#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

Makes for an interesting connection.

With the Town of Hempstead making their super-scaled down version of Charles Wang’s dream, Nassau County Supervisor Ed Mangano came out of left field, and brought up the possibility of having the Shinnecock (sp) Native American’s have a potential Casino/Entertainment complex with the Nassau Coliseum.  Bottom line, is that with this Native American situation – the plans would be clear of TOH involvement and zoning.

This potential idea is not only supported by Mangano, but by the Nassau and NYS Republican party.  The same people that I attacked a few months prior for having Kate Murray (TOH Supervisor) knock down the Lighthouse, and stall this process to no end.  I did not like Mondello for that – but my thoughts of him can change for the better.

My thoughts about this are simple.  The Islanders ARE LONG ISLAND.  The Islander must STAY ON LONG ISLAND.  Whatever way gets it done, so that the arena gets either re-fitted or replaced, and the attraction of potential free-agents to Long Island becomes a much better proposition than it was in years and in the recent past, then let’s get the freaking thing done!  Stop the politics, and allow Long Island to grow.  Get out of the 1970′s and let this process move on!

“Can I double down?”

Posted under Cool A-C League, Lighthouse

Garth Snow, in my opinion, would seem to be a great poker player.

Everyone knows what he did last year with JT.  No one knew what he was doing until the last possible second.  Some rumors have it that he pulled a bluff on himself. 

I believe that most NHL pundits were quite pleased on Garth’s selection of El Nino with the 5th pick.  I, among others, were looking at the defensemen (Gudbranson specifically), thinking this was the way to go.  Gudbranson, or one of the other two d (Fowler or Gormley) would have been a solid pick, with no bad taste in expert’s mouths.

When I watched the replay of the draft (was unable to go to the party, and did not tape it), I was very pleased to hear Pierre McGuire nearly salivate over El Nino coming to Long Island.  Love the ‘No holes like Swiss Cheese’ description of him.  I knew that Nino was on the radar, but just didn’t think that he would be the pick for us.  That is why I have a real job…

Brock Nelson is a big boy with a tremendous upside.  Going to North Dakota is not such a bad place, either.  There has been a good standard that have gone there in previous years, specifically, Toews and Parise among others.  The other Toews (and Islander pick) is also there right now.  It is a chance, and it would not be the first time that a player of this stature makes a dent in the NHL fraternity.

The big chance is Kabanov.

A player that was projected in the Top 10 earlier in the year, dropped like a brick, due to ego, personal issues, and agent problems.  Garth made things PERFECTLY clear, that Kirill is going to be watched like a hawk, and will show the character that an Islander propsect SHOULD carry.  A kid of this past, I hope, is probably one that wants to show everyone that they were wrong in doubting their non-selection of him.  Sometimes, that trait is a very nice one indeed.

The other picks in day two are of the ilk of potentials, and long-range possibilities. 

Most of the ‘experts’ gave the Islanders mid-range marks; with praise for Neiderreiter, but not so much for Kabanov.  Too many people make predictions on the draft today, instead of seeing what happens down the road.  Remember how Snow was ripped for picking Bailey?  Yes – he may not have Stamkos points, but he has done a nice job.  Of course the pundits will say that Tavares did not achieve what he should have, but despite the mid season blues, he performed favorably and has shown a great deal of maturity for a 19 year old.

I really think we have a chance to make major strides this season, and the draft picks will be in place to provide more for the future.

Remind me never to play cards with Garth.

