#44 Freddy Meyer (John P – author)

In 64 games played, Freddy Meyer tallied 4 goals and 11 assists for 15 points. He was a -2 and earned 40 penalty minutes. Not being among the top six defensemen at the start of the season, he was another of the guys who benefited from the injuries that plagued us throughout the season. Frankly, he was simply a steady force for the team, who did everything asked of him and Much More.

For a guy who is not exactly huge in size, Meyer played Much Bigger than his 5′ 11 190 LBs. In fact, his physical play rivaled that of Andy Sutton at times, and his work ethic was something often talked about on the television broadcasts. How many times did Freddy level an opposing player or make the solid, smart play in his own end. Frankly, the Islanders have gotten a lot out of the guy. Even offensively, he stepped up often and seemed to make the smart play. Personally, I’d have to say that he became one of my favorite blue liners we had this season.

Overall, I’d have to give him a solid B. Again, one might not consider him to be among the top back liners, but he’s one of those guys who has more value than might appear to be present. The problem is that it’s hard to tell what future he has here on the island. Most likely, he won’t be one of the UFAs we have who Garth will sign, but, then again, I would have to say that he also has earned consideration to be back in an Islander uniform next season..

#47 – Andrew MacDonald (John P)

Andrew MacDonald played in 46 total games, and totaled 1 goal and 6 assists for 7 points while being a +4. He was another of the defensemen who was called up because of injuries, but he quickly made a major impact with his solid play. A 6th round draft pick in the 2006 entry draft, the 23 year old was yet another of the young core of back liners who really stepped up and did a remarkable job. In fact, I can recall personally being quite impressed with his play in a very short period of time.

Like Jack Hillen, MacDonald is one of the “sleeper” picks who the Islanders were hoping would become part of the building blocks for the future. I can remember him making so many solid plays throughout the season, and his use of his big stick was something talked about quite a bit on the TV broadcasts. If I am not mistaken, I think his goal on the year was scored against the New york Rangers, which is not a bad time to find the twine. Even having an injury during the season that caused him to miss some games, he returned to continue to play well.

Overall, I’d have to give Andy a B grade. He certainly responded well to being placed in a difficult spot, yet he logged some serious minutes and became a steady force on the blue line. He was also signed to a long term contract as well, so he will undoubtedly be a part of the defense for the New York Islanders for the future.

#51 – Frans Nielsen (Gary)

Stats:  76GP 12G 26A +4 6PM 1SH 1GW

This is a season that is starting to define this young man’s career.  If it was not for Pavel Datsyuk, and the fact that few hockey experts would be able to recognize, Frans should be a nominee for the Lady Byng.

6PM in 76 games?  That is the award in a nutshell!

Also – he is a great defensive forward, capable of doing so much on the PK.  His offensive numbers are starting to develop as well.  To me – there is no doubt that he can be a 20-25 goal scorer with regularity.  He just had to get a little stronger on his skates, and learn to be a little more elusive.

He is making his country of Denmark proud of his play, and I surely hope that he is a fixture on this Islander team for years and years to come.

I give him a B+, becuase I believe that he has made tremendous strides to better his game.  Now we just have to get him to the recognition factor.

#56 – Dustin Kohn (John P)

Dustin played 22 total games for the Isles, and he had 4 assists and was a -2 over that span. Yet another of the young defensemen called upon to combat the injuries this season, he did a solid job on the back line. He didn’t seem too flashy or the like, but he did his job and played extremely well considering the circumstances.

It’s hard to really grade a kid who played less than quarter of the season and was tossed into the proverbial fire. Nevertheless, based on his showing, I’d say he earned a solid B. To my recollection, he wasn’t one of the skating, puck-moving guys on the blue line, and I don’t know if he is known for his offensive side. On defense, though, he played well enough to plug one of the many holes we found ourselves having on defense.

What future he has on the team, it’s hard to say. I think as with a few guys, this will become clearer in September as we see exactly what we have for a potential 6 and an extra on defense.

#57 – Blake Comeau (John P)

What a pleasant surprise Mr. Comeau provided us with this season. Blake played 61 games and put up 17 goals and 18 assists for 35 total points, ending up with a -2. As the season passed, he seemed to find his confidence, and his offensive skill was demonstrated more and more each game. Frankly, I was personally quite impressed with his play on both offense and in regard to his defensive responsibilities. Islander fans have been hoping for Comeau to emerge as one of the future pieces of the puzzle for the team, and he really showed that he can be part of the offense.

Unfortunately, his season was cut short because of an injury. Just when it seemed he was going to score over 20 goals and, perhaps, even more than 25, the injury bug struck him. What was also quite impressive about him was his physical game. He didn’t seem to be afraid to take the body, and I recall more than a few games where he delivered some pretty solid hits.

