New York Islanders 2018-19 Playoff Primer vs. Hurricanes

Our New York Islanders will face the Carolina Hurricanes in the second round of the 2019 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. Carolina is coming off a double O.T., game 7 win against the defending Cup Champion Capitals last night. New York will have home-ice advantage against their wildcard opponent and look to take another step towards the Cup finals.

Friday, April 26   7:00 p.m. Barclays Center (NBCSN)

Sunday, April 28   3:00 p.m. Barclays Center (NBC)

Wednesday, May 1   7:00 p.m. PNC Arena (NBCSN)

Friday, May 3   7:00 p.m. PNC Arena (NBCSN)

* Sunday, May 5   TBD Barclays Center

* Tues.   May 7   TBD PNC Arena

* Wed.   May 8   TBD Barclays Center

Post-game coverage on MSG Networks

(All games listed in EST)

Per NHL.com, "I know they're sitting there probably licking their chops; we all would be the way this series went, seven games, overtime, the grind that this series was ...," Carolina coach Rod Brind'Amour said. "I haven't had time to think about it. I know they're a great team and that's why they're playing, and they had a pretty easy round. They know how to win, and they know how to do it right."

The Isles will be off for 10 days by the time the puck drops tomorrow night at the Barclays Center. Ten days they used to heal (Clutterbuck & Mayfield) and refocus from a storybook first-round sweep against the Penguins. Barry Trotz admitted he didn’t have much of a late book on Carolina, but with the layoff, the staff should have had ample time to dissect their playoff performance against Washington and probably has a much better idea of how to match up then they did at the end of their round one series. Let’s hope they are ready to hit the ice flying in game one and start the series off the right way, rust free.

"We've tried to do our best to stay in game shape and game situations in practice," New York forward Jordan Eberle said. "I know it's tough, especially when you watch all this hockey being played. But at the end of the day, it should be an advantage. We'll be rested and ready to go."

It’s no secret the Isles were good at home and on the road last season. And at home, they were very even when Playing at both the Coliseum and Barclays Center this season. While they were 12-7-2 at the NVMC, they went 12-6-2 in Brooklyn are 78-48-18 overall at the Barclays Center. The Low roof and passionate crowd should spell another intimidating atmosphere for the opposition. The Isles were 3-1-0 against the Hurricanes last season (even winning 7 of last 10) despite being outshot 112-59. They will need more of the same from their #1 ranked defense and relentless checking game if they want to nullify the speedy and feisty Canes. They will need to pressure the Canes in all 3 zones, dictate play and overcome their aggressive checking game.

The 4th line of Clutterbuck-Cizikas-Martin and Pulock-Pelech line need to factor into the end-game results and Robin Lehner 4-0-0 with his layoff leading 1.47 GAA & .956Sv% will need to carry the anchor again. Lehner stopped 130 of 136 shots and played a calm, cool series for the Isles against Pittsburgh. Keep in mind that Thomas Greiss figured prominently (3-1-0) in the Isles recent success against Carolina and should do the same if called upon. Both goaltenders have been good and the intensity in the postseason should only enhance that. The defense will be the story. If New York can maintain their defensive play, they should control the game and force Carolina to take chances while staying out of the box.

The Power Play needs to improve (2/13 at 15.4%) and their FOW percentage (51.7%) needs to continue. The Hurricanes are similar in both categories with a 3/25 (12%) PP and 51.1% FOW percentage. The Isles PK remains stable at 90.9% while Carolina ranks near the bottom at 75%. Amongst active playoff teams, only SJ is worse with a 72.4% FOW. Jordan Eberle, Matt Barzal, Josh Bailey, Valtteri Filppula, and Brock Nelson have a chance to lead the team again offensively along with speedy defender, Devon Toews, especially on the man advantage. Thomas Hickey should be replacing the minutes formerly taken by the injured (out 3-4 weeks) veteran, Johnny Boychuk. Hickey is used to playing a significant role in big games for the Isles.

The Carolina Hurricanes are motivated, relentless and resilient. Sound familiar? The New York Islanders will need to contain opposing players like Jaccob Slavin (9pts and 3 assists in game 7 vs Caps), Warren Foegele (4 goals, 6 pts), Jordan Staal (6pts), Dougie Hamilton (6pts), Sebastian Aho (5 pts) and Brock McGinn (5pts) who scored the game 7, 2nd O.T. winning goal. New York will also need to breach a much-improved Carolina defense game and create traffic in front of Mrazek. Goaltender, Petr Mrazek has gotten hot at the right time along with his squad. Mrazek had a 2.54 GAA and an .899Sv% with 1 shut out for Carolina in the postseason. He is an athletic goaltender but is susceptible to shots going to the glove side, especially if traffic. The leadership of Justin Williams can’t be discounted. His 3 Cup wins (‘06-CAR and ’12 & ’14 LAK) give him some keen on-ice and in the room insight for his team. 

Don’t forget the motivation of former Islander 2010 5th overall selection, F, Nino Niederreiter or Isles 2009 12th overall selection, D, Calvin de Haan to stick it to their former team. While de Haan was well received back in New York for leaving as a free agent, Niederreiter was traded away for Cal Clutterbuck (and NJ’s 3rd rounder – Eamon McAdam) in 2013 after controversial rumors about wanting to be traded and taking exception to management's lack of urgency to put him in the Isles lineup.

That was then, and this is now. The Isles have a team that plays for each other and plays in a system that relies on each man holding themselves and others accountable. I’ll take those odds any day. It should be another exciting series. I’m sure everyone is ready to go.

"Trust me, we're fresh," Islanders coach Barry Trotz said. "We'll get the rust off. It may take a little bit, but we haven't had game action for a bit. That will come. That's not an issue. We're going to be enthused."