Posted under Cool A-C League

These are my Islander year in review on the team players to date.  These were done by myself, as well as John Panarese, my colleague on the eyesonisles.com site.  Hope you enjoy them.  Please crituque anything that you like.  Thanks and enjoy!
#43 – Martin Biron

29GP 26GS 9-14-5 3.25GAA, .896 SV Pct, 1SHO, 1A, 2PM
Probably on of the nicest hockey players that I have ever encountered, Marty is the ultimate team player.  He knew EXACTLY what he was getting himself into when he came here.  However, he would do whatever was necessary for the team, and not complain about it.
At one point of the season, he got zero support from the offensive side of the puck.  He would give up 2 goals on 40 shots, but get zero from his mates.  At a point where he was not getting any playing time, he took a stint in Bridgeport to keep his game shape going.  Then in a stretch at the latter part of the season, he was on fire for the big club.
He knew he was the 3rd wheel on the team chart when Ricky returned briefly to the lineup, but the ‘class’ guy that he is – he kept chin up and did what was needed.
I know that he will not be back next season, but if a team had 20 guys like Marty, it would be a great locker room.  Not that the Islanders have a bad one, in fact the team is a great unit together; but he is an absolute treat.  Whatever team that will get his services next season will have a great player on and off the ice.
As far as a grade is concerned, I have to give a C.  For total playing it would have to be lower, due to the bad start, and the bad luck.  However, the intangibles will take some of the grade and bring it up.
Next up – #44 Freddy Meyer.

#42 – Dylan Reese

Here is a guy who went from playing in one organization to being traded to the Islanders and then being called up days after that. Basically, with all of the injuries to the back line at the time, the Islanders desperately needed someone to plug the proverbial hole. Thus, in stepped Dylan Reese.
Reese played in 19 games, and picked up a pair of goals and a pair of assists. He also was a +4. Frankly, he simply did a great job being literally put right into the fire. He adjusted to the NHL rather quickly, and I can recall Billy Jaffe making the observation a number of times in regard to how well Reese was playing his position and making the “smart plays”. I don’t think we could have asked for much more from the guy under the circumstances.
It’s hard to grade a guy who played under 20 games, but I’d still have to give him a B. He really stepped into a difficult situation and made the best of it. The unfortunate reality, however, is it’s highly unlikely that he will find himself making the top 6 for the big club next season. I, of course, could be entirely wrong about this, but it seems that the Islanders may be looking at a few future prospects who might be ready to make the jump to the NHL. Thus, Reese’s potential role on the Isles would be quite limited at best.

#38 – Jack Hillen

3G, 18A, 21Pts, -5, 44PM, 1PPG
Amazing that he only missed just a few games from the shattering of his jaw, thanks to Alex Ovechkin’s slapper.
To me – this young man from Colorado College by way of Minnesota – made the most strides of any player on this team.  Not just from the offensive or defensive standpoints, but the impression standpoint.  To me – the beginning of the season, Jack looked a bit uncomfortable with the puck.  This skill was told to be one of his best.  As the season progressed, and the comfortability level got more and more improved, you can see that he was not just a young second year NHL player, but he looked like a solid veteran.  He almost looked a little Bourque-like.
I think another full year under the belt for Hillen will show the experts that he is ready to be known as a strong 20-25 minute a game player that will handle himself with authority, as well as provide a little offense when it is needed.  Can he be a top 4 defensemen for this team for years to come?  I really think that he can do that.
As far as a grade, I will give him a B-.  A grade that I believe will continue to improve.  I think he will need to add about 5-10 extra pounds, and work on his speed.  This should make him be a player that will potentially make an impact for this team for the forseeable future.

#32 – Brendan Witt

As you may noticed, I did Jack Hillen and not Brendan Witt.  Only because I do not feel that he is a part of the future of this team, that I did not do the review.  As far as a grade, I would have to put him as a D.  For his ‘warrior mentality’ that kept it away from an F.  I would give him an “A” for Super Hero powers, as he battled the GMC Yukon outside the Wachovia Center in Philly earlier in the season.  Brendan had a good career, but he is too slow for this NHL, and I just don’t think he is long for the league.
Next to review – #42 – Dylan Reese.