Overall, I’d have to give Blake a B+. I think he can do much more, and I am going to be curious to see if his confidence will continue in the 2010-2011 season. If he picks up where he left off, the Islanders will have a badly needed scorer on the wing.

#91 – John Tavares (Gary)

Well – the kid started and finished the year strong.  It was the middle that was an issue.

Being the #1 pick in the draft is a big undertaking.  For JT – he was projected the #1 pick since he was 13 years old.  With four years of junior under his belt, JT was the number one pick for the Islanders last year.  If he was going to probably any other team, there would have been fan-fare beyond belief, and notoriety all over North America.

However, he was drafted by the ‘who gives a flying flip’ Islanders, he immediately became a ‘yawn – who cares’ player.  Believe you me, if he went to Toronto (as Brian Burke thought he MUST go….), a shrine would have been constructed in downtown Toronto.

JT started off quickly, going at a point a game pace in the first 20 games of the season.  Playing with Matt Moulson – his old neighbor and shinny partner – there was a great deal of comfortability that made the first few months easy for John.  Once December hit – the slumps began.  No goals in nearly 20 games.  He looked like he was squeezing his sticks too hard, and really struggled with his game. 

But JT did not make excuses.  He kept his head up, answered every question that was brought to him, and had a great attitude about him.  The Olympic break in February was a chance for him to get away from the game, and allowed him to relax.

Within a week or two after the Olympics were over, the game came back to #91.

And then some…

I was in Vancouver when he got 5 points in one game.  He finished the season well enough to be in the top 5 in rookie scoring with 24 goals and 30 assists for 54 points, which also led the Isles in points.  His -15 was improved from a low of -22.  11 of his 24 goals were on the power play, and spent 22 minutes in the box.  His 189 shots will hopefully increase by a good deal next season, as his confidence grows.

This spring, he led the World Championships in goals with 7, despite having a fracture in his foot.  As of the start of mini-camp – he is back on the ice, and working on his conditioning and strength for the upcoming season.  The needs for JT are simple:

1.  Getting stronger on the puck

2.  More shots

3.  Being able to get a solid 2-way game

Many are expecting a Steven Stamkos type 2nd season.  I am not bringing the goals that high for him, but I can see 30-35 goals this season as potential for 2010-11. With continued maturation of the other young players on this Islander squad, I can see a lot of potential for 10-11 for JT.

As far as a grade is concerned, I will give Tavares a solid B.  The first 20 and the last 15 would have been a A-, and the 45 in the middle would be a C-.  I expect a great deal more from him, and I think he does too.  The question is will he get it done.  I will definitely look forward to checking it out.

Posted under 2009-10 Review, Cool A-C League

For these reviews we will do it in numeric order.

So since we do not have a #1, I guess #2 will do.

Mark Streit

Here is his stats.

Games 82, Goals 11, Assists 38, Points 49, +- 0, 48 PIM, 9 PPG, 2 GWG, 187 Shots 5.9% efficiency

Yes, the numbers are a little behind last years stellar numbers, but in this season, he did not have to take the defensive scoring load all to himself. He was able to play fully in all three zones with a little more comfortability.

He was fifth in the league with minutes played per game with over 25. And with his quiet demeanor, he led by example. I think players like Andy MacDonald, and Jack Hillen will definitely get some skills and advice from the “A”. I really think Montreal would like to re-think their position by not re-signing him last year. They just did not rely on his defensive capabilities and showed the NHL what kind of player he really is.

Mark is a solid foundation for a young defensive corps that have a great base to build on. With three years to go on his contract, he is showing that the money given to him was defnintely worth it.

I give him a B+ this year. What do you think?  Please add your comments to this grade.  I will be comparing to see if the readers of this blog are on the same page that I am on.

Next review – Mark Flood #4.

Posted under 2009-10 Review

Unfortunately, another two goal lead heading into period 3 was squished, and OT really hurt a lot.

I was quite excited with the first two periods of the game. JT has continued his strong play, and is looking more and more like a seasoned vet, rather than a lost rookie.  Not just the offensive contribution, but the overall game.  The defensive forechecking, hitting, and making plays for his teammates.  It may have been a little longer of a wait, but I think this is what Islander country were really looking for when he first put on an Islander uniform aout 9 months ago.

As far as the rest of the team goes, it was great to see Kyle back, after that mystery injury.  There was a great deal of chemistry going with Bergie and Bailey.

Another one that has impressed me even more than JT and Kyle, is Freddy Meyer.  In the last 5 games, he has overwhelmingly been our best defensemen.  His checks have been excruciating to his opponents.  He has also had the occasional goal to add to his resume.

Despite five goals given up – I thought that Marty had a decent game.  He had to make some great side-to-side saves, and in most cases, was in good positions.  The tying goal was a mass screen job, and he had no chance to have a look at the puck.  The final goal, however, was one that he definitely would want to take back.

Did Trevor Gillies have a shift last night?

