Knight of Cups

Ovi Capitializes Against Isles

2012-02-28T19:14:00.021-05:00

New Forward Lines: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Ullstrom-Nielsen-Bailey; Grabner-Cizikas-Okposo; Martin-Reasoner-Pandolfo.

Defensive Pairs: Streit-Staios; MacDonald-Hamonic; Eaton-Jurcina.

Evgeni Nabokov will get the start again with Al Montoya backing up.

Josh Bailey is back from a 2 game absence with back spasms.

Steve Staios is back from a lower body injury.

Nino Niederreiter is a healthy scratch for tonight's game.

Dylan Reese and Rick DiPietro are out with long-term injuries.

###

The 13^th place Islanders at 26-28-8 with 60 pts, visit Dale Hunter and his 9^th place Washington Capitals who sport a record of 31-26-5 with 67 pts tonight. New York is currently 8 pts out of a playoff spot in the eastern conference before tonight’s game, having gone 4-6-0 in their last 10. The Isles are 2-0-0 against the Capitals this season with two games remaining, including tonight. It is a must win game for New York. Garth Snow didn’t make any major moves at the deadline yesterday. Some would say he couldn’t.

I would like to buy into the school of thought that no value could be had in the trades available to benefit the Islanders, so he is showing his current roster he is confident they could make the playoff as they stand. While it is possible, I thought they needed a change at forward and defense by the deadline. Hopefully, this will come in the form of solid prospects emerging from Bridgeport like Travis Hamonic and Andrew MacDonald have been able to do over the past couple of seasons. Casey Cizikas and David Ullstrom can make their presence felt with the opportunity available.

As I mentioned previously, how the Isles perform in this week against the Capitals, Flyers and Bruins (now with Rolston and Mottau) will determine their 2012 play off fate. Three loses will spell their doom while three wins may very well start a run to catapult them into the top eight of the eastern conference.

###

The Islanders start out the first period being outplayed by the Capitals, being out shot 13-3. Josh Bailey makes it 1-0, Isles with assists by Nielsen and MacDonald. The Caps press and trap the Isles in their own zone throughout most of the period, but Nabokov staying strong for New York. The Isles PK playing much better thus far in the game.

Islanders are 14-1-6 when leading after 1^st period. The Ullstrom-Nielsen-Bailey line is playing very well. I like the way Grabner and the Hamonic-A Mac pair is doing as well. Islanders look like a different team this period. Nabokov still solid. Isles are 4-4 on the PK. Isles out shooting the Caps 12-7 in the second.

Washington 4-20-2 when trailing after 2 periods. Matt Moulson (Staios and Parenteau) scores 2:30 into the third to make it 2-0 Islanders. Islanders make a mistake in their defensive zone and Washington takes advantage to make it 2-1 with less than 3:00 remaining. Washington is buzzing and Nabokov remains focused. Capitals take their time out to draw up a play with :31.8 seconds remaining with Neuvirth on the bench. Capitals make the most of their opportunity and score at the :25 mark, game is tied at 2-2. Weak defensive play undoes a good Isles effort yet again.

Game will go to O.T.

Nabokov was 31/33 .939 Sv% and Neuvirth made 21/23 .913 Sv% in regulation.

Alex Ovechkin wins it in O.T.

Isles hang on to a point, but give away 2. I have to start hanging these breakdowns, weak defensive play and player selection on Coach Capuano.

Washington Capitals win the game 3-2.

Arthur Staple: Travis Hamonic: "It’s cliche but it’s part of the process, learning how to win. Don’t know how many times we have to learn it the hard way."

1 down, 2 to go until zero hour.

Isles Notes:

Frans Nielsen is playing in his 300th NHL game tonight.

Trade Deadline Day

2012-02-27T15:30:00.022-05:00

5:30 p.m. est. Evgeni Nabokov and P.A. Parenteau will remain New York Islanders, at least through the remainder of the season.

Both will be UFA’s on July 1^st unless they can come to an agreement with Garth Snow and Islanders management. Negotiations with Nabokov are said to be ongoing. Paranteau has halted negotiations until after the conclusion of the season with the Islanders.

As expected, no major trades went down with the Isles today.

###

3:10 p.m. est. The Islanders have traded F Brian Rolston and D Mike Mottau to the Boston Bruins for F Yannick Riendeau and D Marc Cantin.

Rolston was good in small spurts while Mottau was vastly underperforming this year for the Isles. Great secondary moves by Garth Snow.

Riendeau and Cantin are most likely for depth in Bridgeport, but the real benefit from this trade is off loading of two aging and underperforming veterans and their salaries (per Hornick: save $1.3 million in salary) while getting back assets. It also opens up spots for some surging prospects like Ullstrom, Cizikas, Donovan, Ness, etc.

Eric Hornick on the prospects sent to Long Island from Bruins in the deal:

Riendeau, 22, is a former 58-goal scorer in the Q, where he played for current Lightning coach Guy Boucher. He has split time this season w the Providence Bruins (AHL) 3-3-6 in 18 games and Reading Royals (ECHL) 9-20-29 in 33 games. Riendeau's most famous teammate from his 58-goal, 126 point season in Drummondville was Sean Couturier of the Flyers. However, Riendeau is 4 1/2 years older than Couturier.

Cantin, 21, is a first-year pro, who has also split time with the same two teams, going pointless in 19 games with Providence and 1-5-6 in 16 games with Reading. Cantin was a teammate of Casey Cizikas' at Missisauga St. Michaels last season. Cantin, a defensemen, went 10-31-41 in the regular season (61 games) and added six assists in 20 playoff contests.

Isles Notes: Defenseman, Mark Katic has been activated off IR and loaned to the Sound Tigers.

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, Part 2

2012-02-26T21:29:00.003-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Martin-Cizikas-Ullstrom; Pandolfo-Reasoner-Niederreiter.

Defensemen: Streit-Jurcina; Hamonic-MacDonald; Eaton-Mottau.

Evgeni Nabokov in goal with Montoya backing up.

Brian Rolston placed on waivers today.

Head Coach, Jack Capuano says Reese not quite ready and he did not make the eight-day four game road trip.

###

1^st period

John Tavares (25) Wrist Shot - Assists: P.A. Parenteau (43) & Travis Hamonic (13)

2^nd period

P.A. Parenteau (15) Snap Shot - Assists: Travis Hamonic (14) & Matt Moulson (27)

The Islanders out shot Ottawa 30-24.

Evgeni Nabokov was 19-23 with a .826 Sv%.

###

Other than bad defense and several Islander miscues, the ever-present inconsistency issues continue to take them out of games before they have a chance to regroup. Tonight, the Islanders lost 5-2. In addition to making the Isles pay for their mistakes on the power play, Ottawa Goaltender, Robin Lehner was the difference in the game for the Senators. One of the few bright spots for New York, impending free agent, P.A. Parenteau continues to be one of the best players for the Isles this season.

After gaining two points against the rival Rangers, the Islanders surrender two points in a horrible effort and lose to Ottawa for the second time in less than a week. They remain 8 points out and are running out of time to even ride out the best case scenario to get enough wins in the final 20 games to make the top 8 teams in the east. This was another regrettable effort by New York and has to just reaffirm that in its current form, this team is going nowhere fast.

Something has got to give again on Long Island.

The Islanders play at Washington on Tuesday @7p.m., Philadelphia on Thursday @7 p.m. and Boston on Saturday @ 1p.m. I am confident that unless we see a major turn around in consistency, these three games will end the 2011-2012 season for your New York Islanders.

The NHL trade Deadline is 3pm EST time tomorrow. Will the Islanders do anything?

The Good, Bad and The Ugly, Part 1

2012-02-26T21:14:00.004-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Martin-Cizikas-Rolston; Pandolfo-Reasoner-Niederreiter.

Defensemen: Streit-Staios; Hamonic-MacDonald; Eaton-Jurcina.

Evgeni Nabokov in goal with Montoya backing up.

Per Arthur Staple, Nabokov in goal, Hamonic in, Cizikas centering Rolston and Martin; Bailey (back spasms) out for Isles vs Rangers.

Mike Mottau has been activated from the IR.

Islanders recall David Ullstrom recalled from Bridgeport.

###

1st period

Matt Moulson (26) Snap Shot - Assists: J. Tavares (35) & A. MacDonald (9)

PA Parenteau (13) Wrist Shot - Assists: J. Tavares (36) & T. Hamonic (12)

2^nd period

PPG – PA Parenteau (14) Slap Shot – Assists: M. Moulson (26) & A. MacDonald (10)

The Rangers out shot the Islanders 36-27.

Evgeni Nabokov made 33 saves on 36 shots with a .917Sv%.

###

The Islanders came out hard and battles with the first place New York Rangers throughout the game. Right up to the final minutes of the third period, they battled and matched the Rangers in every way. After a closely contested O.T., Frans Nielsen and Matt Moulson scored in the shootout to seal the win for the Isles. The Isles won by the score of 4-3 in the shoot out.

Overall, it was a good effort by the Islanders.

P.A. Parenteau has 7 and 8 for 13 points in 11 games against the Rangers.

Parenteau named 1st star with 2 goals and John Tavares was named 3rd star with 2 assists.

Isles Notes for 2/23

2012-02-23T20:47:00.009-05:00

Forward lines at practice: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Martin-Reasoner-Rolston; Niederreiter-Pandolfo.

Defensemen: Streit, Staios, Hamonic, MacDonald, Ness, Eaton, Mottau, Jurcina.

Goaltenders: Nabokov, Montoya and Poulin.

Arthur Staple reports the Islanders recalled C, Casey Cizikas (15-29-44, +25) from BPT, sent D, Aaron Ness and G, Kevin Poulin down, and removed D Travis Hamonic off IR. Hamonic, Evgeni Nabokov should both in the line up tomorrow vs. the Rangers.

Bob McKenzie reports NYI GM Garth Snow and Nabokov's agent, Don Meehan reportedly spoke today, will speak again, but no new deal is imminent.

Per the New York Islanders, Doctors are reevaluating F, Josh Bailey regarding the back spasms that forced him to leave Tuesday's game against the Sabers.

The Tampa Bay Lightening claimed Tim Wallace off waivers this afternoon. Wallace will be another Islander claimed or traded for by Tampa Bay since Steve Yzerman has taken over GM duties for the team. Other players include Nate Thompson, Bruno Gervais, Duane Roloson, Sean Bergenheim and Marc-Andre Bergeron.

What would you give up to make Dustin Brown an Islander?

Reminder: I will be away for Friday’s game at home against the Rangers @ 7 p.m. and Sunday’s away game in Ottawa at 5 p.m. I will try and summarize before going into next weeks games.

Isles Notes for 2/22

2012-02-22T20:43:00.004-05:00

Travis Hamonic and Evgeni Nabokov were on the ice today in practice. Hamonic was sporting a full cage. Is there is a chance they could both be ready for Friday’s game vs the Rangers?

Tim Wallace has been placed on waivers with intentions of returning him to BP.

Ty Wishart has been returned on loan to Bridgeport.

The AHL has suspended Bridgeport Soundtiger forward Tomas Marcinko for three games as a consequence for a boarding incident in Monday's game vs. Albany.

Chris Botta “Bizarrely, Snow promised Nino Niederreiter the NHL this season. The Islanders have until Monday to send him to the WHL, where he can star in playoffs.”

Islanders Come Up Short In Buffalo

2012-02-21T22:24:00.006-05:00

Arthur Staple “It's official -- Doug Weight is interim head coach with Jack Capuano (flu) out tonight.”

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Martin-Bailey-Rolston; Niederreiter-Reasoner-Pandolfo.

Defensemen: Streit-MacDonald; Eaton-Jurcina; Ness-Staios

Kevin Poulin will start tonight in Buffalo. Al Montoya will be backing up.

Tim Wallace, Ty Wishart scratched tonight.

###

In their final meeting of the season, Your New York Islanders and Buffalo Sabers fought for their playoff lives. The Islanders at 2-0-1 vs Buffalo this season and sat 6 points out of 8^th spot in the east thanks to a Dale Hunter/Washington Capitals’ loss last night. The Sabers at just 1 point behind New York in 14^th position prior to tonight’s start and 5 teams within a point of each other at the bottom of the eastern conference. Tampa Bay, the Islanders and Montreal at 58 points and Buffalo and Carolina at 57. Every single point for the remainder of the season is crucial and the Islanders need to do better than alternating wins and loses, like they have done over the last ten games.

Kevin Poulin and the Islanders started out tonight in similar fashion to yesterdays’ hockey nightmare, poor defense with a goal surrendered just 1:21 into the first period. 1-0 Buffalo. Acting coach, Doug Weight constantly juggled lines and changed things up to try and generate something positive. New York came on later in the first period generating shots and creating pressure that resulted in a few good chances, but no goals. Kevin Poulin seemed to settle down and make some nice saves in the Isles net. P.A. Parenteau took exception to Patrick Kaleta at the buzzer. It was good to see a little grit come into the Islanders’ game, even if it was late in the period. Hopefully it would carry over into the second. Ryan Miller was the difference for Buffalo early on in the game. Isles out shot Sabers 14-13 in the period.

The teams traded chances to start the second period, but the Islanders continued to play sloppy and motionless in their defensive zone. Poor defensive play gave the Sabers another goal to make the score 2-0. The Islanders pressed and Grabner hit a post on a tempting rebound. Shortly afterwards, Brian Rolston and Josh Bailey got a breakaway but Miller was equal to the task. Michael Grabner went off into the Isles locker room. Aaron Ness took an Erhoff shot to the arm and skated to the bench in pain. Jay Pandolfo was leveled cleanly and Matt Martin answered Mike Weber’s physicality in an attempt to stir things up. Pandolfo had also gone to the Isles locker room as a result of the hit. Kevin Poulin played well despite the score and kept his team in the game. Islanders were out shot 16-5 in the second period and behind 28-20 in the game.

In the Third period, Josh Bailey was not on bench due to back spasms. Jay Pandolfo returned to the bench with stitches. Michael Grabner, Aaron Ness were also back. The pace had slowed to the Sabers liking. The Islanders seemed listless. Frans Nielsen scored his 4^th goal in 6 games to end the Isles 134:14 scoreless drought (per Arthur Staple.) 2-1 Sabers. Islanders make push in final minutes. Poulin to the bench, Islanders start a rush but fail to control the puck. Isles out shot Sabers in the period 11-9, but were out shot 37-31 for the game. Kevin Poulin was good with 35 saves and .946Sv%. He also had an assist on Nielsen's goal. It's Poulin’s first NHL point.

Buffalo wins 2-1. Isles get no points. Fall to 25-27-8 and14^th in East.

And it gets worse.

Toronto took N.J. to O.T. and got 1 point. Isles are now 7 points behind Toronto.

Winnipeg took Flyers to O.T. and got 1 point. Isles are now 7 points behind Winnipeg.

Are their trades to make?

Isles Notes:

Islanders confirm that they are in contract discussions with G Evgeni Nabokov, as reported by Chris Botta earlier today. Botta speculates “Evgeni Nabokov choice of 1 or 2-year contract, hope to sign him for 2,” and “Nabokov will get his $ (2-3 mill per), but needs to know if DiPietro is still in Wang's plans to get NHL starts while rehabbing.”

Christian Arnold of @Isleshockeyblog says, “reports are saying that Milan Jurcina is on being shopped by the Isles. Also suggests that Mark Eaton has asked for a trade.”

Chris Botta on Eaton, “If Isles Mark Eaton isn't traded, it's only because teams decided he wasn't worth a 3rd or 4th rd pick.”

Arthur Staple reports that Mark Eaton told him "Absolutely not," on whether he asked for a trade.

Head Coach, Jack Capuano on the 6-0 loss vs Ottawa, "I’ll never ask anybody to fight but we weren’t physical enough."

Before tonight’s game, Andrew MacDonald had 132 of the Islanders 1,013 blocked shots. That is good enough for 8th in the NHL.

Ken Dick of @RealKenDick said coming into tonights game, “So...in nearly *22%* of their games the Isles have let their opponent score within the first five minutes of the game.”

I will be away for Friday’s game at home against the Rangers @ 7 p.m. and Sunday’s away game in Ottawa at 5 p.m. I will try and summarize before going into next weeks games.

Frustration Evident

2012-02-20T19:14:00.003-05:00

Dee Karl, @7thwoman of the Isles Blogbox asked me if I could fill in for her today to cover the Isles game vs the Ottawa Senators. I forgot it was a holiday matinee and the Islanders would be in their alternate black jerseys, so I said yes.