#30 – Dwayne Roloson

Another of the off season signings by Garth Snow that proved to be valuable well beyond expectations. Just how many games Roloson single-handedly won for the Isles over his 49 starts is hard to figure. No one really could have expected the efforts we got and the value of #30. I can recall one game earlier in the season against the Maple Leafs up north in which Dwayne faced 60 shots and was the Only reason why the Islanders ended up winning the game.
What more could you have asked for from a veteran goaltender on a rebuilding team? A 3.00 GAA, and a 23-18-7 record. I couldn’t even begin to estimate how many times in a game Roloson shut the door with an amazing save to hold a lead or keep the Isles in a game. You simply couldn’t have asked for more from the 40 year old net minder. Like Matt Moulson, Dwayne Roloson was truly one of the big and pleasant surprises for the New York Islanders this season.
So, I’d have to give him an A minus. No, he wasn’t perfect, but he surely gave the Islanders quality goaltending throughout the season. Undoubtedly, he will be a part of the goaltending picture next season, as there are still unanswered questions about Ricky’s future.

#28 – Tim Jackman

54GP 4G 5A 9Pts -4 98PM
He a was providing a nice job on the 4th line, killing penalties, being an overall nusiance to the opposition, until New Years Eve when he broke his orbital bone in a fight in Ottawa.
That derailed the former Columbus draft pick for over two months.  There was a sense of a slight loss of toughness with this team (that Trevor Gillies picked up when he was recalled).  However, Tim possesses the sense of what a proper 4th liner should be.  I think he can offer more of an offensive position should it be required.  He is not a loss on the ice without it, as he has a sense of a defensive responsibility to the team.
He is a RFA this season, and he is one that I really think that should be kept with the team next season.  Are you hoping for 15 goals from him?  No.  But 10 is not out of possibility with him.  He can surprise you with that, and be the straw that can stir up the team.  He has a good personality and seems to be a good guy in the room.
I will give him a C+ (that may be a little low), because I think he can be better for this team with his roles.  I think he needs to step up to the next level, and I think he can do it.  With the salary he can make, it would also be a real bonus for the team.
Next up – #30 – Dwayne Roloson.

#26 – Matt Moulson

82GP – 30G, 18A, -1, 16PM, 8PPG, 5GWG
The find of the year in the entire league in my opinion…. That has NO BIAS written into it at all.
A 26 year old that was stuck in the minors – not getting the chance, was given a shot by the Islanders in camp.
Did he impress?  What do you think!
He was told he made the team, but the coaching staff told him to play every game like it was his last.  Even after the great start he had, he still played that way.  As a matter of fact, he did that for all 82 games, leading the Isles in goals with 30.  His comfortability with his fellow Missisauga native John Taveras, led to a comfort zone for both the rookie and the veteran AHL’er.
We have not seen a player stick his body in front of the net – to get rebounds and get to pucks, since Mark Parrish.  A dirty goal to him is a goal indeed.  He did not look like a deer in headlights, in fact, the deer was charging the nets.
To see the flowing locks with the big smile after a goal, it almost looked Bossyesque (well – change the hair color and you had a chance).  With nothing expected, the returns are immeasurable.
He is a RFA this year, and I have NO DOUBT, that the Isles will take care of him.  There should be no reason to want to go anywhere else.  The Isles took the chance that NO one would.  Besides, he is playing with JT, and that can’t be all that bad…
I give him an “A”.  There will be so much more expected of him this season.  He will have expectations, and people to bicker if he doesn’t comply.  Will he get the same amount of numbers?  I really think he will.  It will not be as easy; teams will be looking for him.  However, with a young corps another year experienced, there has to be heads turning.
Next up – #28 Tim Jackman
#24 – Radek Martinek

Martinek played only 16 games this season, totaling 2 goals and an assist for 3 points and a -1 rating. Unfortunately, a knee injury cut his season short in November, which has seemed to be a recurring theme for him ever since he entered the NHL. I don’t think he has played a full season or over 60 games in a season since he joined the Isles.
Martinek is a very solid defenseman who has been quite impressive when he has been able to get his game going. In both the defensive and offensive aspects of his game, he has been an asset, but, again, his problem has been his inability to stay healthy. I can only give him a C for this season because of having not even played 20 percent of the total games for the season.
It is going to be interesting to see what his future holds on Long Island. Undoubtedly, Radek can be a force on the back line and, if he can remain healthy, can challenge for a spot on the roster. However, with the young talent coming along and the potential for free agent acquisitions, I don’t know if he has a definite place among the final 7 who will make the team next season.