Jack Hillen was not out there as much as I would have thought either.

I would honestly say that when it was loud for the goals, Honda Center crowds were real placid and quiet.  The arena was OK.  It was not as impressive as many of the others that I have been to.  Also – for those Islander fans moaning and groaning about the Parking going up – it is $20 here.  Get used to it.  No other place that I have been to lately has anything under $15 to park at the arena.  There were $5 lots about 1/2 mile walk, but get used to fact that we have been SPOILED.

Well – onto Los Angeles for the Kings tonight.  I am glad that we did get a point last night, but two against a strong LA team would be a nice ending to the road trip out west, and keeps the slim chance of getting to the promised land of playoff city.

But one thing that I can tell you – the weather in LA is beautiful!  I could get used to it.

Posted under Islanders 09-10

Merry Christmas folks!

Nothing new at warmups.  Same gus on the ice – with Rollie in net this evening.

Two teams with identical points – both struggling to say the least.  One of these teams will gain some momentum.  Which will it be?

My player to watch:  Trent Hunter.  After losing the nine game pont scoring streak, he only has 4 points in his last 12.  He needs to get his game going.  He can be a major factor in ‘spreading out the lineup’, if his game is going.  Using the body, and gettting that ‘toe drag’ going – will be a help to this team.

Special teams play will also be a factor in the success of this game.  The Isles need to keep their feet moving on the PK.  They have aggressive moments, but when they sit back – they are done.  On the PP – they are creating chances and getting good scoring opportunities.  As some of the guys have said – get some confidence – and the puck will go in.  Maybe one off the butt – may be the cure that they need.

Will save entries after each period.

___________________________________________________

Starting lineup – Roloson Sutton Hillen Sim Thompson Park

Ken Dick – Okposo.net’s guru just showed me that the Dragons banners are now gone from the Coliseum.  His line:

More room for Islanders banners!

Tampa has a lot of scoring from four guys – LeCavalier, St. Louis, Stamkos and Malone. 

Hunter (my player to watch) – is on a line with Schremp and Joensuu.

3 minutes in – only one shot.  Guys seem to be feeling out each others.  park and Sim out there against the St. Louis and Stamkos lines.  Both of them like to be aggressively forechecking in front of the opposing goalie.

Stamkos on a breakaway – hit the post.  Deked Rollie, but a couple of inches short of 1-0.

Bailey with a nice deflection of a Streit shot – that Smith got a piece of.

Two posts on Lightning shots – they thought they scored, and they want to check it – looked like the puck was on the line and not completely over it. NO GOAL!

Tavares on a break, and tries to pass.  He seems to have Josh Bailey disease.  SHOOT!

Hale gets a penalty – first chance for the special teams to make a mark.  Okie on the point – that still pisses me off.  He should be up front – causing havoc.

Not much doing on the PP

Isles are getting chances – shots are 9-4 with 5 minutes left in the game.

Tampa gets another penalty with 4:33 to go – Downie.  Get some bodies at the net, and cause some ruckus.  Stamkos getting PK time now – the confndence he shows on the ice is huge.

Hunter gets a rebound in front of Smith and bangs it home – 1-0 Islanders. I have to call players of the game more often.

Rollie stood on his head with a flurry of shots right after the goal.  Guys look a great deal move focused and happy on their skates.

Overall – a positive first period for the boys.  But a delay of game penalty with 36.5 left – puts the guys on the kill.  This has been the achillies heel for the team of late.  Time to keep the skates moving, and take positive actions.

______________________________________________

PERIOD 2

Isles kill off their penalty – and get a power play of their own – but to no avail.

Macdonald has lookedbetter with each game played.  He stands tall, and is not afraid to not only bang around, but will take a nice shot from the point.

Stamkos tied it up on a nice give and go with St. Louis. 1-1.

Okposo just got drilled on the had by Matt Smaby – and O’Halloran was right there -with no cal in sight.  The fogged glasses are on for sure.

At the half way point – the Isles are not playing a bad game – but the agressiveness has to stay there.

Sutton took out Szczechura with a nice bomb to the boards.

Looking at the stats =Isles 55-45 on the faceoff %, equal on hits – and outshooting 21-14.  Tavares is 0-5.

Thompson – on a pass from Okposo – gets it by Smith - 2-1 Islanders.  The last 90 seconds before that,the line of Bailey, Okposo and Nielsen were generating a lot of chances, and really had some sustained pressure.

Tavares gets a bogus tripping call, when on his knees and going after the puck get his stick on the Lightning players skate.  Dan O’Halloran is playing his best role of Mr. Magoo this season.

Andy Macdonald, on a simple play impressed me even more when insted of just shooting from the point, he dekd and made a move in on the half wall and got a closer shot in on Smith. 

Malone with 18.6 seconds left in the period got pass off to LeCavalier who got it over the left shoulder of Roloson to knot the game at 2.

