So - our #1 pick not only got the entry level contract, but has made the squad to boot.

He (Bailey) definitely has the profile to make it as a 19 year old. He has a great way of handling himself, and knows his plusses and minuses. He also has a great presence for someone so young, according to bystanders and media alike.

The only thing that is a little troublesome, is the fact that he has not had the game experience. He has only played in 2 of the 7 exhibition matches and that, to me, does not tell me about his ice presence. You can be all that you can in practice and in shinny, but when it counts for real, does he have it?

Now - personally, I WANT him to succeed! I really want him to make it - and do well in the process. However, I am just concerned about the lack of playing.

Honestly, if I played the GM role (sorry - Garth - I will NEVER want your job!), I think I would have sent him back. He would have been the captain of the Windsor Spitfires, and would be a sure star in the World Junior Championships this December. The tournament is in Canada, which would be another chance for Mr. Bailey to shine…

But Gary, the Islanders can still send him there?

Yes they can - up to 9 games can be played (not the team’s 9 games, his), before the decision had to be made. And that can very well still happen.

I just don’t want to see a kid with such potential being wasted, if not starting. There are a lot of centers on the depth chart, and it will be a tough decision for Coach Gordon to make. Who will be sacrificed? Glad I am not in those shoes either.

Speaking of the coach… Tonight - 7:30 Marriott Ampitheater - Scott Gordon will be the Guest at the NYIBC meeting. Come on down, won’t ya?