Sang played minor-midget AAA. "(Josh) probably had more
individual skill than McDavid," Strong said. "Seeing the ice, playing
with his linemates — that's maybe what set him back, in my opinion. McDavid had
the ability even then to make his linemates better. Josh didn't quite get
that. But just incredible skill." Strong added "He's a great, great
person and someone I'd want on my team," Strong said. "It's almost
like he's a little lackadaisical in his game — you've got to fight for it more!
I don't know what it is. You know there's more there, but trying to get to it
is really frustrating."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">This season
is gift wrapped for Ho-Sang. Especially after what the Islanders did last
season under Barry Trotz. He will have an opportunity to work with his
linemates and help make the team better. He can use his high-level talent to propel
him into a big payday next summer if he listens, plays the game, practices hard
and becomes a professional in an organization that could be poised to break out. It's probably his last shot with New
York, especially with a GM like Lamoriello.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Michael Dal
Colle also agreed to terms today. Dal Colle's contract is a two-year deal with New York. Per
release, "Dal Colle, 23, recorded his first NHL points this past season,
finishing the year with three goals and four assists in 28 regular-season
games." The 6'2, 198-pound wing has struggled his first few years in
Bridgeport, probably flying below the expectations set by many when the
Isles selected him 5th overall in 2014. Last season, he found his stride
with the Sound Tigers, averaging a point-per-game with 34 (18 & 16) in 34
games, good enough to put him at the 2019 AHL All-Star with teammate, Sebastian
Aho.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Dal Colle
has scored 99 points (40 goals, 59 assists) in 172 career AHL games with
Bridgeport and a gold medal with Team Canada at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial
Tournament and played for Canada-Ontario at the 2013 World Under-17 Hockey
Challenge. He's got skills and the Islander's think he's ready to showcase them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Michael Dal
Colle certainly looked comfortable to me last season after being called up by the Islanders. In
28 games, Dal Colle scored 3 & 4 for 7 points with a +3 rating. Dal Colle now uses his size, knows where to be, and plays well with his
linemates as an NHL player. With more experience and two more years of seasoning, he has an
opportunity to prove he belongs on this team as they propel themselves into the <a href="http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/08/approved-esd-approves-13b-islanders.html">Belmont</a> era.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">We heard Lou
Lamoriello say all his RFA's were on board to re-sign, so fans are waiting for
news on Anthony Beauvillier. We're also waiting for more roster news through
camp and before the start of the 2019-20 season, but we just might find
ourselves waiting longer than we'd like. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles Notes:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Mikhail
Prokhorov sells Nets and Barclays Center to Joseph Tsai, <a href="https://www.newsday.com/sports/basketball/nets/nassau-coliseum-brooklyn-nets-1.35152120">keeps Nassau Coliseum</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/Newsday">@Newsday</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-62708030173426906032019-08-08T21:45:00.000-04:002019-08-19T21:28:38.977-04:00Approved: ESD approves $1.3B Islanders Arena Project in Belmont<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #1c1e29; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">
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We waited all day to hear the news from the Empire State Development Board on the Belmont Park Arena Environmental Impact Statement. Mainly, it was to remove the last hurdle for the Islanders Belmont Park Arena project to become a reality soon. When the news broke, Isles country breathed a sigh of relief. Finally. Another historic day for one of the most storied franchises in the NHL.</div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Per Randi Marshall, "Unanimous approval from the ESD board for </span><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isles?src=hashtag_click" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank">#isles</a><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> arena and Belmont redevelopment to move forward. And with that, meeting adjourned."</span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">All that remains is approval from the Franchise Oversight Board in the next couple of weeks to conclude but should be a formality. <b>UPDATE:</b> <i><a href="http://longisland.news12.com/story/40914269/franchise-oversight-board-approves-belmont-park-arena-project">Approved on 8/13</a></i>. Per Christian Arnold, "</span><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hashtag_click" style="color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank">#Isles</a><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> season ticket holders were sent an email today inviting them "to a special groundbreaking ceremony after Labor Day at Belmont Park. Get your shovels ready, as we hope to see each and every Season Ticket Member with us on the day."</span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">That will put New York back on the Island for good and on schedule to have our new projected $955M home open in time for the 2021-22 season. Per Stan Fischler, "Super-duper news; State approval for </span><a href="https://twitter.com/NYIslanders" style="color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank">@NYIslanders</a><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> arena at Belmont. That means shovel in the ground cannot be far away. Hooray, Hooray to ownership and all who have been behind Belmont."</span></div>
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Per Newsday, "As part of its approval, ESD also on Thursday adopted the environmental review's findings statement, an important procedural move because it opens the 120-day window for opponents to file lawsuits seeking to stop the project … When asked after the vote whether Floral Park village officials were considering legal action, such as an Article 78, to stop or delay the project, Deputy Floral Park Village Mayor Kevin Fitzgerald said, all options are still on the table."</div>
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Some Elmont residents welcomed the prospect of more jobs. Developers say the project will create 3,200 jobs and promise to fill 30 percent of the positions with people living within a four-mile radius around Belmont.</div>
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After two years of meetings, articles, reports, and rumors along with some local Floral Park opposition, all our fans wanted was the nod that the <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2017/12/islanders-and-belmont-done-deal.html">Belmont Arena</a> project was a go.</div>
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Islanders Ownership said it was. General manager, Lou Lamoriello said it was. And today, the ESD confirmed it. Nassau County will finally get a premiere destination and bring jobs and revenue back to the cash-strapped area. Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced a plan last month to build the new Elmont train station, attached to the north parking lot of Belmont Park.</div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Per Newsday, "New York Arena Partners, the project developers, have proposed a 19,000-seat arena, 350,000 square feet of upscale shops and restaurants, a 250-room hotel and parking on 43-acres of vacant state-owned property at Belmont Park. The development group is a partnership of the owners of the Islanders, the New York Mets and the arena development company Oak View Group."</span></div>
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That's some good news with just a month and a half left in the offseason. We are looking for our New York Islanders to add some more offensive punch via trade after a somewhat light and dicey <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/07/koc-isles-2019-free-agency-part-1.html">free agency period</a>. The retention of Anders lee, loss of Robin Lehner, and addition of 31-year-old netminder, Semyon Varlamov.</div>
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I'm ready to see how the team shapes up. I think they need to add a few key pieces, but no one gave them a chance last season, and they shocked the hockey world. But how much magic can the coaching staff keep conjuring with the current cauldron of talent?</div>
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There is still time Isles fans. Enjoy this announcement for how historic it will be for the future of the franchise.<br />
And special thanks to Charles Wang. This is a great tribute in his memory.<br />
<i>Thanks to Jim Baumbach, Candice Ferrette and Randi Marshall for their continued updates on the project and attention to all things Islanders Arena news.</i></div>
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Per Release, "The New York Islanders will play two nationally-televised games on NBCSN this season. The first nationally-televised game will take place on Jan. 2 vs. the New Jersey Devils. The second will take place vs. the Philadelphia Flyers on Feb. 11. Both games will begin at 7 pm."</div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">7/15 The New York Islanders announced that their 2019 1st round selection, Simon Holmstrom has agreed to terms on a 3-year, ELC</span></div>
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"Holmstrom, 18, was selected by the Islanders in the first-round (23 overall) of the 2019 NHL Draft back in June. Last season, Holmstrom scored 20 points (seven goals, 13 assists) in 21 games with HV71 J20 team of the SuperElit League (Sweden). He also appeared in games for HV71's J18 team and their Swedish Hockey League team during his 2018-19 campaign. Holmstrom added three points (one goal, two assists) in three SuperElit playoff games." </div>
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Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-71878621408791174702019-07-01T20:00:00.003-04:002019-08-22T08:20:51.037-04:00KoC Isles 2019 Free Agency, Part 1<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles fans
entered the July 1st deadline feeling good. NHL insiders had Artemi Panarin
slotted to sign with the team on the Island. An hour or so before the open, rumors that the rival Rangers were now in the mix had surfaced. Panarin ended up signing with
the Rangers for a million less ($11.6M vs. $12.5M) then the Islanders had
offered him for a 7-year deal. Rangers president John Davidson on signing
Artemi Panarin: "We know he wants to be here in New York, specifically
with the Rangers. 'It's a perfect fit." Fan those flames.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The good
news? The New York Islanders announced that their Captain, Anders Lee, agreed
to terms on a seven-year, $49M ($7M AAV) contract. Lee said he let his agent
speak with other teams, but to focus on a deal with the Islanders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lee scored
51 points (28 and 23) in 82 games last season, finishing with a career-best
+20. He shured up his two-way game this season and became a considerable
playmaker for New York. Whether it was in front of the net or joining the rush,
Lee led by example, and his team responded. Last season, he had 40 goals and 62
points, both career milestones. Per Isles release," Lee is one of only 15
players in the NHL that has accumulated over 100 goals (102) and one of three
US-born players amongst the group. Thirty-three of those goals have come on the
power-play, a mark that places him 10th overall in the league over the course
of the last three seasons." <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">As a
lifelong Islander, Lee was selected in the 6th round (151st overall) in the
2009 NHL Entry Draft and played for the Isles AHL affiliate Sound Tigers
scoring 46 points (25 and 21) after his dual-sport (Hockey and Football)
college career at Notre Dame.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">"Internationally,
Lee has represented Team USA at three IIHF World Championships, scoring 17
points (10 goals and seven assists) in 28 games. He won a bronze medal in 2015
and 2018."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Andrew
Gross on speaking with Lou Lamoriello, "Asked about bringing back Anders
Lee, he jokes, "We didn't bring him back, he never left."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Arthur
Staple, "Anders Lee on Robin Lehner going to Chicago: "It's really
tough to see Robin go. We're all disappointed it didn't work out but we wish
him nothing but the best in Chicago, he'll do great there." Robin Lehner
signed a $5M, one-year deal ($1M with $4M signing bonus) with the Chicago
Blackhawks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">This was an
interesting development, especially after the Islanders had a 2 year, $10M deal
on the table during free agency. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lou Lamoriello said he did everything he could to bring Lehner back. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lehner claimed via report (@CRoumeliotis) on Twitter that he got an offer and the team moved on before he could get back to them. To me, that's on the Agent. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">No idea if Lehner felt slighted hearing KHL
star goaltender and Isles prospect, Ilya Sorokin part of future in net for New
York, but that opened the door for Semyon Varlamov. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Semyon
Varlamov, 31, agreed to terms on a four-year, $20M contract ($5M AAV). Per
Andrew Gross, "Semyon Varlamov said he believes Islanders/Long Island is
right place for him and his family. Exciting to work with #Isles coaching
staff, including director of goaltending Mitch Korn and goalie coach Piero
Greco." Craig Custance tweeted a 4-year comparison of the Vezina nominees
(2019 for Lehner, 2014 for Varlamov) for total save percentage. “Robin Lehner
.920 (179 games) Semyon Varlamov .911 (124 games).” In 'Varlamov's last eight
seasons with the Colorado Avalanche, he was 183-156-38 with a 20-19-9 record, a
2.87 GAA and .909 Sv%.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Varlamov is
older, but very skilled and should only improve in the system implemented by
Barry Trotz and his coaching staff. Per Brian Compton, "Varlamov excited
to work with Mitch Korn and Piero Greco, and of course Thomas Greiss. He said
he's known Ilya Sorokin for about three years and that "he's the best goalie
in the KHL." Doesn't know Sorokin's future plans." Varlamov and
Sorokin share the same agent.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per NHL
release, "A selection of the Washington Capitals in the first round (23rd
overall) in the 2006 NHL Draft, Varlamov has an overall record of 213-169-50, a
2.68 GAA and a .916 SV% in 448 career games with the Capitals and Avalanche. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Internationally,
Varlamov has represented Russia at three World Championships (2010, 2012, 2013)
and the World Junior Championship in 2007 where he had a 5-1 record, helping
Team Russia to a silver medal."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The New York
Islanders also signed <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/10/2018-koc-new-york-islanders-season.html">Tom Kuhnhackl</a> to a one-year contract.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Kuhnhackl
scored nine points (4 & 5) in 36 games with New York last season and
chipped in 3 points in the eight Isles playoff games last season. He was a
valuable depth player and contributed when called upon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Islanders are far from done. Pieces are still needed and the team needs to improve on paper before camp. They will most likely add depth and could even add a major piece or two via trade. Names have been thrown around and top tier prospects will get a chance just like Devon Toews did last season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Let's wait a little bit before the panic sets in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles Notes:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Cap
Friendly, "After re-signing Anders Lee to a 7yr 7M AAV, the #Islanders now
have $13,653,334 in projected cap space, with a roster of 21 (13F/7D/1G).
Remaining RFA's: Anthony Beauvillier, Michael Dal Colle, Joshua Ho-Sang."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Arthur
Staple, "Lou on Belmont groundbreaking this summer: "In the very near
future I won't have to answer this question anymore."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Valtteri
Filppula signed with the Detroit RedWings on a 2-year contract.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Andrew
Gross, "Lou also says Valtteri Filppula told him he wanted to "go
home" to Detroit to finish his career. Filppula has a long relationship
with GM Steve Yzerman. Lou said he totally understood."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-9464038293175890152019-06-23T12:34:00.001-04:002019-06-24T12:33:23.951-04:00The New York Islanders 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Day 2. Review of Rounds 2-7 & UFA Non-Update<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our New York
Islanders selected Simon Holmstrom in </span><a href="http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/06/the-new-york-islanders-2019-nhl-entry.html" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">round one</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> with the 23rd selection on Day one.
Per Andrew Gross, "Lou Lamoriello says it's too soon to project whether
Simon Holmstrom will play in North American this season or remain in Sweden.