Assessment after  2- the Isles are letting the special teams dictate the game again.  For the third – they need to get the 5 on 5 play to a higher tempo.

________________________

PERIOD 3

Hillen takes a delay of game penalty – the third such call of the evening for both clubs.  The over/under on Kenny Jonsson to do that was 3

And Malone makes the Isles pay right away -less than 20 seconds into the penalty – a snap shot betwee the circles.  3-2 Tampa. Malone was as alone a Tony Gonzalez was catching the football in Giants Stadium on Sunday.

This was not the way the Isles had the tird period planned.  The speed and aggressiveness that the Isles showed in the second period has now since vanished.  They look sluggish, and at times, apathetic.

Most of their efforts seens to focus on clearing the puck out of their zone,as opposed to making an effort to bring the puck out of the zone. 

Stat of note – Hunter and Moulson both with 5 shots a piece.

Tampa Bay – Szczchura – gets called for delay of game – the 4th such call of the night.  This wuld be the time to get this game tied.  Okposo blasts on that just goes wide.  Hunter gets a shot from the slot that Smit deflects.

I am still not sold on Okie on the point!

Too many times they are going for the cute and sexy shot, rather than just driving to the net, and making some bodies fly.

Shots are 35-24 for the game. 57% on Faceoffs. 

Sutton gets called for having St. Louis skate right into him.  In basketball – that is called a pick.

Malone, St. Louis and LeCavalier – do their best Hollywood Squares impersonation, tic tac toe, with Malone finishing off the trick.  4-2 Tampa.

The crowd (for what it was worth), is starting to filter out.  No surprise there.

Five straight games that the Isles have given up two power play goals.  This is a serious situation that needs to be rectified immediately.  This team can not survive doing this night after night.

It just seemed that after the 2 minute mark remaining in the second period – that Tampa just wanted this game more than the Isles did.  I am no way saying that there is no effort out there.  That is far from the truth.  I just think Tampa just stepped up their game more.  And as I say that, Tavares gets a lane, and decides to drop pass back to Okposo and the play goes to naught.  These guys need to in some cases, be a little selfish and drive to the net and get more physical.

Wednesday – the Isles play a Blue Jackets team that is in similar straits as the Isles are.

Joensuu draws a penalty by Smaby for Cross-Checking – if they want to make a statement- now would be a good time to do it.

The crowd left is booing the team – I think that answers my question.

Well – I probably will not be blogging on this site until after the Holiday, so I wish to you and yours, a Merry Christmas, and may all your wishes come true (well – at least maybe an Islander win on Thursday would be nice).

Posted under Blog Box, Islanders 09-10

PREGAME thoughts….

Rollie in net – same 18 skaters.  Pens in Baby Blues, Isles in White.

My player to watch:  Andy Sutton.  He has been sch a shut down presence, and the fact that he has been so healthy this season, he has been quite impressive.  Especially when he gets to lay the smackdown on his opponents.

FYI on the Pens vs Isles – All time – NYI 92-84-30 – 1-4-1 last season.

Milestones closing in: Gervais – 1 point from 50

Hopings…. – Establish the forecheck.  Especially in periods 2 and 3.  Be agressive, but smart. You need to play a 60 minute game against the Pens – today will be a nice chance for the boys to show that.

Next report – after 1

_________________________________

Brent Johnson in the nets for Pitt today – Rollie in nets for the Isles.  Crosby is starting – what a surprise. 

Islanders lineup – Roloson – Sutton – Hillen – Jackman – Thompson – Park

Stephen from our Blog Box was attempting to be in the next big boy band…Hey buddy – don’t give up your day job!

13 Seconds in – Engelland and Jackman start to dude it up – with both pugilists got some good jabs in.  Nice draw!

Sutton got a good check on the Crosby/Guerin combo.  And Hillen made a great play to Okposo for a shot on net that Johnson had to struggle a little with.

Isles showing a little oxie early on – but we ll know that they have done that a lot at the start of games.  It is just a matter of sustainment.  Only 2:13 before Rollie got save number 1.  He is not used to that…

Sutton and Malkin in the box together at the 2:55 mark with Malkin getting the diving call..  4 on 4  Crosby out there  again.

BTW – Malkin is Greg Louganis on ice.

Dupuis on a great tip – hit the post.  1st lucky break of the game.

4th line looking Trio Grande out there – except not connecting.  Bailey jumps on a rebound in front of Johnson – 1-0 Isles!  Streit and Meyer get the helpers on the goal.

The second efforts are showing – and now the Isles get a PP – thanks to the work in the corners by the forwards.  The only issue I see with JT at time he is waiting for the puck to get to him, rather than attacking the puck. 

Sim clanked one at the end of thePP.  He has looked better recently.  Is he thinking that he may lose his spot?  Who knows.