Boy, am I stupid.

But seriously, I want to thank her for the vote of confidence and it was a pleasure to help out a Mentor.

Keep a box of tissues and a bucket close by after reading about this game.

http://7thwoman.blogspot.com/2012/02/isles-lose-to-sens-frustration-evident.html?spref=tw

And Dee gives me a mention on Hockeybuzz.com:

http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog/Dee-Karl/Presidential-Race--Meeting-With-the-Senators-Today-6---0-Sens/129/42347

Isles Sweep Canes In 4-3 Win

2012-02-19T23:52:00.004-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Martin-Bailey-Rolston; Niederreiter-Reasoner-Pandolfo

Defnsemen: Streit-Staios; MacDonald-Ness; Eaton-Jurcina.

Kevin Poulin in net.

Your New York Islanders defeated Kirk Muller’s Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday night by the score of 4-3. It marked their first-ever 4-game sweep of the Hurricanes and helped the Isles reach the 25-25-8 mark and pull to within 6 points of the final playoff spot once again.

1^st Period: Kyle Okposo (13) Wrist Shot - Assists: M. Grabner (10) & M. Streit (27)

2^nd Period: John Tavares (23) Wrist Shot - Assists: A. MacDonald (8) & P. Parenteau (40)
PPG - Frans Nielsen (12) Slap Shot - Assists: J. Tavares (34) & P. Parenteau (41)

3^rd period: John Tavares (24) Wrist Shot - Assists: M. Moulson (25) & M. Streit (28)

The Islanders played with spirit and urgency on Saturday. They passed the puck well and managed to pull together on defense to lend support to their goaltender, giving themselves a chance to win. And when the defense does its job, the offense led by John Tavares can focus on doing the same. When the Islanders can play their game, they have shown they can beat anybody.

Kevin Poulin made some spectacular saves, especially late in the game, to preserve the win for New York. The Islanders were outshot by a 36-31 margin, but Poulin made 33 saves on 36 shots with a .917 Sv%. With his proven success in the AHL and his strong play for the Islanders, Poulin continues to impress. He has made a strong case for himself to be given an opportunity with the big club next season, or maybe even sooner.

Arthur Staple reported that Nabokov's agent, Don Meehan, tells Newsday that contract talks with the Islanders will likely start soon. If this holds true, it may actually be Al Montoya who would become expendable if the confidence is there for Poulin by team management.

The trade deadline is coming. What, if anything will it hold for the Islanders?

Tomorrow, I’ll be covering the President’s day matinee vs the Ottawa Senators at 1 p.m. for Dee Karl’s Islanders Blogbox, NY Islanders 7^th Woman’s blog. Thanks to Dee for the shout!

Islanders Black N' Blued In St. Louis

2012-02-16T22:41:00.007-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau; Martin-Bailey-Rolston; Pandolfo-Reasoner-Niederreiter.

Defensemen: Streit-Wishart; Ness-MacDonald; Eaton-Jurcina.

Nabokov was supposed to be in net tonight, but has flu like symptoms, so Al Montoya will get the start.

Ty Wishart will see his first NHL action of the season with the Isles tonight in St. Louis, in for Steve Staios who has the stomach flu.

###

After starting off with a sweet Frans Nielsen goal, your New York Islanders are getting outworked and once again unable to come up with a defensive game plan to move bodies from in front of their net. Al Montoya looks shaky with no back up on the bench due to Evgeni Nabokov’s bout of the flu that sidelined the starter for tonight’s contest prior to game time. Montoya seems unsettled ever since coming back from the concussion he suffered on December 21^st as a result of being run over by Winnipeg’s Evander Kane’s while trying to make a play in his crease.

St. Louis scored 5 unanswered goals on 17 shots through the second period and have the Islanders frustrated and confused. Nothing seems to be going their way against a Blues team that holds the 4^th place spot in the West with an impressive record of 35-15-7. A sloppy effort is putting the Isles into man down situations and causing them to attempt desperate plays, despite starting to shoot more on St. Louis’ Brian Elliot who looks like a different goalie from the first 5 minutes of the contest. Elliot finished with 26 saves on 27 shots and a .963 Sv%. Montoya was 21 of 26 with a .808 Sv%.

The Islanders weakness on offensive proficiency was really evident again in the game. St. Louis played a tight game and forced the Islanders to try and stop the rush. New York wasn’t able to do so and made some mistakes in the process. Too many second and third rebounds resulted in goals. Islanders lose 5-1 and fall to 24-25-8 and 8 points out of a playoff spot.

The defense has to be accountable against a good team like this and their inefficiency showed tonight.

** I will be away this weekend so I’ll try and post an update for the game against the Hurricanes as soon as I can get to it. On Monday, I’ll be covering the President’s day matinee vs the Ottawa Senators at 1 p.m. for Dee Karl’s Islanders Blogbox, NY Islanders 7^th Woman’s blog. Thanks to Dee for the shout!

Isles Notes:

Dee Karl reports that the Islanders lead the NHL with 971 blocked shots coming into tonight’s game and Andrew MacDonald owns 126 of those.

Brian Compton mentions the Islanders are now 8 points behind Toronto with 2 games in hand.

Katie Strang points out that with a goal in the 3-1 win vs. WPG, Matt Moulson has put together three straight seasons of 25 goals or more.

P.A. Parenteau and his agent Allan Walsh say the focus should be on making the playoffs with the Islanders. Contact talks can wait.

Eric Hornick reports that Piere Turgeon’s son, Dominic Turgeon just signed in Portland of the WHL where Travis Green is the asst GM/ asst coach.

@BDGallof's take on the aftermath of the Legislature’s meeting. http://cbsloc.al/vZjSVy

Islanders Endure, Shoot Down Jets

2012-02-14T23:35:00.003-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau; Martin-Bailey-Rolston; Pandolfo-Reasoner-Niederreiter.

Defensemen: Streit-Staios; Ness-MacDonald; Eaton-Jurcina

Evgeni Nabokov is in goal for the Islanders with Al Montoya backing up.

Marty Reasoner returns to the line up. Tim Wallace and Ty Wishart are scratched.

###

The Islanders are unable to convert on the chances they are given in the 1^st period. A loose puck in front of Nabokov’s net turns into a goal for the Jets, where was the Isles defense there? Andrej Pavlec looks strong for Winnipeg thus far and Nabokov keeps New York in the game. 1-0 Jets after the first. Isles are being out shot 16-10.

Niederreiter & Reasoner go on a 2 on 0, Nino passes to Reasoner and they get nothing to show for it. The top line comes through as Moulson scores his 25^th goal of the season from J.T. Nabokov looks strong in the second period, continuing to make some big saves. The Islanders are starting to play better as a team and passing the puck well. A-Mac protecting his goaltender, I love to see that.

P.A. Parenteau gets shoved into the glass from behind by Antropov, Stephen Walkom calls Antropov for Interference and Parenteau for embellishment? Unreal.

Then J.T. plays the puck up on the glass and it’s called "in" by the closer Official. The Jets protest and the trailing Official, Walkom changes the call. The Islanders are killing off a 2-minute penalty for delay of game as a result. Isles being out shot 10-7 in the period and 26-17 for the game after 2 periods.

P.A. Parenteau deflects Jurcina’s shot and the Isles take a 2-1 lead to start the third. Nino Niederreiter in scoring position twice, but comes up empty. His stronger play hasn’t resulted in a goal just yet. No call on an “embellishment” from the Jets, sends Rolston to the box for another Winnipeg power play. And P.A. Parenteau called on a cross check for a push into a Winnipeg player's back to play for the puck. This is an amazing display of officiating for the NHL. I think that each poorly called game is as bad as it can get and then they make an even worse series of calls in another game. Jets are buzzing late in the game. P.A. Parenteau keeps the puck behind the empty net and dishes it to Matt Martin for the empty net goal to seal the deal. Islanders win 3-1. The Isles were out shot 12-8 in the period and 38-25 in the game.

Huge win for Islanders. It marks the first 4 game road-winning streak since 2008. The Defense got better as the game went on. Evgeni Nabokov was solid again with 37 saves and a .974 Sv%. John Tavares is relentless when he wants the puch. Patrick Flatley compared him to Pavel Datsyuk in that way. A-Mac played tough all night, he’s a real leader on the ice for New York. Aaron Ness was impressive again.

With the loss by Toronto, New York finds themselves only 6 points out (in 11^th spot, 24-24-8 with 56 pts.) of the final playoff position with the win against Winnipeg. Still a long way to go.

Can the Isles sign P.A. Parenteau to an extension already!

Isles Notes:

Per Kevin Schultz, @Schultz88 on Islanders Point Blank, ABLI’s Vince Polimeni spoke to CBS yesterday, explaining his thoughts on the HUB site if the Islanders leave in 2015.

“Make the assumption they are leaving. Their lease is up in two years. We will then pursue other teams that are out there that would maybe want to relocate to the Island, because it’s a great spot. Or not. We can just do the development that doesn’t involve the Coliseum.”

Ok, then. Next!

A Cold Day On Long Island

2012-02-13T21:39:00.003-05:00

Please read Chris Botta’s take on the latest meeting to discuss the future of the NVMC hub and the fate of the New York Islanders in Nassau County. The valentine’s day massac… meeting will take place tomorrow at 2:00pm at the headquarters of the Nassau County Legislature.

http://www.islanderspointblank.com/2012/02/while-nassau-fiddles-with-another-meeting-wang-is-listening-to-offers-from-municipalities-in-new-york-and-elsewhere/

Isles Notes:

The New York Islanders have recalled D Ty Wishart from Bridgeport; Rhett Rakhshani returned to Sound Tigers.

Islanders Flat Against Panthers

2012-02-12T18:12:00.000-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo, Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau, Rolston-Bailey-Martin, Wallace-Pandolfo-Niederreiter.

Defensemen: Streit-Staios, Ness-MacDonald, Eaton-Jurcina.

Nabokov in goal, Montoya backing up

###

The Islanders start the game with a strong effort again by throwing checks and moving their feet in pursuit of the puck. Frans Neilsen scores first, going five hole on a break away to give the Islanders a 1-0 lead early in the 1^st period. Evgeni Nabokov stands tall again making a couple of big saves. Josh Bailey hits a post on a strong move to the net. Bailey has almost found his game, but he has yet to finish regularly. Michael Grabner, P.A. Parenteau and J.T. putting on the pressure early on in the game. The Islanders seem to really be focused on good team defense thus far. In a bit of bad luck, the puck deflects off Steve Staios and goes in behind Nabokov. The game is tied at 1-1, with the shots on goal even at 9.

Florida seems to be getting the breaks early on in the second period. They take the lead at 2-1 and then 3-1 early in the second. Isles getting out shot 15-14. Panthers have taken over, going up by a score of 4-1 now. Isles seem to be slow to the puck now and may be tired, now feeling the effect of back to back matinees, especially the physical nature of yesterday’s game. Most notably, Florida’s face off wins are turning into goals. They have also been able to camp forwards in front of the Isles goal to create a screen so far this game with little exception shown by New York.

Al Montoya now in net for Isles to start the third period with Nabokov on the bench. Isles showing a little more fight, but still can’t get a break to go their way. Too many shots are regularly missing the net. The Isles are playing flat and seem to always be missing the mark. While they haven’t quit, they again seem to be grinding to make something happen with little success. Inconsistency seems to be creeping back into all parts of their game, from passing to shooting to positioning. Montoya didn’t allow a goal, but looks shaky again in his relief of Evgeni Nabokov today.

With recent success, there probably isn’t any reason to panic, but every point loss will help kill the slim playoff chances that remain for New York. What can be unsettling is the way the team played in such a vital game to a team above them who hey need to start beating to take the next step. The Islanders looked good at times, but overall, they played a bad game at home. The Panthers dictated play for most of the game. Their lack of scoring made itself apparent today when most shots towards the net were off target. It made Theodore’s job easier in net for Florida when the shots that were on target hit him in the chest or pads.

They need to just forget this game and move on to the next one. A win against a struggling Jet team should be an attainable goal. They need to outwork their opponents because they aren’t quite good enough yet to out duel them in every game. Focus and build on the positives while retooling the negatives. The Isles need to get back to what was winning games and force the opponent to play their style of game. What they can’t afford to do is spot their opponents an early lead and try and catch up if they want a realistic chance of competing for a playoff spot.

Chris Botta remarks, “With so much at stake for the first time in a long time, #Isles come up small in homestand against MTL, LA and FLA and lose 2 of 3.”

The Islanders are now 23-24-8.

Isles Notes:

Brian Compton reports “with 306 wins, Evgeni Nabokov has passed Billy Smith on the all-time list.”

NYI had blocked a league high 944 shots after the game vs the Kings.

The Islanders’ 48 hits vs the King’s set a new franchise record.

Eric Hornick reports that Evgeni Nabokov & Bruins goaltender, Tim Thomas have 0 OT/SO losses this yr. Only 3 goalies in the SO era have done so over full season (28+ gms) They would be Raycroft, Smith and Lehtonen.

Tom Mascioli of @islesinfo mentions that “Micheal Haley gets the hat trick, 8th of the season at 10:23 of the 3rd prd to give Bridgeport an 8-1 lead. Mouillierat & Landry assisted.”

Also, “Kirill Kabanov returned to action tonight with Shawinigan after missing just 1 game with what was reported to be a possible concussion.”

Dee Karl is reporting a Tuesday meeting for the New Development Group on the NVMC project. It seems the Islanders will not have official representation at the meeting.

Islanders Dethrone Kings

2012-02-11T16:03:00.010-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo, Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau, Rolston-Bailey-Martin, Wallace-Pandolfo-Niederreiter.

Defensemen: Streit-Staios, Ness-MacDonald, Eaton-Jurcina.

Nabokov got the start in goal with Montoya backing up.

Brian Rolston was in for Rhett Rakhshani. Kyle Okposo stayed on Tavares line. Aaron Ness paired with Andrew MacDonald.

###

In what would turn into an ugly and mean spirited contest on "KJ" day, the Islanders opened up with some good pressure on LA. Nabokov made the first save. Grabner scored off a defected shot from Eaton and K.O., Isles up 1-0. Grabner and Streit are buzzing. Aaron Ness continues to look like he belongs on Long Island in this emergency call up scenario. The Kings out shot the Isles 12-8 in the first period.

The physicality continued in the second period. The Isles generated some good scoring chances. Kings tied the game on a rebound from Brown, uncovered in front of Nabby’s net. Isles turned up their physical play again, got outworked by Kings in that period. John Tavares even got physical. Arthur Staple had it right, “Isles being outshot 24-12, scrambling in own zone and tied 1-1 with Kings after 2. Must have 2 points out of this.”

In the third, Matt Martin went hard into dasher finishing a check, went into locker room. Jordan Nolan, son of Ted Nolan with a cheap shot to J.T.’s head for Kings. More cheap shots applied by the Kings against the Isles on PP chance. Then Moulson limped to bench after cross check, would return. More stellar officiating by the NHL’s elite Referees. Isles got a penalty called after 4-5 non-calls against the Kings. Martin returned to bench and not soon enough. You know it got ugly when Quick played dirty. Quick looked strong to finish the third period, Isles out shot Kings 12-11.

Mark Streit with the winner in O.T. Streaks in with fancy foot and stick work through 3 L.A. Kings and buries it through Quick’s five hole.

Islanders get back to an NHL .500 at 23-23-8 with 54 points, 11^th in the east and 8 pts out of the eighth playoff spot.

Nabokov looked solid at 34-35 and a .971 Sv% in the win and improved to 5-0 in O.T.’s and Shootouts. In his last ten games, Nabokov is 7-2-0, 1.21 GAA., 2 shutouts.

Nabokov is becoming more and more un-tradable for N.Y. with the value he brings to the Isles net.

Isles Notes:

Dylan Reese has been placed on the team's IR list retroactive Feb. 7 (left knee MCL sprain)

Chris Botta stated, “Whatever #Isles could get for @PAParenteau would not equal his production until after the Coliseum lease ends.” I agree.

Islanders are at home tomorrow, vs the Panthers at 3pm, and away at Winnipeg @ 8:30pm on Tuesday and St. Louis @ 8:00pm on Thursday. They return home to face the Hurricanes on Saturday @ 7:00pm.