Lamoriello says he projects as a top-six forward. Too much of a talent to pass
on, per Lamoriello."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Yesterday,
on day two, they went back to work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Round 2, #57
overall (via CGY)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Round 5,
#147 overall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Round 6,
#178 overall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Round 7,
#209 overall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#57</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Samuel Bolduc, D, 6'4, 209#,
Blainville-Boisbriand Armada of QMJHL</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Bolduc, 18,
had 9 & 28 for 37 points in 65GP last season, leading the D-core in all
three categories with another 2 pts (1 & 1) in the playoffs. He's acquired
51 pts over the last three seasons in Juniors and knows his way around the
defensive zone and a staunch, two-way defender. He skates well and can start
the rush on a dime with an active first pass out of the zone. He's a big body
who likes to play a physical game and battles hard in front of his net. He's
also noted to be a good shot-blocker and has been improving year-by-year
according to reports.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#147</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Reece Newkirk, C – LW, 5'11, 170#, Portland
Winterhawks of WHL</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The
18-year-old Newkirk had a career-high 59 points (23 & 36) and 5 GWG in 68
games for Portland. He also added 2 assists in the playoffs last season. Size
has never been a factor for Newkirk. He plays with a snarl (88 PIMs) and
doesn't back down for bigger opposition. He is known for being a smart passer
and is relentless on the puck, especially around the net.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#178</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Felix Bibeau, C, 6'0, 187#, Rouyn-Noranda
Huskies of QMJHL.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Bibeau, 20,
had a career-high 69 points (28 & 41) in 63 games with the 2019 Memorial
Cup Champion. The alternate captain was tied for the lead with 14 goals (5 GWG
and 6 on PP) in 20 playoff games en route to a championship season and was
named to a Memorial Cup All-Star. Reports have him defined as a passionate
player and confident with the puck. Has smooth hands and a fantastic shot, good
vision and hates to lose.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#209</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Cole Coskey, RW, 6'1, 201#, Saginaw Spirit
of Ontario Hockey League</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Coskey, 20,
set career-highs in goals (31), assists (32) and points (63) in 52 GP in four
seasons with the OHL's Saginaw Spirit. He scored 31 & 32 for 63 pts in 52
games (broken jaw) last season and had 8 points (3 & 5) in 13 OHL playoff
games. Overall, Coskey compiled 155 points (72 & 83) in 240 career OHL
games, all with Saginaw. He has been called an improving player, year-by-year,
and one who works hard to get more responsibility and make more of an impact
for his team. On his chance to play in the NHL, Coskey said, "I want it
bad."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The
Islanders are right back to it today with the open of free agency next Monday.
Captain, Anders Lee, and Goaltender, Robin Lehner remain unsigned at this
point. Both players have stated they are in talks with the team to the media.
With Lee, term seems to be the sticking point. An Apparent difference on 5-6
years in term from the Isles and 7-8 from his camp. Per Brain Compton, Lee - "We
want to make sure that everything is done right and it's right for both of us,
for both sides. I hope it works out. They're working on it right now." Per
Brain Heyman, "Just spoke with UFA-to-be Anders Lee, can start talking to
other teams tomorrow: "I never thought it would get to this point, but I
guess it's the nature of what this week means." His 1st choice is to stay,
hopes it works out. Said talks with #Isles still going. #Islanders #NHL.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Andrew Gross
Tweeted, "Asked about Anders Lee's comment to @bheyman99 today back in New
York that Lee is surprised negotiations have gotten to this point (in terms of
a lack of progress), Lou Lamoriello said, "I have no response to it. We'll
do everything we can." Lamoriello was seen speaking with Lee's agent, Neil
Sheehy on the draft floor yesterday, but it looks like Lee will indeed entertain offers from other teams during the free agency period. Lehner was quoted as saying he would take
a 1-year deal, just wants to come back and play with New York.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">There we no
big trades by New York this weekend as fans had hoped. The NHL has raised the
salary cap to $81.5M with the Cap floor at $60.2M. Per CapFriendly, the Isles have $20,746,667 in cap space. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The real
clock continues to tick away. And the Islanders are on it. Panarin watch?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles Notes:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Brian
Compton, "Thomas Hickey tells me he hasn't paid any attention to trade
rumors. Wants to be in NY … Thomas Hickey is getting married in NY in two
weeks. Lives here year-round with soon-to-be wife. Just moved into a new home.
"I love playing here and living here."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Alan
Fuehring, "Youngest son of #SoundTigers head coach goes to New
Jersey." Tyce Thompson from Providence was selected with the 96th pick.</span></div>
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Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-47295121413980013502019-06-21T23:07:00.001-04:002019-08-12T14:30:38.264-04:00The New York Islanders 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Round 1 Review.<br />
Isles fans probably entered the night thinking about fantasy-type trades, a Lee or Lehner signing and maybe even moving up for a stud target in this year’s draft. The truth is, the Isles are in win-now mode, and Lou Lamoriello knows this more than anyone. Barry Trotz took the reins and never looked back last season. He squeezed every ounce of heart out of every player on the roster, and the team bought into his system. The result was a close-knit, hardworking squad that pushed through to the second round of the NHL playoffs. Next season will different by way of expectations and probably the look of the roster.<br />
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Many speculate that means trading for a key piece or two to address the scoring and power play concerns. In last year’s draft, the Isles made some <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/06/the-new-york-islanders-2018-nhl-entry.html">solid picks</a> and bolstered their stable of prospects. Some of which could be used as assets or currency to shape the 2019-20 roster along with the farm in Bridgeport. I asked fans on Twitter if they wanted the Islanders to focus on Drafting or trading. 58% wanted trading to be the focus and 42% on the draft. Let’s move ahead to this year’s draft, round 1.</div>
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At the start of the evening, the Islanders hold:</div>
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Round 1: #23 overall.</div>
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#23 Simon Holmstrom, RW, 6’1, 198#, HV71 Jonkoping</div>
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Isles go off the board a bit and select Simon Holmstrom. The 18-year-old Holmstrom is known as an offensively skilled player who skates very well, can beat defenders cleanly and has good hands. Called a competitor who uses deception to make plays and has an underrated two-way game. Explosive passer and sly puck mover with a strong wrist shot. Called a character player who puts the team first. Needs to stay healthy (hip surgery, broken thumb, concussion) and have more development to play in the NHL. It has been noted that without his recent injury history, Holmstrom would probably have been a mid to high-level first round pick.</div>
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Per Barry Trotz, "What our scouts are saying is he's got a great release, lots of quickness, real good hockey IQ … hopefully he'll be a good match ... when you're watching him and (Mathew) Barzal walking together. Hopefully they'll play together someday."</div>
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Holmstrom played 21 games with HV71 J20 with 7 goals and 21 pts with a +7 rating. In the postseason, he scored 1 & 3 for 4 points. In J18, had 1 & 3 for 4 pts in 5 playoff games. Holmstrom played one game with SHL’s HV71. He helped Team Sweden win a gold medal in the U18 World Championship this past season.</div>
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Per Andrew Gross, “Isles first round pick Simon Holmstrom said he tries to pattern his game after Peter Forsberg and Mathew Barzal. Said he was excited to meet Barzal tonight.”</div>
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Round 2, #57 overall (via CGY).</div>
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Round 5, #147 overall.</div>
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Round 6, #178 overall.</div>
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Round 7, #209 overall.</div>
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Per Arthur Staple, “Lamoriello says #Isles have qualified all their RFAs except John Stevens.”</div>
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Per Andrew Gross, “For the Islanders, going into their second season of splitting games between the Coliseum and Barclays Center, it will mark their first home opener in Uniondale since a 4-3 win over the Hurricanes on Oct. 11, 2014.”</div>
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Per Andrew Gross, “Lou says Isles hired Jim Hiller as an assistant because they believed they would lose Lane Lambert, who did not get Ducks job. Lou says no other coaching personnel moves at this time. But sounds like still being evaluated.”</div>
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NHL announces <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-announces-rule-changes-for-2019-20-season/c-307949196">rule changes</a> for 2019-20 season</div>
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Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-70734220725703553092019-06-19T21:56:00.001-04:002019-06-20T06:48:10.343-04:00Islanders Represent at 2019 NHL Awards: Lehner Wins Masterton and Trotz Wins Adams<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Tonight, our
<a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2019/04/new-york-islanders-2018-19-season-recap.html">New York Islanders</a> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">were
represented by their Head Coach, Barry Trotz, and their goaltenders, Robin
Lehner and Thomas Greiss at the NHL Awards in Las Vegas. Barry Trotz enjoyed a
successful first campaign behind the Islanders bench, leading New York to a
48-27-0-7 record and 103 points, the highest total since the 1983-84 season. The Isles netminders had something to do with
that as well. Lehner and Greiss were winners of the William M. Jennings Trophy for the NHL's top goaltending tandem, allowing the fewest goals in the NHL at 196. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The last time the Islanders won the Jennings Trophy was 1983
(Billy Smith and Roland Melanson.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Robin Lehner won the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">given annually
to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of
perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lehner overcame his battles with addiction and mental illness with his professional and personal life, admittedly at an all-time low. He acknowledged he had a problem and got help with the support of friends, family and, hockey family and overcame his most significant obstacle. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">"I’m not
ashamed to admit I’m mentally ill. But that doesn’t mean I’m mentally weak.” Such a fantastic story and I was thrilled to see him play a significant role in writing the story of our Islanders this season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">He was also nominated for</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> the Vezina trophy, awarded to the top goaltender in the NHL. Per NHL PR,
"Robin Lehner established a franchise record in save percentage (.930),
aided by an eight-game win streak. He helped the Islanders become the second
team in NHL history (and first since 1918-19) to go from worst to first in team
goals against." </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Andrei
Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning won the award.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lehner finished the 2018-19 campaign with a 25-13-0-5 record
with a .930Sv% and a 2.13GAA and 5 shut outs. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Congrats to
Robin Lehner on his Vezina Trophy nomination for helping to backstop the Isles in
a most memorable season. We are so appreciative for your work in our net this
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">There is no doubt the guidance of
<a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/07/islanders-name-mitch-korn-director-of.html">Mitch Korn</a> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">and </span><a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/07/islanders-name-calder-winner-piero.html" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Piero Greco</a> <span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">helped the
Isles goalies elevate their game, and the coaching staff provided the X's and
O's that enabled the Islanders to reach the second round of the playoffs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/06/islanders-name-barry-trotz-head-coach.html">Barry Trotz</a> won the Jack Adams Trophy </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">given annually to the NHL coach adjudged to have contributed
the most to his team's success </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">in his first season with New York. It's his second Jack Adams (WSH in 2016.) The great Al Arbour won the award in 1978-79. Trotz's Islanders were ranked 5th in the NHL, and
he helped turn the team from worst to first, defensively behind a restructured
defense and improved goalkeeping and a 23 point improvement over 2017-18. His approach was a human first mindset, and with the aid of his coaching staff, they helped the Islanders have a fantastic season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">In other big
News, the Islanders, announced today that Jim Hiller was added to Trotz's staff
as an Assistant Coach. Hiller is a Power play specialist. Something the
Islanders have sorely missed in their game. Hiller was an Assistant with
Toronto for four seasons where he was under the eye of Isles General Manager,
<a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/05/islanders-name-lou-lamoriello-team.html">Lou Lamoriello</a>.</span></div>
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Let's once again salute our New York Islanders Ownership on John Ledecky and Scott D. Malkin for giving the Organization the tools and freedom to repurpose itself front the front office on out.</div>
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I can't wait until next season. I love cheering for these guys.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The 2019 NHL
Entry Draft is this weekend on Friday 6/21 and Saturday 6/22.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Islanders
Preseason Schedule: 9/16 at Philadelphia 9/17 vs. Flyers at Barclays 9/20 at
Detroit 9/21 at New Jersey 9/23 vs. Red Wings at Coliseum 9/24 at Rangers 9:28
vs. Rangers at Bridgeport.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Dan Rosen,
"Islanders goalie Robin Lehner said he does not want to become a UFA, that
he wants to re-sign with the Islanders, and he remains hopeful of that happening.
"I like the people there. I love my teammates. I love the organization. So
obviously, I want to be back."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">"Lehner
said he doesn't care if it's a short-term deal or a long-term deal, he wants to
return to the Islanders. "I know the team knows where I stand, and I just
hope something works out."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Andrew
Gross, “<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hashtag_click">#Isles</a>
Lou Lamoriello finished fifth in GM of the year voting. Had the same eight
first-place votes as winner Don Sweeney of Bruins. Third-place finisher Don
Waddell of Hurricanes had most first-place votes with nine. Lamoriello also had
four second-place votes and four thirds.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Eric
Hornick, “How much did Barry Trotz change Mat Barzal's game? The Kid Who Won
the Calder was the highest-rated <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isles?src=hashtag_click">#isles</a> in the
Selke voting (ironically tied with John Tavares). Casey Cizikas was just behind
them. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NHLAwards?src=hashtag_click">#NHLAwards</a>”</span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-29813600443273011312019-06-14T19:43:00.004-04:002019-06-17T08:18:26.518-04:00Islanders Extend Jordan Eberle<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our New York
Islanders came to terms with Forward, Jordan Eberle on a five-year contract at $27.5M ($5.5M AAV.) According to cap friendly, Eberle's contract includes
a full no-trade clause in the first two years with a modified NTC (no trade to
16 teams) for years 3-5. Eberle <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2017/06/new-york-islanders-off-season-islanders_22.html">was acquired</a> from the Oilers for F, Ryan Strome
in 2017. His prior contract with Edmonton had a $6M cap hit, so what made him
take less (6yr/$36M) to play for the Isles? Per Brian Compton, Eberle wanted to
stay with New York, and he mentioned the "camaraderie" of the
Islanders and said "He (Eberle) owes a lot to Barry Trotz for developing
more of a two-way game. Is also looking forward to having stability in a coach
after the numerous changes during his time in Edmonton." It's also an
indication that the top Isles players are signing contracts that leave meat on
the bone for their GM to gain more for the organization.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Jordan Eberle,
29, has scored 96 points (44 & 52) in 159 games. He netted four goals,
including the GWG in Game 2 of the Isles 1st round win against the Penguins.
Eberle also had 5 assists and 9 pts in eight games this postseason along with 4
pts on the PP. Eberle said it was going to be nice coming back to a team with
some stability and familiarity, and he felt winning was a priority per Andrew
Gross. Eberle's contract is good news for the Isles who want to parlay their
remaining cap space ($22+M) into quality-fit, free agent signings, trades, and
qualifying offers to improve the squad. And don't forget about Valtteri
Filppula. Anthony Beauvillier and Michael Dal Colle are RFAs and can be
contacted on 6/27.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Of the Isles
main unsigned assets, Team Captain Anders Lee and Goaltender Robin Lehner
remain unsigned with the July 1st deadline looming, just over two weeks away. The
buzz around the beat is that at least one will sign and talks between the team
and their top UFA's are ongoing. Andy Graziano of WFAN said, "People I've
spoken with believe Lee/Lehner will be signed by #Isles prior to draft. Panarin
major FA target, but consensus sticking with Rangers as destination.
Leddy/Hickey highly involved in trade discussions, as Pagnotta noted. Feeling
is at least one is surely going." Robin Lehner will be attending the NHL
Awards next Wednesday (Masterton-Perseverance and Vezina-Top Goaltender) along
with Head Coach, Barry Trotz (Adams-Top Coach) to represent the Islanders and
be recognized for their outstanding performances this past season. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">With the NHL
Entry Draft on 6/21 and 6/22, General Manager, Lou Lamoriello will have an
opportunity to deal picks, prospects and players to improve the team prior to
the open of free agency. After July 1st, the summer agenda will be even more
apparent. New York will need to get better by free agent signings or trades. No
one knows that more than Isles management. Both Lamoriello and Trotz had a
productive year with the personnel they went into the season with and
understood where they fell short over the season and in the NHL postseason.