#Isles Notes

Per @Demerti_S42, “John Tavares met with 5 teams last summer as a free agent. 4 of those teams (NYI, BOS, SJ, DAL) are still playing hockey. The one he chose is not.”

Per Eric Hornick, “#JT91 goes 2-3-5 (including an ENG) and -4 in #Leafs playoff “run”, which ran out before the Isles lost a playoff game.”

Per Rob Taub, “#Isles legend Bob Nystrom on WFAN: "I think that the fans are so charged up that they're going to bring that energy to Barclays Center. I expect them to be just as loud as they were at the Coliseum."

Per @TwoTurtleDuffs, “@RobinLehner has been dominant on the ice this season, but his biggest impact has come away from hockey. Lehner's openness about his struggles with addiction and mental health has inspired countless fans. Here are some stories of the lives he's touched.”   

Sweeping Pittsburgh: KoC New York Islanders 2018-19 Round One Recap vs. Penguins

Behind Barry Trotz and his staff, our New York Islanders eliminated the Pittsburgh Penguins in a 4-game sweep with a 3-1 victory at PPG Paints Arena 6 days ago. It's the Isles first sweep since 1983 and their 7th best-of-7 sweep in franchise history. It’s also the first time the modern-age Pens have been swept since 2013. The Isles came back three times after giving up the opening goal and countered, despite being outshot 136 to 129 in the series.

New York outscored the Penguins by a 14-6 margin over four games (Game 1 in O.T.) as they frustrated them and kept them playing from behind from almost the entire series. Pittsburgh managed to maintain a lead in only 4 minutes and 51 seconds of the entire series. Casey Cizikas and Matt Martin helped the stingy Isles keep top scorers, Evgeni Malkin to 3 points, Sidney Crosby (1 assist) and Jake Guentzel (1 goal) and a combined -7 rating over the four games. Pens netminder and 2-time Stanley Cup winner, Matt Murray had a .306 GAA and a .906Sv% in the series.

Isles Jordan Eberle (4 & 2 with a game-winner) had a career playoff run and led the Islanders in points with 6 and a +6 rating. Per Eric Hornick, “Eberle is the first Islander to open a playoff run by scoring in four straight games since Ray Ferraro (1993 vs. Washington) and also joins Ferraro as the only players in Isles history to score in their first four playoff games with the team.” Matt Barzal was 2nd on the team in scoring, contributing five assists with a +6 rating and made some plays for New York. Forward and former Penguin, Tom Kuhnhackl deserves mention for bringing 2-time Cup winning experience and tenacity during the series, even with limited action during the regular season. Per NHL.com, “It's great that we won the first round and everything, but there's plenty more to come of where we want to go," Kuhnhackl said. "If you sleep [during] the first period or the first game if you're not ready from the get-go, it's always hard to get back in it. That's why we've got to get ready for the [next round]." Eberle was my runner-up for round one's Grail Knight of the series. Winner revealed below.

Josh Bailey (3 & 1 with a game-winner) and Valtteri Filppula (4 assists) had great playoff performances for the Isles. Brock Nelson scored three goals (2 game winners) and was amongst the team leaders (3rd with a 44.6% percentage behind Barzal, 55.5% and Lee, 54.5%) in the faceoff circle. A considerable deficit for New York entering the playoffs, while Isles defenseman, Devon Toews (2 PPP and a +2 rating) continued his active play into the postseason along with other surgical blue line performances from Adam Pelech (2 assists) Nick Leddy (1 goal) and Ryan Pulock (1 assist) and +3 ratings.

S

Per Eric Hornick, “Robin Lehner made 32 saves; he stopped 130 of 136 Pittsburgh shots in the series as he became the first NHL goalie since Michael Leighton (2010 with Philadelphia) to win his first four career playoff starts. Only 12 other goalies in NHL history have done so.” Robin Lehner was the MVP among MVPs for New York. He guarded the Isles net behind a relentless checking game and dogged defense. He gave up just six goals in 4 games while posting a stingy 1.47 GAA and a .956Sv%. While providing a reliable backstopping performance, the resurgent Lehner always gave credit to the Isles organization as a whole and the fans that have supported him and his squad all season long. Lehner heralded his teammates, coaches, and even loyal fans after each win in his own humble and genuine way.

When I said, “Lehner should be a serious consideration for the Vezina along with his Masterton considerations. He’s certainly overcome every other challenge presented in the darkest year of his life this season,” I had no idea Robin Lehner would indeed receive the nominations for those prestigious trophies. Per Cory Wright, “I'm honored. It's something I believed in going into the season, but a year ago I didn't,’ Lehner said. ‘There's so many that deserve credit. It starts with [my] teammates and the organization. A lot of credit goes to [Director of Goaltending] Mitch Korn and [Goaltending Coach] Piero Greco too for helping me adjust some things in my game. It's been a lot of hard work. It's truly an honor." Robin Lehner was 25-13-0-5 with a .930Sv% and a 2.13 GAA during the regular season. Lehner established a career high in shutouts with 6 and wins. Performances by Lehner (25) and Greiss (23) in 2018-19 are the only other Islanders goalkeeper tandem other than Resch (26) Smith (25) in 1978-79 to have 23 wins in a season.

During a post-nomination interview, Lehner recalled how 8 or 9 teams were interested in him during free agency last summer, but also spoke of how that number dropped to two when he disclosed his time in rehab, news of his struggles with addition and a bipolar diagnosis.

On his Masterton nomination, Lehner told Wright, "It's for people out there having a bad day that don't see any light at the end of the tunnel, that don't really want to take up tomorrow or whatever the case may be," Lehner said. "You just need to get a plan, you have to help yourself first and get the right help and when you get that you can start your journey towards whatever you want in life. You can't do it in reverse, you have to take care of your recover first or it's not going to work. If you can do that, what's good about this is it shows it can be done with the right people."