Honoring the Great "29"

2012-02-11T12:19:00.003-05:00

This afternoon, the New York Islanders will induct defensemen, Kenny Jonsson to the Islanders hall of fame. His banner and plaque will be dedicated at 1pm when the Islanders face the Los Angeles Kings. Jonsson is the final player to be inducted this year for the "40th" year anniversary celebration of the team's commitment campaign.

Drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 1st round, 12th overall in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft, Jonsson was later traded to the Islanders along with Sean Haggerty, Darby Hendrickson and Toronto's 1st round choice (Roberto Luongo) in 1997 Entry Draft for Wendel Clark, Mathieu Schneider and D.J. Smith on March 13, 1996. Jonsson quicky became the Islanders premiere defensmen and was a stabilizing force for Long Island during the darkest times in their history, and their return to the playoffs.

Jonsson was named the 8^th team Captain for the New York Islanders during the 1999-2000 campaign, which he maintained for the better part of two seasons. His career for the Islanders spanned from the 1995-96 season until 2003-04. During that time, he scored 57 and 175 for 232 pts in the 597 regular season games while adding 1 and 3 for 4 pts in the NHL playoffs with New York from the 01-03 seasons. Jonsson wore #3 and #29 for Long Island.

In 1995, Jonsson was named to the NHL All Rookie Team and represente the Islanders in the NHL All Star Game in 1999. Among many great international tournament appearances, In 2006, he was voted best defender during the 2006 Winter Olympics where his Swedish national team won a gold medal. Kenny Jonsson announced his retirement on June 20, 2009.

Islanders Pay The Price

2012-02-09T22:05:00.007-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau; Martin-Bailey-Rakhshani; Niederreiter-Pandolfo-Wallace.

Defensemen: Streit-Staios; Jurcina-MacDonald; Eaton-Ness

Nabokov gets the start in net

Milan Jurcina returns to the line up. Aaron Ness will get his first game at home as an Islander.

DiPietro out for 10 weeks with sports hernia/knee swelling. Mark Katic sShoulder), Mike Mottau (concussion) and Marty Reasoner (broken hand) are out indefinitely or with no timetable for their return.

The Islanders lead the NHL with 907 blocked shots coming into tonight’s game.

###

The Montreal Canadiens came to town in a similar scenario as their hosts. Your New York Islanders with a record of 22-22-8 and Montreal at 21-24-9 know the importance of each and every game left in the season.

Arthur Staple reported that the Isles have allowed a goal on the first shot against for the 11^th time in 53 games tonight, just 1:23 into the first period. They were 2-6-2 when doing so previously. The Islanders play tonight reminded me of Tuesdays’ game against the Flyers, loose and scattered. They had some good chances develop as time went on, but failed to capitalize on chances with all four lines.

There was some good effort to start the second period on a power play opportunity. Shots were 16-10 Islanders, 3 minutes into the period. Montreal buzzed and Pacioretty scored again. Price was in the zone and the Isles continued to fight, but could only manage outside shots and came up short. Montreal controled play, capitalized on New York’s mistakes and limited the isles offensively as 2^nd period ended. Eric Hornick reported the Islanders scoreless streak was at 152:43 to that point.

In the Third period, Tim Wallace and Matt Martin continued to play physical. Brian Compton reported that Head Coach, Jack Capuano had Parenteau back on top line with Tavares and Moulson. And Gomez scored with his first goal this season and his first in over a year (2/5/11). So glad it could come against the Isles (sarcasm). Montreal lead 3-0 at the time. Islanders scoreless streak was up to 163.11 at the time so far and they had difficulty getting shots on net. Would they be shut out for the 9^th time this season?

The Islanders continued to battle and Matt Moulson scored a cherry picker goal from out of mid air. It ended a scoring drought of over 172 minutes. Evgeni Nabokov was pulled for an extra attacker, and just like that, Isles scored again. Streit brought it to within 1. Isles scored 2 goals in 48 seconds with the score, 3-2 Canadiens late in the third period. The Islanders continued to buzz, but time expired.

Officials missed an icing call in the final seconds of the game that could have given New York another face off in the Montreal zone with Nabokov pulled. But instead, Pacioretty made it a 3 goal game with an empty net goal at the buzzer with just 1/10 of a second remaining.

The Islanders are under .500 again at 22-23-8, losing 4-2 to Montreal. Its hard to keep playing from behind while you spot the opponent a multiple goal cushion, but it must be said that New York did not show any signs of quit and fought their way back into the game. They had Montreal reeling, but just ran out of time. Their record when giving up the first goal is now 2-7-2.

Give the credit to Carey Price (31 saves, .939 Sv%) and Max Pacioretty with his first career hat-trick. Montreal move up and Isles move down in the standings, other games in progress.

Islanders Shoot Down Flyers

2012-02-07T21:48:00.007-05:00

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau; Martin-Bailey-Rakhshani; Niederreiter-Pandolfo-Wallace.

Defensemen: Streit-Staios; Reese-MacDonald; Ness-Eaton.

Nabokov in goal for NYI. Stopped 40 of 41 shots last game vs. Flyers.

###

The Philadelphia Flyers welcomed the Islanders to the Wells Fargo Center tonight in their 3rd meeting of 6 for the season. The Isles, 6-2-2 in their last 10 are 21-22-8 on the season with 50 pts, placing them 12th in Eastern conference. A win tonight would put them at an NHL .500.

The Flyers come out fast, playing the Islanders hard. K.O. rings a shot off the post and the Isles are returning fire and looking better defensively in this game early on. There is a good pace to the period for New York. The Isles manage a few odd-man rushes, but get out shot 10-7 in a scoreless first period.

In the second, Evgeni Nabokov continues to look good between the pipes for the Islanders on his 25 saves thus far in the game, 15 in the second period alone. He makes some incredible saves throughout the period. There is more back and forth between both teams. Dylan Reese looks like he hyper extends his knee trying to block a shot. Bad news if he and Hamonic are down with Jurcina, day to day.

Dylan Reese is not on bench to start the third period. Flyers pressing, vastly out shooting Isles 33-14 with 16:00 minutes to go in third. Aaron Ness making his presence felt on the offensive side of things. The physicality is amping up in the third. Arthur Staple mentions, “Rhett Rakhshani doubled over on bench. Took a Matt Carle shoulder to the head. Rakhshani already had a concussion in training camp.“ With little time left in the game, Isles being out shot 41-17. It’s all about Nabokov so far tonight.

We have O.T. Flyers dictating the play during extra time.

Game will go to a shoot out.

The Islanders owe Nabokov for this 45-18 save effort. Hopefully he gets rewarded.

Nielsen up first for the Islanders. Score!

Briere. No Goal

J.T. Score!

Simmonds. No Goal!

Islanders Win 1-0 ! Isles now have a 2 game winning streak vs the Flyers.

The team improves to 22-22-8, 11th place with 52 points in 11-5-2 run. Playoffs, a real possibility.

Josh Bailey and Matt Martin continue to impress me with their improved play. Bailey seems reborn and Martin keeps getting more fundamentally sound. Rhett Rakhshani also looks good with each game he plays, seems to be feeding off his line mates. With Travis Hamonic out with a severely broken nose, it was good to see defensemen, Aaron Ness looked strong in his first NHL appearance. It’s always important when a call up, especially one on an emergency basis, doesn’t look out of place during the game. Nabokov had another fantastic effort and needs to continue this play with Hamonic injured.

In other BIG news:

Bob McKenzie of TSN reports that the New York Islanders sign “The Great Dane,” Frans Nielsen to 4 year, $11M extension. Nielsen's extension has an annual cap hit of $2.75M, with year-by-year salary of $2M, $2.5M, $3M and $3.5M. Nielsen is one of the most under rated defensive forwards in the game today and excels at shootout goals with a 19 of 33 ratio, 57.6%, best in the NHL among active players. Nielsen was to become a free agent this summer. The Nielsen extension is another great core building move by GM, Garth Snow. Christian Arnold of @Isleshockeyblog says the deal will be made official tomorrow.

P.A. Parenteau will no doubt be next, regarding an extension announcement.

Isles Notes:

Eric Hornick reports the isles have been shorthanded 2x or less in each of last 5 gms -- in prior 24 years Isles had no stretch of 4 gms, let alone 5, short twice or less.

The Hockey News online’s poll:

If you could have only one of these four, who would it be?

John Tavares 39 %
Taylor Hall 9 %
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins 24 %
Tyler Seguin 28 %

Isles Notes for 2/6

2012-02-06T21:59:00.002-05:00

New York Islanders recall D Aaron Ness on emergency basis from Bridgeport, where he has is 2-15-17 and +6 in 46 games. Hamonic (broken nose) and Jurcina (lacerated elbow) out. This will be the NHL debut for Ness.

Lines in practice: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Grabner-Nielsen-Rolston; Martin-Bailey-Rakhshani; Niederreiter-Pandolfo-Wallace, Reasoner.

Eric Hornick reports that Islanders prospect Kirill Kabanov suffered a concussion in a QMJHL game according to newspaper, the Guardian.

Giants Win Superbowl XLVI

2012-02-05T23:46:00.000-05:00

Big Blue wins by the score of 21-17 over the New England Patriots.

Eli Manning named MVP.

Islanders Feel The Saber

2012-02-05T12:13:00.016-05:00

Last night, Your New York Islanders played Ryan Miller and the Buffalo Sabers. The Sabres’ expectations were high to start the season, but this deep and underachieving team has been a disappointment. The New York Islanders, wearing their alternate black jerseys, came out ready to play. Christian Arnold of @Isleshockeyblog mentions, “#Isles are 5-1-1 in their last seven games coming into tonight's game. 10-5-1 in last 16 games.”

The line up:

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo, Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau, Martin-Bailey-Rakhshani, Wallace-Pandolfo-Niederreiter.

Defensemen: MacDonald-Hamonic, Streit-Staios, Eaton-Reese. Montoya in goal, Nabokov backing up.

Montoya in goal for the Isles tonight.

Milan Jurcina, out, day to day (elbow); Dylan Reese in. Rolston scratched. Per Brian Compton, Head Coach Jack Capuano said Brian Rolston has been very professional. "We had to do something to try to change it up. He's real supportive of the guys."

###

The Islanders jumped out to a 3-1 lead after being out shot 17-9 in the 1^stperiod with Frans Neilsen (2 and 1) and Josh Bailey scoring for the Islanders. They were able to capitalize on some suspect play by the Sabers. Al Montoya looked pretty good to start the game and the defense jumped right into the attack while taking care of business in their backend. Could it last against a pursuant Sabers team that needs to gain ground as much as the Isles do if they expect to compete for a playoff opportunity?

The second period would be a weaker effort by the Islanders as the Sabers continue to outshoot New York, 26-18 and cut the Islanders lead to 1. While the Isles led in blocked shots by a margin of 18-2, that means Buffalo is brought more pressure and caused the Isles to scramble in their own zone.

In the final period, the Islanders continued to battle, with the Sabers keeping on the offensive. Travis Hamonic got blasted in the face by a deflection, bleeding heavily as he was ushered off the ice. He is currently riding a streak of 113 consecutive games played for New York. While I knew Hamonic would be missed in the second half of the third period, I wouldn't have thought that Buffalo would tie it so quickly at 3-3 shortly after he left the ice. With time winding down, the Islanders turned up the pressure on Miller, but time expired. They blocked 24 shots to the Sabers 8.

Back to O.T.

With Buffalo buzzing, the Islanders’ hard work created a power play opportunity. The Isles outshot the Sabers 38-37 in the game. The Sabers were able to block most of the Islanders shots of their net, forcing the game to go to a shoot out.

P.A. Parenteau and Frans Neilsen failed to score on Ryan Miller. Boyes and Pominville went lower glove side and straight 5 hole to beat a seemingly out of sorts, Al Montoya.

So New York blows a 3-1 lead and 4 on 3 chance in O.T., falling to Buffalo in the Shootout by a score of 4-3 as they remain 10pts out of 8^th spot at 21-23-7.

Head Coach, Jack Capuano: "I thought we were a step behind tonight, but it's a game we should have won....it was a game of surges tonight."

Back to back games aside, last night’s game was mix of what is good and bad about this Islanders team. At times, they were buzzing, relentless, and strong on the puck. At others, their scoring touch dried up and the defense crumbled, but overall, their recent play has me optimistic. Recently, I’ve spoken about what has worked and what hasn’t with the team. I’ve implicated players and challenged the coaching staff.

In the present, although improving, I am still waiting for Niederreiter, Grabner and Streit to meet expectations. I think a lot of positives have evolved, despite the slow start so far. While Coach Capuano is a great X’s and O’s guy per Garth Snow, I am inspired by the recent surge the squad has shown and how good the special teams have been for most of the season. They are playing like a team and I think the coaching staff is getting a lot from the current roster, but I am not sure its enough to get the them to the next level.

Bridgeport has a strong group doing great things in the AHL. They lead the Atlantic division with a record of 23-18-3, good enough for 3rd in the conference as they continue to win. In the next two seasons, I see some players to really be excited about. Poulin, Ullstrom, Rakhshani and Reese are getting a look now and look like they belong. Strome, Cizikas, DiBennedetto are all intriguing on offense. Players like Kabanov and Petrov could prove to be exciting additions. deHaan, Donovan and Ness seem to be strong defensive prospects with Nillson in net. I still believe Gillies and Haley have something to add to the mix and players like Nelson, Lee, Theoret, Katic, Kichton and Mayfield are bright spots for the future as well.

Comebacks and the results of 1-goal games can tell the story of a season. But losing leads and just not getting it done can tell one as well. Digging down deep in order to win the close game is what an NHL team needs to do to be great. Doing this consistently makes a good team, great. A contender. A winning culture.

Dave Maloney on MSG’s Hockey Night Live said, "The Isles are not a playoff team." What do you think?

Isles Notes:

Remember Hamonic’s injury and hope he is ok. No updates as of yet, not a good sign.
UPDATE: Arthur Staple reports Travis Hamonic needed surgery to repair a broken nose, plus stitches. #Isles say he will miss 2 weeks. Took puck to the face last night.

Eric Hornick reported that an Islanders win last night would have gotten them to an NHL 500. The last time they were .500 this late in season @ 32-32-7 was in Mar 2008. They came into tonight’s contest at 21-22-7.

The Islanders are currently ranked 6^th in PP at 19.8% and 8^th in PK at 84.8%.

The Islanders will face the Flyers in Philadelphia on Tuesday @7 pm and the Canadiens, Thursday @7pm and Kings 1pm on Saturday at home in New York.

I will be covering the President's day game vs. the Ottawa Senators at 1pm on Monday, 2/20 for Dee Karl and her 7th Woman Islanders blog!

Good luck to my New York Giants in Super Bowl XLVI today!

Isles Notes for 2/3

2012-02-04T19:43:00.003-05:00

With Islanders legend, Billy Smith in the house last night, your NYI defeated the Ottawa Senators at home by the score of 2-1 in O.T. Eric Hornick points out that, “the Isles are 2-0-0 since the All-Star Break and 5-1-1 in their last seven games. The win moves the Islanders into a tie with Tampa for 11^th place in the East; they are nine points behind 8^th place Toronto and hold a game in hand over the Leafs.”

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau; Martin-Bailey-Rakhshani; Niederreiter-Pandolfo-Wallace.

Defensemen: Streit-Staios; Hamonic-MacDonald; Eaton-Jurcina.

Nabokov in goal. Brian Rolston and Dylan Reese scratched.

Matt Martin (6), P. Parenteau (35)

Mark Eaton (1), M. Jurcina (4) and P. Parenteau (36)

The Isles outshot the Senators 32-24 with Evgeni Nabokov making 23 saves on 24 shots with a .958 Sv%.

Tom Mascioli @islesinfo reports that the Bridgeport Soundtigers “defeats Portland 6-2. They have won 11 of their last 12 games. 8th straight road win. 2 goals each for Romano & DiBenedetto.”

Bridgeport Sound Tigers report that Casey Cizikas and Kevin Poulin are only the third pair of teammates to win AHL monthly honors in the same month.

The New York Islanders put Anton Klementyev on unconditional ($125) waivers for mutually-agreed contract termination.

Winning Is The Only Thing

2012-02-01T21:12:00.012-05:00

Last night in Carolina, the Islanders found a way to defeat the Carolina Hurricanes by a score of 5-2.

Forward lines: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau; Martin-Bailey-Rakhshani; Niederreiter-Pandolfo-Wallace.

Defensive pairs: Streit-Staios; Eaton-Jurcina; Hamonic-MacDonald.