Free agents can be contacted on 6/24.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Jordan Eberle
seemed like a rental to some, but it's good to have a player of his ability
back with the Isles. One who wants to play for them alone. Especially entering
a summer with limited prime free agent scoring punch available.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Two big ones
down, two to go?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Brian
Compton, "Eberle on Lee: "Anders is on his own path. No one can
really blame him for taking his time or going to free agency. He's earned the
right to that. I know in his mind he loves Long Island."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Tanner Fritz at $700,000 in 2019-20 and 2020-21 is a two-way deal, $700,000 NHL
and $250,000 AHL with $275,000 guaranteed. – Andrew Gross.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles QMJHL
prospect, Arnaud Durandeau signs a 3-year ELC. Durandeau had a career-high 38
goals and 35 assists in 68 games for Halifax last season and seems to be a
steal for New York, selected in the 6th round in 2017.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Casey Cizikas
awarded Bob Nystrom Award for the 2018-19 season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Andrew
Gross, "Per Isles: Cal Clutterbuck (back) and Andrew Ladd (knee) both had
surgery. Doctors expect Clutterbuck to be able to play this upcoming season. He
should be ready to start training camp. Ladd's timeline a little less clear at
this point.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Tickets are on
sale for fans to come and watch the Isles top prospects compete in a rookie
scrimmage and skills competition on June 27th at @NHIceCenter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-8930281318212911962019-05-23T13:16:00.000-04:002019-05-24T18:49:27.904-04:00Islanders Lock Up Brock Nelson<br />
Isles sign pending UFA Brock Nelson to a 6 year, $36M, $6M AAV contract per Arthur Staple. Nelson has flourished under Barry Trotz, and despite the criticism, he gets from some, the Isles feel they know what they have in Nelson. They wouldn't necessarily "know" what some of the other UFA's truly bring who will become available on July 1st. That's a good value for New York IMO. And it's still all about culture.<br />
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Nelson clearly made the most out of his last-minute deal last summer and showed what he could do as a significant player in the Islanders forward core without missing a game in the 2018-19 campaign. As a big part of the team heading into next season, Nelson will be expected to carry more of the load and hopefully, improve and become an even more consistent player for the Isles up-front on a more evolved and experienced Isles squad.<br />
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The 27-year-old Nelson had a career-high 53 points (25 & 28) last season. He was a playmaker, scored big goals, and looked much more comfortable in the Isles new system. Nelson helped New York finish 2nd in the Metro and fourth in the East to finish with 103 points, 48-27-7 record, and a +32-goal differential. The Islanders advanced to the 2nd round and were swept by Carolina after sweeping the Penguins in round 1. Brock Nelson finished with four goals in eight playoff games.<br />
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<br />
Nelson was the Islanders 1st round selection (30th overall) in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Per NHL.com, "Nelson played all 82 regular-season games for the second consecutive season and third time in his NHL career … (Nelson) has 241 points (124 goals, 117 assists) in 480 NHL games, all with the Islanders. He also has 11 points (seven goals, four assists) in 26 playoff games.” Tony Stabile says, "The 3 players with the closest match to the Nelson contract are Mikael Backlund, Adam Henrique and Kyle Turris. I'd take Nelson over all 3 of them." I agree. Your thoughts?<br />
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<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Brock Nelson
told Brian Compton, “You could wait it out, but this is the only place I’ve
ever been. It’s a great place to live, especially now with kids. We love it
here and were very happy to be here another six years.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
@NHLRumorsDaily says the "Isles are currently working on a very similar deal with Captain Anders Lee in the $40-42 million dollar range." @CapFriendly says, "The Isles now have a projected $29M in cap space with a current roster of 17 (9F 7D 1G)."<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
It's on Isles fans.</div>
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<br />
<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-75600047718372962102019-05-10T17:55:00.001-04:002019-05-12T16:12:05.722-04:00Hurricane Warning: KoC New York Islanders 2018-19 Round Two Recap vs. Carolina<br />
Our New York Islanders swept their way past Pittsburgh into round 2 of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs only to be swept themselves by the similarly modeled stingy, floor checking play of the Carolina Hurricanes. New York was failed by their resurgent lack of scoring depth (4-0 when scoring at least 3 goals, 0-4 without) and struggles to add to or recapture a lead. The game one goaltender interference call against Anders Lee and 'distinct kicking motion' of Devon Toews disallowed goals in games 1 and 2 were close to giving the Isles a good shot at being up 2 games to none after two instead of down by 2. Even with the late postseason surge, the power play was the most significant deficit in New York's game all season, and I would argue it cost them an advance or two in the postseason. Per Eric Hornick, The Isles scored power-play goals in each of the last three games of the series; they did that only once in the regular season (4-game streak in October)." Goaltending was great, and the defense was good while the team's energy and snarl was always present. It just wasn't enough to overcome bad puck-luck and the previously discussed failures in the system. "It's the only time all season that the Isles have lost four straight games, the first time that they have been swept in a playoff series since 1994 (Rangers), and the first time they have been swept in a series that they opened at home." – Hornick<br />
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<br />
Stat wise, Brock Nelson, Jordan Eberle, and Josh Bailey lead the Isles in playoff scoring. Eberle and Mathew Barzal led the team in playoff assists with 5. Jordan Eberle had the best postseason of his career for New York. He had a team-leading 9 points and scored at least one point in every playoff game in which the Isles scored in. Robin Lehner finished the post season 4-4 (0-3 vs. Canes) with a .936 Sv% and a 2.00 GAA. Thomas Greiss made eight saves in relief of Lehner in game 4. Carolina advanced to the conference finals to face the Boston Bruins, who they now trail 1-0.<br />
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With all that said, it was a fantastic season for a team that needed an emotional lift. It was a great model for Lou Lamoriello and Adams nominee, Barry Trotz to really evaluate their squad going into a huge free agent summer. Anders Lee and Robin Lehner stepped into their prospective roles and were a fantastic part of the team's success this season. Lee led the team like a seasoned captain with his on and off-ice actions. Per Andrew Gross, "Agent, Neil Sheehy, and Lou Lamoriello had a 'lot of conversations' all season. 'People know how I feel about this place. Right now, Lou and Neil are going to figure that out, and that side of things will take when they come." Robin Lehner rose from the ashes into an elite goaltender this season and immediately inserted himself into Isles goaltending history. "I can't state enough I love everything about this team" -Lehner. His Masterton and Vezina nominations say others agree. Lehner was once again my Grail Knight of round 2 and overall for the Isles 2019 playoff run.<br />
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<br />
Jordan Eberle, Brock Nelson, Valtteri Filppula, and Devon Toews are all UFA's as well. All players who played well and would be a welcome signing for most fans. "We'd like to have them back without question. They have to make decisions, and we have to make decisions, but they are all quality human beings and players, and they've been an integral part of this organization." – Lamerillo on Isles free agent class. Tom Kuhnhackl is also a UFA who played hard and showed his mettle to everyone watching. D, Luca Sbisa or insurance player, Dennis Seidenberg are UFA's who are unlikely to be resigned. Tanner Fritz was a valuable minor league asset who ended the season on the IR and is also eligible to enter July 1st as a UFA. RFA's Anthony Beauvillier and Michael Dal Colle proved their value to management. But the summer is wide open, especially if ground for Belmont is broken as the team rumors suggest. Per Arthur Staple, "Lamoriello is extremely confident that Belmont is on target. "I wouldn't have come here if there weren't going to be a new building... Unless you know something I don't, it's still on the right path." The Islanders have to be an attractive trade target and free agent destination for top tier players this summer.<br />
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<br />
The team has room for improvement. They need to make adjustments that address the holes in their game that showed in round 2 of the playoffs and should investigate all avenues of team depth. The pride was there, and the culture has changed for the better. This team is relevant, and they understand that enough not to be full of themselves or think they are better than they are.<br />
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I'm sure they will even be looking into all attractive international and prospect players that might fit into the master plan.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
But that's another article. Or three.<br />
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<br />
<br />
Isles Notes:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Per Arthur Staple, "Mayfield had an ankle issue — fluid kept filling up, could barely get his skate on during the final month."<br />
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<br />
Brett Cyrgalis on Cal Clutterbuck, "Stress fracture, rotated vertebrae, two slipped discs, pinched nerve," is how Clutterbuck rambled off the things that are wrong during Monday's breakup day on Long Island. "A couple things that need to be addressed in there, so I'll go see a couple specialists and go from there."<br />
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<br />
Per Eric Hornick, "The Isles finished 2nd in the Metro Division, 4th in the Eastern Conference and 5th in the NHL. The Isles have not finished that high since the conference was created. They last finished that high in a conference in 87-88, when they were 3rd in the Wales Conference. It's the first time since 1985-86 that the Isles have finished in the top five overall."<br />
<br />
"In the regular season, the Isles were 35-16-6 when Casey Cizikas, Matt Martin and Cal Clutterbuck all play and are 13-11-1 when one or more miss a game. They are 4-3 when all three play in the playoffs and 0-1 when one (Clutterbuck) misses a game."<br />
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<br />
The NHL Awards will be held in Las Vegas on June 19th while the 2019 NHL Entry Draft will be held in Vancouver on June 21st-22nd.<br />
<br />
The Isles will pick 22nd in the first round of the draft if Columbus beats Boston and will pick 23rd if the Bruins win that series. The Isles own Calgary's 2nd round pick (but not their own). – Hornick<br />
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Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-20759598596860889192019-04-25T11:45:00.000-04:002019-04-25T14:54:40.697-04:00New York Islanders 2018-19 Playoff Primer vs. Hurricanes<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our New York
Islanders will face the Carolina Hurricanes in the second round of the 2019 NHL
Stanley Cup Playoffs. Carolina is coming off a double O.T., game 7 win against
the defending Cup Champion Capitals last night. New York will have home-ice advantage
against their wildcard opponent and look to take another step towards the Cup
finals.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Friday,
April 26<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>7:00 p.m. Barclays Center
(NBCSN)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Sunday,
April 28<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3:00 p.m. Barclays Center
(NBC)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Wednesday,
May 1<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>7:00 p.m. PNC Arena (NBCSN)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Friday, May
3<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>7:00 p.m. PNC Arena (NBCSN)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">* Sunday,
May 5<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>TBD Barclays Center<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">* Tues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May 7<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>TBD PNC Arena<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">* Wed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May 8<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>TBD Barclays Center<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Post-game
coverage on MSG Networks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">(All games
listed in EST)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per NHL.com,
"I know they're sitting there probably licking their chops; we all would
be the way this series went, seven games, overtime, the grind that this series
was ...," Carolina coach Rod Brind'Amour said. "I haven't had time to
think about it. I know they're a great team and that's why they're playing, and
they had a pretty easy round. They know how to win, and they know how to do it
right."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Isles will
be off for 10 days by the time the puck drops tomorrow night at the Barclays
Center. Ten days they used to heal (Clutterbuck & Mayfield) and refocus
from a storybook first-round sweep against the Penguins. Barry Trotz admitted
he didn’t have much of a late book on Carolina, but with the layoff, the staff should
have had ample time to dissect their playoff performance against Washington and
probably has a much better idea of how to match up then they did at the end of their
round one series. Let’s hope they are ready to hit the ice flying in game one
and start the series off the right way, rust free.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">"We've
tried to do our best to stay in game shape and game situations in
practice," New York forward Jordan Eberle said. "I know it's tough,
especially when you watch all this hockey being played. But at the end of the
day, it should be an advantage. We'll be rested and ready to go."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">It’s no secret
the Isles were good at home and on the road last season. And at home, they were
very even when Playing at both the Coliseum and Barclays Center this season.
While they were 12-7-2 at the NVMC, they went 12-6-2 in Brooklyn are 78-48-18
overall at the Barclays Center. The Low roof and passionate crowd should spell
another intimidating atmosphere for the opposition. The Isles were 3-1-0
against the Hurricanes last season (even winning 7 of last 10) despite being
outshot 112-59. They will need more of the same from their #1 ranked defense
and relentless checking game if they want to nullify the speedy and feisty
Canes. They will need to pressure the Canes in all 3 zones, dictate play and
overcome their aggressive checking game.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The 4th line of
Clutterbuck-Cizikas-Martin and Pulock-Pelech line need to factor into the end-game
results and Robin Lehner 4-0-0 with his layoff leading 1.47 GAA & .956Sv%
will need to carry the anchor again. Lehner stopped 130 of 136 shots and played
a calm, cool series for the Isles against Pittsburgh. Keep in mind that Thomas
Greiss figured prominently (3-1-0) in the Isles recent success against Carolina
and should do the same if called upon. Both goaltenders have been good and the
intensity in the postseason should only enhance that. The defense will be the
story. If New York can maintain their defensive play, they should control the
game and force Carolina to take chances while staying out of the box.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Power Play
needs to improve (2/13 at 15.4%) and their FOW percentage (51.7%) needs to continue.