#21 – Kyle Okposo

19G, 33A, 52Pts, -22, 34PIM.
Twice consecutively just missing on the 20 goal plateau, but career record in points with 52.
He is progressing just as I would expect of him when he was drafted from the USHL.   He has flashes of brilliance; to me – a Jerome Iginla type of player.  Nasty when he needs to be – great hands, great vision on the ice, and the type of person to make a nothing into a major something.
He had a couple of dry spells where he looked like a little lamb missing his mother, but that is to be expected from most 23 year olds.  The good part about him, is that those spells seem to be short lived, and almost nearly forgotten.
Wearing the “A” – he could be the next Captain of this team, a position that he could probably hold for years and years.  Seeing him in the locker room, he is definitely a quiet presence.  He is quite affable, and gets his point across simply with an ease about him.  That is what you expect from a potential captain.
Can he improve?  Absolutely.  He needs to find more opportunities, and get down in the slot, and muscle around to get to loose pucks.  He does have a good shot from the point, but in my opinion, he is not the quarterback on the PP.  He should be the fullback, driving, and creating holes (on the goalie – that is).
Any team would want to build a team around a talent, and a man like Kyle.  The sky is definitely the limit with #21.  I give hima B+, only because of his stretch that he did not produce.  Yes-  it is a ‘youth’ thing, and it probably is a good thing that this happened.
Next up – #24 – Radek Martinek…

#20 – Sean Bergenheim

To me, Sean is another of the “enigma” players the Isles have seemed to have in their lineup. A guy with a great deal of potential talent, he often did not show much of it and, at times, took the over aggressive penalty. However, when he got hot, we could see his value, and I have found myself wondering a number of times just what this guy can be if he put his game together for a full season.
In 67 games, Bergenheim totaled 10 goals, 13 assists, 23 Points and was a +1 with 45 PIM. He had his share of injuries, but no one can deny that he is a guy who plays with heart an intensity when he is on his game. The question, though, is whether or not he can establish his impressive game over the course of an entire season. It seems as if he has turned it on at the tail end of the last two. I’d have to give him a C+ as a rating, as I just think that Bergenheim has far more to offer than we have seen.
On a side note, I also want to congratulate the Hawks and Flyers for their accomplishments in the playoffs. It is going to be a great Stanley Cup final round. The young Hawks against the amazing Flyers. My personal prediction is … Chicago in 6.

#16 – Jon Sim

Stats: 77GP 13G 9A 22PTS 44PM
An enigma if there ever was one.  Simmer is the kind of a player that his role would be more relished on a stronger team than the Islanders.  He is a pest, a person that will tick off the front line, plays much bigger than he actually is – and can get involved in the offense as the situation dictates.
At the end of 08-09 – he was languishing in Bridgeport – wondering if he would be an NHL’er again.  As the season ended, he was playing good minutes and getting the team fired up.  You always see him slapping gloves and sticks of his teammates, and trying to get the guys pumped up.  He is never going to be a top6 forward, but a 3rd line agitator is a good choice.
I will give him a B- for this year, only because there were some moments in this season, where he was as lost as  Oceanic 815 (No – I never watched a second of LOST, but I know the flight number).  However, in the right situation – he may help a team tremendously.  Will he be signed next season?  I have my doubts.  He is a warrior and a good team guy, but Garth needs to take this team to the next level; and too many ‘good guys’ will just not do it.  He needs ‘better than good guys’ to mold with the Tavares’ and Moulsons of this team, as well as the kids that are coming.
Next player will be #20 – Sean Bergenheim

