The World Series will remove fans from both sides of the ledger for tonight.  Can’t say I blame them.  If I was a Yankee fan – I might have considered it.  But alas, my LOUSY Mets prevented that from happening… Oh about in May!

So Game 1 of the local ‘derby’ (in the UK you pronounce that like darby).

What to expect?

Passion – Yes

Hitting – Yes

Fighting – Possibly (definitely in the stands)

Loud crowd – absolutely (unfortunately – more to the players in white shirts – as opposed to the blue ones).

Gaborik status plays a key part here – if he does NOT play – there is a chance.  If not – and he does skate, then the Isles need to do EXACTLY what they did to Ovechkin.  Keep an eye on him – put Marty on him – but don’t over-emphasize.  You can keep him off the scoreboard, and not lose sight of the total picture.  If the Isles keep their recent performances in mind – and take another step up – two points could be theirs.

Player to watch.  John Tavares.  Four games off the score sheet – and now – his first local rivalry.  This is the game – that could vault his status, if he can not only bring it – but get on the ledger tonight.  Look for that.

I hope to make it tonight – looking forward to a classic!

Not blogging live – this time – I will have my Vasicek jersey on – rooting hard for my Isles.

Posted under Islanders 09-10