9.6.

Usually that is what we are calling the dives that opposing players make that give the Isles the chance to endure another PK.

However, that was the amount of time on the clock last night, to make the Isles fans go home happy, and see the entire nation of Canada crushed again! (or at least, Leaf Nation).

It definitely was a great atmosphere last evening.  The Leaf Fans were abundant, and loud (even causing a couple of fisticuffs in 325/326.  It was great… Just like living 2002 all over again.  All we needed was Bates and Cairns (well - I know that some readers are glad, that Captain Yarrrr is not with the team!)

The team played well.  They were skating hard, screening the net, winning battles to pucks, and basically shuffling their feet well.  When this team stays stagnant around the opposing goal, I can pretty much GUARANTEE that we will not be successful.

Comrie came out of the shell last night (Maybe because someone was in the stands?)…  Park was BRILLIANT.  Coach was even double-shifting #10 at times.  What a joy he has been this season.  No matter what line he goes on - he instantly makes that line better.

Concern for DP, but did DUBIE become the man last night; especially in that flurry at the end of the kill in OT.  Also - thanks to a few crossbars that made their way in front of the net.  Hopefully, he will be fine for the Devils game on Saturday, or in Carolina, on New Years Eve.

But the thunder of the crowd is what got me… We need more of that, and as long as the Isles keep winning, that will happen.  Tonight will be a HEEEEEUGE test against the Sens who have won 8 out of their last 10.  And our record in Kanata is not a sparking one to say the least.  Keep the thumbs and toes crossed…

MY THREE STARS

1. Richard Park - I know Comrie scored two, but nothing would have happened if not for Parkie’s (alias Wu, Wu, Kenny Wu) playmaking.  Imagine what kind of player he would have been if he had the same confidence that Ted has given….
2. Mike Comrie - 3 points for Ms. Duff as a boxing day prezzie
3. Wade Dubielewicz - As Howie Rose put it - he is in March/April form now!

GOLD STAR

1. Islander organization for recognizing Jason Blake before the game.  Yes - it was only 20 seconds or so, but it is still a way of saying thanks for nearly 6 great years wearing the Orange and Blue.  Loyalty in sports is a tough thing, and Jason obviously went where the $$ are.  I understand….

TIN TWIT

1. The fans that BOO a former player every time they touch the puck.  GIVE ME A BREAK!  I may comment on that in another post over the holiday.

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NEW YORK HOCKEY REPORT SHOW - Tonight 9:00 PM - I really need for you that read this blog to check out the show tonight.  We are in DESPERATE NEED for listenership, to keep our 9PM timeslot.  Our guest will be Ken Campbell.  He was supposed to be on last week, and was unable to make it.  He is confirmed for this evening.  We will be talking about his book that he co-wrote with Adam Proteau: The Top 60 Since ‘67: The NHL’s Best Players of the Post-Expansion Era.  It should be a great show, and we urge you to call into the show.  (646) 716-7209.  To listen to the show, go to www.blogtalkradio.com/nyhockeyreport.

Thanks - most appreciate it!

Gary