Eric Hornick points out that It marks the third time this month the Isles were able to beat Kirk Muller’s squad, a team that they have consistently had difficulty in defeating. Rhett Rakhshani looked good after being called up for the game. He showed the hockey vision and stick work he has been known for in the AHL. I think he has earned a serious look on the big squad, especially with how well he played with line mates Matt Martin and Josh Bailey.

Parenteau, Moulson, Okposo and Tavares (2) all scored for New York. Three Islanders are among the top 21 in NHL scoring: Tavares is 3rd (53 pts), Moulson is 17th (46 pts), & Parenteau is 21st (45 pts).

Kevin Poulin looked solid in the contest. He battled hard and made a few key saves, especially after the Hurricanes tied the game at 2-2, coming back with a vengeance in the third period. The Islanders held fast and continued to battle behind John Tavares and finished off the hurricanes with consistency and discipline. Head Coach, Jack Capuano had this to say about Kevin Poulin’s performance against the Hurricanes, “I thought he played exceptionally well and gave us a chance to win this game tonight.” Poulin had 21 saves on 23 shots with a .913Sv%. Brian Compton states that Kevin Poulin became the fourth different goalie to win a game for the Islanders this season, it was his first NHL win since February 5^th.

The Islanders continue to play well, stay in games and compete hard against a myriad of opponents. They have been able to win against teams that have traditionally given them trouble. This could be an indicator of their development as a team. My main concerns are consistency and secondary scoring. Individually and in groups, some Islanders are having great years.

Examples are the Tavares line, PA Parenteau, A-Mac and Hamonic just to name a few. When I compare the Islanders to some of the top NHL teams, they have a lot of similar components and attributes on paper. What they don’t have is as many wins. That is really all that matters to a top team, so what is the problem then?

The wins need to come and this falls on the coaching staff. Coach Capuano and crew need to continue this streak and show they are capable of building confidence in the group of current players. We know another top Defensemen and Forward would be nice, but more needs to be done with the current squad.

Isles Notes:

NHL.com reports that John Tavares has been named 1^st Star of the month for 'Three Stars' of January. They say, “In 13 games this past month, Tavares registered 9 goals and 13 assists while displaying remarkable consistency in being held off the score sheet just once. His 4-point night against the Hurricanes marked the sixth time in January he had a multi-point game -- Tavares also had a pair of 3-point games and three 2-point efforts. He also had 4 game-winning goals and had a hand in 62.9 percent of the Islanders' goals (22 points on 35 goals).” The Islanders went 7-5-1 during that stretch.

Eric Hornick reports that John Tavares has 5 career 4-point games; since 1994-95 only 1 Islander had more 4-pt games. Ziggy Pallfy had 8 of them.

Brian Compton reports that over the last 14 games for John Tavares: 11 goals, 15 assists. Eight multi-point games.

Bill Both of @BCISLEMAN says the win vs Carolina gave the Isles “15 pts for Jan. If they had 15 pts a month, they'd have 60 pts & be in 6th seed. Need 47 of remaining 64 pts.”

The New York Islanders announce a preseason game in Brooklyn on Oct. 2 vs. Devils.

Kevin Poulin has been returned on loan to Bridgeport.

Tom Mascioli of @islesinfo reports that "Casey Cizikas has been named Reebok/AHL Player of the Week for period ending Jan. 29, 2012. Went 4-5-9 in 3GP, +5." Cizikas represented the Bridgeport Sound tigers in the AHL all-star game and had a goal in the game.

The Islanders are at Ottawa on Friday, 7:30pm and at home against Buffalo on Saturday at 7:00pm.

Isles Notes for 1/30

2012-01-30T19:54:00.006-05:00

The Islanders are 19-22-7 with 45 pts for 13th in the east. They have scored 115 goals and given up 143. After the All-Star break, they are 11-11-4 at home, 8-11-3 away and 5-4-1 in their last 10 games.

John Tavares to meet Islanders in Carolina after All-Star game. JT tallied a goal, an assist and had an impressive six shots in his NHL All-Star debut, but his Team Alfredsson fell by a score of 12-9 to Team Chara.

Arthur Staple reports that the Islanders recall F Rhett Rakhshani and G Kevin Poulin on loan from Bridgeport. There is no word yet on why Kevin Poulin has officially been recalled.

Chris Botta speculates that with Al Montoya not at 100% and Evgeni Nabokov drawing some trade interest with deadline a few weeks away, the Islanders are being smart with Kevin Poulin’s recall.

Staple adds, Brian Rolston, Tim Wallace likeliest candidates to sit if Rhett Rakhshani plays.

Brian Rolston is skating with Matt Moulson and Kyle Okposo while Rhett Rakhshani joins Josh Bailey and Matt Martin. Al Montoya, Evgeni Nabokov and Kevin Poulin are all skating at practice today. Marty Reasoner (IR) is also a full participant.

Casey Cizikas is playing in the AHL All-Star game in Atlantic City, N.J. tonight.

Scapegoat?

2012-01-24T23:01:00.013-05:00

Your New York Islanders had a home at home series with the Toronto Maple Leafs. These two teams have a history and do not like each other and it was evident in both of the games. The Islanders line up looked like this:

Forward lines: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau; Rolston-Bailey-Martin; Wallace-Panolfo-Niederreiter.

Altered D-pairs: Hamonic-MacDonald; Streit-Reese; Eaton-Jurcina.

Montoya in Goal.

###

In Game 1, the Islanders looked flat and fell by the score of 3-0. They played with grit, but were guilty of sloppy play throughout the game. At times, the Isles seemed to be getting it in sync, but failed to complete the comeback.

Tonight, the Islanders took a 2-0 lead, only to fall by the score of 4-3 in O.T.

The effort was much better in Game 2 than the previous game in Toronto. The offensive pressure was there and their compete level was evident. Al Montoya looked pretty good, coming off a concussion that sidelined him on December 20th. The teams defensive effort was suspect yet again.

Tavares and Bailey scored for the Islanders’ first two goals. It was JT’s 13^th point in 14 games and Bailey’s 2^nd short-handed goal in a week. P.A. Parenteau scores the tieing goal with 13 seconds in the game to force O.T. with Montoya on the bench for the extra attacker.

During the O.T., Grabovski knocks down Matt Moulson, no call by the officials, giving Toronto a fast break opportunity for MacArthur’s game winning goal. Al Montoya makes the grab, but his glove is over goal line.

As if watching the game wasn't enough of a reminder, the posts are all over Twitter. Kessel, Grabovski and Phaneuf were among the many Maple leafs taking liberties at the Islanders expense against John Tavares, Jay Pandolfo, Matt Martin, Andrew MacDonald and Brian Rolston to name a few. That would be two games against Toronto, or 6 periods without a power play opportunity for the Islanders.

The officiating was awful again. So bad, that I feel the NHL should be held accountable and the officials made to answer for their inability to do their job correctly. The team, management and fans are all disgusted with the way calls have been made this season. Its easy to blame others for failure, but the calls have really been bad and had an effect on the Isles ability to stay in a game, several times this season. Arthur Staple reports that John Tavares spoke to one of the refs going off the ice after taking Phil Kessel's stick to his face: "You're a ------- joke!"

Isles Notes:

JT’s 12 game scoring streak came to an end last night in Toronto.

Arthur Staple points out; will the folks who wondered why Tavares chose to stay with the Islanders also wonder the same about P.K. Subban this summer with Montreal and Taylor Hall next summer with Edmonton?

Dylan Reese continues to play as Staios is scratched.

Evgeni Nabokov was named 3rd star of week by NHL, and in goal vs. the Maple leafs last night, his 15th start in last 16 games.

Casey Cizikas has been named to replace Calvin de Haan as Bridgeport's representative to the AHL All-Star game in Atlantic City on January 29^th and 30^th.

The Isles are 19-22-7 with 45pts, ranked 13^th in the Eastern conference.

The Islanders face the Hurricanes in Carolina on Monday, January 31st at 7PM.

Top This!

2012-01-22T11:48:00.003-05:00

John Tavares may not have been good enough in the eyes of ESPN’s Neil Greenberg last Wednesday to make the 25 best players under 25 years old, but he was good enough to once again, lead an improving Islanders team to another hard fought win. Tavares scored both goals for the Isles in their 2-1 O.T. win against the Carolina Hurricanes at the NVMC.

Watching JT’s play over the last few seasons and seeing his development, especially this season, you may disagree with Greenberg’s assessment that “Tavares is good, not great.” I am sure anyone who knows anything about hockey had a good laugh at the article. I want to say that ESPN should stick to college basketball and national lumberjack competitions, but that is not fair. I worked with too many talented people who loved covering hockey during my time there, so I will take most of it back. Ok, all of it.

Islanders.nhl.com explains, “The Islanders are riding a season-high, three-game win streak, John Tavares continued his league-leading 12-game point streak and Evgeni Nabokov won his fourth straight game, the most of any Islander goalie this season.” Nabby was solid, yet again making 32 saves on 33 shots while posting a .970 Sv%.

With each win against opponents that have proven difficult to beat in the past and each consistent effort, the young Islanders will continue to improve. The rebuild has taken some time to really show what can be. If the leadership continues to be there and the first team in the East to boast 3, 40point scorers continues to win, we may be closer to a winner than we think.

But that’s a big “if.” I can't wait to find out.

Isles Notes:

Erick Hornick points out that the Isles finally won a game in their 3^rdjersey, where they sit at 1-4-1. Here’s to breaking any and all losing streaks.

FINALLY!

2012-01-19T22:15:00.006-05:00

Consistency.

I have said it all season long. Ok, everyone has said it all season long.

Tonight was a big win in Philadelphia for your New York Islanders.

We have heard all the stats on streaks and series wins. Tonight, you can throw all of it out because tonight, it was about working hard and out playing another very good team by a score of 4-1.

From face-offs to finishing checks, the Isles played their game in a hostile environment against a quality team. It could have been very easy to make this about Talbot’s comments of the Staios hit from last game, but it wasn’t. It was about the New York Islander’s continuing to improve and even after slipping up, keeping focus and bringing their game closer and closer to a consistent contender. Balanced scoring from even strength, short-handed chance, power play and empty net to seal the deal.

The first line, all around solid defense, Streit finally finding his game, Hamonic and A-Mac, Josh Bailey and Matt Martin, Grabner and Nino continue to improve, 25 blocked shots and Evgeni Nabokov. It all equals a win and another step forward for NY.

Al Montoya is still waiting to get his shot back in the net. Who knows how much better the team can get with both of these goalies healthy and playing well. Eric Hornick shares that "Nabokov & Montoya both have GAA 2.50 or lower. Only time (minimum 600 mins) two #isles goalies did that in same yr: Resch/Smith in 76-77."

On Saturday, the Islanders will face Jeff Skinner and the Carolina Hurricanes at the NVMC at 7p.m.

After that, home at home with Toronto and back to Carolina after the All-Star break.

Isles Notes:

NYI Goals: M. Moulson (00:28 - 2nd) , J. Bailey (SHG, 12:58 - 2nd) , M. Streit (PPG, 07:07 - 3rd) , M. Grabner (EN, 19:59 - 3rd)

JT brings his point-scoring streak to 11 games.

JT @ 46pts, MM @ 43pts and PAP @ 41 points so far this season.

The Islanders were outshoot 41-27. Nabokov, with a season high 40 saves on 41 shots and a solid .976Sv%

Three Stars: 3. Nabokov, 2. Moulson, 1. Tavares.

Chris Botta’s observation, "more than 24 hours after Rick DiPietro was scheduled to have his hernia surgery, no update from Isles. Hopefully soon.”

The Bridgeport Sound Tigers have loaned Defenseman, Benn Olson to the Alaska Aces of the ECHL.

Jekyll and Hyde

2012-01-18T21:04:00.006-05:00

Coming off a big and emotionally charged win against the Sabres, the Isles home holiday matinee proved to be another awful game for NY. With Kevin Poulin getting the nod after being ignored for a week on the bench, things were a bit unsettled to say the least. The team wasn’t ready to compete and at times, seemed to be in awe of Nashville’s play.

This game belonged to Nashville goaltender, Pekka Rinne. He was awesome, stopping 36/37 shots with a .973 Sv%, preserving a 3-1 win for Nashville. The Isles out shot the Preds and played a physical game, but made sloppy plays that their opponent capitalized on.

Although shaky at the start, giving up two goals on the first two shots, Kevin Poulin stopped 29 of the last 30 shots he faced. John Tavares scored a nice tip-in goal on a set up by Moulson and Okposo, but it was too little, too late. It was definitely a game to put behind them and serve as an example of what not to do.

Would they be able to rebound against the Caps?

The Islanders came out swinging against the surging Washington Capitals, Alex Ovechkin and Tomas Vokoun the following night. They played a solid and consistent game while not giving anything to the Dale Hunter led Capitals to feel good about. Their were beautifully executed plays, a tight defensive scheme and a complete team contribution that helped the Islanders improve to a 17-21-6 record.

John Tavares scored a goal and PA Parenteau netted two in the next two periods for his first multi-goal game. Eric Hornick reports that John Tavares has 17 points over the last ten games. Tavares' 10-game point streak is the longest by an Islander since Mark Parrish had a twelve-game streak (5-8-13) in October/November, 2001 and the second-longest in the NHL this season. (Boston’s David Krejci at 11 ended Monday)The Isles out shot the Capitals 28-17.

Arthur Staple notes that the win vs Washington was the Islanders first SO of season and the first since 2/19/11. Nabokov is 10-1-0 vs Washingtn over his careeer. Tommy Salo was last Isles goaltender to get shutout against the Washington Capitals. 17 shots against a season low for NY.

Line up vs Washington:

Forward lines: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo, Grabner-Nielsen-Parenteau, Rolston-Bailey-Martin, Wallace-Pandolfo-Niederreiter.

Defensive pairs: Streit-Jurcina, MacDonald-Hamonic, Eaton-Reese.

Nabokov in goal, Montoya backing up. (Kevin Poulin Returns to Bridgeport after Montoya’s return to line up after 4 weeks recovering form a concussion, compliments of Evander Kane’s cheapsot.)

Steve Staios out for rest. Dylan Reese in on defense.

# # #

The Islanders face Maxim Talbot and the Flyers again in Philadelphia on Thursday at 7:00pm. Per nhl.islanders.com, the Flyers improved to 26-2-0 against New York since the beginning of the 2007-08 season with a 3-2 victory on Long Island last Thursday. Philadelphia (27-13-4) has won all eight meetings since the start of 2010-11. New York's last win in Philadelphia was 4-2 on April 7, 2007. Which Isles team will show up tomorrow? Will Talbot seek "revenge" for the "cheap" hit that he took from Steve Staios that didnt even warrant a penaty called on the ice?

Isles Notes:

Bridgeport Sound Tigers defeated the Binghamton Senators 3-2 for their seventh straight win on Sunday, It marks their longest streak since November 2003. Anders Nilsson got the win in net and Trevor Gillies was back in the lineup.

Islanders’ prospect C Ryan Strome will miss 2-4 wks with Niagara (OHL) after having surgery for 2 cracks in his cheekbone received Friday night.

And don’t forget:

Here it is, the season finale of Fake Henrik Zetterberg...

http://blip.tv/fakehenrikzetterberg/fake-henrik-zetterberg-episode-12-the-end-season-1-finale-5726922

Isles Notes for 1/15

2012-01-15T15:09:00.002-05:00

The Islanders defeated the Buffalo Sabres, 4-2 on Patrick Flatley night.

Per Eric Hornick, Nabokov won his 300^th game in his 11^th straight start; Matt Moulson with 21goals; Grabner’s 1st multi goal game of the season; Tavares +4 and 8 game scoring streak with 15 points over the last eight games; Travis Hamonic: +8; Islanders show balanced offense scoring 10 non-PP goals over the week.

With a one-goal lead in the final minutes, a penalty shot was accessed to Mark Streit. It was one of the worst calls made against the Isles in some time, and that is saying something. In the defensive zone, Streit stumbled into the net, inadvertently knocking it from its moorings as Thomas Vanek was moving the puck, well behind the Isles net. Paul Kukla of KuklasKorner.com has the footage posted.

http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/video-_its_not_often_you_see_a_penalty_shot_awarded_on_a_non-scoring_chance/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Upcoming Schedule:

Monday, home vs the Nashville Predators at 1:00pm.