Aside from helping his Islanders continue to fight for a Stanley Cup win, Lehner wants to help end the stigma around mental health. His recent hashtag caught my attention — # SickNotWeak. Wow, I thought What a great way to keep yourself accountable, work towards bettering your life and not offering an excuse for your life. Lehner truly is a role model to so many people out there who feel alone and without hope. Here’s to hoping they can all see how hard he’s fought to restore himself, his family and his pro hockey career. Not just as a participant, but as a man, a father and husband, and a teammate. Not just 1 of only 60 men to hold a place on a pro hockey roster as an NHL goaltender, but as a legitimate, elite goaltender on a surging playoff team.

Both team leader, Cal Clutterbuck and physical D-Man, Scott Mayfield (1 point) have been using the layoff to heal up and have resumed practice with the team. Unfortunately, Johnny Boychuk (2 points) is slated to be out 3-4 weeks with a lower-body injury. Per Brian Compton, “Coach Barry Trotz said he was pleased with how the Islanders practiced "with a little bit more of a pop" and did not seem too concerned about the long layoff. In fact, he's hoping the Capitals and Hurricanes go the distance.”

The Islanders’ 2nd round opponent will be the winner of the Capitals-Hurricanes series. The Isles 2nd round series will open in Washington DC if it’s against the Capitals or back in Brooklyn if the Hurricanes win the series and dethrone the defending Stanley Cup Champions.

The games will be shown on NBC or NBCSN with postgame coverage on the MSG stations.

Isles Notes:

Per Eric Hornick, “Isles goalie or coach had ever won their first two playoff games; both Robin Lehner and Barry Trotz have now won their first four.”

Cory Wright on top Isles goaltending prospect, “Ilya Sorokin won the Gagarin Cup - the KHL championship - on Friday, as CSKA Moscow swept Avangard four games to none. Sorokin was also named the KHL playoff MVP in the process.

Sorokin had a marvelous playoffs, going 16-4-0 with a 1.20 GAA, a .956 SV% and five shutouts for CSKA. The Islanders' 2014 third-round pick (78th overall) recorded a pair of shutouts in the Gagarin Cup Final, the first goalie in KHL history to do so.

The Gagarin Cup and MVP honors cap another stellar season for Sorokin, who went 28-6-4 during the regular season with a 1.16 GAA, a .940 SV% and a career-high 11 shutouts.

Sorokin has one more year left on his deal with CSKA.”

New York Islanders 2018-19 Season Recap & Playoff Primer vs. Penguins

Valtteri Filppula came back from injury and scored twice while Robin Lehner notched his 6th shutout of the season with 29 saves as our New York Islanders concluded their storybook season with a defeat of the champion Capitals in D.C. The 2nd place Metro seated Isles (4th in the eastern conference and 5th in the NHL) were edged out of the division lead by the Capitals, but New York controlled their own destiny for home ice and will now open round one of the 2018-19 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Coliseum against Pittsburgh. It will be the first time hosting a series opener since 1988. Per Eric Hornick, “The win gives the Isles 103 points overall and 51 on the road; both totals are the most in the Post-Cup era. The franchise-record 11th shutout of the season also clinched the Jennings Trophy for the Isles, who allowed the most goals in the NHL last season and the fewest in the NHL this season … Robin Lehner raised his save percentage to .930, which breaks the franchise record previously held by Chico Resch (.928 in 1975-76). He is only the 3rd goalie in Isles history with at least six shutouts in a season (Resch -7 in 1975-76, Halak -6 in 2014-15).” The Isles scored 36 fewer goals and allowed 101 fewer goals than last season, which counted for 13 more wins on the year.

Not bad for a team picked to finish last, struggle on defense and in goal, unable to recover from the departure of Tavares. By the way, the Leafs finished with 100 points. So, while the sky is the limit and our guys are in the playoffs with the #1 defense in the NHL, fans can be happy the team is trending up despite what happens from here, out. Lamoriello did precisely what he was brought here to do. He added experienced coaching and made a few tweaks to change the player culture and work ethic. Mitch Korn helped the team from the net on out, and the ‘new’ coaches (Lambert, Gruden & Greco) helped Barry Trotz forge a methodology and an identity for the players to buy into. After that, the on-ice product flourished under Trotz’s system, and all answered the call for accountability to help earn their place in the postseason, which included a 34-15-3 run in the second half when it mattered most and boast one of the best 5 on 5 defensive units in the league. Only Boston is better.

The Islanders looked good in Brooklyn, and they looked good at the Old Barn (52pts). They were also adept on the road, collecting 51 points from their hosting teams and helping them reach the 50-50 for the first time since the 80-81 season. It was also the first time the franchise won 24 games at home and on the road in the same season. Eric Hornick has been telling us the numbers all season long. Stat wise, they clicked in most categories not called power play or faceoff win percentage. For the year, the Isles were a dismal 33 for 227 on the PP (14.5% for 29th in the NHL, MTL & NSH were worse) and 44-219 on the PK (79.9% for 18th in the league). According to Hornick, they “scored six shorthanded goals and allowed an NHL-low one shorthanded goal. [Kevin Hayes, then of the Rangers, scored shorthanded on 11/15 in a game the Isles won 7-5].” Faceoff winning percentage was at 47.4%, ranking them 29th out of 31 teams. Only the Rangers and Capitals were worse. I mentioned earlier in the home stretch, even just an average PP (around 20%) would have probably meant several more wins for the Isles.

While the team did well as a whole, several players had career years in different categories. Per Eric Hornick, Casey Cizikas established career highs in goals (20) and points (32). UFA, Brock Nelson set career highs in assists (28) and points (53). Cal Clutterbuck (15), Leo Komarov (19) and Anders Lee (23) all had career highs in assists.