The Hurricanes are similar in both categories with a 3/25 (12%) PP and 51.1%
FOW percentage. The Isles PK remains stable at 90.9% while Carolina ranks near
the bottom at 75%. Amongst active playoff teams, only SJ is worse with a 72.4%
FOW. Jordan Eberle, Matt Barzal, Josh Bailey, Valtteri Filppula, and Brock
Nelson have a chance to lead the team again offensively along with speedy
defender, Devon Toews, especially on the man advantage. Thomas Hickey should be
replacing the minutes formerly taken by the injured (out 3-4 weeks) veteran, Johnny
Boychuk. Hickey is used to playing a significant role in big games for the
Isles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Carolina
Hurricanes are motivated, relentless and resilient. Sound familiar? The New
York Islanders will need to contain opposing players like Jaccob Slavin (9pts
and 3 assists in game 7 vs Caps), Warren Foegele (4 goals, 6 pts), Jordan Staal
(6pts), Dougie Hamilton (6pts), Sebastian Aho (5 pts) and Brock McGinn (5pts)
who scored the game 7, 2nd O.T. winning goal. New York will also need to breach
a much-improved Carolina defense game and create traffic in front of Mrazek. Goaltender,
Petr Mrazek has gotten hot at the right time along with his squad. Mrazek had a
2.54 GAA and an .899Sv% with 1 shut out for Carolina in the postseason. He is
an athletic goaltender but is susceptible to shots going to the glove side, especially if traffic. The
leadership of Justin Williams can’t be discounted. His 3 Cup wins (‘06-CAR and
’12 & ’14 LAK) give him some keen on-ice and in the room insight for his
team. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Don’t forget the motivation of former Islander 2010 5th overall
selection, F, Nino Niederreiter or Isles 2009 12th overall selection, D, Calvin
de Haan to stick it to their former team. While de Haan was well received back
in New York for leaving as a free agent, Niederreiter was traded away for Cal
Clutterbuck (and NJ’s 3rd rounder – Eamon McAdam) in 2013 after controversial
rumors about wanting to be traded and taking exception to management's lack of
urgency to put him in the Isles lineup.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">That was then,
and this is now. The Isles have a team that plays for each other and plays in a
system that relies on each man holding themselves and others accountable. I’ll
take those odds any day. It should be another exciting series. I’m sure
everyone is ready to go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">"Trust me,
we're fresh," Islanders coach Barry Trotz said. "We'll get the rust
off. It may take a little bit, but we haven't had game action for a bit. That
will come. That's not an issue. We're going to be enthused."</span></div>
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#Isles Notes</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per
@Demerti_S42, “John Tavares met with 5 teams last summer as a free agent. 4 of
those teams (NYI, BOS, SJ, DAL) are still playing hockey. The one he chose is
not.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Eric
Hornick, “<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JT91?src=hashtag_click">#JT91</a>
goes 2-3-5 (including an ENG) and -4 in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Leafs?src=hashtag_click">#Leafs</a> playoff
“run”, which ran out before the Isles lost a playoff game.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Rob Taub, “#Isles
legend Bob Nystrom on WFAN: "I think that the fans are so charged up that
they're going to bring that energy to Barclays Center. I expect them to be just
as loud as they were at the Coliseum."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per @<a href="https://gothamsn.com/with-the-stanley-cup-and-vezina-still-in-his-view-robin-lehners-successes-come-off-the-ice-7e6d33e710ab">TwoTurtleDuffs</a>,
“<a href="https://twitter.com/RobinLehner">@RobinLehner</a> has been dominant
on the ice this season, but his biggest impact has come away from hockey. Lehner's
openness about his struggles with addiction and mental health has inspired
countless fans. Here are some stories of the lives he's touched.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-41820600672220995782019-04-22T21:30:00.000-04:002019-04-30T14:51:20.880-04:00Sweeping Pittsburgh: KoC New York Islanders 2018-19 Round One Recap vs. Penguins<br />
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Behind Barry Trotz and his staff, our New York Islanders eliminated the Pittsburgh Penguins in
a 4-game sweep with a 3-1 victory at PPG Paints Arena 6 days ago. It's the
Isles first sweep since 1983 and their 7th best-of-7 sweep in franchise
history. It’s also the first time the modern-age Pens have been swept since
2013. The Isles came back three times after giving up the opening goal and
countered, despite being outshot 136 to 129 in the series.</div>
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New York outscored the Penguins by a 14-6 margin over four
games (Game 1 in O.T.) as they frustrated them and kept them playing from
behind from almost the entire series. Pittsburgh managed to maintain a lead in
only 4 minutes and 51 seconds of the entire series. Casey Cizikas and Matt
Martin helped the stingy Isles keep top scorers, Evgeni Malkin to 3
points, Sidney Crosby (1 assist) and Jake Guentzel (1 goal) and a combined
-7 rating over the four games. Pens netminder and 2-time Stanley Cup winner,
Matt Murray had a .306 GAA and a .906Sv% in the series.</div>
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Isles Jordan Eberle (4 & 2 with a game-winner) had a
career playoff run and led the Islanders in points with 6 and a +6 rating. Per
Eric Hornick, “Eberle is the first Islander to open a playoff run by scoring in
four straight games since Ray Ferraro (1993 vs. Washington) and also joins
Ferraro as the only players in Isles history to score in their first four
playoff games with the team.” Matt Barzal was 2nd on the team in scoring,
contributing five assists with a +6 rating and made some plays for New York.
Forward and former Penguin, Tom Kuhnhackl deserves mention for bringing 2-time
Cup winning experience and tenacity during the series, even with limited action
during the regular season. Per NHL.com, “It's great that we won the first round
and everything, but there's plenty more to come of where we want to go,"
Kuhnhackl said. "If you sleep [during] the first period or the first game
if you're not ready from the get-go, it's always hard to get back in it. That's
why we've got to get ready for the [next round]." Eberle was my runner-up for round one's Grail Knight of the series. Winner revealed below.</div>
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Josh Bailey (3 & 1 with a game-winner) and Valtteri
Filppula (4 assists) had great playoff performances for the Isles. Brock Nelson
scored three goals (2 game winners) and was amongst the team leaders (3rd with
a 44.6% percentage behind Barzal, 55.5% and Lee, 54.5%) in the faceoff circle.
A considerable deficit for New York entering the playoffs, while Isles
defenseman, Devon Toews (2 PPP and a +2 rating) continued his active play into
the postseason along with other surgical blue line performances from Adam
Pelech (2 assists) Nick Leddy (1 goal) and Ryan Pulock (1 assist) and +3
ratings.</div>
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Per Eric Hornick, “Robin Lehner made 32 saves; he stopped
130 of 136 Pittsburgh shots in the series as he became the first NHL goalie
since Michael Leighton (2010 with Philadelphia) to win his first four career
playoff starts. Only 12 other goalies in NHL history have done so.” Robin Lehner was the MVP among MVPs for New York. He guarded
the Isles net behind a relentless checking game and dogged defense. He gave up
just six goals in 4 games while posting a stingy 1.47 GAA and a .956Sv%. While
providing a reliable backstopping performance, the resurgent Lehner always gave
credit to the Isles organization as a whole and the fans that have supported
him and his squad all season long. Lehner heralded his teammates, coaches, and
even loyal fans after each win in his own humble and genuine way.</div>
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When I said, “Lehner should be a serious consideration for
the Vezina along with his Masterton considerations. He’s certainly overcome
every other challenge presented in the darkest year of his life this season,” I
had no idea Robin Lehner would indeed receive the nominations for those
prestigious trophies. Per Cory Wright, “I'm honored. It's something I believed
in going into the season, but a year ago I didn't,’ Lehner said. ‘There's so
many that deserve credit. It starts with [my] teammates and the organization. A
lot of credit goes to [Director of Goaltending] Mitch Korn and [Goaltending
Coach] Piero Greco too for helping me adjust some things in my game. It's been
a lot of hard work. It's truly an honor." Robin Lehner was 25-13-0-5 with
a .930Sv% and a 2.13 GAA during the regular season. Lehner established a career
high in shutouts with 6 and wins. Performances by Lehner (25) and Greiss (23)
in 2018-19 are the only other Islanders goalkeeper tandem other than Resch (26)
Smith (25) in 1978-79 to have 23 wins in a season.</div>
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During a post-nomination interview, Lehner recalled how 8 or
9 teams were interested in him during free agency last summer, but also spoke
of how that number dropped to two when he disclosed his time in rehab, news of
his struggles with addition and a bipolar diagnosis.</div>
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On his Masterton nomination, Lehner told Wright, "It's
for people out there having a bad day that don't see any light at the end of
the tunnel, that don't really want to take up tomorrow or whatever the case may
be," Lehner said. "You just need to get a plan, you have to help
yourself first and get the right help and when you get that you can start your
journey towards whatever you want in life. You can't do it in reverse, you have
to take care of your recover first or it's not going to work. If you can do
that, what's good about this is it shows it can be done with the right
people."</div>
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Aside from helping his Islanders continue to fight for a
Stanley Cup win, Lehner wants to help end the stigma around mental health. His
recent hashtag caught my attention — # SickNotWeak. Wow, I thought What a great
way to keep yourself accountable, work towards bettering your life and not
offering an excuse for your life. Lehner truly is a role model to so many
people out there who feel alone and without hope. Here’s to hoping they can all
see how hard he’s fought to restore himself, his family and his pro hockey
career. Not just as a participant, but as a man, a father and husband, and a
teammate. Not just 1 of only 60 men to hold a place on a pro hockey roster as
an NHL goaltender, but as a legitimate, elite goaltender on a surging playoff
team.</div>
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Both team leader, Cal Clutterbuck and physical D-Man, Scott
Mayfield (1 point) have been using the layoff to heal up and have resumed
practice with the team. Unfortunately, Johnny Boychuk (2 points) is slated to
be out 3-4 weeks with a lower-body injury. Per Brian Compton, “Coach Barry
Trotz said he was pleased with how the Islanders practiced "with a little
bit more of a pop" and did not seem too concerned about the long layoff.
In fact, he's hoping the Capitals and Hurricanes go the distance.”</div>
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The Islanders’ 2nd round opponent will be the winner of the
Capitals-Hurricanes series. The Isles 2nd round series will open in Washington
DC if it’s against the Capitals or back in Brooklyn if the Hurricanes win the
series and dethrone the defending Stanley Cup Champions.</div>
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The games will be shown on NBC or NBCSN with postgame
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Isles Notes:</div>
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Per Eric Hornick, “Isles goalie or coach had ever won their
first two playoff games; both Robin Lehner and Barry Trotz have now won their
first four.”</div>
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Cory Wright on top Isles goaltending prospect, “Ilya Sorokin
won the Gagarin Cup - the KHL championship - on Friday, as CSKA Moscow swept
Avangard four games to none. Sorokin was also named the KHL playoff MVP in the
process. <br />
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Sorokin had a marvelous playoffs, going 16-4-0 with a 1.20
GAA, a .956 SV% and five shutouts for CSKA. The Islanders' 2014 third-round
pick (78th overall) recorded a pair of shutouts in the Gagarin Cup Final, the
first goalie in KHL history to do so. </div>
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The Gagarin Cup and MVP honors cap another stellar season
for Sorokin, who went 28-6-4 during the regular season with a 1.16 GAA, a .940
SV% and a career-high 11 shutouts. </div>
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Sorokin has one more year left on his deal with CSKA.”</div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-77505497299910295552019-04-09T18:32:00.001-04:002019-04-10T11:42:31.926-04:00New York Islanders 2018-19 Season Recap & Playoff Primer vs. Penguins<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Valtteri Filppula came back from injury and scored twice while Robin Lehner notched his 6th shutout of the season with 29 saves as our New York Islanders concluded their storybook season with a defeat of the champion Capitals in D.C. The 2nd place Metro seated Isles (4th in the eastern conference and 5th in the NHL) were edged out of the division lead by the Capitals, but New York controlled their own destiny for home ice and will now open round one of the 2018-19 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Coliseum against Pittsburgh. It will be the first time hosting a series opener since 1988. Per Eric Hornick, “The win gives the Isles 103 points overall and 51 on the road; both totals are the most in the Post-Cup era. The franchise-record 11th shutout of the season also clinched the Jennings Trophy for the Isles, who allowed the most goals in the NHL last season and the fewest in the NHL this season … Robin Lehner raised his save percentage to .930, which breaks the franchise record previously held by Chico Resch (.928 in 1975-76). He is only the 3rd goalie in Isles history with at least six shutouts in a season (Resch -7 in 1975-76, Halak -6 in 2014-15).” The Isles scored 36 fewer goals and allowed 101 fewer goals than last season, which counted for 13 more wins on the year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Not bad for a team picked to finish last, struggle on defense and in goal, unable to recover from the departure of Tavares. By the way, the Leafs finished with 100 points. So, while the sky is the limit and our guys are in the playoffs with the #1 defense in the NHL, fans can be happy the team is trending up despite what happens from here, out. Lamoriello did precisely what he was brought here to do. He added experienced coaching and made a few tweaks to change the player culture and work ethic. Mitch Korn helped the team from the net on out, and the ‘new’ coaches (Lambert, Gruden & Greco) helped Barry Trotz forge a methodology and an identity for the players to buy into. After that, the on-ice product flourished under Trotz’s system, and all answered the call for accountability to help earn their place in the postseason, which included a 34-15-3 run in the second half when it mattered most and boast one of the best 5 on 5 defensive units in the league. Only Boston is better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Islanders looked good in Brooklyn, and they looked good at the Old Barn (52pts). They were also adept on the road, collecting 51 points from their hosting teams and helping them reach the 50-50 for the first time since the 80-81 season. It was also the first time the franchise won 24 games at home and on the road in the same season. Eric Hornick has been telling us the numbers all season long. Stat wise, they clicked in most categories not called power play or faceoff win percentage. For the year, the Isles were a dismal 33 for 227 on the PP (14.5% for 29th in the NHL, MTL & NSH were worse) and 44-219 on the PK (79.9% for 18th in the league). According to Hornick, they “scored six shorthanded goals and allowed an NHL-low one shorthanded goal. [Kevin Hayes, then of the Rangers, scored shorthanded on 11/15 in a game the Isles won 7-5].” Faceoff winning percentage was at 47.4%, ranking them 29th out of 31 teams. Only the Rangers and Capitals were worse. I mentioned earlier in the home stretch, even just an average PP (around 20%) would have probably meant several more wins for the Isles.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIYTmgAbj05jM79FohxWzKR1yENcQrUj5SBXborEPVzutOhcTEKT8FJUl3cidx_TOLTDFCoJVWQ5iAQVzCTeG1Nt5bt-lNc2qTdqlJB6VxxKWLHIEZ9BpJkt-d17aVeawS3rTiR13-l0/s1600/Coli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="640" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIYTmgAbj05jM79FohxWzKR1yENcQrUj5SBXborEPVzutOhcTEKT8FJUl3cidx_TOLTDFCoJVWQ5iAQVzCTeG1Nt5bt-lNc2qTdqlJB6VxxKWLHIEZ9BpJkt-d17aVeawS3rTiR13-l0/s320/Coli.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">While the team did well as a whole, several players had career years in different categories. Per Eric Hornick, Casey Cizikas established career highs in goals (20) and points (32). UFA, Brock Nelson set career highs in assists (28) and points (53). Cal Clutterbuck (15), Leo Komarov (19) and Anders Lee (23) all had career highs in assists.