Tuesday, away vs the Washington Capitals at 7:00pm.
Thursday, away vs the Philadelphia Flyers at 7:00pm.
Saturday, home vs the Carolina Hurricanes at 7:00pm.

Honoring The Great "26"

2012-01-14T13:27:00.005-05:00

Tonight, The New York Islanders will face the Buffalo Sabres and add a storied player to their hall of fame. Like those before him, Flatley’s banner will be raised to the rafters and bronzed plaque will be mounted on the wall outside the team’s locker room.

Patrick Flatley was selected by New York Islanders in the first round, #21 overall in the 1982 NHL Entry Draft. In 712 games played, Flatley had 160 and 328 for 488 points in 12 seasons with the Islanders from the 84-85 to 95-96 seasons. He was named the fifth captain in team history in 1991. Flatley retired after the 96-97 season, where he played for the New York Rangers.

Isles Notes:

Despite playing hard, J.T. and the Islanders fell to the Philadelphia Flyers and G Sergei Bobrovsky by the score of 3-2.

Islanders.nhl.com reports that “Rick DiPietro will undergo surgery to repair a sports hernia. The procedure will sideline the Islanders goaltender for 10 weeks.

DiPietro, 30, has been sidelined since December 3, first with a groin strain and then with what is classified as a sports hernia and knee swelling. The Winthrop, MA, native has appeared in eight games this season, posting a 3-2-3 record.”

Per Arthur Staple, DiPietro has played 47 games the last 4 seasons. This is his 6th surgery since 2008. DiPietro tells Newsday he has no plans to retire: "Nothing like that has even crossed my mind... I know I can play."

Coach Capuano says the lineup stays the same tonight. Evgeni Nabokov will go for 300 career wins in his 11th straight game.

Kevin Poulin will dress as a back up again tonight after being recalled from Bridgeport on January 9^th. In BP, Poulin was riding a 4-0-1 streak with three consecutive shutouts, yielding a stingy 2 goals in his last 4 starts. He has yet to play since being called up.

The Bridgeport Soundtigers report that Tomas Marcinko is back in the lineup for first time since 12/30, since being injured in Norfolk against the Admirals.

Tom Mascioli @islesinfo reports that “prospect D Brenden Kichton is currently tied for the scoring lead among dmen in the WHL: 7-34-41 in 39 GP. 34 assists leads all dmen.”

Isles Notes for 1/12

2012-01-12T13:27:00.000-05:00

Per Islanders.nhl.com, The National Hockey League announced today that Islanders center John Tavares has been selected to participate in the 2012 NHL All-Star Weekend from January 26^th thru the 29^th.

Tavares, 21, leads all Islanders in scoring with 39 points (14 goals, 25 assists) through 40 games this season.

Brian Daniel Gallof reports breaking news: The New York Islanders are in discussions for hosting a preseason game in the Barclays Center, Brooklyn next season. Rumors of Brooklyn as a possible relocation for the team have been prevolent (along with Queens) since the failed referendum last summer.

"You Can't Beat Us!"

2012-01-12T00:14:00.002-05:00

The red-hot John Tavares led your New York Islanders to a win against the Detroit Red Wings last night at the Coliseum. In a game that helped us forget two terrible weekend losses, New York controlled play and outworked Detroit for 60 solid minutes. The Islanders are 15-1-7 in last their last 23 games at home vs West and have now gone 5-0-1 in their last 6 against the high powered Red Wings. The Isles out shot Detroit 30-24 in the game.

The first line of J.T., M.M. and K.O. combined for 8 points in the win. According to Eric Hornick, the 5^th best PP in the NHL scored a power play goal and their PK has gone an impressive 18/18 over the last eleven games. Special teams is the best it has been since the 93-94 season with a success rate of 20%. Travis Hamonic continues to evolve as a go to Defensemen for the Isles with a +3 rating and Evgeni Nabokov was spectacular in a dominant 23 save performance where he posted a .958 Sv%.

Scoring Summary: M. Moulson (PPG, 19:07 - 1st) , J. Tavares (07:31 - 2nd) , K. Okposo (11:10 - 2nd) , M. Grabner (18:32 - 2nd) , M. Moulson (13:57 - 3rd).

Coach Capuano said, "I think we elevated our battle level tonight." He added that he was pleased with the way the defense stepped up on both ends of the ice. The Islanders improved to 15-19-6 with 40 games played. This performance was indicative of what we can expect in a perfect game by the Isles. They came out ready to compete, fore-checked hard and did all the little things correctly and with vigor. Consistency is next on the list of goals. Right now, the Islanders are second to last in the NHL. Some things need to change soon, or it will be another disappointing season, and a summer to study another NHL entry draft, expecting to landing a top pick for being a really bad team. Enough already. With a few allusive key additions to their roster, the Islanders can possibly do some real damage, like they showed last night. They have a very good core of young players and some dynamic impact players in the line up. Last night, the Isles indeed played to the level of their opponent. Actually, they outplayed one of the best and most disciplined teams in the NHL by outworking them in every aspect of the game. How can we expect to see performances like this more often?

1) Keep it basic and stick to fundamentals. Avoid the lazy play and keep fighting until the buzzer sounds.

2) Working hard will cause the opponent to have to cheat and take chances to avoid being outplayed. This will, as it did last night, help the team score 5 on 5.

3) Stick up for one another, but play in a disciplined way. Respect can be expected if it has been earned. Believe.

4) The goaltending situation needs to be stabilized. I am a big fan of Rick DiPietro, but a decision has to made and soon. His kind of heart and character can be asset for the organization off the ice. He is simply injured too often as a player and this is hurting the team.

5) Keep Mottau and Reasoner out of the line up. Mike Mottau has just declined since becoming an Islander. While I thought Marty Reasoner was an upgrade from Kenopka, he has shown that he too is a liability. Give the younger guys a chance to develop and contribute. Lets see Reese, Donovan, Cizikas, Rakhshani, Ullstrom, DiBenedetto and Ness continue to get real looks.

6) Bring back Trevor Gillies.

I want to keep hearing Islander fans cheering, "You can't beat us!"

Isles Notes:

Montoya, Nabokov and Poulin in the nets at Islanders’ practice. David Ullstrom participated after being activated off IR, and was then assigned to Bridgeport.

Al Montoya (concussion), Marty Reasoner (broken thumb) and Dylan Reese (healthy) were scratched last night.

Mike Mottau, Rick DiPietro, and Mark Katic are all still on injured reserve. Per Eric Hornick, the Isles have lost 199 man-games to injury so far this season.

Among active goalies, only Brodeur (637), Khabibulin (327) and Luongo (325), have more wins in their careers than Evgeni Nabokov, who is close behind with 299.

The Bridgeport Soundtigers report that D Calvin de Haan will be out 4-6 weeks, left shoulder.

Anton Klementyev Still Suspended for failing to report on assignment to the ECHL for the Idaho Steelheads, and instead, went back to Russia.

The Islanders face the Philadelphia Flyers at home on Thursday night @ 7 p.m.

And don’t forget:

Fake Henrik Zetterberg Episode 11!

http://blip.tv/fakehenrikzetterberg/fake-henrik-zetterberg-episode-11-charts-and-graphs-5726936

p.s. we won. zing!

Seeing Red

2012-01-10T09:23:00.007-05:00

@PeterBotte had an observation on Twitter that I found interesting. With so many injuries and man games lost last year, the Isles started the season with13-20-6 record with 32 pts. They are now 14-19-6 with 34 points.

Is the rebuild officially a failure? Is Ownership not giving the team the best chance to win? Is the General Manager at fault? The Coach? The failed Arena deals?

What we do know is the following: An inability to hold a lead, weak defensive play and inconsistent scoring caused your New York Islanders to lose to the Ducks, 4-2 and Coyotes, 5-1 in consecutive nights. At times this season, they seem to play well enough to fool us into thinking there may be a turn around in sight, only to falter and crumble, sending our hopes crashing downward into a spiral of doubt Islander fans have become so familiar with.

Although, they do seem to play to the level of their opponent most of the time, and maybe they can get a win vs the mighty Redwings tonight at the Coliseum, I for one would rather not get razed by Greg DeLiso or Jakob Hawkins Hanenberg of Fake Henrik Zetterberg fame (fakehenrikzetterberg.com) if the Isles lose to the real Zetterberg’s Redwings. I would rather see a turn around and the fruits of the rebuild ripen into a consistent winner, but this season has been more of the same.

The Islanders have several injuries, an ever spinning goalie rotation and inconsistencies in their game. Their special teams have been pretty good and their Goaltending -- respectable for the most part. Scoring 5 on 5 has been a constant weakness. See KoC over the last few months for my critique’s of the team’s play. It’s pretty much the same now as it was then. I guess that something still has to give. I just hope it happens soon and it doesn’t leave any more deep scars.

B.D. Gallof says Coach Capuano is here to stay, at least for now, and that players will be moved if the failure continues, not the coach. We know Charles Wang is a loyal owner and that Garth Snow is his GM for the long hall. We also know about the monkey on the back of the franchise when it comes to signing quality players. I can’t think of a realistic way to change the culture of a loser, to that of a winner, without some fundamental changes to the core of the machine. I know players can be called up and lines juggled, but that will probably not make the team win now or on a consistent basis. Maybe Dee Karl was right and we should just have an exorcism performed at the NVMC or at least make a second deal with the devil for another dynasty.

Looking ahead.

Per the teams Twitter account, the Islanders have killed 19-20 (95%) PPs over the last ten games and have earned points in each of the last five meetings with the Detroit, going 4-0-1, Kevin Poulin has been named AHL's Player of the Week after three straight shutouts and a 4th consecutive win with Bridgeport. He has only allowed 2 goals in 4 starts for the Soundtigers. Arthur Staple says to look for Poulin to get start vs the Redwings. UPDATE: Nabokov gets the start.

Until the present improves, here’s to the future.

Isles Notes:

Lines at practice yesterday were: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Rolston-Nielsen-Parenteau; Martin-Bailey-Grabner; Wallace-Pandolfo-Niederreiter, Ullstrom.

David Ullstrom and Al Montoya (concussions) practiced with the Isles as well.

Anders Nilsson practiced with the team yesterday, but has been sent back down to Bridgeport with Kevin Poulins’ recall.

The New York Islanders reported that Rick DiPietro was at Iceworks for practice, but the word is that he didn't skate with team.

Arthur Staple reported that Dylan Reese was changed to a regular recall on Friday for the Islanders since he was a scratch. It counts against # of times he can be recalled, so he should be regarded as a more closely guarded asset to avoid being lost in the waiver process.

Jay Pandolfo was removed from the IR on Saturday to join the team vs the Phoenix Coyotes.

Marty Reasoner has a broken right hand from trying to block a shot in the loss vs the Anaheim Ducks.

Tom Mascioli reported that Bridgeport head coach Brent Thompson said that newly named AHL All-Star Defensemen, Calvin de Haan suffered an “upper body injury” (shoulder) in the shoot out win against the Providence Bruins on Sunday night.

Isles Notes for 1/4 and FHZ10!

2012-01-04T19:05:00.015-05:00

The Islanders dug deep and battled back to defeat the struggling the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3 in a SO. John Tavares, PA Parenteau, Matt Moulson, Kyle Okposo and Frans Nielsen (shoot out winning goal, surprised?) looked strong in the win.

Matt Moulson’s 18 pts in December were the most in one calendar month by an Isles player since 3/98, when Zigmund Palffy scored 18 pts.

Mottau and DiPietro were returned to Long Island for further medical evaluation. Rick DiPietro was apparently injured (lower body inj.) while already reconditioning himself on IR.

Per the Islanders, no official update on Montoya. He is continuing to follow protocol in recovering from a concussion.

The Islanders will face the Anaheim Ducks and Phoenix coyotes who sit 29^th and 21^st in the NHL standings.These are winnable games if the right Islanders team shows up to meet the challenge.

D Calvin de Haan was named to the 2012 AHL All-Star game.

And don’t forget:

Things are heating up between Fake Henrik and Alicia, see what happens in EPISODE 10!

http://blip.tv/fakehenrikzetterberg/fake-henrik-zetterberg-episode-10-very-interesting-music-5726929I

I will check back in with everyone after the weekend.

Happier "NEW" Year

2012-01-02T20:40:00.006-05:00

On Saturday, December 31, 2011, legendary Islanders' defensemen, Ken Morrow was given the honors of the Islanders hall of fame induction. Your New York Islanders gave you their fans, a solid effort against the Edmonton Oilers with a 4-1 win in the old barn. A better team effort was necessary for the streaky Isles who still need to find a consistent output of their game in order to take the next crucial step. Steve Staios would return to the line up, Mike Mottau (upper body inj.) was scratched.

John Tavares, Matt Moulson and Matt Martin lead the way as the three stars of the game and the rest of the Islanders played very well around them. Matt Martin really stood out again bringing a more complete physical but disciplined game with a balanced offensive presence to the contest. Islanders.nhl.com reports that “Matt Moulsonplayed in his 200th consecutive game as an Islander and John Tavares scored his 150th point.”

The power play (2/3) and penalty kill (4/4 vs the third best PP in NHL) was great for the Isles. Evgeni Nabokov was good again letting up one goal on 29 shots with a .966 Sv%. Islanders’head coach, Jack Capuano says goaltending and special teams were the difference in the 4-1 win over the Edmonton Oilers.

2012 will see your New York Islanders face the Kirk Muller led, Carolina Hurricanes tomorrow night. The Islanders, with a 13-17-6 record need to win a majority of their remaining games in order to keep playoff hopes alive. With 84 goals scored vs 113 goals against, the Isles offense really needs to continue their surge for the team to compete and win. Stronger play by the defense is also necessary to help out the team goaltending, which has been pretty good so far this season.

Here’s to a better start in 2012 and a happier new year.

Isles Notes:

Forward lines at practice: Moulson-Tavares-Okposo, Rolston-Nielsen-Parenteau, Grabner-Bailey-Martin, Niederreiter-Reasoner-Wallace.

DiPietro, Nabokov and Nilsson in the nets.

Per the New York Islanders, F Micheal Haley has been returned on loan to Bridgeport.

Tom Mascioli of Isles Info tweeted, Isles end 2011 with a 4-1 defeat of the Oilers. 6-0-1 in their last 7 NYE games.

Eric Hornick says Isles now 14-1-7 in last 22 games at home versus Western Conference.

Honoring the great "6"

2011-12-31T12:41:00.007-05:00

This afternoon, the New York Islanders are playing the Edmonton Oilers. It seems fitting that this game was chosen to honor defenseman, Ken Morrow, inducting him into the team’s hall of fame. His banner will be raised to the rafters and bronzed plaque will be mounted on the wall outside the team’s locker room.

Selected by New York Islanders in the 4^th round, #68 overall in the 1976 NHL Amateur Draft, Ken Morrow had 17 and 88 for 105 points and a +149 career tally.

As a Stanley Cup Champion with the Islanders, Morrow played from 1980-89, spending his entire career from on Long Island. That included 4 consecutive stanley cup victories, 19 consecutive playoff series and 5 consecutive finals appearances. He is the only player in history to win an olympic gold medal and a stanley cup in the same season. Morrow was an assistant coach with the Islanders during the 1991-92 season and is the currently the director of pro scouting for New York. Also a member of the famed Gold Medal team in 1980, Morrow is a member of the United States Hockey hall of fame.

Flame On!

2011-12-29T23:10:00.005-05:00

I said something has got to give, didn’t I?

After three more aggravating losses, terrible officiating, and injuries, your New York Islanders defeat the Calgary Flames 3-1 at the Nassau Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum tonight.

The shake-up in lines may have worked, at least for now in motivating and refocusing the Islanders. More flagrant infractions by the opposition on Isles players seemed to spark the much-needed fire in the team's play. I was pleased to see Matt Moulson, yes Matt Moulson react to a dangerous and disrespectful hit with the spirit that would make Trevor Gillies proud. Moulson answered Stempniak’s shoulder to K.O.’s face with the authority it deserved. Somehow, the Isles went man down as a result, but it needed to be done. It is just another example of horrible officiating against the Isles. And getting back to Gillies, I differ from some of my colleagues on his role with the Islanders organization. Aside from all the intimadation and enforcer stuff, the team just doesn’t have the same swagger or fellowship without him in the line up. Some guys are the soul of their teams and Trevor Gillies is that for the New York Islanders.

