A nice picture on the Islanders web site this morning.  It shows a few of the guys at a breakfast get-together up in Moncton.

Some familiar ‘alumni’, including Trots, Kallur, Hart and Morrow is always nice to see.  Now we see Garth as a newer member.  Then what about the two guys on the right; especially the one in the back?

In addition to Steve Webb, Eric Cairns was a part of this morning’s festivities.  On Chris Botta’s Point Blank Blog, he talks about Eric being approached about coming back:

Eric didn’t just meet the team in Moncton for a one-shot deal. No, he means too much to the fans and people of this franchise. Eric was on the charter plane that left Thursday afternoon from Farmingdale to New Brunswick. Turns out Garth Snow gave him a call recently and told Cairns he may be retired as a player, but he’s most definitely not a man without a team. Garth invited Cairns to become an Islander again and be part of training camp.

“I’m here to do whatever the team needs,� Eric said today during the first scrimmage of camp. “I’ll do the alumni events, talk to the young players, hang with the scouts, whatever I can do. I appreciate what Garth and the Islanders did. I loved it on Long Island and it’s so nice to be back.�

It is just another of the ‘class’ things that the Isles have done for their heroes of the past.  Too many people years ago, said that the Islanders did not really care about the teams of the past or the community as well.  I feel they should taste a little humble pie, and see for themselves that the Isles really have it right.  They are doing their absolute best in reaching out to the Long Islander, especially to the future guys and girls that will be their customers in years to come, as well as bringing back the legends and the work-horses; the players that Islander fans loved and supported.

Another great thing I heard today is that the pre-season games will be televised on ITV.  Another sign of getting the fan access to more information than we ever had.  I hope to be watching the “Hockeyville” Game on Monday.  A chance to see the new unis in action, as well as get a view of the new look Islanders.

I am pumped… Are you?  Tell me about it!

Don’t forget - the NY Hockey Report show on Sunday at 11:00 AM - Joe and Derek should be on with me - so make sure that you listen….