UFA, Anders Lee was given the “C” and did what he's always done. He led by example and did everything he could to help his squad win. He had 28 and 33 for 51 pts with a +20, 10 PPGs, and 5 GWG in 82 PPGsgames. Mathew Barzal had a terrific year. Some have pointed out that his goal scoring was down, but others remarked how his overall game has improved. I agree. It will make him a better player for years to come as the team gets better around him. Barzal had 18 & 44 for 62 points (led team) in 82 games. Josh Bailey works hard, and it shows. He has a hard time pleasing everyone, but he managed to tally 16 & 40 for 56 pts with a +8 and 4 GWG. Brock Nelson got a last-minute deal to prove himself. Like Bailey, he has his detractors, but the guy has flashes of solid play that can change the course of a game. He had a great regular season with 25 & 28 for 53 pts and a +20 without missing a game.

Jordan Eberle was striving for another 20-goal season, but the UFA forward fell just short. Eberle was 19 & 18 for 37 pts in 78 games. He, like Lee, had 5 game-winning goals along with 7 on the struggling power play. Casey Cizikas had an incredible season and made a significant impact for New York. His 20 & 13 for 33 pts, 2 SHGs, a +22 and 3 game winners in 73 games played were only part of it. His relentless checking game and smothering play gave him as his line the most significant and most important minutes of a close game. Valtteri Filppula was an epic add for the Isles. His work on the PK and versatility at forward gave him 17 & 14 for 31 pts and a +19 in 72 games. The 4 game winners and an O.T. winner is just part of the reason this UFA needs to remain with the Islanders.

Anthony Beauvillier struggled a bit this season but earned some veteran minutes and contributed offensively. 18 & 10 for 28 pts in 81 games wasn’t the only part of it. The RFA’s 4 game winners and score on the PP showed he has some spark. Leo Komarov showed why Lamoriello signed him in free agency. Like Filppula, Komarov’s presence was worth more than his work on the stat sheet. ‘Uncle Leo’ had 26 pts (6 & 20) and a game-winner to go along with his +18 rating. Cal Clutterbuck (8 & 15 for 23 pts in 73 games) and Matt Martin (6 & 18 for 24 pts in 67 GP) helped Cizikas lock down games and irritate the elite players on opposing teams. Their ability to contribute in the big moment (2 GWG for Clutterbuck and 1 for Martin) spanned their complete on-ice play. RFA, Michael DalColle looks like he finally found his pro game. Dal Colle was doing well in Bridgeport this season and earned call-ups and looks like he fits in just fine.

UFA, Tom Kuhnhackl provided some excellent depth for the Isles forward core. He saw time in 36 games this season (9 pts) and made an impact, especially against his former team in Pittsburgh, with whom he played 47 playoff games and contributed to 3 Stanley Cup wins. He can help the Islanders, especially with some big post-season minutes. Ross Johnston (4 pts in 17 GP) and UFA, Tanner Fritz (1 pt in 4 GP before injury) were good energy players at the appropriate times. Johnston signed a 4-year contract and accepts his depth role like a pro while Fritz made another compelling argument for a look at next years camp. Andrew Ladd had 11 pts in 26 games, contributed when healthy and added some veteran presence, but suffered a season-ending injury (torn ACL) against the Coyotes on 3/24.

For the Blueliners, Scott Mayfield established career highs in goals (4), assists (15) and points (19). Adam Pelech established career highs in goals (5), and points (20) and Ryan Pulock established career highs in assists (28) and points (37).

Ryan Pulock is improving big time. At 9 & 28 for 37 pts with a +21, the big-shot D-man leads all isles defenders. Pulock also contributed 3 PPGs, and 3 GWGs on the season. Nick Leddy is happy with the isles new defensive scheme. Leddy was 4 & 22 for 26 pts (10 on the PP) and broke even in plus/minus, up from his league-worst -42 from last season. Adam Pelech is another prospect, turned pro who has helped the Islanders improve defensively. In 78 games, the physical, defensive first, Pelech was 5 & 16 for 21pts with a +22 rating. Scott Mayfield (19 pts), more of the same. Mayfield brings more of an agitator’s game and a bit of a mean streak but keeps his cool. His +18 is second only to Pelech on the team. Let’s talk about Devon Toews. A bounce back story from last year’s severe, season-ending injury, Toews took full advantage of his call up. In 48 games with the Isles, Toews contributed 5 & 13 for 18 pts with a +7, 4 PP points, 2 GWG and one in O.T.

Johnny Boychuk was 3 & 16 for 19 pts with a +10 in 74 games. Boychuk looked more comfortable this season and showed what a veteran defenseman can contribute to help the play of a younger D-Core. Thomas Hickey took the high road and played well after yielding his spot to Toews after his injury. Hickey contributed 4 pts with a shorthanded helper in 40 games with a +5. Luca Sbisa played in only 9 games (1pt) as a depth defenseman and will be a UFA after this season.

The Isles had a fantastic bounce-back year in net. Robin Lehner was 25-13-0-5 with a .930Sv% and a 2.13 GAA. Lehner established a career high in shutouts with 6 and wins. Per Eric Hornick, “Robin Lehner has played 391 minutes in his last seven appearances, allowing only nine goals, including a shutout.  He has stopped 194 of 203 shots in that span, for a 1.38 GAA and a .956 save percentage.” Lehner should be a serious consideration for the Vezina along with his Masterton considerations. He’s certainly overcome every other challenge presented in the darkest year of his life this season. Lehner will be a UFA after this season. Thomas Greiss was 23-14-0-2 with a .927Sv% and a 2.28gaa. He established a career high in shutouts with 5. “Thomas Greiss has 23 wins. He is only the fourth goalie in club history to have at least three 23-win seasons, joining Glenn Resch (5), Rick DiPietro (4), and Billy Smith (3)” – Hornick. Another great comeback story in the strong, stable play of Greiss this season. Isles have a great tandem who are sure to be tested by the rest of the playoff contenders.