#15 – Jeff Tambellini

I guess the word, enigma, would describe this young man. Let me first say that this is a kid I have pulled for since the Islanders got him, especially with his father’s connection to the early Isles. There was a brief time in which the patience of Scott Gordon and the organization appeared to be paying off, as Jeff showed some confidence and talent for a stretch. However, for whatever the reason, Jeff simply could not put it together for us, and soon became a daily healthy scratch. One cannot say that this kid didn’t get his share of chances, and he was inserted into the lineup a number of times.

Tambellini was a -8 in 36 total games, having tallied 7 goals and 7 assists. Unfortunately, I think he picked up most of his goals in two multiple goal games, including a hat trick. Beyond that, however, the guy just couldn’t seem to find his place in the NHL. He scored a lot at Bridgeport, but this never translated into the kind of player we needed him to be.
Sadly, at this stage, the “Tambellini experiment” seems to be over. Perhaps, a change of scenery and a new organization would do the young man well. I’d honestly have to give him a D-, as I wouldn’t say his earlier glimpses of talent made him an utter failure. Still, I do not believe you will be seeing Jeff in an Islanders’ sweater next season.

#14 – Trevor Gillies

First of all – congrats to the Flyers… What an unbelievable upset!  Boston just laid down and died!  And dont use the too many men as an excuse.  If it was called 2 or 3 time in the playoffs, that is one thing, but 33 times?????  No – you just did not get it done, and it is another black eye for Boston sports.  This may hurt worse than Buckner.
Trevor Gillies – 14 games – 1 assist, 75 PIM -2
Yes – the Isles had a very good record when he played, but sorry fans, he is NOT the reason for it.  I like his passion, his ’stepping up’ and defending his teammates.  He knows when to make the issue be big, and when to back off.
If Trevor was 21, I would really like his future.  However, he is a journeyman, with these 14 games on his NHL resume.  Could I see him back here next year?
Sure.
However, he would seriously need to step the rest of his game, and not be a 5 minute a game player.  Can he do that at 31?  It is a big question, to see — I would definitely bring him to camp and see what kind of desire he has.
As far as a grade is concerned, I will give him a solid C+.  I am a little tough on the grade, because he needs to step up the rest of the game.
Next up – Jeff Tambellini… This should be a doozy!

#13 – Rob Schremp

I must admit that I wasn’t initially impressed with Rob Schremp. He was released by the Edmonton Oilers, and though his skills were said to be fantastic, we didn’t really see that at first. However, it didn’t take long for Schremp to start to demonstrate his abilities, particularly in shoot out situations in which we saw a very impressive bunch of “tools” in his box.
Before a knee injury cut his season short, Rob Schremp played a total of 44 games. He had 7 goals and 18 assists, and was a -4. Every game, he seemed to get better and better, and I can remember thinking to myself that, like with Matt Moulson, we had really gotten ourselves a steal in Rob Schremp. As his confidence grew, he became more impressive, and it was clear that Scott Gordon and the staff were equally impressed. It is difficult to give a guy a true grade when an injury cut short what might have been a really extraordinary season, but I’d have to say he was a B building himself to become better than that. We shall see what training camp brings for Rob Schremp next season and if he continues to improve and shine out on the ice to possibly make a bid at a top 6 forward spot or certainly a third line guy.