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2KU8nny5dZyis3cSvtlybExB6Y_UgcM0cJQKevih0qojkynctZ62XBQ2B8Zdj0hdFYLOyfNbHq-EYqMSdt-HlSpjlz_q6DV-C2DK1YrX1zfBf-7xBQVoXEPjXZ_UVEQD00cdBF6rfYqs/s1600/Captain+Lee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="550" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2KU8nny5dZyis3cSvtlybExB6Y_UgcM0cJQKevih0qojkynctZ62XBQ2B8Zdj0hdFYLOyfNbHq-EYqMSdt-HlSpjlz_q6DV-C2DK1YrX1zfBf-7xBQVoXEPjXZ_UVEQD00cdBF6rfYqs/s320/Captain+Lee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">UFA, Anders Lee was given the “C” and did what he's always done. He led by example and did everything he could to help his squad win. He had 28 and 33 for 51 pts with a +20, 10 PPGs, and 5 GWG in 82 PPGsgames. Mathew Barzal had a terrific year. Some have pointed out that his goal scoring was down, but others remarked how his overall game has improved. I agree. It will make him a better player for years to come as the team gets better around him. Barzal had 18 & 44 for 62 points (led team) in 82 games. Josh Bailey works hard, and it shows. He has a hard time pleasing everyone, but he managed to tally 16 & 40 for 56 pts with a +8 and 4 GWG. Brock Nelson got a last-minute deal to prove himself. Like Bailey, he has his detractors, but the guy has flashes of solid play that can change the course of a game. He had a great regular season with 25 & 28 for 53 pts and a +20 without missing a game.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Gf1ycl4P0aoChhNdFekNTjHAGJtYnzI-Ej0hnALMbNyY_jW1cEb-T6Dvf5ug9VlCcFr2Ii0hyuIY0zVGo5Z_z0KP6UFxjN4QIYP82j42lPR6SiVZeKCfQPpvBBrLPdKYuk2qysuQP6Y/s1600/Barzal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="590" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Gf1ycl4P0aoChhNdFekNTjHAGJtYnzI-Ej0hnALMbNyY_jW1cEb-T6Dvf5ug9VlCcFr2Ii0hyuIY0zVGo5Z_z0KP6UFxjN4QIYP82j42lPR6SiVZeKCfQPpvBBrLPdKYuk2qysuQP6Y/s320/Barzal.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Jordan Eberle was striving for another 20-goal season, but the UFA forward fell just short. Eberle was 19 & 18 for 37 pts in 78 games. He, like Lee, had 5 game-winning goals along with 7 on the struggling power play. Casey Cizikas had an incredible season and made a significant impact for New York. His 20 & 13 for 33 pts, 2 SHGs, a +22 and 3 game winners in 73 games played were only part of it. His relentless checking game and smothering play gave him as his line the most significant and most important minutes of a close game. Valtteri Filppula was an epic add for the Isles. His work on the PK and versatility at forward gave him 17 & 14 for 31 pts and a +19 in 72 games. The 4 game winners and an O.T. winner is just part of the reason this UFA needs to remain with the Islanders.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Anthony Beauvillier struggled a bit this season but earned some veteran minutes and contributed offensively. 18 & 10 for 28 pts in 81 games wasn’t the only part of it. The RFA’s 4 game winners and score on the PP showed he has some spark. Leo Komarov showed why Lamoriello signed him in free agency. Like Filppula, Komarov’s presence was worth more than his work on the stat sheet. ‘Uncle Leo’ had 26 pts (6 & 20) and a game-winner to go along with his +18 rating. Cal Clutterbuck (8 & 15 for 23 pts in 73 games) and Matt Martin (6 & 18 for 24 pts in 67 GP) helped Cizikas lock down games and irritate the elite players on opposing teams. Their ability to contribute in the big moment (2 GWG for Clutterbuck and 1 for Martin) spanned their complete on-ice play. RFA, Michael DalColle looks like he finally found his pro game. Dal Colle was doing well in Bridgeport this season and earned call-ups and looks like he fits in just fine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">UFA, Tom Kuhnhackl provided some excellent depth for the Isles forward core. He saw time in 36 games this season (9 pts) and made an impact, especially against his former team in Pittsburgh, with whom he played 47 playoff games and contributed to 3 Stanley Cup wins. He can help the Islanders, especially with some big post-season minutes. Ross Johnston (4 pts in 17 GP) and UFA, Tanner Fritz (1 pt in 4 GP before injury) were good energy players at the appropriate times. Johnston signed a 4-year contract and accepts his depth role like a pro while Fritz made another compelling argument for a look at next years camp. Andrew Ladd had 11 pts in 26 games, contributed when healthy and added some veteran presence, but suffered a season-ending injury (torn ACL) against the Coyotes on 3/24.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">For the Blueliners, Scott Mayfield established career highs in goals (4), assists (15) and points (19). Adam Pelech established career highs in goals (5), and points (20) and Ryan Pulock established career highs in assists (28) and points (37).</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3S1CfoucYvyfH8ynsfszNyIOkhSuwO3PmjaBQr6FpEBMKkqY06ZadorMjiW2-Zu9pkPtd2I4DHnyCWJmhj_9PiAofxJSpNfQH1FAWmrP3GU2cAlvH6MsDFbF6xDi0tsKTAirFnVwRzI/s1600/Zeeker+Mayfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="750" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3S1CfoucYvyfH8ynsfszNyIOkhSuwO3PmjaBQr6FpEBMKkqY06ZadorMjiW2-Zu9pkPtd2I4DHnyCWJmhj_9PiAofxJSpNfQH1FAWmrP3GU2cAlvH6MsDFbF6xDi0tsKTAirFnVwRzI/s320/Zeeker+Mayfield.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Ryan Pulock is improving big time. At 9 & 28 for 37 pts with a +21, the big-shot D-man leads all isles defenders. Pulock also contributed 3 PPGs, and 3 GWGs on the season. Nick Leddy is happy with the isles new defensive scheme. Leddy was 4 & 22 for 26 pts (10 on the PP) and broke even in plus/minus, up from his league-worst -42 from last season. Adam Pelech is another prospect, turned pro who has helped the Islanders improve defensively. In 78 games, the physical, defensive first, Pelech was 5 & 16 for 21pts with a +22 rating. Scott Mayfield (19 pts), more of the same. Mayfield brings more of an agitator’s game and a bit of a mean streak but keeps his cool. His +18 is second only to Pelech on the team. Let’s talk about Devon Toews. A bounce back story from last year’s severe, season-ending injury, Toews took full advantage of his call up. In 48 games with the Isles, Toews contributed 5 & 13 for 18 pts with a +7, 4 PP points, 2 GWG and one in O.T.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivsujXBR3rMQ7m2QLmEYPaj0xZV2F8XyZ6P73CsfZCWszoA4eYyZg6KlbaBFfcHtwlKBR9JeAr4-RswsDSu9HKFHLVDKKZy5pf-yXnginQpuVgJ7QVMgzzaruVUP055IC_ap_a_B40Tso/s1600/Toews.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="768" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivsujXBR3rMQ7m2QLmEYPaj0xZV2F8XyZ6P73CsfZCWszoA4eYyZg6KlbaBFfcHtwlKBR9JeAr4-RswsDSu9HKFHLVDKKZy5pf-yXnginQpuVgJ7QVMgzzaruVUP055IC_ap_a_B40Tso/s320/Toews.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Johnny Boychuk was 3 & 16 for 19 pts with a +10 in 74 games. Boychuk looked more comfortable this season and showed what a veteran defenseman can contribute to help the play of a younger D-Core. Thomas Hickey took the high road and played well after yielding his spot to Toews after his injury. Hickey contributed 4 pts with a shorthanded helper in 40 games with a +5. Luca Sbisa played in only 9 games (1pt) as a depth defenseman and will be a UFA after this season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Isles had a fantastic bounce-back year in net. Robin Lehner was 25-13-0-5 with a .930Sv% and a 2.13 GAA. Lehner established a career high in shutouts with 6 and wins. Per Eric Hornick, “Robin Lehner has played 391 minutes in his last seven appearances, allowing only nine goals, including a shutout. He has stopped 194 of 203 shots in that span, for a 1.38 GAA and a .956 save percentage.” Lehner should be a serious consideration for the Vezina along with his Masterton considerations. He’s certainly overcome every other challenge presented in the darkest year of his life this season. Lehner will be a UFA after this season. Thomas Greiss was 23-14-0-2 with a .927Sv% and a 2.28gaa. He established a career high in shutouts with 5. “Thomas Greiss has 23 wins. He is only the fourth goalie in club history to have at least three 23-win seasons, joining Glenn Resch (5), Rick DiPietro (4), and Billy Smith (3)” – Hornick. Another great comeback story in the strong, stable play of Greiss this season. Isles have a great tandem who are sure to be tested by the rest of the playoff contenders.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuM5kH0Hnzp_hNeDDl1ujYTsXxX6kSkNO_FW8U4HfXVm4jOep9jtL83MdyaHVQcFVMAWgiIuJsYbR2S2O7P2lrlabNYO_xcJbb9el9GuxRH9un0NqvnEvJs8XKKQSG1TXCQSBZQ_g6hrQ/s1600/Greiss+Lehner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuM5kH0Hnzp_hNeDDl1ujYTsXxX6kSkNO_FW8U4HfXVm4jOep9jtL83MdyaHVQcFVMAWgiIuJsYbR2S2O7P2lrlabNYO_xcJbb9el9GuxRH9un0NqvnEvJs8XKKQSG1TXCQSBZQ_g6hrQ/s320/Greiss+Lehner.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Butch Goring told Newsday, “Looking ahead, Goring said the franchise under GM Lou Lamoriello and coach Barry Trotz reminds him of the period of time when the Islanders rounded into an organization that would win four straight Stanley Cups from 1980-83 under Bill Torrey and Al Arbour.” I guess that starts with this week’s series against the Pittsburgh Penguins.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I asked the voice of the Islanders dynasty, Jiggs McDonald if he had anything to say about the Isles playoff hopes. “The defense-first approach we saw all season will give the Islanders an advantage rather than have to adjust their style for the playoffs! Also - it isn’t always the best team that wins - it’s always the team that plays the best.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Isles and Pens split the season series (2-1-1) and have a coach that knows a thing or two about playing Pittsburgh. If the goaltenders remain solid behind a meshing blueline, they have an excellent chance to beat the Penguins. Their 22nd ranked (223 goals) offense needs to improve, especially on the PP. Scoring once in their last 12 attempts vs. their first-round opponents won’t help when facing a few of those offensive weapons boasted by the Pens 6th best (268 goals) offense. Faceoffs need to improve in both zones and penalties need to be kept at a minimum. More of the same physicality (against an injury prone Pens lineup) and shot blocking can tilt the ice in New York’s favor, and the 4th line can set the tempo for making Crosby and company a bit uncomfortable and distracted. Shut down the top line and I think you challenge them to go to the depth they don’t really have anymore.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfQotSOAJQcj8KTSMqVCLl8dvR0Jcgdm5YzoTwOwGW2UMCAeATX6A1ztOMHQ9MUJKTMIFHEXvCjMW6mHEUXcO2_WCmu1PmHLu94KEFZpAS4xG1f6vcUjcYXyYkHTynZI7XjvgVYucJeE/s1600/Isles+Pens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfQotSOAJQcj8KTSMqVCLl8dvR0Jcgdm5YzoTwOwGW2UMCAeATX6A1ztOMHQ9MUJKTMIFHEXvCjMW6mHEUXcO2_WCmu1PmHLu94KEFZpAS4xG1f6vcUjcYXyYkHTynZI7XjvgVYucJeE/s320/Isles+Pens.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our guys don’t match the Pens in playoff experience, and they need to do a much better job of maintaining possession of the puck in both zones for obvious reasons. Takeaways and odd-man breaks will play a role in this series as will traffic in front of the net. The Isles need to stick to playing their system and not get suckered into a Pittsburgh shootout. Murray is it for the Penguins. He is playing well in net now, but he’s had a season of injury and sub-par performances at times. The pens are an older team and might be ready for deletion from a younger, gritty and hungrier squad. No one picked the Isles to do anything coming into the season, and most are going against them in the playoffs. They can use this like they did the previous lack of ‘confidence’ to play hard as a team and make the opposition win a best on 7 series at the Coliseum.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Wednesday, April 10, 7:30 p.m.: Penguins at Islanders<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Friday, April 12, 7:30 p.m.: Penguins at Islanders<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Sunday, April 14, 12 p.m.: Islanders at Penguins<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Tuesday, April 16, 7:30 p.m.: Islanders at Penguins<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">*Thursday, April 18, TBD: Penguins at Islanders<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">*Saturday, April 20, TBD: Islanders at Penguins<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">*Monday, April 22, TBD: Penguins at Islanders<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">(All games listed in EST)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our passionate fan base can help be the 7th man. Jeering the guys for underachieving, especially on the PP could bite us in the ass. If the Pens are turning a game, Isles fans can do what they do best. Cheer their team like no one else in the NHL.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Islanders 103 points are the most in a season since their 104 in 83-84. That was the last time they found themselves in a Stanley Cup Final. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Let’s do our thing and see where it can take us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#Secure Another Stripe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-76701663860640690102019-03-27T20:38:00.000-04:002019-03-28T09:16:50.942-04:00The Final Five & The 1st Mid-State Isles Meet Up in Brewster N.Y.<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our Islanders are 44-26-7 with 95 points, currently 2nd in Metro and 6th in the east. They have made some gains since we last talked Isles hockey. They’ve remained close to Washington in the fight for first in the Metro, beat Tavares twice, have the most shutouts by an NHL team this season with 10 (Greiss and Lehner with 5 each), Brock Nelson’s 50 points, and Barry Trotz even reached the 1,600 games coached mark. There’s also buzz about a talented assortment of KHL players and intriguing prospects showing interest in playing on the Island. With the back and forth rumors of prospects Anatoliy Golyshev or Ilya Sorokin showing interest, Oliver Wahlstrom possibly joining the organization after not returning to BC, or even Bobo Carpenter signing an ELC, the Isles are poised to make even more noise leading into the summer an on to next season. While that’s great, we are still playing for what can be done to make the playoffs, win the first division title since 87’-88’ with an opportunity to gather the most points (now tied at 77 games - Hornick) by an Isles team in the post-cup era and strive for home ice in the 1st round.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">With close to a .500 record in last 20 games and being on the short end of lop-sided shut outs in 3 of their last 5, the Islanders are not helping their playoff hopes of clinching or securing 1st round home ice. They need much more to make a push in the east. The magic number is down to 5, and they could clinch by the weekend, but not if they continue to have difficulty scoring (now 22nd in NHL with 2.70 gpg) and the power play continues to be a no show, scoring only once in last 37 attempts. If they continue to lag behind in faceoff wins (28th at 47.6%) and take bad penalties (a once dominant PK now 18th in the league at 80.2%) when a large part of their game is less than it’s been all season. Things do not get easier in the final 5 games against Winnipeg tomorrow, then Buffalo, Toronto, Florida and Washington to finish things off in dramatic fashion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I’m doggedly confident in the management and coaching (maybe except for Gomez), but the players need to renew their accountability throughout the locker room and answer their challenges in each big game from here on out. If they don’t, a call-up or two should be made to bring some hunger and desperation into their game. The Islanders are good. They are the best team we’ve had since the ’92 squad and have an opportunity to prove it by finishing strong, righting their game and making a splash in the postseason. Fingers crossed.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtCBXRzRWWioBZdUzeqWaYsF4tSipGdu056wMvea4iLvvDQroVCR3nNArA-05wO03WpvzG4_s79a2bkP908gXZVpHKPV3OT9pPp5q16L3iM7n43faaMmROtOeiwr0VWIGOXNjGdRBceI/s1600/Isles+Fans+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="768" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtCBXRzRWWioBZdUzeqWaYsF4tSipGdu056wMvea4iLvvDQroVCR3nNArA-05wO03WpvzG4_s79a2bkP908gXZVpHKPV3OT9pPp5q16L3iM7n43faaMmROtOeiwr0VWIGOXNjGdRBceI/s320/Isles+Fans+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I live in Putnam County New York. That’s over an hour from the city, even more to Brooklyn and usually 2+ hours from Uniondale. While I often can’t make as many games as I would like, I also miss the booster club events, and the Isles tailgates in a big way. And I’ve always wanted to get an Isles meet-up started up here in the Hudson Valley. A place for local fans in the heart of Ranger’s country to gather and celebrate our die-hard fandom for the squad we cheer for. As you know, it’s been tough for me even to write articles, never mind travel anywhere to see or watch a game this season because of my family obligations. But I think that’s about to change, at least in part.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I’ve officially organized the first New York Islanders Mid-State Meet Up on April 4th. The Isles play the Florida Panthers, and I invite any of the faithful around the tri-state area to meet me and any other Isles fans who come out to Players Restaurant & Sports Bar at the Brewster Ice Arena on 63 Fields Lane in Brewster, New York next Thursday. Players will offer drink specials and even offer a 10% discount on appetizers & platters to anyone wearing a New York Islanders logo for the Meet Up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Hope to see you there and who knows, it could even become a thing for the 2019 playoffs and beyond. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isle be there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles Notes:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Robin Lehner: 42 games (39 starts): 22-12-5, 2.17 GAA, .928 save pct, 5 shutouts, Thomas Greiss: 41 games (37 starts): 22-13-2, 2.29 GAA, .926 save pct, 5 shutouts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Andrew Ladd (ACL) out four to five months with torn ACL, expects to be available for training camp.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Rob Taub, “Asked Jon Ledecky about a possible date about Belmont groundbreaking, he said that it no matter what, it will be after the Belmont Stakes. Said that no way it can be done before. Also said he’s still “banking” on the building to be ready by the start of the 21-22 season.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-68256618214900717312019-02-24T12:08:00.000-05:002019-02-25T10:40:12.434-05:00The Cizikas Factor and Thursday, 2/28<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">After a disappointing couple of games against Calgary (2-4) and Edmonton (3-4 OT), our New York Islanders beat the Canucks in Vancouver by a score of 4-0. It's Robin Lehner's 4th shutout of the season. Casey Cizikas scored a huge goal in the 1st to open the scoring. It was his 17th of the Ssn, tied with Matt Barzal for 3rd best on the team behind Anders Lee (21) and Brock Nelson (19). His +2 rating in the game gives him a +24 for the season. "A mark no Islander forward (Benoit Hogue +30/Ray Ferraro +25 in 1991-92) has reached in the last 27 years," per Eric Hornick. He's scored a short-handed goal and contributed 3 game winners, and with 17 & 10 for 27pts in 54 games, Cizikas can close out the regular schedule with career-best numbers.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBtjupucoUv2eoxJW9jY_yNI7kymjiLT7AWEWH3CnZ10oI7JrBGZNS9KG4upsG20WR2yWviZUG_pwXDW0klay0VhTn_fMN5tAoTljYFkpTcA9UPWrdqFgsoA8nZ_XJi2eOJCVdHO1XgI/s1600/Cizikas+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="681" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBtjupucoUv2eoxJW9jY_yNI7kymjiLT7AWEWH3CnZ10oI7JrBGZNS9KG4upsG20WR2yWviZUG_pwXDW0klay0VhTn_fMN5tAoTljYFkpTcA9UPWrdqFgsoA8nZ_XJi2eOJCVdHO1XgI/s320/Cizikas+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Casey Cizikas has become an integral part of the team's offensive punch with his linemates. The "4th" line has been one of the Isles best, scoring big goals (Clutterbuck, 18 pts & Martin, 12 pts) and setting an agitation level that can get the most veteran opponents off their game. "Cizikas now has five of the last 18 Isles goals; it's the first time in his professional career he has scored 17 goals in a season [16 between Bridgeport and the Isles in 2012-13]," -Hornick. With a 22-6-3 since December 15, the Isles are 2nd only to the TBL with wins during that span.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I've been a fan of Cizikas since the start. I love his energy, tenacity and his unassuming talent to net the big goal or engineer the perfect pass off a rush he starts from the defensive zone. I see him as a character guy who never takes a shift off and a huge reason why the current incarnation of the Isles machine is working so well under Barry Trotz and Lou Lamoriello. The Islanders are poised to not only make the playoffs but might be one of the most unfavorable teams for an opponent to face, especially at home. The Isles will finish out their home games at the Coliseum and open round one of the playoffs at the old barn as well. "The Isles are 6-1-2 on Coliseum ice; they are averaging 98.1% of capacity on Long Island (including six sellouts)," -Hornick. Here's to continued balance, discipline, defense and evolution to take the 1st season in the new age of Islanders hockey as far as it can go.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQaGkA6FnWq-z3lObtoVW1xXWWaIUB4rl2k6NkKWDjuBXbeAYPH0nX73Nz9ct5sVO9JM4TvKPX8lJr6b-VswybDjBdAaDXOyz2x20AyUcLT3ti8ECxUOGOsKNxUbOmncsHIk-_YBrNOI/s1600/Cizikas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQaGkA6FnWq-z3lObtoVW1xXWWaIUB4rl2k6NkKWDjuBXbeAYPH0nX73Nz9ct5sVO9JM4TvKPX8lJr6b-VswybDjBdAaDXOyz2x20AyUcLT3ti8ECxUOGOsKNxUbOmncsHIk-_YBrNOI/s320/Cizikas.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Thursday, February 28th</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Islanders roll into next week with a rematch against CGY on Tuesday, Tavares and TOR on Thursday and the WSH on Friday. All the games remaining are important for momentum, establishing home ice and keeping the team trending upwards, especially after the shortcoming from 2/3rds of the Western Canada road trip. However, to not say the game against the Maple Leafs and the return of </span><a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/07/dear-john-tavares.html" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Tavares</a> <span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">to the Coliseum won't be a media circus is just unrealistic. Also, don't think the hockey world won't be watching the way the organization and fan base reacts. I assume it’s likely for the organization to have a tribute video for Tavares at some point during the game. While I get that some fans would like nothing more than to jeer Tavares or the Maple Leafs, I'd go along with the ideology of being an Islander.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Making the game a celebration of the Islanders and all they have achieved so far this season would be the best way to send a message to the visiting team and all of its players. A "Let's go Islanders" chant or even dead silence during a tribute video would be the way to show the class this fan base has. As much as "Pajama Boy" could be heard around the concourse or arena, Chants for Lee, Barzal, Cizikas, Lehner, Greiss or any one of our guys would send a stronger message. One of loyalty and pride in the organization. One that can celebrate the team meeting or exceeding long established statistics or post-cup records in what has been a fantastic season so far for the same long-suffering, die-hard fan base. I'd recommend listening to the verbal cues of Section 329 or using some discretion from the tailgate to the post-game activities, regardless of the game's outcome. Don't give snarky media outlets or antagonistic fans any ammunition.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Most of all, let's just enjoy the moments to come, and all look forward to what's coming for our team beyond a trade deadline acquisition that may or may not happen next week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per SiriusXM, “Mathew Barzal hitting new levels. He’s now in the Top 5 for most points as an <span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a></span> before the age of 22. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Trottier- 290, Tavares- 202, Lafontaine- 171, Potvin- 147, Barzal- 136.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Eric Hornick, “The Isles are 19-5-3 since Devon Toews joined the lineup and are 22-6-3 in their last 31 games; Toews now has an assist in five straight games.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“Robin Lehner is 15-3-2 (1.68, .943) in his last 20 decisions. He lowered his NHL-leading GAA is 2.07 and his save percentage is .931 (.9307), which is also now the best in the NHL (Vasilevskiy .9305).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Thomas Greiss is 5-1-1 in the last seven games, allowing a total of seven goals on 220 shots (5-1-1, 0.98 GAA, .968 save percentage). On the season, his GAA is 2.26 and his save percentage is .928 (.9277).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lehner has won 19 games and Greiss 17. It's only the 2nd time in the last 15 seasons that the Isles have gotten at least 17 wins from two different goalies. Greiss won 23 games and Jaroslav Halak 18 in 2015-16.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Randi Marshall, “<a href="https://www.newsday.com/opinion/columnists/randi-f-marshall/islanders-hub-nassau-county-hockey-nhl-1.27595212">Without Belmont, goodbye Isles</a>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-85838896030610373012019-01-23T19:50:00.002-05:002019-01-24T19:45:30.396-05:00Our New York Islanders; Breaking Up Is Hard To Do<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What could be better than Matt Barzal being named to the 2019 All-Star game as the representative for our New York Islanders on 1/25-1/26?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How about going 15-3-1 since 12/15 (best in NHL), good enough for 1st in the Metro and 2nd in the east. At 29-15-5 with 63 points (10 points ahead of last ssn), New York has been in every game and always given themselves a chance to win. Don’t get me wrong, they could still be better in the face-off circle (23rd at 48.4%) and the power play (24th at 16.7%), but they have been solid. The PK has come down a bit to 22nd (78.7). Defensively, they are iron-clad with 118 goals (excluding SO goals) against (57 fewer than last ssn), 1st in NHL. They have the top goalie tandem in the NHL. The NHL’s 1st star of the week, Robin Lehner is an impressive 15-7-0 with a 2.02gaa (best in NHL), a .931Sv% and 3 shutouts while Thomas Greiss is 14-8-0 in 26 games with a 2.50gaa, a .920Sv% and 2 shutouts. Lehner’s bounce-back season with New York this season has been a fantastic story to watch unfold. Offensively, they have had some amazing games, outscoring the opposition by a 33-20 margin in January (10 games) and also scoring first in their last 7 games -Hornick. The importance to stick to the game plan was evident on Tuesday. In the 3-2 S.O. loss to the Blackhawks, the Isles allowed Chicago to put 40 prime area shots on net where they limited the last three opponents to less than 20. Consider it another dose of competitive reality for the boys that should leave a bit of a burr in their collective saddle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Isles haven’t made the NHL playoffs since 2016, and they need a lot more of what they’ve dished out recently to keep pace in a tight Metro and an ultra-competitive eastern conference. Per Barry Trotz, “We’ve put ourselves in a position to be there,” Trotz said of playoff contention. “But for all the good work you’ve done, it can turn on you on a dime, in milliseconds. We want to get back into the postseason. We have an opportunity. If we take care of our own business, then we’ll be fine.” – Andrew Gross.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How’s that for accountability and culture change? It all comes down from Lamoriello and Trotz (791 career wins, 4th in NHL history) and the team has bought in. They are hard to play against, galvanized as a team and play with an edge that makes anyone watching they expect to win, despite the opponent. They took apart league-best, TBL (76pts) by a 5-1 score and shut down several top lines defensively. The fore and back check has been impressive, and the balance of lines, d-pairs and goaltender performance has made pre-season predictions by the NHL’s “experts” look foolish. The games at the Coliseum have been a blast to watch. Per Eric Hornick, “The Isles are 5-1-1 on Coliseum ice; they are averaging 97.5% of capacity on Long Island (including four sellouts). 14 of their remaining 17 home games will be at the Coliseum.” Their ability to comeback has also given hope to the 2nd half of the season. “The Isles are 5-3-0 when trailing in a game by a 2-0 score, defeating NYR (11/15), CBJ (12/1), DET (12/8), OTT (12/28) and STL (1/5); all five wins have been in regulation. -Hornick.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lou Lamoriello had this to say to Arthur Staple on goaltending, “Our goaltending has been exceptional, as well. The job that Piero (Greco), Mitch (Korn) and Chris (Terreri) have done is outstanding, on both fronts, NHL and AHL. All of those things, the coaching staff, the commitment to excellence both here and in Bridgeport, that’s tangible. The unknown was how are the players going to receive different voices? Everything team-oriented, a team structure on and off the ice? And every one of them has been receptive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the team dynamic, “On any given night, somebody steps up and takes the role. That’s what is so great about this team. You can go right through the whole lineup, and I’ve done it a couple of times, riding in my car. I can’t think of one player that hasn’t at one time been the reason for success that night. And that’s a great feeling.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the coach and his staff, “The job he’s done, you can’t express it in words. Outstanding is the best one I can come up with. The whole coaching staff, their commitment to excellence is incredible.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Looking back on the first 50, you can point to Lee as Captain, Barzal rising to the occasion, Bailey keeping it real, Eberle and Nelson making a case for themselves, Cizikas with Martin and Clutterbuck have been more relevant than ever, Komarov and Filppula making Lou look even more like a genius, The development of Mayfield and Pelech, the return of Leddy in a d-first system, Boychuk as a model defender, Pulock and Toews contributing and rapidly improving with a wholly renewed team defense and goaltending.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our Isles return after the All-Star break against the TBL at the Coliseum. Per Andrew Gross, “It’s the start of a grueling schedule in February (14 games in 28 days), March (16 games in 31 days) and April (three games in six days).” The NHL trade deadline is February 25th. With how well the team is playing, I imagine messing with chemistry would be a dangerous thing, but that would have to be measured in what the team would get in return. Impending free agents like Jordan Eberle, Brock Nelson? Is Thomas Hickey now expendable? No easy triggers to pull for me, but then again, I’m only a blogger.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In Lou we trust. Under Trotz, we fight. We are all Islanders.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Isles Notes:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Devon Toews and Michael Dal Colle have loaned to the BST. Michael Dal Colle will play in the 2019 #AHLAllStar Classic this Sunday/Monday. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Per David Pagnotta, “As the Islanders enjoy 1st place in the Metro, expect them to be active as deadline approaches. Told team’s looking to add, 1st rounder is in play; exploring rentals and guys with term … Follow-up to previous Isles tweet. Told contract talks ongoing and progressing with Lee. Not sure on timeline. No real talks with Eberle or Nelson camps.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Per Eric Hornick, “I've been a fan of the #Isles since the beginning and have worked their telecasts since 1-21-82. Not sure I ever heard a chant for a coach like the "Barry Trotz" chant late in the game today. Maybe for Al.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Per Carey Haber, “Josh Ho-Sang is 0-4-4 in 7 games since being sent down with ONE shot on goal. And he's been held scoreless in 5 of the 7 games.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Per Cory Wright, “Ilya Sorokin recorded his eighth shutout of the season last week, making 27 saves in a 3-0 win over Metallurg Magnitogorsk on Jan. 15. The shutout was Sorokin's second consecutive clean sheet after recording a 19-save shutout against Traktor on Jan. 11. Overall, CSKA Moscow has recorded four consecutive shutouts between Sorokin and Lars Johansson. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sorokin, the Islanders' 2014 third-round pick, improved to 23-5-3 this season with a 1.17 goals-against average, a .942 save percentage and eight shutouts. Sorokin's career-high for shutouts is 10. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sorokin was named to the KHL All-Star Game, which took place this past week, but the goalie pulled out due to an unspecified injury, according to the KHL's official website. He was replaced by Johansson.”</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-29986503585828657892019-01-01T13:57:00.002-05:002019-01-01T14:12:49.737-05:00New York Islanders: Scores Settled and The New Identity<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">Last time we looked at our Islanders, they were 9th in
the east and about to start a 4-game road trip, meet Colorado at home and
travel to face former Isles captain, <a href="http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/07/dear-john-tavares.html?m=1">John Tavares</a> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">and his Maple Leafs. The Isles went into the road trip on
a 3-game winning streak and were starting to elevate their game again. It turns
out, they continued to impress, going 3-1 on the road trip and beat Colorado
before their anticipated “reunion” with Tavares on 12/28. Head Coach, Barry Trotz
imparted his usual master-crafted commentary to set the tone of play early, “They
need to have some hurt.” Also said that he wants his guys to recognize that
Tavares made the decision to be their teammate no longer, in the summer.” - Taub</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">Tavares admitted it was a strange feeling and seemed a
bit uncomfortable at his Toronto press conference prior to the game. That was
nothing compared to how uncomfortable he would be after a 4-0 route by his old
team. The Islanders were led by a natural Hat trick from that ‘kid that won the
Calder’ and a solid performance by Robin Lehner in the Isles net for his 2nd shutout
of the season. We all knew the Isles were starting to win with Barzal
contributing in the assist column, but we also know how much better the
Islanders will be as Barzal continues to add goals the way he knows how. With
the evolution of his complete multi-zone game, Barzal has really helped the
organization move on from the last 9 years without a second thought. Per Andrew
Gross, Barzal - “Anytime you're coming to Toronto, Hockey Night in Canada,
playing in the so-called Hockey mecca, you're trying to play a good game.