Andrew MacDonald, John Tavares and Brian Rolston scored for the Isles. The offensive pressure increased as the game went on and really came to bear in the second period when A-Mac scored the equalizer. From there, the Islanders seemed to find their groove and make better decisions. Their momentum helped their confidence and when that happens, they are a dangerous team to play against. Defensively, they played well. What more could be said about Andrew MacDonald and Travis Hamonic? They are so solid and do all the little things needed by key defensemen. At +2 and +3 in the game respectively, they are key players in the Isles success. Evgeni Nabokov played well in net making 29 saves on 30 shots and posting a .967 Sv%.

After 35 games played, the Islanders are 12-17-6. And although they have gone 3-6-1 in their last 10 games, tonight’s effort could be something to build on. The Moulson-Tavares-Okposo line was definitely exciting to watch. They generated some exciting chances and were a problem for Calgary from the start of the first period. The Rolston-Nielsen-Parenteau line made some noise as well. Rolston came back from injury and helped the team with his play tonight. P.A. Parenteau has definitely figured into the Isles offense in a big way all season long. He came close a couple of times tonight. The most interesting combination to me was Grabner-Bailey-Martin. This line could be so explosive, it's scarey. Grabner needs to fire on all cylinders and finish his rushes, and that will mean goals in bunches for the Isles. With Bailey’s improved playmaking and Martins grit, I am looking forward to what might happen with familiarity. I have enjoyed watching Martin’s game improve as the season goes on. The fourth line of Wallace-Reasoner-Niederreiter has more grit, tenaciousness and offensive upside than most "fourth" lines. Wallace has proven he is here to work and Niederreiter will overcome all the hurdles that have impacted him this season. His improvement will follow his hard work and opportunities.

My biggest goats are Marty Reasoner and Mike Mottau. These guys seem to be invisible for the most part until they turn the puck over or make a mistake. Reasoner tries to make plays from time to time, but with a –15 rating, his 5 assists are hardly worth it. I thought he would be an upgrade after free agency, but I was wrong. The amount of young forwards I would rather see in his place are many. Journeyman Center, Jeremy Collinton and forwards Casey Cizikas and Justin DiBenedetto could be given an opportunity to make an impact like Tim Wallace and David Ullstrom did.

Mike Mottau’s –9 rating and 2 assists on the year are also something to watch. His sloppy play makes me wonder why a player like Dylan Reese cant get the real shot he deserves to make the team. Reese would be an improvement over Mottau based on his play this season. Matt Donovan would be another defensemen who has shown flashes of what could be.

I am hopeful that a top Defensemen or two can be acquired and perhaps another seroius offensive talent that would even out the roster. I know the talent the organization has in Bridgeport, but the team on Long Island needs something to take the next step now without rushing any prospects. Will someone rise up or come in and make an impact?

We shall see.

Isles Notes:

David Ullstrom has been placed on the IR (retro to 12/20).

On Dec. 31, the Islanders will induct Ken Morrow him into the team’s hall of fame.

Isles Notes for 12/28 and FHZ9!

2011-12-28T22:15:00.009-05:00

Isles lines today:

Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Rolston-Nielsen-Parenteau; Grabner-Bailey-Martin; (Wallace) Pandolfo-Reasoner-Niederreiter.

Arthur Staple reports Rolston, DiPietro, Staios, Pandolfo practicing today with Haley skating in a yellow jersey.

Blake Comeau and the Calgary Flames are in town on Thursday.

And don’t forget:

Check out Fake Henrik Zetterberg, episode 9 called "Yeah, it's Like Sweats." A lot like that Tom Hanks movie Big:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFMxmeWG3oM

ESPN's Snub and Isles Notes

2011-12-27T20:31:00.006-05:00

Since ESPN walked away from NHL hockey after they lost the bid to Versus, they have limited their coverage and almost pretend it doesn’t exist. Greg Wyshynski of Puck Daddy (http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Disgrace-ESPN-SportsCenter-Year-in-Review-snubs?urn=nhl-wp20822) points out that ESPN’s year in review failed to mention those lost (or anyone else associated with the sport) to the hockey world this year in their retrospective sports tribute.

The Deaths of Derek Boogaard, Rick Rypien and Wade Belak (http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2011/08/bonded-by-blood.html) this summer in addition to the Locomotiv tragedy (http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2011/09/summer-to-forget.html) were great loses in the world of professional sports and to all of us as human beings and certainly deserved remembering.

Having worked at ESPN for a few years in the past, I encountered several great people, both from in front of and behind the camera. I found them to be passionate about their love of hockey. I am in no way painting this “situational blame” with a broad brush, just agreeing with those who feel ESPN showed little class in this latest oversight in their piece.

Isles Notes:

David Ullstrom continue to follow concussion protocol; Jay Pandolfo is practicing and is close to return. Michael Haley didn't practice today due to a contusion on his hand.

There were new lines at practice today. (Remember, I still say something has to give.)

Moulson-Tavares-Okposo; Rolston-Nielsen-Parenteau; Grabner-Bailey-Niederreiter, Pandolfo; Martin-Reasoner-Wallace.

Arthur Staple reports Steve Staios and Rick DiPietro were on the ice as well prior to practice.

Diving You Say?

2011-12-25T23:41:00.002-05:00

The Islanders got behind early against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday and despite a strong comeback attempt, weren’t able to even the score.

The real shocker came late in the game when Joffrey Lupul and John Tavares were fighting for a loose puck. Lupul ended up sending Tavares crashing to the ice after a crosscheck to his face. Tavares was angry at the play, but not as angry as he would be after the officials, (David Banfield and Don VanMassenhoven) called him for diving. The diving penalty would also negate a warranted man up advantage for the Islanders. I would say it’s a stretch for a player to be truly crosschecked in the face, to then decide to sell the infraction by embellishing it with a dive. Tavares’ mentor and Isles assistant coach, Doug Weight showed his displeasure with the call.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCcMnG84-O0&feature=share

It seems that the Islanders have had penalties called against them on a sliding scale by NHL referees, seemingly not able to catch a break on most nights. The infractions committed against them on some nights that end up being not called seem far too numerous as well. The reaction by the team might be that they disagreed with the call at the time and that the officials have a tough job while others have the benefit of replay. That may be true, but you only have to watch some of these repeatedly blown calls and wonder when these officials will be held accountable. You would never want to blame a penalty for a loss, but the wrong type of call can change momentum and result in an unfair advantage to the opponent and possibly result in a loss of manpower (Game Misconduct). When they happen frequently, a player’s or a team’s patience would tend to wear out.

The Islanders need to refocus when the face their rival New York Rangers tomorrow at MSG for the second time in five days.

Something has got to give.

More Of The Same?

2011-12-23T14:32:00.023-05:00

In last nights game vs the Rangers, the Islanders were guilty of a few defensive breakdowns and mental mistakes. Those misqueues undid any good things they were able to muster.

Nabokov played pretty well and I thought the team looked pretty good at times. What wasn’t very good was the defense and the "Jekyl and Hyde" type confidence that the team seems to have. Their in game confidence completely dictates their style of play and their opponents know this.

At certain times, they dominate and several players are able to contribute to the attack. They seem relentless and refuse to give up. Other times, they look unorganized and clueless. The bad passes through the slot and the lazy, robotic, no-look passing to a teammate in double coverage type incidents have been adding up lately. Towards the end of the game against the Rangers, Isles play by play man, Howie Rose remarked that the Islanders had gone seventeen minutes without registering a shot. That cannot be if they expect to contend in must win games.

Captain Streit looked a little out of sorts and I question some of his confidence in leading the team. While I have witnessed good things from him as a leader at certain times this season, he doesn’t seem to lead by example regularly and needs to be more vocal on the ice and during games.

While Michael Haley and Tim Wallace played with attitude, I felt the game was way to polite for an Isles, Ranger game. I was also a little "peaved" at the lack of physicality, even going back to the Winnipeg game when Al Montoya was run over by Kane, and no one took him to task. I think the Islanders need to come together once again and fight for each other on every shift of every game. When they do this, they seem to play better.

I read that Trevor Gillies is currently injured in Dee’s blog and I have respect for Haley and Martin, but the Islanders need to step it up now and make other teams frustrated to play against them. I feel that it starts with finishing their checks and intimidating their opponents. Players like Tim Wallace are good for the mix because their urgency to stay on the team motivates their desire to make an impact. I know the Islanders (and Bailey’s) play improved when Blake Comeau was waived, but they need to refocus their “commitment” on taking the next step as a team.

Their strong and improved play needs to last for a full game and they need more of the roster to start to contribute regularly again. John Tavares is struggling way too much. He is being battered and knocked down way too often. I am getting frustrated and want to see a steadying flow to the Islanders' rebuild. If the players on the roster wont get it done, I say the that team should continue to look to Bridgeport’s roster and the trading/waiver landscape to improve.

In the mean time, I’d be ok if the Islanders got a little miffed and played with an edge consistently. Maybe they could make strides if they came together like they were some sort of fellowship. A group that bonded while battling some insurmountable task, while keeping focus on their ultimate goal.

Isles Notes:

Eric Hornick reports that Tavares-Parenteau-Molson have combined for 32 of the team's 72 goals (44.4%), and 80 of the 197 points (41%).

New York Islanders report that Coach, Jack Capuano says the same lineup will go tonight against the Leafs with Evgeni Nabokov in net.

Isles lines: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Martin-Bailey-Wallace; Haley-Reasoner-Niederreiter.

Isles d-pairs: Streit-Jurcina; Hamonic-MacDonald; Eaton-Mottau.

Coach Capuano talks again about need for secondary scoring and he says there are things that have gone well and said the turning point was Gaborik's second period goal off the face-off the Isles watched film on before the game. He said it was a play they were warned about and should have been ready to contain it, especially with the players the Rangers had on the ice.

One Step Forward, Two Concussions Back

2011-12-21T21:02:00.018-05:00

Your New York Islanders improved to 11-14-6 and won a hard fought game against the Winnipeg Jets on December 20, 2011. The last time the Isles franchise was out in Winnipeg was March 9, 1996. The Islanders won 4-2, with Eric Fichaud in net stopping 38 Jets shots.

In last night contest, the Isles scratched and clawed to out duel another team trying to carve out an identity for them selves in the NHL landscape. Jets goaltender, Ondrej Pavelec was solid again with 31 saves, but the Islanders managed to forge scoring chance after scoring chance until they (Parenteau and Grabner) were able to score. Al Montoya was good again, but the Jets were equally resilient and tied the game at 2-2. PA Parenteau and Frans Nielsen scored for the Isles in the shoot out solidifying the win after the Jets couldn’t score against Evgeni Nabokov.

After my last article (http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2011/12/impact-of-concussions-on-nhl.html) on concussions, I had no idea that the Islanders would find themselves in the middle on such a situation, so quickly. My point was that NHL players will need to respect and understand what the result of what a violent and selfish hit on a vulnerable player could mean to that player. I understand the need to score goals and that hockey is a very physical competitive sport. What I don’t understand is how you can do what was done to Al Montoya last night. Would it have happened with Trevor Gillies in the line up?

To quote Dyan LeBourdais of Islanders.nhl.com, “Nabokov entered the game with 1:20 left in the second period for his first game action since Nov. 17. Al Montoya was run over by Evander Kane, who made no effort to avoid contact with the Isles netminder after taking a hit from Milan Jurcina. Kane took a two-minute minor penalty for goaltender interference, while Montoya left the game after making saves on 17-of-19 shots.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDjlZW837WE

I am disgusted with the play of Kane and of how rather than pulling up and bump the net off its moorings or try and veer wide away from the goaltender after his scoring angle was cut off so close to the net, he chose to continue his path and in my biased opinion, leave his feet and bowl over a fellow player in a vulnerable position.

Al Montoya is out indefinitely with a concussion.

What will the league do about the hit?

Isles Notes:

Travis Hamonic had a great game in front of his hometown crowd in Winnipeg.

Eric Hornick is reporting that the Islanders’ accomplished back-2-back shoot-out wins for 1st time since 2006 thanks to Frans Nielsen.

Islanders report that David Ullstrom is out indefinitely with a concussion. (and Montoya)

Brian Compton is reporting that Brian Rolston has been placed on IR due to concussion and that Michael Haley and Anders Nilsson have been called up from Bridgeport on emergency loan.

And don’t forget:

Fake Henrik Zetterberg, episode 8 is now LIVE! Find out what happened after the office party last week. Featuring DOT COM from 30 ROCK!

http://fakehenrikzetterberg.com/

The Impact Of Concussions On The NHL

2011-12-18T09:07:00.004-05:00

con·cus·sion [kuh n-kuhsh-uh n] noun

1. injury to the brain or spinal cord due to jarring from a blow, fall, or the like.

2. shock caused by the impact of a collision, blow, etc.

3. the act of violently shaking or jarring.

Travis Hughes of sbnation.com compiled a list of NHL players that are out of the line up due to being diagnosed with a concussion or suffering from concussion-type symptoms. The list includes (at the time I wrote this article); Sidney Crosby, Claude Giroux, Mike Richards, Michael Sauer, Jeff Skinner, Joni Pikanen, Kris Letang, Chris Pronger (out for the season), Zbynek Michalek, Marc Staal, Robert Bortuzzo, Jay Beagle, Milan Michalek, Brayden Schenn, Radek Martinek, Marek Zidlicky, Nathan Gerbe, Peter Muller and Nino Niederreiter. Other players injured from the Islanders are Steve Staios and Brian Rolston.

Players have been either forced to retire or be limited in the amount of games they were able to play over the course of a given season - all due to the after effects of a concussion. These man games lost must amount to millions of dollars lost each season by their perspective clubs. Rick DiPietro has been the most prominent example of this condition in the Islanders organization over the past few seasons. DiPietro suffered a concussion in 2007 in a game against the Montreal Canadiens when he came out to cover a puck and collided with Montreal F Steve Begin. Since then, DiPietro has missed significant periods of time with concussion type symptoms.

In April of this year, a major University of Calgary study on consciousness was concluded after research was conducted over 7 NHL seasons. The study was led by sports medicine researchers with the aid of Kinesiology professionals. (Kinesiology addresses physiological, mechanical, and psychological mechanisms as they relate to physical activity.) The study can be found on sciencedaily.com. Its major finding was seeing that although the rate of injuries had evened out over the 7 seasons within the study period, the number of days or time lost increased with each concussion.

The study concluded that, “Headache, low energy or fatigue, memory loss, and abnormal neurological exam were significant predictors of time loss for players with concussions.” The study was able to isolate and track the progression of the injury and estimate trends that would follow an athlete after he had suffered his initial head trauma. "Our results suggest that there was a trend toward a gradual increase in post-concussion time loss over the study period," said lead author Dr. Brian Benson, a researcher and physician at The Sport Medicine Centre in the University of Calgary's Faculty of Kinesiology. " More should be done to educate everyone involved about the potential adverse effects associated with continuing to play while symptomatic, failing to report symptoms to medical staff and failure to recognize or evaluate any suspected concussion."

The fact that concussions have come to the attention of sports teams and their medical staff’s will help players be more accurately diagnosed and treated to a more efficient level by team doctors. Where, in the past “getting your bell rung,” and sitting out was an embarrassment, today’s recognition of the chronic deterioration in an athletes’ quality of life are the issue if precaution is ignored. The possibility of ongoing head injuries getting so pronounced, that they cause traumatic brain injuries is a serious concern for anyone involved in competitive athletics. Repeated mild brain injuries may cause cumulative damage and lead to more serious and possibly fatal issues. NHL icon, Bob Probert passed away from chronic traumatic encephalopathy in July. KoC spoke about it here: http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2011/08/bonded-by-blood.html.

“In the United States it is estimated that roughly 1.6 to 3.8 million sports and recreation-related brain injuries take place each year. The study looked at 559 concussions suffered by NHL players in regular season games between 1997 and 2004 and was based on physicians' reports from every team in the league.

The estimated incidence was 1.8 concussions per 1,000 player-hours. The post-concussion symptom reported most often was headache (71%), followed by dizziness (34%), nausea (24%), neck pain (23%), low energy/fatigue (22%), blurred vision (22%), amnesia (21%), and loss of consciousness (18%).

Typical time loss in days increased 2.25 times during the study period for every recurrent concussion.”

Seemingly the more times a player suffered a hard blow to the head or was violently jarred during body contact, the chances of re-experiencing the effects of the initial concussion increased. The chances of “re-injury” became easier as it related to the symptoms were greater as time went on and could take longer to recover from. "The findings also suggest that more conservative or precautionary measures should be taken in the immediate post-concussion period, particularly when an athlete reports/experiences a post-concussion headache, low energy/fatigue, amnesia, recurrent concussion, many different postconcussion symptoms, or has an abnormal neurologic exam," conclude the authors.