Shots after 12 minutes are 6-5 Islanders.

Hillen got called by Kelly Sutherland for holding.  The lethal Pens PP is out there with Maklin, Crosby and Guerin up front with Gonchar and Eaton at the back. 

The goal light came on when Okposo was working behind the Pens net on the PK. 

The “Let’s Go Pens” chant is pretty loud today. But no shots for the Pens on that PP. 

It has been a good first period.  I am pleased with the effort. 

I said it too soon, as Malin scores on the shortest of sides, getting the puck throught the tiniest of holes between Roloson’s arm and the post.  1-1 tie game with 2:40 left in Period 1.

___________________________

Shots were 9-7 Isles after 1.

For  period 2, as stated so many times before, the Isles need to keep the forecheck going – not getting lackadasical, and proving that although this may be Pittsburgh, the defending Champs, they are a beatable team, if played the right way.

Tavares with a great move, beat Skoula like he was standing still, but did not get the roof shot on Johnson.

Sim did a great job, drawing a penalty on Adams by just being a complete pain in the gluteus maximus.  The PP ;lasted just five seconds as Hunter got called for a hook.  Well – so much for that opportunity.

It was all pretty quiet – until a deflection from a Jordan Staal shot by  Matt Cooke got by Roloson – 2-1 Pittsburgh.

Pittburgh has started the hitting, and the Isles are just not responding as well as they should.   The Isles need to respond, and need to do it in a hurry, because that is the kind of shot that can send your team in a funk.

It took the fourth line, to sustain some pressure on the net – to get the team going.  Bergie then on the next shift, got some opportunities going.  Johnson – was up to the test.

Line of the day from the Blog Box… as I mentioned that Bruno Gervais is a -2 for this game, Mike from Islesblogger.net replied,

But he can cook!

In a word, this period is:

A) Competive

B) Outsanding

C) Sluggish

D) Wonderful

The answer to me is C)

Hillen gets a call on a hip check on Sidney Crosby.  Bogus on bogus.

Now Sutton gets 4 for high-sticking.  Looks like Pttsburgh got an early Christmas present, giftwrapped by McCreary and Sutherland.

Hillen gets out of the box, and gets an open net try that just misses.  Then Nielsen gets a chance that misses on the short side.  Isles have brought their game up on this PK.  Keep it up – they are showing signs of life.  Crowd is up on their feet as the penalty is thwarted!  GREAT JOB!

Assessment of Period 2 – not a total disaster, but this team could have floundered with that 4 minute PK.  They showed resiliency and toughness that helped them get throught.  Now – as a song from the movie Cool Runnings said it best, they have to “Rise above it!”

_________________________________________________

Lately, this team has had the lead going to the third stanza, and lost momentum.  This time, they are in the trailing end of te score sheet, outshooting the opposition by a 20-16 count.  11-9 forthe second period.

Bergenheim – with a blast over the goalie’s right shoulder, knots the game at 2 – just 1:24 in. That will make Dee (7th Woman) so happy!

What a great shot – and a great cross ice pass from Neilsen.

Thompson got a call for a hit, which caused Jordan Staal to tangle with the Islanders middleweight.  Ater Staal exuded all of his energy – Nate took over and gave his #11 counterpart a beating.  Not only did Staal lose the fight, but got 2 for instigating + 5 and 10.

Seems like this New York hockey team really wants this game.  The energy level from both the ice and the crowd is electric.  I know it is not a playoff game, but when it gets this loud, it is good for the home team.

JT just had a wide open opportunity, and then laid a behind the back pass to no one, that ticked off the crowd, but got a PP because of a too many men on the ice.

Right away – Hillen is in the SLOT of all places – not the one I woud want there, but I’ll take the body out there.

“WE WANT CHILI!!!!!”

Great opportunity – and probably one of the saves of this seson here as Johnson got his glove on  a shot that hadto get through about five bodies or so to get through to.

Bruno – please get the shots ON NET!

Great chances – no results on the PP!

Tamby is getting his chances today.  He has played better.  BTW – Sutton was my player to watch.  12 minutes played after 2 periods – a +1 and 6 PIM.

Bergenheim line getting sloppy behind the net. 

Steve, my fellow blogger is pleading with JT to stop being fancy.  Remember – this was the guy that sounded like the version of the Backstreet Boys!

Malkin tried his short side shot – but Rollie was having NOTHING with that again!

JT!!!!! 3-2 Isles!    Great effort – finding the rebound off of a Freddy Meyer shot.  Moulson created traffic in front of the goalie as the  puck got over to Tavares!  That was JT’s 10th of the season…  Okie also got an assist on the play, as he got the puck over to Meyer.

Now – keep the energy level, and not play ‘down’ and protect the lead.  Keep the tempo going.

As Herbie would say,

PLAY YOUR GAME!