You've got to be on your game against a team like that. You could tell before
the game everyone was dialed in." Barry Trotz tied (782 wins) Islanders’
legend, Al Arbour for 4th place on the NHL all-time coaching wins list, with
the team’s 4-0 win, per Eric Hornick.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">While the Isles game on New Year’s Eve wasn’t quite at
the same level of emotion for many, it was a nervous time for Isles starting
goaltender, Robin Lehner. Lehner was open to returning to Buffalo after last season
but the Sabres chose not to exercise an option to extend the 6’4” goaltender. Lehner
has taken charge of the personal challenges in his private and professional
life, overcame several obstacles and has now refocused to better himself as a
person and an NHL goaltender. And for that, he deserves a lot of credit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">Unlike Tavares,
Lehner played a major part in the result of a game against his former team and backstopped
the Islanders in another well-played effort to get his 5th straight win and
helped the Isles extend their winning streak (4 in a row and 7 of their last 8)
with a 3-1 win against Buffalo. Lehner had an active shutout streak of 1:77:36
before allowing a Kyle Okposo power-play goal against in the Sabres game. Lehner
is 9-6-0-3 with a 2.14gaa and a .930Sv%. He is the NHL leader in goals against average and Sv%.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">The Islanders are 2 points better than they were at this
point last season. Although their goal scoring totals are down, but still at a
+12 goals differential, the more defensively responsible Islanders have allowed
an impressive 31 fewer goals against. A credit to <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/05/islanders-name-lou-lamoriello-team.html">Lou Lamoreillo</a>, <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/06/islanders-name-barry-trotz-head-coach.html">Barry Trotz</a>, <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/07/islanders-name-mitch-korn-director-of.html">Mitch Korn</a> and <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/07/islanders-name-calder-winner-piero.html">Pierro Greco</a> for sure. With the win against Buffalo, The Isles helped
Trotz pass Al Arbour on the all-time wins list (783) for an NHL coach.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">Injuries dictated that Devon Toews, Josh Ho-Sang and
Michael Dal Colle would suit up to help the evolving Islanders meet the challenge
of an 82-game season and have a shot to impress. They have looked very good and
have helped solidify team depth for New York. The Isles are 6-1-0 with Ho-Sang (now
getting time on top line) and 3-0-0 with Toews in the lineup. Dal Colle has
been awesome in Bridgeport and has really evolved his pro game in his 4 games
with the Islanders. Don’t forget, prospects like Koivula, Aho & Vande
Sompel continue to evolve in the Isles system under Brent Thompson.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">Ryan Pulock and Scott Mayfield continue to be a major
part of the Isles improving defense. Johnny Boychuk, Leo Komarov, Brock Nelson,
Casey Cizikas and Anthony Beauvillier have stood out to me from the veteran
core over the last few weeks. Here’s hoping that <span style="background: white;">Valtteri
Filppula</span> returns to the line up soon after leaving the game due to
injury in last night. He could possibly be the Isles signing of the season.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">The Islanders enter 2019 in the final wildcard spot with
a 21-13-4 record and 46 points. At 38 games, they have a game or two at hand
against all the teams above them in the conference except for Washington. In
the coming days, they face CHI (1/3), STL (1/5), CAR (1/8) before a
home-at-home against the Rangers on the 10<sup>th</sup> and 12<sup>th</sup> of
January.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">This is seriously getting good.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">Happy New Year, Isles Fans. Here’s to a better 2019.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-themecolor: text1;">Matt Barzal was named NHL 2<sup>nd</sup> star of the
week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-26096536341710451912018-12-17T12:34:00.001-05:002018-12-17T15:33:18.470-05:00Five Keys to an Islanders Mid-Season Breakout<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Our New York Islanders are 9th in the
east (4th in the Metro) with a 15-12-4 record in 31 games at 34 pts. Just 2
behind the Penguins for the final wildcard spot. Since we last spoke, the team
has had some frustrating lows to go along with their growing list of improvements
from last season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The overall defensive game is still a
strength along with their goalkeeping. The Isles are second in the east with a
91 gaa, but have only scored 89 goals for, ranking them 15th in the conference.
Just Carolina is worse with 84. “The Isles are 13-1-1 when they score at least
three goals (including shootout winners) and are 2-11-3 when they do not.” –
Hornick. The offensive play of Josh Bailey, Anders Lee, Brock Nelson, Valtteri
Filppula and Anthony Beauvillier has led the charge, but the team needs more
snipe to go with their improving D-Zone play.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Thomas Greiss is 11-6-0-1 with a 2.59 gaa
and .916Sv%. Robin Lehner is 4-6-0-3 with a 2.66 gaa and .912Sv%. The
goaltending hasn’t been losing games and at times, has helped the teams mount
impressive comebacks for valuable points. Greiss is 19th in Sv%, Lehner 26th.
Several notable goaltenders rank behind the Isles duo. Names like Braden
Holtby, Marc-Andre Fleury and Connor Hellebuyck just to name a few. So, what does need
to improve at the mid-season mark for the Islanders for them to start making a
serious push in the east? More offense? How about a 26th ranked power play, 27th
ranked face-off percentage and a 21st ranked penalty kill? How much more can
Barzal bring?</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Islanders will not fix their man up
play if they continue to stand still and play defense FOR the opposition. I can’t
figure out why they don’t cycle and move the puck to regularly create space and
force the killers to work hard to preserve the pace of play. It’s been a
frustrating process to watch a team who has good offensive weapons struggle to
score 5 on 5, but even more when they have a man advantage to work with. This
was just as evident in the 4-3 S.O. win against Detroit on Saturday. Per Eric
Hornick, “The Isles' power play converted on their sixth attempt (and 14th
shot) to improve to 6-63 (9.5%) since November 1; the power play is 2-34 in the
last 13 games (with both goals against Detroit) … the power play is 2-34 in the
last 13 games (with both goals against Detroit).” Barzal’s 5 on 4 PP tally was
the first for the Isles in a month. Shooting the puck could also help. Or will
it? New York ranks 29th in the NHL at 28.2 shots per game but faired
statistically better when they are outshot. 2-8-1 when outshooting vs 13-3-3
when outgunned. Strange.</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Winning a face-off sets the tone for
your offense, puts pressure on the defense and gives a team the ability to
regularly control play. The Islanders are starting to improve, but there is
still much work to be done. Per Eric Hornick, “The Isles won 7 of 10 face-offs
on the power play and have won 21 of 26 on the power play over the last four
games after winning only 20 of 43 over the prior nine games.” Controlling the
puck and staying out of the box should also help the Isles on the stat sheet. The
Islanders only allowed 21 shots (6 in O.T.) in their last win and 17 in the 3-2
loss against Vegas 3 days prior. The Isles have allowed 30 shots or fewer in
seven consecutive games – Hornick. It’s a start. And keeping the opponents off
the man advantage, especially at crucial times is another element that’s had to
lead to a better overall result. The Isles have allowed a goal 4 times in the
final two minutes of a game. But to their credit and resiliency, they’ve won 3 (CAR,
NJ, DET) out those four (TBL) games.</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Matt Barzal is doing well 27 points (leads
team) in 31 games (6 in last 4 games), but only 4 of those points are goals.
Last season’s <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/06/mathew-barzal-wins-2018-calder-memorial.html">rookie-of-the-year</a> has to be feeling the pressure of the award
and the expectations on himself and the organization this season at just 21
years of age. But I’m sure he wouldn’t have it any other way. He continually
out works the opposition and is one of the best in the NHL at drawing
penalties. Per Eric Hornick, “Mathew Barzal drew his 16th penalty; moving him
into the top-5 in the NHL in that category. He has drawn 56 penalties
since the start of last year (tied for the most in the NHL.” Barzal wants to
score goals. He has an OT winner, a PP tally and a game winner, but only a 5.8%
shooting percentage. That puts him just 15th out of 22 players (including
Ho-Sang) on the current roster. While he continues to evolve his game,
situational awareness, cut down on mistakes and listen to his coaches, Barzal
should be due for a break out soon. I can only image if the Isles are able to
figure out the face-off, PP or PK challenges or especially Barzal breaks loose,
what that will open for the team as a whole. A new threat level and some good
times for the players, fans and organization. Here’s to positivity and work
ethic.</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">It was great to see the team return to
Uniondale and it was just as fun to see the fan response to the Isles gritty
play at home. It made an impression on everyone who has watched the action so
far. Per Brian Compton, “Trotz: I haven't been in the NY area very long, but there’s
a distinct separations. This is Islander Country, plain and simple. They're
extremely passionate about their team and where they live and this franchise.
We're eager to bring it back to where we want it to be." Isles are 2-0-1 at
the sold-out Coliseum so far this season.</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Islanders start a 4-game road trip
(COL, ARI, VGK, DAL) tonight before coming back on 12/28 to face Ottawa. They
need to steal some points and get themselves dialed in before visiting <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/07/dear-john-tavares.html">Tavares</a>
and his Maple Leafs on the 29th.</span></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">And I am still actively looking for a spot to hold Mid-State NY </span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#Isles</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> meet ups around the Westchester-Hudson
Valley area to watch games together. Sorting out possibilities & will post
in next week or two. In meantime, ask around & see who would be up to join
us.</span></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Arthur Staple, “Isles on there on
their way to Denver. No roster moves so assume Ho-Sang is with them.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles sign D <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/06/the-new-york-islanders-2018-nhl-entry.html">Bode Wilde</a> to three-year,
entry level deal.</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Eric Hornick, “The Isles have now
won 76 shootouts, tying the Rangers and Penguins for the most in NHL history.
Mathew Barzal is only the second Islander to score in the club's five shootouts
this season. Barzal is now 2/7 all-time in shootouts; both of his goals
are game-deciding goals.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Andy Graziano, “Why I don't trust
Sorokin is the savior fans are thinking he is....Mikko Koskinen, Anders
Nilsson. Per SportsNet, among goalies who played >23 games last year in KHL,
12 had .930 or better. 21 were .925 or better. There are 25 teams in the
league.</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per @Csomichapin, “goaltending prospect
Jakub </span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Skarek?src=hash"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#Skarek</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> (2018 draft pick on ELC) has been in
goal for 15 </span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Liiga?src=hash"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#Liiga</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> games this season. 1.90 GAA & .926
SV%. Fantastic for a 19-year old. Looks like a shoe-in for the </span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CZE?src=hash"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#CZE</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WJC?src=hash"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#WJC</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> squad. </span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LikelyStarter?src=hash"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">#LikelyStarter</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">?”</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">NHL Notes:</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Chris Nichols, “05-6: $39M 06-7:
$44M 07-8: $50.3M 08-9: $56.7M 09-10: $56.8M 10-11: $59.4M 11-12: $64.3M 12-13:
*$60M; pro-rated $70.2M (*lockout-shortened) 13-14: $64.3M 14-15: $69.0M 15-16:
$71.4M 16-17: $73M 17-18: $75M 18-19: $79.5M 19-20: *$83M (*projected).”</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Sound Tigers Notes:</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The surging and dangerous Bridgeport Sound
Tigers are 2nd in Atlantic and 3rd in AHL east with an impressive 17-8-3-1, 38
pt. record.</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Mitch Gillam (G) returned on loan to the
</span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/RailersHC"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">@RailersHC</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk532803974;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">.</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-59657726314057924722018-10-29T22:39:00.003-04:002018-11-05T16:08:06.850-05:00Some Significant Positives for Islanders<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">After 10 games,
our New York Islanders are 5-4-1 with 11 points. That’s good enough for 11th in
the eastern conference. While that’s nothing to get excited about, there
have been a few nice positives to go along with a modest amount of outward
successes. The key to this season story has been and will continue to be
opportunity for the players on the roster who hold themselves accountable.