The NHLPA and NHL have been working together and sharing data to help combat the condition by looking at the rules of the game and the types of equipment that factor into sports collisions. When the league wanted to increase scoring, the rule changes made the game faster, cut down on obstruction and restricted goalies from playing the puck. This meant more urgency for speed and as the players get bigger and stronger with each passing year, those bigger, stronger and faster players play a physical brand of hockey.

Body checks and physical play in today’s game have been addressed at the start of the season by League Officials, Board of Governors. Things like hits to the head, hitting from behind and leaving ones feet to lay a hit on an unsuspecting player have been a focus to eliminate from the game. With the drastic increase in speed on today’s game, these are good changes to make. A major issue that hasn’t really been addressed to my satisfaction has been the players own equipment. With equipment, I mean shoulder pads and particularly, helmets and the overall head protection policy.

The shoulder pads have hard plastic domes and plates that can be used as a weapon of sorts when delivering a hit. While they greatly reduce chances of injury to the player delivering the hit, the hard plastic and shape of the “cups” can often cause more damage than the jarring hit alone. These type of “protections” need to be removed or modified to become safer for the players involved.

NHL players are now required to wear helmets. But what qualifies a helmet as “fastened to head” is laughable. Some players say that secure fitting helmets are uncomfortable so they loosen the chinstrap. From watching thousands of NHL games, I have seen several players hurt as their helmet slipped out of position as they fell to the ice. A majority of players do not use any type of face shield. Face shields are made in different sizes, some barely shielding the eyes while other coming down to partially protect the nose. Players complain about them fogging or obstructing their vision. In addition, the cages worn after a player has been afflicted by a serious injury are also scorned for similar reasons as mentioned above. The popular style of helmets worn by NHL players are light shells with open cell foam designed to disperse light to medium impacts to the head. They are more of a preventive type of helmet that would be designed to come into play if something inadvertently was to strike the players head. To me, this type of helmet is not enough. I feel it’s the main reason for so many head injuries in the game of hockey.

Helmets that meet the criteria approved by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) are used in most collegiate and professional contact sports and have been readily accepted as the standard for protective athletic equipment. Modern sports helmets are designed to employ tolerance curves. They are measured to determine impacts that would cause brain injury vs those less serious in nature. Data is collected and minimum standards are applied for an average standard of acceptable protection or susceptible risk.

The NFL recently met with helmet manufacturers to evaluate the safety and efficiency of different helmet designs. A study showed that 40% of NFL players were using a helmet that was among the lowest rated certified helmet for safety and protection. I wonder what the actual numbers on NHL injuries based on brand and style of helmet worn would tell us?

A new type of helmet that is stronger, lighter and uses a closed cell or better quality foam is needed for the NHL. A mandated face shield or cage that provides protection, but still allows players to be recognized to the satisfaction of the NHLPA could be investigated as well. More attention to the rules and improvements on the playing surface should be employed to provide a more complete picture for the league. These are all necessary actions to combat what is rapidly becoming the biggest enemy of the game, the head injury.

I do not believe that a ban on fighting is necessary in the NHL. Rules and regulations can be put in place to discourage fighting if a ban is seen as unavoidable in the future to the Board of Governors. I believe that more efficient equipment and helmets that provide a better level of protection should be the main priority of the league. All forms of technology, civilian and military could be investigated to find the best solution. Perhaps all the major equipment brands could be made to compete for exclusive placement of the best product available to the league. The need to protect NHL players as human beings should be of paramount importance. There has to be a way to cut down the amount of gifted athletes that are having their careers cut short, and the others that are affected by head injuries damaging their quality of life while they are so young.

A more complete awareness by the league and more importantly, by its players would help immeasurably in combating the concussion legacy. I have quickly changed my mind about Brendan Shanahan, and how he and his staff have been doing a great job enforcing the rules and punishments against offending players. They provide a valuable system to instruct players who need more guidance on how to deliver a hit on the ice. More respect between players in the heat of competition should be exercised as well. Players need to be fully accountable for their playing style and their demeanor on the ice. Actions like hits to head, leaving your feet in a check and hitting from behind, especially into the boards cannot be tolerated. I understand wanting to lay a solid hit on your opponent, but I would never do so if it would not just injure the player, but affect his future quality of life.

Caution has to be exercised at all cost to avoid a dirty hit that was a deliberate attempt to injure.

Wild Win in Minnesota

2011-12-18T00:07:00.003-05:00

After three tough losses where they were outscored 14-8, the Islanders defeat the first place Minnesota Wild in a 2-1 shootout win. The Isles improve to a 10-14-6 record going 5-3-2 in their last 10 games. As a whole, the team continues to improve, but still needs to outwork their opponents to win on a consistent basis. Al Montoya bounced back with a solid effort (.952 sv% and 20 saves) and the first line looked very good manufacturing 16 of the Islanders 36 shots on goal.

Andrew MacDonald and Nino Neiderreiter returned to the line up. A-Mac scored the lone regulation goal with Frans Nielsen putting on the go-to left, right, backhand slam to clinch the win.

The next three games are away against the Jets on Tuesday and Rangers on Thursday, then home vs the Maple leafs on Friday.

Milbury Allegedly Assaults 12yr old Child

2011-12-16T21:49:00.003-05:00

The Associated Press reported that Mike Milbury has been charged with assaulting and threatening a 12-year-old Pee Wee hockey player in Brookline. Brookline Police Capt. Tom Keaveney said Milbury was an Assistant Coach on his son's team when he allegedly attacked a player on the opposing team. Milbury denies the claim.

Jason Brough of ProHockey Talk reports the following statement was released by Mike Milbury's lawyer, Daniel Rabinovitz, on his client's behalf:

"Mike Milbury denies any allegations that there was an assault of any kind. He simply intervened in an altercation between his son and an opposing player. No one was struck, no one was injured and no one was threatened."

Milbury is a hockey analyst for NBC, CBC and NESN.

An NBC Sports spokesperson released a statement: "We are aware of the story and are gathering the facts. We will not have any further statements until we know more information."

Keep in mind this is the same Mike Milbury who attacked a fan with his own shoe during his playing career with the Bruins. If true, this recent meltdown would be the latest mistake in a long series of ill-tempered incidents Milbury is known for. Milbury served as Islanders Coach and General Manager for some of the darkest times in team history, from 1995 - 2006 where he made trades and decisions that were scorned by fans and professionals in the hockey world.

(Update: Mike Milbury will not face charges after a Massachusetts clerk magistrate ruled Friday, 12/23 that there's not enough evidence to criminally charge him after his confrontation with a 12-year-old youth hockey player.)

Isles Notes:

Arthur Staple is reporting the New York Islanders returned Kevin Poulin and Calvin de Haan to Bridgeport. Andrew Macdonald, Mark Eaton and Nino Niederreiter are traveling with the team; Brian Rolston (Concussion), Steve Staios (Concussion) are not.

Isles Notes from 12/15

2011-12-15T20:32:00.002-05:00

Per Isles, Calvin de Haan and Kevin Poulin will be emergency recalls from Bridgeport. de Haan has gone 2-6-8 in 22 GP at Bridgeport this season. Poulin is 6-7-0, 3.37 GAA, .892 SAV%. Poulin will get the start vs Dallas tonight.

Staios (upper body) out, DiPietro (groin) on IR. Nabokov not ready to return. He re-tweaked his groin. Nino Niederreiter is still out with concussion type symptoms. Rick DiPietro has been placed on IR with a left groin strain. He is out indefinitely. Retroactive to Dec. 3.

Eric Hornick, ex-Isles beat writer Alan Hahn joins the MSG team, primarily as a broadcaster for the NBA Knicks, but may see time covering NHL hockey

Isles Notes from 12/14

2011-12-14T20:13:00.004-05:00

D Steve Staios didn't skate today. Capuano says it's a maintenance day. Per Arthur Staple, Steve Staios was actually examined for a possible concussion. He will most likely be out at least for tomorrow vs. Stars. Aaron Ness or Calvin de Haan will be called up from Bridgeport.

Per Dmitry Chesnokov, One of the most notable (or not) absentees from Russian WJHC team is Isles Kirill Kabanov. I was told team didn't want a "problem player."

Per Islanders, C Ryan Strome officially named to Team Canada for the 2012 World Junior Championship's, Dec. 26 - Jan. 5 in Edmonton & Calgary.

In other news:

My buddy Rich Bocchini, former radio broadcaster for the Bridgeport Soundtigers works with a great bunch of guys and a solid organization in the Houston Aeros now. Great clip.

Teen battling cancer gets cool surprise | Video | abc13.com

And don’t forget:

Fake Henrik Zetterberg 7!!! The famed Office Party episode is now LIVE!

http://blip.tv/fakehenrikzetterberg/fake-henrik-zetterberg-episode-7-the-office-party-5726843

Top Isles Prospect Trivino Arrested

2011-12-13T21:29:00.007-05:00

According to an article by Art Jahnke in BU Today, Islanders 2008 2nd-rd, 36th overall pick Corey Trivino has been arrested and charged with 3 counts of indecent assault & battery after he allegedly attempted to enter the room of a female student, kissing and groping her against her will. The 21 year old Trivino was also charged with night time breaking and entering and assault with attempt to rape. He was said to be intoxicated at the time.

Trivino was the leading scorer in Hockey east this season and he has been kicked off Boston University’s hockey team. Head Coach, Jack Parker says Trivino has been permanently removed from the team. “He is no longer associated with the BU hockey team.” Trivino, said Parker, may have been the team’s most valuable player and will be very difficult to replace. It is being reported that Trivino was warned once before about another bout of intoxication and that if a second one occured, he would be removed from the team.

Trivino is a talneted forward with scoring ability who uses his vision and creativity to set up team mates in the offensive zone.

Corey Trivino has pleaded not guilty. Bail was set at $25,000 or to surrender his Canadian passport to authorities.

Only time will tell what the future will hold for Mr. Trivino. I hope he gets the help he needs and he can recover from this.

I also send my best wishes to the female student involved in this horrible situation.

Source: http://www.bu.edu/today/2011/mens-hockey-star-arrested/

Isles Notes:

Brian Compton is reporting that Travis Hamomic's game misconduct from Saturday has been rescinded. Go figure.

Per Arthur Staple, 2011 5th-rd pick D Brenden Kichton among first cuts from Canada's World Jr camp. Ryan Strome still there.

Islanders line up vs. Canadiens

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Ullstrom-Bailey-Rolston; Martin-Reasoner-Wallace.

Defense: Streit-Hamonic; Jurcina-Staios; Mottau-Reese.

Isles Notes for 12/12

2011-12-12T20:02:00.008-05:00

A five minute major and a game misconduct were given to Travis Hamonic because Orpik hit his face with his own stick. What more can be said? A terrible game changing call by the officials.

The game highlight: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ha8Xfz4NOuw

Hamonic’s reaction: http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&feature=endscreen&v=7mhU9zjfbDg

Per Arthur Staple, Micheal Haley was returned to Bridgeport. This is most likely due to the strong play of David Ullstrom and Tim Wallace.

Per Sound Tigers, Goaltender Joe Fallon has been released from his PTO. Fallon's release comes following Kevin Poulin being returned by the Islanders yesterday evening.

Per Islanders, Nino Niederreiter participated in practice today, wearing a red non-contact jersey. Montoya and Nabokov (off IR) are in the nets. I agree with Bill Both, since taking the reigns, Montoya has led the Islanders by example. He has been a stabilizing factor in net. It breeds confidence throughout the line up.

Dylan Reese continues to impress as a call up. Do you think he deserves a regular spot on the Islanders?

Releasing Blake Comeau seems to have been the best transaction of the season so far by Garth Snow and sticking with Josh Bailey seems to be a great example of Snow's patience.

Jay Pandolfo remains on IR (foot) for 4-6 weeks retroactive from 11/26.

Andrew MacDonald (leg) is still on IR for 2-4 weeks retroactive from 11/29.

Perseverance and Isles Notes for 12/10

2011-12-10T12:09:00.022-05:00

Your New York Islanders have improved to 9-11-6 despite a second extra session loss to the Blackhawks. The Isles did a lot of good things in that game, including coming back from a 2-0 Chicago lead to force Overtime. In Overtime, a John Tavares pass to Milan Jurcina was intercepted by Isles D Steve Staios. Staios, in an attempt to create a scoring opportunity, mishandled the puck resulting in a Chicago fast break that made the Isles pay for their mistake. Marian Hossa’s shot was answered by Al Montoya, but the rebound came to a wide open Patrick Sharp, who buried the puck into an open Islanders' net. From Islanders.nhl.com, Al Montoya said of Sharp’s OT goal, “Hossa made a good fake, looks like he’s going to pass, throws it off the pad and Sharp was right there. It’s a picture perfect goal.”

It was a tough break for the surging Islanders who saw promising Defensemen, Travis Hamonic, score his first goal of the year set up by D partner Steve Staios. Staios then helped tie the game with a nice shot that Michael Grabner redirected past Chicago net minder, Ray Emery. These were big goals from an Islander Defense that needs to contribute offensively for their team to take the next step.

The Islanders are 4-0-2 in their last 6 games to capture 10 of 12 points in recent weeks. Tonight, the Islanders will face the Pittsburgh Penguins for the fourth time this season. Thus far, the Isles have a dismal 0-2-1 record vs the #Pengwhines. The effort will need to be there tonight to change things up in the Isles' favor. Pittsburgh is wrought with key injuries, so now is the time to do damage.

Go Isles, GO! ("Rudy" reference)

Star forward, Sidney Crosby will not be in the line up for “precautionary” reasons. He was hit hard several times in the 3-1 home loss vs the Boston Bruins on Monday. Crosby then took Tuesday off and participated in a full practice on Wednesday. During the practice, he collided with F Chris Kunitz that must have hurt Crosby, or at least brought on symptoms associated with post concussion syndrome after a collision. GM, Ray Sherro said that Crosby didn’t feel “100%.”

According to Alan Robinson of the Canadian press, Crosby came up negative in concussion testing after suffering symptoms of dizziness, sensitivity to light and loud noises.These are the symptoms that are often associated with serious concussions, the same factors that kept the star player out of the NHL for 10 months. Per Chris Botta, Kris Letang and Zbynek Michalek are out tonight. Jordan Staal will also be out with a lower body injury.

The investigation on fighting and brain injury continues to be a matter of contention with the media. KoC touched on the subject after the tragic deaths of 3 respected NHL enforsers that died this summer. The article can be found here. http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2011/08/bonded-by-blood.html

Isles Notes:

Per New York Islanders, Coach Jack Capuano says the Isles will have the same line-up tonight vs the Penguins as the one they had vs the Blackhawks on Thursday. They will be wearing the controversial Third Jersey.

Al Montoya will start in goal with Kevin Poulin backing him up.

Matt Martin will be playing in his 100^th NHL game tonight.

Tim Wallace is moved from emergency call up to regular call up, no doubt based on his excellent effort and strong play thus far. Looks like Michael Haley will be scratched. More on Wallace can be found here. http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2011/07/islanders-sign-tim-wallace-for.html

Isles Notes for 12/9 and FHZ6!

2011-12-07T19:46:00.000-05:00

According to Arthur Staple, Michael Grabner (groin) and Evgeni Nabokov (groin) skated in practice today; Rick DiPietro (groin) and Niederreiter (concussion) did not. Stars D, Mark Fristic suspended for 3 games for hit on Niederreiter. Brenden Shanahan explains: http://bit.ly/rDjxsB . How long Nino will be out is TBD.

Coach Jack Capuano said that Grabner would be reevaluated after practice today and is day-to-day on availability.

And don’t forget:

It’s Fake Henrik Zetterberg, episode 106. It’s road trip time!
http://fakehenrikzetterberg.com/

Winning Them Over

2011-12-06T21:37:00.002-05:00

Of the Islanders, Anthony Stabile tweeted, “This team is beginning to win over the dozens of fans here tonight.”

Tonight, a team that looked terrible at times this year looked calm and confident despite whatever happened on the ice, including a mistake that lead to a 1-0 Tampa lead to start of the game.

Simply put, the Islanders played solid and disciplined hockey tonight to beat the Tampa Bay Lightening by the score of 5-1 with 5 different goal scorers; John Tavares, Matt Martin, Milan Jurcina, David Ullstrom and Matt Moulson. The most complete effort they have managed to produce all year. They were patient and you saw the confidence in every part of their game.