Hey – Bruno got a shot on goal!  And I always worry about the first two minutes after we score a goal.  The Ises have answered the test.

Sim just had two chances to put the game away and were stopped by a sprawling Johnson.  The htting is strong right now – and the team is responding to all of the work. Bergie just had a great chance on net as well.  Love the aggressiveness.

Big win!!!!  Way to hold on!!!

Posted under Blog Box, Islanders 09-10

The “view” has been on work mode – and has been out of action.  However, we have been aware of the great things that have been happening in our world of Islanders hockey.

1.  The emergence of JT.  Since all of the NHL brainiacs want us to fail – they are not even embracing this story of the #1 draft pick doing so well.  Last year, there were so many stories of Stamkos’ struggles to start the season, and even more of his emergence as the season progressed.  Since the hockey news made us aware of Taveras at the tender age 0f 14, you would think that they would continue the saga.  Alas, I am mistaken.  Well – we can give this back to the Canadian hockey media in a good stiff burger and have them stick it where the sun dont shine!

2.  Matt Moulson – feel good story of the year.  If you told him 6 months ago – that he would have 10 goals on the year, he may have said OK; but in the NHL???? What a surprise for him and the Isles.  The chemistry between him and Taveras has been great, and is one of the best stories in the league this season.

3.  Injury front – for the most part – the team has been healthy.  Or at least healthier than last season.  With that in mind, the team has been able to establish chemistries and keep the guys comfortable with their playing partners.  Missing Weight and Martinek has been tough, especially with the way that Marty was playing before his ACL.  However, other guys have picked up the slack.

4.  Goaltending.  The Achillies heal last year.  Joey Mac and Yann were yeoman and held their own, but this team needed veteran presences in the crease.  Enter Rollie and Biron.  When Roloson started the year, there were a lot of frustrations.  Could he ever stop a puck in a shootout….?  However, he has been a rock in the last few weeks.  Biron has had a little more tough luck, but has been reliable.

5.  New emergences – Especially Jack Hillen, who looks a lot older and wiser than his real age on the ice.  I think he has a great future ahead of him.

6.  Questions – what happens when Ricky gets back?  Will Josh’s comfort level grow?  Can Tambellini be consistent? 

7.  Coaching – Scott Allen and Dean Chynoweth have been a good fit with Scott Gordon.  The system is finally taking full hold, and the team is responding to it mightily.

8.  Fan Support – hopefully with winning and better efforts brings fans.  With a few games over the Turkey holiday, I hope to see full crowds and enthusiastic support of the team.

Well – hopefully next week – I will get on a better schedule of writing.  Thanks for the patience and speak soon.

Cheers,

Gary

Posted under Islanders 09-10, Ramblings

One simple word to describe the game.

I am just glad that the first few rows of my section are predominantly season ticket holders.  Fights galore – the poor security guys deserve their pay – along with a little combat insurance.

Just happy with all of the effort – basically no negatives.  Except Bruno is -10 in 7 games.  That HAS to improve.  Streit has not gotten on the score sheet – but is playing 26-29 minutes a game – and looks fine.

Great work by Hillen.  He is improving by leaps and bounds!

Moulson and JT - what can you say.

3rd period was a great effort.  Glad to see it pay off in a big “W”.

Roloson was truly amazing last night.  His veteran presence does help his guys in front of him, and when he has confidence, the rest of the team glows with it.

This always puts me in a better mood for the day – even if things are tough in the office, or whatever, having a big win against the Rangers makes a day lighter and happier.

Enjoy, Islander fans!

Posted under Islanders 09-10

Stats before the period starts:

Ice Time – Marinek – 17:31 Ovechkin – with over 18 minutes – leads the Caps.

Isles start the 3rd with a big runs in front of Theodore; a few shots, but nothing doing. Pressure is great to start. Sustain and hold the pressure, while not collapsing to defend the lead, is what the Isles need to do right here.

Ovechkin making a schoolboy basketball spin move on Martinek to get a shot on Roloson – to no avail.

Witt got a shot off – that I never would have imagined that he could do. The defender slid in, and somehow by a stroke of magic, Theodore had to stop the puck.

Tambellini – deflects a shot from Comeau that was going wide past Theodore – 2-0 Islanders!

It figures – Mike (Islesblogger) and I wee just commenting on the fact that Tambellini seemed to always take such low percentage shots at the goal line, instead of spinning around the net – looking for options in front of the slot.

Excelent for the momentum – need to get more – as I say that – JT gets a great opportunity – but goes wide. Caps come back on the other net, an Roloson does the job.

Green with a blast that no ne would have stopped – got the Caps on the board – 2-1.

13:58 to go – a lot of time remaining – time for the Isles to try and re-gain the play. Caps have been controlling the action since the goal. The tables are swinging the other direction. Comments from the stands are “Awful” and “disgusting”. Guys are “Not hitting”….

