I have said all along that the key to preseason is to make sure that the systems that a coach wants to put in place, are not only implemented, but are running at full steam once the regular season is in full swing.

In Monday’s game at the Garden, I saw the beginnings of that system looking good.  I really did not care what the score was (well - you ALWAYS do when it is a Ranger/Islander Game, but…), but when October 5 starts, I hope that the Isles are in ‘100% shape’ and ready to take on Gretz’s Coyotes.

But tonight - the word was TOTAL DOMINATION!

Yes - again - it is preseason, but when it comes down to the Rangers, I want to win at all costs.  And last night - they were in TOTAL control.

This team does not look like the one that fans in 317 were complaning about.  The one that caused Chi Chi to grace us with her presence.  In all aspects of the game, the Islanders looked like the better team.  Forechecking, clearing the crease, one touch crisp passing, checking, everything!  And a great fight too!

And yes Joe, it was almost the entire team….

Ricky did NOT have much work.  Only fourteen saves out of fifteen.  The only goal was a fluke and he had no chance to really take charge of that.  Other than that mishap, he performed well.

Yash looked like a new player.  Forechecking, making hits, being around all aspects of the game.  I think the message from Nolan is getting through.

Things are very positive right now, as the team heads to Bridgeport to face the Devils tonight.  With a win, it would make a 3-2 preseason, as the regular season gets its start on Thursday night.

Now - on to some logistical stuff.  At each and every game that I attend (whether it is home or away), I will be handing out 3 star ballots in the section, and have the section provide their 3 stars of the game.  In addition, I will supply a GOLD STAR AWARD.  This will be to something (player, fan, or event), that made the game good to me.  Also, there will be the TIN TWIT AWARD, which will be the opposite of the GOLD STAR. 

So, without further adieu, here we go.

THREE STARS OF THE GAME

• 3 - Jason Blake - usually I am complaining about his puck hogging.  Tonight, he was brilliant with it.  Made some great checks - played like he is supposed to be.  A real PAIN IN THE ASS!
• 2 - Miro Satan - scored the first goal - looked like his old self.  Is in regular season form
• 1 - Alexei Yashin - great game from all aspects.  If he keeps this up, we may see some great things.

The GOLD STAR AWARD - goes to the new video screen.  You can see a great picture of the game.  In essence, so good that you may not need to watch any of the game.  But why would you not do that???

The TIN TWIT AWARD -goes to all the idiots that still need to scream POTVIN SUCKS, over a quarter of a century after the play actually happened.  It was a LEGAL hit.  Even the man that got the hit says so.  GET OVER IT!  Now, Islander fans, just say POTVIN’s CUPS, instead…

Well - I am happy. Have a great day, ISLANDER FANS!

Gary