Butch Goring told Newsday, “Looking ahead, Goring said the franchise under GM Lou Lamoriello and coach Barry Trotz reminds him of the period of time when the Islanders rounded into an organization that would win four straight Stanley Cups from 1980-83 under Bill Torrey and Al Arbour.” I guess that starts with this week’s series against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

I asked the voice of the Islanders dynasty, Jiggs McDonald if he had anything to say about the Isles playoff hopes. “The defense-first approach we saw all season will give the Islanders an advantage rather than have to adjust their style for the playoffs! Also - it isn’t always the best team that wins - it’s always the team that plays the best.”

The Isles and Pens split the season series (2-1-1) and have a coach that knows a thing or two about playing Pittsburgh. If the goaltenders remain solid behind a meshing blueline, they have an excellent chance to beat the Penguins. Their 22nd ranked (223 goals) offense needs to improve, especially on the PP. Scoring once in their last 12 attempts vs. their first-round opponents won’t help when facing a few of those offensive weapons boasted by the Pens 6th best (268 goals) offense. Faceoffs need to improve in both zones and penalties need to be kept at a minimum. More of the same physicality (against an injury prone Pens lineup) and shot blocking can tilt the ice in New York’s favor, and the 4th line can set the tempo for making Crosby and company a bit uncomfortable and distracted. Shut down the top line and I think you challenge them to go to the depth they don’t really have anymore.

Our guys don’t match the Pens in playoff experience, and they need to do a much better job of maintaining possession of the puck in both zones for obvious reasons. Takeaways and odd-man breaks will play a role in this series as will traffic in front of the net. The Isles need to stick to playing their system and not get suckered into a Pittsburgh shootout. Murray is it for the Penguins. He is playing well in net now, but he’s had a season of injury and sub-par performances at times. The pens are an older team and might be ready for deletion from a younger, gritty and hungrier squad. No one picked the Isles to do anything coming into the season, and most are going against them in the playoffs. They can use this like they did the previous lack of ‘confidence’ to play hard as a team and make the opposition win a best on 7 series at the Coliseum.

Wednesday, April 10, 7:30 p.m.: Penguins at Islanders

Friday, April 12, 7:30 p.m.: Penguins at Islanders

Sunday, April 14, 12 p.m.: Islanders at Penguins

Tuesday, April 16, 7:30 p.m.: Islanders at Penguins

*Thursday, April 18, TBD: Penguins at Islanders

*Saturday, April 20, TBD: Islanders at Penguins

*Monday, April 22, TBD: Penguins at Islanders

(All games listed in EST)

Our passionate fan base can help be the 7th man. Jeering the guys for underachieving, especially on the PP could bite us in the ass. If the Pens are turning a game, Isles fans can do what they do best. Cheer their team like no one else in the NHL.

The Islanders 103 points are the most in a season since their 104 in 83-84. That was the last time they found themselves in a Stanley Cup Final. 

Let’s do our thing and see where it can take us.

#Secure Another Stripe.

The Final Five & The 1st Mid-State Isles Meet Up in Brewster N.Y.

Our Islanders are 44-26-7 with 95 points, currently 2nd in Metro and 6th in the east. They have made some gains since we last talked Isles hockey. They’ve remained close to Washington in the fight for first in the Metro, beat Tavares twice, have the most shutouts by an NHL team this season with 10 (Greiss and Lehner with 5 each), Brock Nelson’s 50 points, and Barry Trotz even reached the 1,600 games coached mark. There’s also buzz about a talented assortment of KHL players and intriguing prospects showing interest in playing on the Island. With the back and forth rumors of prospects Anatoliy Golyshev or Ilya Sorokin showing interest, Oliver Wahlstrom possibly joining the organization after not returning to BC, or even Bobo Carpenter signing an ELC, the Isles are poised to make even more noise leading into the summer an on to next season. While that’s great, we are still playing for what can be done to make the playoffs, win the first division title since 87’-88’ with an opportunity to gather the most points (now tied at 77 games - Hornick) by an Isles team in the post-cup era and strive for home ice in the 1st round.

With close to a .500 record in last 20 games and being on the short end of lop-sided shut outs in 3 of their last 5, the Islanders are not helping their playoff hopes of clinching or securing 1st round home ice. They need much more to make a push in the east. The magic number is down to 5, and they could clinch by the weekend, but not if they continue to have difficulty scoring (now 22nd in NHL with 2.70 gpg) and the power play continues to be a no show, scoring only once in last 37 attempts. If they continue to lag behind in faceoff wins (28th at 47.6%) and take bad penalties (a once dominant PK now 18th in the league at 80.2%) when a large part of their game is less than it’s been all season. Things do not get easier in the final 5 games against Winnipeg tomorrow, then Buffalo, Toronto, Florida and Washington to finish things off in dramatic fashion. 

I’m doggedly confident in the management and coaching (maybe except for Gomez), but the players need to renew their accountability throughout the locker room and answer their challenges in each big game from here on out. If they don’t, a call-up or two should be made to bring some hunger and desperation into their game. The Islanders are good. They are the best team we’ve had since the ’92 squad and have an opportunity to prove it by finishing strong, righting their game and making a splash in the postseason. Fingers crossed.

I live in Putnam County New York. That’s over an hour from the city, even more to Brooklyn and usually 2+ hours from Uniondale. While I often can’t make as many games as I would like, I also miss the booster club events, and the Isles tailgates in a big way. And I’ve always wanted to get an Isles meet-up started up here in the Hudson Valley. A place for local fans in the heart of Ranger’s country to gather and celebrate our die-hard fandom for the squad we cheer for. As you know, it’s been tough for me even to write articles, never mind travel anywhere to see or watch a game this season because of my family obligations. But I think that’s about to change, at least in part.