Showing on the screen – the battles between Ovechkin and Martinek. Martinek has done a nice job – keeping #8 off the scoreboard.

Another great opportunity by Moulson – denied by Theodore.

Jack Hillen has impressed me a great deal tonight. He has been positionally sound, and has made right decisions. Stepping up when he has to – laying out the body. He is looming to become a solid NHL defensemen.

Frans Nielsen showed Mr. Ovechkin the ice with a nice hit by the center ice dot.

The Isles have not lapsed as much as expected tonight. When their game has slipped – they have found moments to resurrect themselves. I am very impressed with their effort and focus.

The Caps just tied it – when they swarmed the net, and Ovechkin was actually hanging from the top of the crossbar. 2-2 with 6:40 to go..

This is what I was worried about. And afterthe goal – the team is making phantom passes – not getting the clearpass out of the zone. They are on top of their skates, waiting for the inevitable. I was really hoping that this was not going to happen tonight. The fans are getting impatient and I do not blame them.

Roloson just got the wind knocked out of him by a collision between him and Martinek. This is not looking good for the guys.

Chris Clark justgot away with assault atthe blue line. Now – the ref has swallowed the whistle. Nice.

We need to get some opportnities – and now would be nice. Roloson does not show any good signs by his appearance. This is not that promising.

Park made a great move and got adecent shot on net – but with no one else around him – it just doesn’t make sense.

1:23 left – outshooting Wash 30-21 – 15-6 for the period, but gave up two goals. Roloson got hit in the melon but held on. Witt as the puck got to the corner – did not clear the puck instead allowed Washington to get a scoring chance.

Time out Washington – 14.1 left. Expect Ovie to get the ooportunity if presented. Crucial face off -Isles won it and cleared. Going to OT.

Fifth time in nine games – that the Isles have made Overtime. But not happy with the one – need the two. With 4 on 4 – this gives guys like Ovechkin a chance to get more ice and more chances. Need to keep #8 away from the circles. Pick your spot,and make the Caps PAY!

OK – here we go!

Nielsen and Okposo – to start with Martinek and Sutton.

Laich got the puck through Roloson’s legs – Caps win 3-2. Another 2 goal lead sqashed. Should be a fun press conference.

Will have quotes and stuff tomorrow. Have a good night all.

Posted under Blog Box, Islanders 09-10

Blogging live tonight…. I am not alone, as Dee, the 7th Woman is with me!

Same lineup as last night. Lawson to start in net, as Mannino will be getting the nod tomorrow in Pennsylvania.

Unfortunately – the same referee (Nygel Pelletier) will be in charge tonight. Hopefully his night will be BETTER than it was last evening. From what I heard, the head coach of the Sound Tigers, Jack Capuano was less than thrilled in the post game interviews, et al.

Probably a lesser crowd than last night. What a shame. With ticket prices as cheap as they are – it is an absolute shame.

With the game ops crew here on time tonight, the big Sound Tiger logo is going up by the entrance.

Sound Tiger scratches. Colliton, Figren, and Jamie Fraser.

Starting Lineup – Lawson, MacDonald, Kohn, Smith, Hennigar, Iggulden

At least we did not start the game with a penalty, but for the second straight game, the first shot went in. This time, only 30 seconds in as opposed to 1:22. A great feed from Paul Bissonnette to a tip in by Dustin Jeffrey just over Lawson’s shoulder.

Penalty on Macdonald. Mr. Pelltier is back on his good ref calling skills again.

BTW – Eric Cairns looks good behind the bench…. Will we see more of this next season?

Tigers tie the game at 1 on a great shot by Michael Haley, assisted by Morency and MacDonald. The 4th line for the Tigers are really stirring it up. The team looks a lot more focused and passionate right now. Maybe too much in the case of KO as he took a penalty.

Pens take the lead at the end of the power play on a tight angled shot by Dustin Jeffrey after about 3 shots were stopped by Lawson.

Seonds later Okposo ties up the game in fron of the crease (where else). 2-2

Last night, the game looked more like a yawning convention than this one. There is purpose, passion and much more intensity than last night.

Pens take a penalty, Taffe for holding MacDonald. Tigers on the PP.

You can see the strides that Jack Hillen has made. He looksso comfortable with the puck, and will not just make a more for the sake of it. He will search for the right option. MacDonld has that capability, but is much younger than the college graduate Hillen.

Iggulden on the PP – Tigers 3 – Pens 2

PP lasted about 5 seconds and Roger Luce did not even get to fully announce the penalty.

Tigers 3-2 after 1. Going to sit in the stands for the rest of the game.

Notes for the 2nd:

These two periods, we have the REAL VIEW FROM SECTION 317. I am sitting in my seats for the remainder of the game. Thank goodness that I can sit in row A, and hold the laptop on the railing.

