Another round of reviews…. Here we go:
Shawn Bates
He is either fully loved, or fully hated, depending on who you are. He had his moments where he was a big help to this team. He always had the skills on the PK. However, he has not lived up to other billing. He is another ‘role player’ that this team has. However, the role players that have been on the ice for the bulk of the season, have been light years ahead of Bates. I know that there has to be a loyalty factor, but I think it is time to move on. He is a part of Islanders history, and we appreciate that. But time to let the cord go on him. Grade: D
Mike Sillinger
The find of the year. What a difference he has made to the team, both in the on-ice portion, as well as the locker room presence. This team needed a man on the team that would keep the room in check, as well as an even keel. The nomadic Sillinger has done just that. He scored over 20 goals, was in the top 5 in faceoff percentage, and made the players that played with him so much better. The only negative, if you will, was his near disappearance in the playoffs. I really think he and Smitty should have been on separate lines. But if that is the only bad thing, well it was a good season for #18. Grade: B
Richard Zednik
A late season pickup with an unfortunate personal situation (his mom is very sick). He was not around during the most important part of the season. However, he did play in the playoffs, and did well. Not sure whether we should re-sign him. We need to see more. Tough decision on the powers that be. Grade: INC
Viktor Kozlov
Enjoyed his bests scoring year in the NHL, notching 25 goals, including four in one game against the Rangers. There were times where the dual Russian/American citizen looked lost and lethargic (sounds Kvasha like), but in a second, can switch it on, and amaze everyone with his quick and heavy shot. What we need to do with #25, is get him one of those subliminal message tapes, which tell him to shoot the puck whenever and wherever he can. Maybe the 25 goals can be 40 goals next season. Grade: B
Randy Robitaille
For his second time in an Islander uniform, things started to look well for him. However, another time lost in Uniondale happened to him, and things began to look like he would not be a help to the team.
He did pick it up a bit as the season went on - but not to the point that fans were expecting. Too wishy-washy for my taste, and can do better in the free agent system, for the amount of money that was spent on his services. Grade: C-
Well - another five bite the dust. Later in the week, we will do the next bunch.
Posted under Introduction
This post was written by Gary Harding on May 15, 2007
Again, I agree with your reviews and grades.
Bates’s biggest value to this team was the PK, but other than that, for the few games he did play this year, he was a really a non-factor. I like the guy and appreciate his best moments, but I think his time on the island is over.
Sillinger was, indeed, a great pick up. He’s a guy you hold on to. His value goes beyond just goals and assists. Definitely among the Isles MVP guys this season in my book.
At times, Viktor Kozlov definitely had his Kvasha moments, but, fortunately, far less often. The guy has some Serious potential, and I just wish he comes to play every game. Yes, 40 goals, at least, if he puts on his A gamemost nights next season.
I’m not sure why, but I am not a fan of Robitaille. I just have expected more from him. Yes, he picked up a lot of assists, but only 11 goals, I think, and he just was not there for too many big plays. Not a first line center, I think.
I’ll finish with Zednik because I don’t think we truly saw his value to the team. He’s not going to be a big name guy, but more of another roll player. still, from the years I’ve watched him play against us, he could contribute to the team should they resign him … or is he signed for another season ….