I’ve officially organized the first New York Islanders Mid-State Meet Up on April 4th. The Isles play the Florida Panthers, and I invite any of the faithful around the tri-state area to meet me and any other Isles fans who come out to Players Restaurant & Sports Bar at the Brewster Ice Arena on 63 Fields Lane in Brewster, New York next Thursday. Players will offer drink specials and even offer a 10% discount on appetizers & platters to anyone wearing a New York Islanders logo for the Meet Up.

Hope to see you there and who knows, it could even become a thing for the 2019 playoffs and beyond. 

Isle be there.

Isles Notes:

Robin Lehner: 42 games (39 starts): 22-12-5, 2.17 GAA, .928 save pct, 5 shutouts, Thomas Greiss: 41 games (37 starts): 22-13-2, 2.29 GAA, .926 save pct, 5 shutouts.

Andrew Ladd (ACL) out four to five months with torn ACL, expects to be available for training camp.

Per Rob Taub, “Asked Jon Ledecky about a possible date about Belmont groundbreaking, he said that it no matter what, it will be after the Belmont Stakes. Said that no way it can be done before. Also said he’s still “banking” on the building to be ready by the start of the 21-22 season.”

The Cizikas Factor and Thursday, 2/28

After a disappointing couple of games against Calgary (2-4) and Edmonton (3-4 OT), our New York Islanders beat the Canucks in Vancouver by a score of 4-0. It's Robin Lehner's 4th shutout of the season. Casey Cizikas scored a huge goal in the 1st to open the scoring. It was his 17th of the Ssn, tied with Matt Barzal for 3rd best on the team behind Anders Lee (21) and Brock Nelson (19). His +2 rating in the game gives him a +24 for the season. "A mark no Islander forward (Benoit Hogue +30/Ray Ferraro +25 in 1991-92) has reached in the last 27 years," per Eric Hornick. He's scored a short-handed goal and contributed 3 game winners, and with 17 & 10 for 27pts in 54 games, Cizikas can close out the regular schedule with career-best numbers.

Casey Cizikas has become an integral part of the team's offensive punch with his linemates. The "4th" line has been one of the Isles best, scoring big goals (Clutterbuck, 18 pts & Martin, 12 pts) and setting an agitation level that can get the most veteran opponents off their game. "Cizikas now has five of the last 18 Isles goals; it's the first time in his professional career he has scored 17 goals in a season [16 between Bridgeport and the Isles in 2012-13]," -Hornick. With a 22-6-3 since December 15, the Isles are 2nd only to the TBL with wins during that span.

I've been a fan of Cizikas since the start. I love his energy, tenacity and his unassuming talent to net the big goal or engineer the perfect pass off a rush he starts from the defensive zone. I see him as a character guy who never takes a shift off and a huge reason why the current incarnation of the Isles machine is working so well under Barry Trotz and Lou Lamoriello. The Islanders are poised to not only make the playoffs but might be one of the most unfavorable teams for an opponent to face, especially at home. The Isles will finish out their home games at the Coliseum and open round one of the playoffs at the old barn as well. "The Isles are 6-1-2 on Coliseum ice; they are averaging 98.1% of capacity on Long Island (including six sellouts)," -Hornick.  Here's to continued balance, discipline, defense and evolution to take the 1st season in the new age of Islanders hockey as far as it can go.

Thursday, February 28th

The Islanders roll into next week with a rematch against CGY on Tuesday, Tavares and TOR on Thursday and the WSH on Friday. All the games remaining are important for momentum, establishing home ice and keeping the team trending upwards, especially after the shortcoming from 2/3rds of the Western Canada road trip. However, to not say the game against the Maple Leafs and the return of Tavares to the Coliseum won't be a media circus is just unrealistic. Also, don't think the hockey world won't be watching the way the organization and fan base reacts. I assume it’s likely for the organization to have a tribute video for Tavares at some point during the game. While I get that some fans would like nothing more than to jeer Tavares or the Maple Leafs, I'd go along with the ideology of being an Islander.

Making the game a celebration of the Islanders and all they have achieved so far this season would be the best way to send a message to the visiting team and all of its players. A "Let's go Islanders" chant or even dead silence during a tribute video would be the way to show the class this fan base has. As much as "Pajama Boy" could be heard around the concourse or arena, Chants for Lee, Barzal, Cizikas, Lehner, Greiss or any one of our guys would send a stronger message. One of loyalty and pride in the organization. One that can celebrate the team meeting or exceeding long established statistics or post-cup records in what has been a fantastic season so far for the same long-suffering, die-hard fan base. I'd recommend listening to the verbal cues of Section 329 or using some discretion from the tailgate to the post-game activities, regardless of the game's outcome. Don't give snarky media outlets or antagonistic fans any ammunition.

Most of all, let's just enjoy the moments to come, and all look forward to what's coming for our team beyond a trade deadline acquisition that may or may not happen next week.

Isles Notes:

Per SiriusXM, “Mathew Barzal hitting new levels. He’s now in the Top 5 for most points as an #Isles before the age of 22. Trottier- 290, Tavares- 202, Lafontaine- 171, Potvin- 147, Barzal- 136.

Per Eric Hornick, “The Isles are 19-5-3 since Devon Toews joined the lineup and are 22-6-3 in their last 31 games; Toews now has an assist in five straight games.”

“Robin Lehner is 15-3-2 (1.68, .943) in his last 20 decisions. He lowered his NHL-leading GAA is 2.07 and his save percentage is .931 (.9307), which is also now the best in the NHL (Vasilevskiy .9305).