Dylan Reese, Tim Wallace and David Ullstrom with his first career goal were really impressive tonight. As Assistant Coach, Scott Allen said between periods, credit Brent Thompson and his staff for their ability to get the younger players in the Islanders system from Bridgeport so ready when called upon to play in the NHL.

Josh Bailey looks like a much different hockey player. He played with poise and grace, like a player ready to break out. JT got one and Matt Moulson continued to buzz and Montoya fought hard.

Let us hope all these things are true for the long run.

Lets go Islanders!

Isles Notes for 12/5

2011-12-05T21:57:00.012-05:00

Matt Moulson has been named NHL first star of the week. NHL.com reports, “Moulson scored 6 goals in three games, including a single-game high 4 goals Saturday against the Dallas Stars. He also had an assist, and extended his point-scoring streak to four straight.”

New York Islanders announce Jay Pandolfo has been placed on IR retroactive to November 26 and Katie Strang reports the Islanders have placed defenseman Andrew MacDonald on IR; he is expected to miss 2-4 weeks with a right leg injury.

Michael Grabner (Groin/ day to day) and Rick DiPietro (Groin/ out indefinitely) were not on the ice for practice today.

G Kevin Poulin and F Tim Wallace will be called up on emergency loan from Bridgeport.

Evgeni Nabokov participated in his first full team practice since injury.

Brian Compton reports that Dallas D, Mark Fistric faces discipline hearing Tuesday for his hit on Nino Niederreiter and Bob McKenzie is saying that if Fistric is suspended, it will be for leaving his feet/charging, not a Rule 48 violation.

Update:
Dallas Stars Mark Fistric suspended 3 games. Brendan Shanahan explains: http://bit.ly/rDjxsB

Today’s Lines: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Rolston-Nielsen-Okposo; Haley-Bailey-Ullstrom; Martin, Reasoner.

NHL News:

The new four-conference format gets approval by NHL Board of Governors today. According to Dan Rosen on NHL.com, The makeup of the yet-to-be-named four conferences is as follows:

* New Jersey, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, New York Rangers, New York Islanders, Washington and Carolina

* Boston, Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Buffalo, Florida and Tampa Bay

* Detroit, Columbus, Nashville, St. Louis, Chicago, Minnesota, Dallas and Winnipeg

* Los Angeles, Anaheim, Phoenix, San Jose, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Colorado

“The top four teams in each conference will make the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The first two rounds will be played within the conference, with the first-place team playing the fourth-place team and the second-place team playing the third-place team in the first round. The winners will face each other in the second round.

Once the playoffs are down to one team from each conference, the NHL will re-seed based on the regular-season records of the four finalists. No. 1 will play No. 4 in one semifinal and No. 2 will play No. 3 in the other. The winners of those two series will face each other in the Stanley Cup Final.”

Road Warriors

2011-12-04T20:55:00.017-05:00

Your 8-11-5 New York Islanders have played much better lately. Scoring and effort is back to where it should be, but the team needs continued consistency. Give credit to Coach Capuano and the coaching staff for the recent recovery effort. Credit the players for continuing to fight for each other in the face of uncertainty and painful loses. They had a successful road trip, going 3-0-1. In those games vs. Devils, Buffalo, Chicago and Dallas, the Islanders got 14 goals from 7 different players as follows:

NYI vs. Devils: M. Moulson (11:28 - 1st) , J. Bailey (11:59 - 2nd) , M. Grabner (SHG, 05:51 - 3rd)

NYI vs. Buffalo: M. Moulson (PPG, 06:47 - 1st) , B. Rolston (09:23 - 3rd)

NYI Chicago: K. Okposo (PPG, 04:07 - 1st) , M. Moulson (14:27 - 1st) , P. Parenteau (PPG, 00:46 - 3rd) , N. Niederreiter (08:55 - 3rd)

NYI vs. Dallas: M. Moulson (PPG, 08:55 - 1st) , M. Moulson (10:54 - 1st) , D. Reese (02:48 - 2nd) , M. Moulson (05:57 - 2nd) , M. Moulson (17:10 - 2nd)

(Islanders.nhl.com)
The only faltering came in a tough O.T. loss vs Chicago. The Islanders fought hard and their best players led by example. What more can you say about Al Montoya other than he was strong again and Kyle Okposo’s hard work was finally rewarded with a goal.

In the Game against the surging Dallas Stars, Nino Niederreiter suffered a concussion on a "questionable" hit from Mark Fristic. Michael Grabner and Rick DiPietro will be out with groin injuries they suffered in the same game. This is a set back for Grabbner, who has been part of some exciting plays, but has come up somewhat short in the finishing department. The same thing happened with him last season, until he caught up to his game and became a big time goal scorer. Here is hoping he regains his magic scoring touch to go with his strong skating and blistering speed. Another bad break for D.P. on the injury front as he struggles to regain his form.

The Islanders will need to focus on team play for the upcoming 3 game home stand. Their records vs the next three opponents are 1-3-2 vs TB, Chi and Pit. They need to just keep playing like they have been and things should continue to improve. Matt Moulson has been consistent all year and his game has gotten even better. To watch he and line mate, John Tavares set up plays is worth the price of a ticket for Isles fans. Moulson had 7 and 1 for 8 pts. on the road trip and finished with a +3 rating.

A Buffalo Sized Win, Big Al and FHZ5!

2011-12-01T21:06:00.001-05:00

Overall, the team took another step towards getting back on track and played hard enough to outwork their opponents in the last couple of games. Once again, Al Montoya (http://knightofcups-bondi.blogspot.com/2011/10/m-in-team.html) out dueled a red hot Jhonas Enroth, keeping the Islanders in the game with a .968 sv% making 30 saves on 31 shots. Montoya is now 4-3-1 with .933 sv% and an impressive 2.07 GAA on a struggling Islander team. He has been a force in net and deserves to be noticed as one of the rising goaltenders in the league.

I was super impressed with the game of Travis Hamonic and Andrew MacDonald during the game against the Sabres. They were solid on defense.

Michael Grabner and John Tavares are on the verge of breaking out. I think the better the team plays, the more the ice will open up for them.

Lets keep it going.

Islander Notes:

According to Arthur Staple, Jay Pandolfo will be out 4-6 weeks with a broken foot. David Ullstrom continues to impress. He stayed on LW with Bailey, Rolston who are playing well. Nino Niederreiter was put on a line with Reasoner and Martin. (Haley was scratched for the game vs. Buffalo.)

Islanders call up Dylan Reese to replace Andrew MacDonald (Day to day) in the line-up. MacDonald suffered a leg injury in the game vs. Buffalo.

Islanders’ prospects Ryan Strome and Brenden Kichton were invited to Canada's camp to compete for a spot on the team that will play in the 2012 World Junior Championships

And don’t forget:

Check out episode 5 of Fake Henrik Zetterberg! http://fakehenrikzetterberg.com/

An Exorcism in N.J.

2011-11-26T22:16:00.013-05:00

After losing 1-0 to Devils yesterday, the Islanders continued to play hard today and stepped up their game.

Their 3-2 hard fought victory against the same N.J. Devils came with a disallowed goal with 2 seconds remaining in the third period. Zach Parise clearly directed the puck past Al Montoya with his skate while draped all over him in the crease as time was expiring. Toronto made the right call and the Isles finally got a break.

Montoya played well, not to be overshadowed in a game where Brodeur was excellent. Montoya continues to give his team a chance to win with each game he plays. Overall, the team is “battling” a lot better now and has put forth a much more solid effort in recent games.

Moulson, Bailey and Grabner (SH) scored for the Isles.

This may be a turning point similar to the controversial game against the Penguins last year. At very least, they can use the win as a building block and be proud of the way they have come together in recent days.

It could be a "devil-may-care" attitude to their critics.

We shall see.

Isles Notes:

Nino Niederreiter “tweeted” that he didn’t know why he was scratched again today. I can't figure it out either, but bad move Nino. It's against NHL rules.

John Tavares was fined $2,500.00 after hitting Zach Parise with a two handed slash in yesterday’s game just after he was shoved into the boards from behind.

The Bridgeport Sound Tigers revealed their new third jersey this weekend. It’s the same as the Isles alternate jersey, but with tiger heads on the shoulder in place of NYI logo and “Soundtigers” written across the front instead of “Islanders.”

Isles Notes from 11/25

2011-11-25T16:33:00.003-05:00

Islanders looked better vs the Flyers, but lost 4-3 in O.T.

Vs the Devils today:

Forwards: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Rolston-Bailey-Ullstrom; Martin-Pandolfo-Haley.

Defensemen: Streit-Staios; Hamonic-MacDonald; Mottau-Jurcina.

Hedberg vs. Montoya this afternoon with Islanders sporting black third jerseys for the post-holiday matinee.

Niedereitter and Reasoner, scratched. Is Nino still hurt? Not a good start to his season so far.

Islanders will face the Devils again tomorrow in Newark @ 1pm.

LW Blake Comeau has been claimed off waivers by the Calgary Flames after Garth Snow was shopping him for a draft pick. It appears he had no value to other teams with his uninspired play so far this year going pointless and posting a -11 rating in 16 games played. With the Islanders, Comeau was a second round selection, #47 overall in the 2004 NHL entry draft. He leaves Long Island with 56 and 65 for 121 points.

Rob McGowan points out that Garth Snow seems to be slowly removing players he had no hand in drafting. There aren't many left.

Hmm.

Accountability

2011-11-22T22:45:00.009-05:00

You cannot have commitment without accountability.

Islander stat god, Eric Hornick reveals the Isles' shutout loss in Pittsburgh dropped their all-time record to .500. They have two wins in their last 14 games and have been shut out 5 times with a 5-10-3 record, being outscored 61-35 so far this season. Chris Botta has sighted a source that confirms: Garth Snow has full authority to make any changes (coach, roster) he deems necessary to save NYI season. Who would you replace Coach Capuano with? If a Bruce Boudreau becomes available, do you consider a change? I don’t feel it’s a coaching problem.

I mentioned a while back that the Islanders had a fragile psyche that needed to be bolstered by creating a winning culture. Winning cultures breed confidence, are usually resilient and know what it takes to dig deep down in the face of adversity and somehow find a way to win. These teams respect everyone, but fear none and expect to win every time they take the ice. They play a system and are programed to work hard and act to maximize effectiveness.

Your New York Islanders tend to lose focus and become outplayed by harder working teams. Negative traits that seemed to disappear in the second half of last year’s apparent rebound. Well, that was last year and this is now. Some have said they need to find an identity. Mark Streit was chosen to lead the group of promising young players and best-that-we-could-get veterans assembled by Garth Snow in yet another summer of failed acquisitions. It seems that once the August 1^st referendum failed and the new arena was denied again, the gloom began creeping back into the picture. 2015 will see the team play out their lease and have selected a new place to represent barring a miracle for Long Island.

The Tavares, Parenteau, Streit, Moulson, Nielsen and Grabner’s have been good. They have been consistent with effort and are not the problem. What will be a problem is when these hard working players get disgusted and start to feel like their time on Long Island is a bad dream. These are supposed to be core players and have been selected to lead the Islanders into the future. They need to feel more in control and trust in management. They need to win.

I think the unexpected underachieving members of the line-up are the main issue here.

It is no secret that Bailey, Comeau and Okposo haven’t done much of anything. While Okposo’s effort is there, he hasn’t been able to make an impact on a team that was supposed to at least threaten for a bottom playoff spot. I feel he may come around with the rest of the team, but when is the question. Seeing him in a trade scenario would be a surprise, but at this point, moves need to be made. On Bailey and Comeau, the perspective trade picture is glum. Bailey has 1 and 2 for 3 pts and a -6 rating in 18 games played. Comeau has nothing to show in 15 games, except a -11 rating. The only hope for a trade is to find another GM with a troubled player in need of a scenery change who would be willing to come to the Islanders in hopes of a turn around. Not looking good.

Rolston and Pandolfo have looked good at times and have shown they are still here to compete, but they are here because the top choices needed to get the Isles to the next level weren’t available. The top tier players stay away from Long Island due to the rumors of the facility and playing there. Numerous examples of negative press given to Charles Wang, Garth Snow and the organization, despite the good things that have been accomplished, have done damage that can only be undone by winning. Despite any team shortcomings, those chosen to wear the crest need to focus and at least play for each other. They need to concentrate on playing as a team and doing what needs to be done. Each member of the team needs to take accountability for themselves and their line or pairing. They need to do the small things and win the battles that dictate a game. They need to be unpleasant to play against for their opponents.

Mark Eaton is out with a sprained MCL which will keep him out of the line-up for 6 weeks, Islanders have recalled Micheal Haley. This will work as benefit to the team play and the fan's morale. As mentioned before, Haley brings energy and a team unity to the game play. He will surely invigorate the Islanders and his addition should be a positive step in the right direction. Let’s hope he is able to stay around. I still feel Gillies presence is absolutely necessary to a resurgent Isles team. Hopefully, he will be given another opportunity soon.

Ullstrom and Niederreiter are good additions to the team. They need to develop and prove they can contribute at this level. Players at Bridgeport like Wallace, DiBenedetto, Rakhshani and Cizikas should be given a look by the Islanders before the season is lost if trades continue to be difficult to complete.

The goaltender for the New York Islanders should be Montoya. He has good numbers at 2-2-1 with a 2.43 gaa and .926 sv% for such a precarious game schedule. He has developed his game and should be given serious consideration as a starter. DiPietro should be there to push Montoya and prove he can continue to improve. With a 3.35 gaa and ,849 sv%, he needs to find his game and show that he can do it consistantly. Nabokov should be moved, and moved as soon as he can be. His injuries will make it even more of a challenge for Snow, but the right situation may just have to be the best one available.

If this season is supposed to be about commitment, then lets hold the players accountable. On the 40^th anniversary of Islander’s hockey, I challenge the ownership and management to really take the next step and do what needs to be done to win, even if it deviates from the plan. The rebuild has had moments of looking good and I had a great time watching the prospects gathered in the Blue and White game this summer. The ultimate goal is a return to prominence and to reward the loyal and diehard fans; Fans that have stuck with the team for the past 20 years during the worst of times. Everyone wants to be successful and I for one appreciate all the sacrifices made from ownership on down, but really only one thing matters to the fans.

Stop the talk and show us you have a consistent winner in the New York Islanders.

Isles Notes:

Today’s lines: Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau; Grabner-Nielsen-Okposo; Comeau-Reasoner-Pandolfo; Martin-Bailey-Niederreiter, Ullstrom.

Honoring the great "18" and Isles Notes for 11/19

2011-11-19T16:41:00.006-05:00

Tonight, The Islanders will hope to build on a win vs the Montreal Canadiens when they play the Boston Bruins. They will also induct Eddie Westfall into the Islanders Hall of Fame.

Eddie Westfall was chosen by the Islanders in the 1972 expansion draft and was named their first Captain, a post he held until 1977. Westfall scored the first goal in franchise history vs. the Atlanta Flames on October 7^th, 1972. As an Islander, Westfall scored 105 and 181 for 286 points during the 72-73 thru 78-79 seasons. In 5 playoff appearances including the famed semi-final appearance, from 74-75 thru 78-79, Westfall scored with 9 and 20 for 29 points.

I am a big fan of Eddie Westfall and what he means to the New York Islanders. After his playing career, Westfall nicknamed “18”, was teamed up with legendary Isles play by play man, Jiggs McDonald from the end of his playing career thru 1998 as a color commentator for the former Sports Channel Network. They have been a part of some of the greatest and most historic calls in Islander team history. The tandem will come together again to call the second period of tonight’s game.

Isles Notes:

Arthur Staple reports G Al Montoya day-to-day with a strained hamstring in loss vs. Colorado Avalanche. Islanders recall G Anders Nilsson (5-2-0, 2.86 w/BPT) to back up DiPietro as Evgeni Nabokov (groin) to IR for 2-4 weeks.

Eric Hornick reports the Islanders have scored 20 goals in their 5 wins (4.0) and 15 goals in their other 11 (0-8-3) 1.36 gpg.

New York Islanders report that F, Rhett Rakhshani has been activated off IR and returned to the Sound Tigers.

Per Brian Compton, G Steve Valiquette is backing up Kevin Poulin tonight for AHL Bridgeport.

F, Kyle Okposo will be scratched again for the third straight game.