Bridgeport is stocked with some quality prospects who are eager to make their
case. Maybe a Devon Toews (6 points in 9 games) or even a resurgent Michael Dal
Colle (8 points in 7 games) getting a call up if the opportunity presents itself?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles have a +5
differential in goals. That’s 7th best in the east. Their goals against was the worst in the league last season is currently the 3rd best in east (4th overall) of the
young season. Goaltending was the biggest question mark coming in. The
additions of Mitch Korn and Piero Greco to the goaltending staff have paid
dividends for the tandem of Robin Lehner and Thomas Greiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lehner has been the choice for early starter
based on his net gains for the Isles. In 6 games, Lehner is 3-2-0-1 with a 2.36
gaa and a .929Sv% with a shutout. Under his new coaching staff, Lehner has
looked calm and positionally sound, using his size and quickness to keep
himself in most of the oppositions scoring chances. Thomas Greiss struggled
last season in just 27 games due to injury but has also worked hard this year and
is improving his game. Greiss
just notched his 100th career win (64 with the Islanders) against Carolina last
night and has posted a 2-2-0 record in 5 games with 2.20 gaa and a .934Sv% so
far.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QFngNTHGm1kVFrOFJ1d08sigSICl5YNVjzjPMljmBUXKbxRs0Jq2ah8eXG83KkWeI2-s2KXDEXxE8LUSQUehVSAEbUNSWFGmshV7yJyq9DAQCk32uxqwQ4kFjv1ePGo73w_FQbZcHIQ/s1600/Lehner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="620" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QFngNTHGm1kVFrOFJ1d08sigSICl5YNVjzjPMljmBUXKbxRs0Jq2ah8eXG83KkWeI2-s2KXDEXxE8LUSQUehVSAEbUNSWFGmshV7yJyq9DAQCk32uxqwQ4kFjv1ePGo73w_FQbZcHIQ/s320/Lehner.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The play of the
netminders has been pretty good behind a defense that has had a few hiccups but seems to be getting better as the time goes on. The team’s goals against
under the watch of Barry Trotz has improved to 25. That’s 8 fewer than this time last season. A tie for 2nd best (Montreal) behind the
Devils with 20. The PK is 12th in the league and was 6 for 6 this weekend, helping the team earn points in 3 straight games. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Scott Mayfield has
gone from scratch to a difference maker on defense and has even scored 5 points
in 10 games and a +5 rating. Andrew Gross said of Trotz, Mayfield is probably
the biggest surprise for him this season. I’m not surprised. Always sung his
praises. Thomas Hickey leads the team with a +7 rating on an improving Isles
blue line. Ryan Pulock just notched his 1st goal (2 pts) and looks more
comfortable with each shift. His presence on the Isles PP seems like a force in
the making.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ybskz5YUiLZKKxdRDsbqA4Y4dHfvQG24QMLhi3OWXx2C278iQgaMGYlhPYDFcYBpsw4p9Gf6_gqqIUWJRaEyUq_CCjjldPKEK8PI61LSImcSjNq_mSZ1pUEg2Nypu7l4NHRVCImsw-4/s1600/Mayfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ybskz5YUiLZKKxdRDsbqA4Y4dHfvQG24QMLhi3OWXx2C278iQgaMGYlhPYDFcYBpsw4p9Gf6_gqqIUWJRaEyUq_CCjjldPKEK8PI61LSImcSjNq_mSZ1pUEg2Nypu7l4NHRVCImsw-4/s1600/Mayfield.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Isles have
had a few struggles offensively. They rank near the bottom in crucial faceoff
statistics (30th), less than a percent ahead of the league worst Colorado
Avalanche and ranked at a dismal 29th in shots for per game. Their PP is a
respectable 13th and they are near the middle of the NHL with 3 goals (12th in
east) per game, but they need to offer scoring support throughout the line-up
if they want to improve. These are trends that will challenge their ability to
win consistently. Erick Hornick has the Isles at 5-0-1 when scoring first and
0-4-0 when they allow the opening goal.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieIwtWlatrjY_-_WD7sJOk5UJOx4vdbsWk7KKAA_KEkMqREjPROdZTuu__5aU_91Goh4448vLYwuHMDwsBxI-zPmxSA7Q0txw4_OqvtFDho6LRPX4bHcG5JS-FCAedtHR0vyyyrCTqIWI/s1600/Lee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="768" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieIwtWlatrjY_-_WD7sJOk5UJOx4vdbsWk7KKAA_KEkMqREjPROdZTuu__5aU_91Goh4448vLYwuHMDwsBxI-zPmxSA7Q0txw4_OqvtFDho6LRPX4bHcG5JS-FCAedtHR0vyyyrCTqIWI/s320/Lee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">They’ve had a few players step up on offense. 2017-18
Calder winner, Matt Barzal has 10 points in 10 games, but is having a
tough time scoring goals. With more focus by the opposition and consistently
drawing top d-pairings, Barzal should relish the opportunity to turn the tables
back in his favor soon enough. Josh Bailey, Anders Lee (11 pts), Brock Nelson (6) and
dare I say, Valtteri Filppula (6) have made some serious noise for the Isles
offensively. Per Erick Hornick, “Josh Bailey extended his point streak to five
games with his third multi-point game of the season.” Andrew Ladd and Casey
Cizikas (+5 rating) have made an impact as well as tallying 5 points in 7 and 9
games while Nelson (5), Filppula and Lee (4) lead the team in goals. Anders Lee
has stepped up into the role of Captain to the delight of his coaches and reaffirmed
the respect of his team mates. He was already a tough, gritty scorer who did
whatever he could do to help the team succeed before and it’s even more
noticeable now with 4 pp goals and a +4 rating. According to NHL PR, “Anders
Lee (4-7—11) continues his career-best start to the season, becoming the first <a href="https://twitter.com/NYIslanders">@NYIslanders</a> player to record at
least 11 points in the opening 10 games since John Tavares in 2015-16.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Another crazy
stat is shooting percentage and who leads the team. How about Filppula (I know,
right?) at 50%, Brock Nelson at 24% and Casey Cizikas at 24%. Oh, and Lamoriello’s
guy Leo Komarov has 4 points in 10 games with a +1 and is tied with Matt Martin
for just over an 18% shooting percentage. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ASin5F6zkwrjUPvE6nob0PWa6MFlnFTCTEaCtlBcudBYPpmohPJ1G9sxCnfpxw-2GCpQ77DB9DNoKrjsqUsCRVGev_Kf8CNH7WkVEoNWOwGvkHm6j44k_ja_c6yDEyf6CDQ3DiArgLQ/s1600/Filppula.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="568" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ASin5F6zkwrjUPvE6nob0PWa6MFlnFTCTEaCtlBcudBYPpmohPJ1G9sxCnfpxw-2GCpQ77DB9DNoKrjsqUsCRVGev_Kf8CNH7WkVEoNWOwGvkHm6j44k_ja_c6yDEyf6CDQ3DiArgLQ/s320/Filppula.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Still plenty to
prove and much more work to do, but signs are showing the team is improving in problem areas under the new management and coaching staff. Consistency is
still the magic word while accountability is the key to opportunity. Let’s see
if it continues and what the roster looks and plays like 10 games from now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles Notes:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Islanders and Sound Tigers honor Charles Wang with memorial tribute patch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAOZ02p1S9oo6CkgHUyO2VprMBi5NKYsflYaz1vdKfiEqsvfNXOVzMUC2JL-Nu2pfH0pXc08q4g3YWxrtfhj_roYl9Pfu2Lrc_jG3v2fHpcl-IuwFTrzpIycB5s3YFUOii_c7S_u7zx2A/s1600/CBW+Patch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1007" data-original-width="1600" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAOZ02p1S9oo6CkgHUyO2VprMBi5NKYsflYaz1vdKfiEqsvfNXOVzMUC2JL-Nu2pfH0pXc08q4g3YWxrtfhj_roYl9Pfu2Lrc_jG3v2fHpcl-IuwFTrzpIycB5s3YFUOii_c7S_u7zx2A/s320/CBW+Patch.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Eric
Hornick, “The Isles have won four of their first seven road games for the first
time since 2014-15 and have won four October road games for the first time
since 2001-02 (6-0-0)…The Isles have won their last five Metro games (going
back to last season) and are 3-0-0 in divisional play to start a season for the
first time since 2014-15…With the win, the Isles moved within one point of
Columbus/Washington for the final playoff spot.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Islanders announced
the game on February 28, 2019, against the Toronto Maple Leafs has been relocated
from Barclays Center in Brooklyn to the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Brian
Compton, “<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a> will
honor Bill Torrey later in season as home games shift to Coliseum, I’m told.
Still being finalized.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per <a href="https://www.newsday.com/long-island/nassau-hub-redevelopment-uniondale-1.22012699">Robert Brodsky</a>, “The 1st phase of a $1.5 billion development of the Nassau Hub -- the
county's largest tract of undeveloped land -- is expected to break ground in
Dec. 2019. Hearings and legislative votes by years end, developers say.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Allan
Walsh, “Center Jan Kovar has signed a PTO with the Providence Bruins (AHL).
He’s going to PLAY games and we will evaluate his NHL options in approx 3 weeks</span><span style="background: #f5f8fa; color: #14171a; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">.</span>”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-39160885002192031562018-10-21T13:21:00.001-04:002018-10-24T16:06:12.740-04:00Remembering Charles Wang<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Philanthropist, Buisnessman and Islanders minority owner, Charles B. Wang passed away today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Wang, 74, was
surrounded by family at the time of his passing. The official cause of his
death has not been disclosed at this time. (Lung Cancer)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">A <a href="https://libn.com/2018/10/21/long-island-icon-charles-wang-dies/">Long Island icon</a>, Charles Wang founded CA Technologies and was the former majority
owner of our New York Islanders. <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2011/07/day-on-wfan-and-rally-to-say-yes.html">Wang </a>was the only reason the team still calls
New York home from the time he purchased the storied franchise in 2000 through
the lease deal in Brooklyn at the Barclays Center. Wang made it a point to keep
the sacred storied logo, colors of the team and wanted to maintain the identity
of the Island and their championship tradition.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“Wang was
born in Shanghai, China, on Aug. 19, 1944, and moved to the United States
with his family at the age of 8. He attended Brooklyn Technical High School and
graduated from Queens College with a Bachelor of Science degree in
mathematics and physics. In 2015, he received an honorary doctorate in humane
letters from Stony Brook University.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">He built and
donated the Charles B. Wang Center at Stony Brook University to celebrate Asian
and American cultures. The $40 million center, which opened in 2002, was
at the time the recipient of the largest donation from an individual to the
SUNY system.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The crusade
of Charles Wang to develop the Coliseum hub and create a destination for the
team is well documented. He maintained ownership while losing money from inheriting
a bad partnership with SMG management and always did his best to try and revive
a struggling team without knowing much about the world of NHL hockey. He even sponsored
teams, tournaments and helped gain greater exposure for the game of hockey in
China.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">"We want to make the New York Islanders
the world-class sports franchise that our community deserves, wants and
needs," Wang said in April of 2000. "This is no easy task." -
Newsday<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">In 2016,
Wang <a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2014/08/charles-wang-sells-pending-sale-of-your.html">remained with the organization</a> as minority owner behind new ownership
headed by Scott Malkin and John Ledecky. Wang was the champion fans of the team
needed at the time he stepped up and became a part of the team’s future in New
York.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">"He
treasured his association with the team and its devoted fans.’ the statement from
Wang's family said of his relationship with the Islanders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Wang is
survived by his wife Nancy Li; children Kimberly, Jasmine and Cameron; his
mother, Mary; brothers, Anthony and Francis; grandchildren, Charles,
Kingsley and Kendall; and his nieces and a nephew. He was preceded in death by
his father, Kenneth.” -Newsday<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Charles
B. Wang International Foundation has directed his philanthropic efforts since
2008. He seemed to always care about children all over the world who didn’t have
the means or opportunity for healthcare, surgery and he made it his mission to
provide the help he was able to provide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“He founded
the nonprofit Smile Train in 1999, which has provided more than 1 million free
cleft surgeries to children in more than 85 developing countries. In 2001,
he established the New York Islanders Children's Foundation and supported the
Charles B. Wang Community Health Center to expand delivery of affordable health
care in New York City.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The National
Center for Missing and Exploited Children named its headquarters for Wang. He
also supported the Kenneth Wang School of Law at Suzhou University, named for
his father, and other charities.” - Newsday<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Thank you Mr. Wang.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">R.I.P.</span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5814357828242943068.post-58745657057575120682018-10-04T12:22:00.002-04:002018-12-17T14:25:31.050-05:00Islanders Name Anders Lee Captain<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The New York
Islanders are set to meet the Carolina Hurricanes tonight at PNC Arena in
Raleigh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Today, they
announced that forward Anders Lee has been named the 15th captain in the
organization's 46-year history. Bailey, Clutterbuck and Ladd named Alternates. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Coming off a
<a href="https://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2018/04/2018-koc-new-york-islanders-season.html">career season</a> in 2017-18, the Captain broke career records across the board.
With 40 goals, 22 assists and 62 points in 82 games, Lee was only one of eight
players in the league to hit the 40-goal plateau last season, good enough for
seventh in the NHL. <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">His 74 goals
since the start of 2016-17 rank 6th in the NHL.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Release, “The
Edina, MN native was selected by the Islanders in the sixth round (151st
overall) of the 2009 NHL Draft. Lee has played in 343 games over the course of
his five-year NHL career, scoring 207 points (124 goals and 83 assists). Lee
was the team captain of the University of Notre Dame ice hockey team during the
2012-13 season.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Brian
Burke, “As soon as <a href="https://twitter.com/leeberr09">@leeberr09</a> was
done talking to the media about being named captain, Isles PR handed him a
phone. On the other end...Denis Potvin.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Captain has
an opportunity to continue to lead by example with a challenging 2018-19
campaign coming. IMO, his character, intergirity, skill and tenacity all continue to further him in his NHL career.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Shannon
Hogan, “Trotz spoke with all the players early on and then watched throughout
camp. He felt Lee was the right choice. There was no formal vote, he said just
from talking to players <a href="https://twitter.com/leeberr09">@leeberr09</a> was
respected and a natural leader.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lee is in the
final year of a four-year, $15 million contract. Are the Islanders giving the nod to the hard-working team player for his loyalty and trying to make a statement heading
into the season? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Brian Compton, “Lee on captaincy with 1 year left on deal: "To me, I don't think they would have done this if they didn't feel it was right. Things are going to play themselves out. I'm not too worried about that in that regard right now at all. This season is what we're worried about."</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">You can't spell Islanders without Anders.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Isles Notes:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">23-man roster
for the Islanders:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Forwards: (14)
Josh Bailey, Mathew Barzal, Anthony Beauvillier, Casey Cizikas, Cal Clutterbuck,
Jordan Eberle, Valtteri Filppula, Tanner Fritz, Ross Johnston, Leo Komarov, Tom
Kuhnhackl, Anders Lee, Matt Martin, Brock Nelson.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Defensemen: (7)
Johnny Boychuk, Thomas Hickey, Nick Leddy, Scott Mayfield, Adam Pelech, Ryan
Pulock, Luca Sbisa.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Goaltenders: (2)
Thomas Greiss, Robin Lehner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">IR: (1) Andrew Ladd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Per Arthur
Staple, “Beau-Barzal-Bailey Lee-Nelson-Eberle Martin-Cizikas-Clutterbuck
Komarov-Filppula-Fritz Pelech-Pulock Sbisa-Leddy Hickey-Boychuk Lehner Greiss
Extras: Kuhnhackl, Johnston, Mayfield”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Islanders among
tops in NHL with <a href="https://theahl.com/ahl-grads-on-nhl-rosters-18-19">25 AHL graduates</a> on 2018-19 NHL rosters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Joe Bondihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18223540437077820025noreply@blogger.com0