Stay out of the box, penalties, especially with this referee will be a key for the Tigers this period. Establish the flow, and keep pressuring the goaltender.

Iggulden just got hurt. He basically slid into the boards from the blue line. Hard to see what he did, but he has been down for at least 90 seconds. He is up on his feet but not putting pressure on one of his legs.

Tigers are dominating the start of the second period. Charging the net, getting pucks in front of the net – sacrificing their bodies for the betterment of getting the goal.

If you know the Rangers suck , clap your hands! That always works, no matter what arena, no matter what team.

The game has returned to boring snooze fest. Paint drying is almost a better sport than hockey sometimes.

On a side note – as I just saw on line – congratulations to former Booster Club member, Tim Filangieri, who just finished his college career at Boston College, and signed a PTO with the Syracuse Crunch, the AHL affiliate of the Colubus Blue Jackets. He will be on the Crunch next season, and I am sure will go to Blue Jackets Training camp in September.

Tigers 4-2 Jesse Joensuu – stuck the puck past the Pens goalie to give the Tigers a 2 goal cushion.

Kyle just got boarded for a penalty, and he definitely did not take it too lightly. Make sure he is OK for the world’s coming up next week. Now Tigers – get the PP goal and make the lead more. Now a 2 man PP for 40 seconds.

WIth the second period coming to a close – Tigers are outshooting the Pens by aa 23-12 margain. This stanza, the Tigers are definitely showing why they did as good as their record shows. Now – they have to keep that momentum going, and get that series knotted at 1-1.

3rd Period

Sometimes – the people behind the scenes working the games, are a little forgetful as to the time of year. Announcements were made by Dina the arena hostess about a viewing party at the Nutty Irishmen in Farmingdale. Only problem is that the party was on April 7th…. DUH!

Penguins score with 13:49 remaining to make it a one goal game. Game getting tighter on the ice and in the stands.

Another player that has impressed me is Jon Sim. Even though he was demoted, he could have played the prima-donna role. Instead, he has played hard, and showed the professional demeanor that is most respectful. Good reason for him having the “A” on his jersey. Marc Wotton, who is a long time minor leaguer (at the ageof 35), is wearing the “C”. The other “A” is Joe Callahan, the Connecticut native.

Whoops – now 4-4 Snap shotfrom just outside the faceoff circle. Evened up the game with 11:47 left in the match. A whole new game right now. Have to get the pucks to Curry and make a strong stand.

Now I know wh I don’t sit in my seats all the time. There are some people that sit behind me (you know who you are), that need a couple of classes in charm school….. I feel that after these games, I am suffering a 10 -20 per cent hearing loss. Thank GOD I know this person for over 40 years, or I would be sent to the rafters and beaten severely!

Now Sim got a penalty (as a result of my fellow 317 section fan wrath), and the Tigers have to make a serious commitment to killthe penalty and take away the momentum from Scranton. As I say that, the Pens take a penalty. Maybe we do not need the Nitro Glycerin pills. Xanax may be a possibility.

Hillen almost got a goal sneaking in on the right wing.

All I know is – this lady in row B should be starting her comedy career very soon. She is retiring in a few weeks, so there is a chance.

Pace is picking up. Hennigar had a great chance in front and had another opportunity in the slot.

Haskins had a good chance. This third/fourth line is strong tonight.

Lawson wth a nice glove stop. He needs to be stronger as the game goes along. “We’re not gonna take it!” is blasting from the speakers.

If nothing changes – and this game goes to overtime – I will end the blog post here, and do a followup tomorrow, with the interviews (if any) and post game reaction.

Three Stars

3. Hillen – what a smooth guy
2. Haley – Goal and assist – strong game.
1. Okposo – send off to the Worlds – what a nice way to go.

If the interviews go well – I will add them tomorrow.

Posted under Blog Box, Sound Tigers

I am so looking forward to going to a game, and not having to do ANYTHING but WATCH!

What a feeling.

I know that the Sound Tigers set all sorts of club records for wins, points, etc. But to be honest – I am not totally up to date with the stats. I know that Trevor Smith had 30 goals to lead the club, and Mike Iggluden had 20 and lead the team in points.

Nathan Lawson is one of the best goaltenders in the A this year, and Peter Mannino will be there as well. Both may see some significant action. The team also will get KO for the first two games, and Hillen will be with the Tigers for the full run. DiBenedetto and Katic may see some time, as they are now in the professional ranks. Roben Figren also may get a call or two.

I will be doing a REAL VIEW FROM SECTION 317 tomorrow night, and blog live from the seats.

If you do not have tickets, and do not want to sit home and watch the Yanks and Mets get tanked in their new Billion dollar homes,, come to the Coliseum. Top ticket is $29… How can you beat that. I just hate that I actually have to pay to park, but if that is the worst problem I have, I can deal with it. Go TIGERS!

Posted under Sound Tigers