Thomas Greiss is 5-1-1 in the last seven games, allowing a total of seven goals on 220 shots (5-1-1, 0.98 GAA, .968 save percentage). On the season, his GAA is 2.26 and his save percentage is .928 (.9277).

Lehner has won 19 games and Greiss 17.  It's only the 2nd time in the last 15 seasons that the Isles have gotten at least 17 wins from two different goalies.  Greiss won 23 games and Jaroslav Halak 18 in 2015-16.”

Per Randi Marshall, “Without Belmont, goodbye Isles.”

Our New York Islanders; Breaking Up Is Hard To Do

What could be better than Matt Barzal being named to the 2019 All-Star game as the representative for our New York Islanders on 1/25-1/26?

How about going 15-3-1 since 12/15 (best in NHL), good enough for 1st in the Metro and 2nd in the east. At 29-15-5 with 63 points (10 points ahead of last ssn), New York has been in every game and always given themselves a chance to win. Don’t get me wrong, they could still be better in the face-off circle (23rd at 48.4%) and the power play (24th at 16.7%), but they have been solid. The PK has come down a bit to 22nd (78.7). Defensively, they are iron-clad with 118 goals (excluding SO goals) against (57 fewer than last ssn), 1st in NHL. They have the top goalie tandem in the NHL. The NHL’s 1st star of the week, Robin Lehner is an impressive 15-7-0 with a 2.02gaa (best in NHL), a .931Sv% and 3 shutouts while Thomas Greiss is 14-8-0 in 26 games with a 2.50gaa, a .920Sv% and 2 shutouts. Lehner’s bounce-back season with New York this season has been a fantastic story to watch unfold. Offensively, they have had some amazing games, outscoring the opposition by a 33-20 margin in January (10 games) and also scoring first in their last 7 games -Hornick. The importance to stick to the game plan was evident on Tuesday. In the 3-2 S.O. loss to the Blackhawks, the Isles allowed Chicago to put 40 prime area shots on net where they limited the last three opponents to less than 20. Consider it another dose of competitive reality for the boys that should leave a bit of a burr in their collective saddle.

The Isles haven’t made the NHL playoffs since 2016, and they need a lot more of what they’ve dished out recently to keep pace in a tight Metro and an ultra-competitive eastern conference. Per Barry Trotz, “We’ve put ourselves in a position to be there,” Trotz said of playoff contention. “But for all the good work you’ve done, it can turn on you on a dime, in milliseconds. We want to get back into the postseason. We have an opportunity. If we take care of our own business, then we’ll be fine.” – Andrew Gross.

How’s that for accountability and culture change? It all comes down from Lamoriello and Trotz (791 career wins, 4th in NHL history) and the team has bought in. They are hard to play against, galvanized as a team and play with an edge that makes anyone watching they expect to win, despite the opponent. They took apart league-best, TBL (76pts) by a 5-1 score and shut down several top lines defensively. The fore and back check has been impressive, and the balance of lines, d-pairs and goaltender performance has made pre-season predictions by the NHL’s “experts” look foolish. The games at the Coliseum have been a blast to watch. Per Eric Hornick, “The Isles are 5-1-1 on Coliseum ice; they are averaging 97.5% of capacity on Long Island (including four sellouts). 14 of their remaining 17 home games will be at the Coliseum.” Their ability to comeback has also given hope to the 2nd half of the season. “The Isles are 5-3-0 when trailing in a game by a 2-0 score, defeating NYR (11/15), CBJ (12/1), DET (12/8), OTT (12/28) and STL (1/5); all five wins have been in regulation. -Hornick.

Lou Lamoriello had this to say to Arthur Staple on goaltending, “Our goaltending has been exceptional, as well. The job that Piero (Greco), Mitch (Korn) and Chris (Terreri) have done is outstanding, on both fronts, NHL and AHL. All of those things, the coaching staff, the commitment to excellence both here and in Bridgeport, that’s tangible. The unknown was how are the players going to receive different voices? Everything team-oriented, a team structure on and off the ice? And every one of them has been receptive.

On the team dynamic, “On any given night, somebody steps up and takes the role. That’s what is so great about this team. You can go right through the whole lineup, and I’ve done it a couple of times, riding in my car. I can’t think of one player that hasn’t at one time been the reason for success that night. And that’s a great feeling.”

On the coach and his staff, “The job he’s done, you can’t express it in words. Outstanding is the best one I can come up with. The whole coaching staff, their commitment to excellence is incredible.”

Looking back on the first 50, you can point to Lee as Captain, Barzal rising to the occasion, Bailey keeping it real, Eberle and Nelson making a case for themselves, Cizikas with Martin and Clutterbuck have been more relevant than ever, Komarov and Filppula making Lou look even more like a genius, The development of Mayfield and Pelech, the return of Leddy in a d-first system, Boychuk as a model defender, Pulock and Toews contributing and rapidly improving with a wholly renewed team defense and goaltending.

Our Isles return after the All-Star break against the TBL at the Coliseum. Per Andrew Gross, “It’s the start of a grueling schedule in February (14 games in 28 days), March (16 games in 31 days) and April (three games in six days).” The NHL trade deadline is February 25th. With how well the team is playing, I imagine messing with chemistry would be a dangerous thing, but that would have to be measured in what the team would get in return. Impending free agents like Jordan Eberle, Brock Nelson? Is Thomas Hickey now expendable? No easy triggers to pull for me, but then again, I’m only a blogger.

In Lou we trust. Under Trotz, we fight. We are all Islanders.

Isles Notes:

Devon Toews and Michael Dal Colle have loaned to the BST. Michael Dal Colle will play in the 2019 #AHLAllStar Classic this Sunday/Monday.

Per David Pagnotta, “As the Islanders enjoy 1st place in the Metro, expect them to be active as deadline approaches. Told team’s looking to add, 1st rounder is in play; exploring rentals and guys with term … Follow-up to previous Isles tweet. Told contract talks ongoing and progressing with Lee. Not sure on timeline. No real talks with Eberle or Nelson camps.”

Per Eric Hornick, “I've been a fan of the #Isles since the beginning and have worked their telecasts since 1-21-82. Not sure I ever heard a chant for a coach like the "Barry Trotz" chant late in the game today. Maybe for Al.”

Per Carey Haber, “Josh Ho-Sang is 0-4-4 in 7 games since being sent down with ONE shot on goal. And he's been held scoreless in 5 of the 7 games.”

Per Cory Wright, “Ilya Sorokin recorded his eighth shutout of the season last week, making 27 saves in a 3-0 win over Metallurg Magnitogorsk on Jan. 15. The shutout was Sorokin's second consecutive clean sheet after recording a 19-save shutout against Traktor on Jan. 11. Overall, CSKA Moscow has recorded four consecutive shutouts between Sorokin and Lars Johansson.

Sorokin, the Islanders' 2014 third-round pick, improved to 23-5-3 this season with a 1.17 goals-against average, a .942 save percentage and eight shutouts. Sorokin's career-high for shutouts is 10.

Sorokin was named to the KHL All-Star Game, which took place this past week, but the goalie pulled out due to an unspecified injury, according to the KHL's official website. He was replaced by Johansson.”

New York Islanders: Scores Settled and The New Identity

Last time we looked at our Islanders, they were 9th in the east and about to start a 4-game road trip, meet Colorado at home and travel to face former Isles captain, John Tavares and his Maple Leafs. The Isles went into the road trip on a 3-game winning streak and were starting to elevate their game again. It turns out, they continued to impress, going 3-1 on the road trip and beat Colorado before their anticipated “reunion” with Tavares on 12/28. Head Coach, Barry Trotz imparted his usual master-crafted commentary to set the tone of play early, “They need to have some hurt.” Also said that he wants his guys to recognize that Tavares made the decision to be their teammate no longer, in the summer.” - Taub

Tavares admitted it was a strange feeling and seemed a bit uncomfortable at his Toronto press conference prior to the game. That was nothing compared to how uncomfortable he would be after a 4-0 route by his old team. The Islanders were led by a natural Hat trick from that ‘kid that won the Calder’ and a solid performance by Robin Lehner in the Isles net for his 2nd shutout of the season. We all knew the Isles were starting to win with Barzal contributing in the assist column, but we also know how much better the Islanders will be as Barzal continues to add goals the way he knows how. With the evolution of his complete multi-zone game, Barzal has really helped the organization move on from the last 9 years without a second thought. Per Andrew Gross, Barzal - “Anytime you're coming to Toronto, Hockey Night in Canada, playing in the so-called Hockey mecca, you're trying to play a good game. You've got to be on your game against a team like that. You could tell before the game everyone was dialed in." Barry Trotz tied (782 wins) Islanders’ legend, Al Arbour for 4th place on the NHL all-time coaching wins list, with the team’s 4-0 win, per Eric Hornick.

While the Isles game on New Year’s Eve wasn’t quite at the same level of emotion for many, it was a nervous time for Isles starting goaltender, Robin Lehner. Lehner was open to returning to Buffalo after last season but the Sabres chose not to exercise an option to extend the 6’4” goaltender. Lehner has taken charge of the personal challenges in his private and professional life, overcame several obstacles and has now refocused to better himself as a person and an NHL goaltender. And for that, he deserves a lot of credit.

Unlike Tavares, Lehner played a major part in the result of a game against his former team and backstopped the Islanders in another well-played effort to get his 5th straight win and helped the Isles extend their winning streak (4 in a row and 7 of their last 8) with a 3-1 win against Buffalo. Lehner had an active shutout streak of 1:77:36 before allowing a Kyle Okposo power-play goal against in the Sabres game. Lehner is 9-6-0-3 with a 2.14gaa and a .930Sv%. He is the NHL leader in goals against average and Sv%.

The Islanders are 2 points better than they were at this point last season. Although their goal scoring totals are down, but still at a +12 goals differential, the more defensively responsible Islanders have allowed an impressive 31 fewer goals against. A credit to Lou Lamoreillo, Barry Trotz, Mitch Korn and Pierro Greco for sure. With the win against Buffalo, The Isles helped Trotz pass Al Arbour on the all-time wins list (783) for an NHL coach.

Injuries dictated that Devon Toews, Josh Ho-Sang and Michael Dal Colle would suit up to help the evolving Islanders meet the challenge of an 82-game season and have a shot to impress. They have looked very good and have helped solidify team depth for New York. The Isles are 6-1-0 with Ho-Sang (now getting time on top line) and 3-0-0 with Toews in the lineup. Dal Colle has been awesome in Bridgeport and has really evolved his pro game in his 4 games with the Islanders. Don’t forget, prospects like Koivula, Aho & Vande Sompel continue to evolve in the Isles system under Brent Thompson.

Ryan Pulock and Scott Mayfield continue to be a major part of the Isles improving defense. Johnny Boychuk, Leo Komarov, Brock Nelson, Casey Cizikas and Anthony Beauvillier have stood out to me from the veteran core over the last few weeks. Here’s hoping that Valtteri Filppula returns to the line up soon after leaving the game due to injury in last night. He could possibly be the Isles signing of the season.

The Islanders enter 2019 in the final wildcard spot with a 21-13-4 record and 46 points. At 38 games, they have a game or two at hand against all the teams above them in the conference except for Washington. In the coming days, they face CHI (1/3), STL (1/5), CAR (1/8) before a home-at-home against the Rangers on the 10^th and 12^th of January.

This is seriously getting good.

Happy New Year, Isles Fans. Here’s to a better 2019.

Isles Notes:

Matt Barzal was named NHL 2^nd star of the week.