#10 – Richard Park

I was supposed to put this in numerical order – but I forgot Park.  A former Nystrom award winner and all.  Great ciizen and leader for this young squad.
Stats from this season.
81 GP, 9G 22A 28PM, 4GW, -9
That last number at one point was around -20, but it improved as the team showed possible playoff signs in March.
I can NEVER say anything bad about Parkie.  He gives effort, and always seems to be a part of the action when he is out there.  He plays shifts as if it may be the last.  Not to say he is banging heads and working at 120% of his energy level.  He is just smart in his actions.  He is a great PK man, who has helped in many of a shorthanded goal for this team.
For the Dollar value, Park is a great asset.  However, it will be a big decision on management on whether he remains next season.  I think a quiet leader, and great citizen are values that Garth and ownership take real seriously.  Therefore, I hope that he remains next year, as an important cog of this team.
As far as a grade is concerned, I will give him a C+.  I would like to see the +- number to be a little higher, but getting 30 points a year is about where I expect.  If it was just on intangibles, I would put him at an A- level.
Next is Rob Schremp.
Hopefully my Numbers are correct, right John???

#12 – Josh Bailey

Our first round draft pick in 2008 started to come on later in the 2008-2009 season. He had somewhat of a slow run out of the gate this year, but we soon started to see the skill the Islanders were hoping Josh would begin to demonstrate. Josh spent some time moved over to the left wing, which seemed to help his scoring quite a bit, and the confidence and his general presence on the ice seemed to build. Instead of “flying by” the net, “Bails” often did not shy from going to the goal and creating scoring chances for himself and his teammates. In fact, though I might be incorrect here, I believe he had 2 short-handed goals and a couple of game winners for the Isles.
In 73 games, Josh totaled 16 goals and 19 assists for 35 points with a +5 defensive rating. . He missed a little time to an injury right before the olympic break and then missed the last couple of games of the season, but to me, the improvements we saw in Bailie were very promising. I’d have to give him a B+ rating overall, as I think he definitely proved that he has top 6 potential for the future offense of the New York Islanders. The question will be whether or not Scott Gordon and the staff will decide to shift him back to center, as they did later in the season, or utilize him on the wing where he seemed to show his best offensive output.

#8 – Bruno Gervais

Stats from the Islanders Site:
71GP (career high) 3G, 14A, 17P, -17, 31PIM, 1PPG, 1GWG, 83Shots, 3.6%
The Islanders version of Jekyl and Hyde.  There are some games, where the Longueuil, QC, native was outstanding and was making strides to be a much better NHL defenseman.   Then – Mr. Hyde showed up, and made his presence felt, leaving many a fan looking for a quick kill.
The problem is – when a player usually has one of these blips, it is usually a short term thing, and then their game returns.  For Bruno, I think his last name should have been Tonioli (as in Dancing with the Stars host).
As far as a representative of the team, there are few better.  He is involved, seems to love the Island, and represents the team so respectfully and with a great character.  If that could relate to points on the scoresheet, please, get us some more of that.  But we all know that it is not the case.
It seems that the issue with the number 8 player on the scorecard has always been consistency.  Sometimes when you see him coming up the defensive zone, you want to push his stick and say to get that puck upto the rushing forward.  Also – there is no surprise among the thousands in attendance, as to his intentions.
That is the main topic of his game that needs work, is the consistency factor, because there is instances where you shake your head and say how much improved, Bruno can be.  Then there are times where you shake your head and say how far back he has gone in his development.  If he wants to move up to the next grouping of an NHL defenseman, he needs to take Mr. Hyde and shove him to the curb.
I give him a C- this year.  He really needs to move up the echelon, and working on his consistent play should be his primary focus.
Next review – #12 – Josh Bailey

#7 – Trent Hunter

Let me start off by saying that I am a big Trent Hunter fan and as one who cannot play the game of hockey, I am very uncomfortable offering criticism of those who do play the game of hockey on a professional level. With that said, from the perspective of a fan, Trent Hunter did not provide us with the best of seasons from his ability of being an offensive weapon for us.
In 61 games, Trent tallied 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points with a +3 rating. He missed 21 games in total because of injuries, which has been an issue for him over the last few years. When he returned from his first injury, he had something like a 9 or 10 game point scoring streak, and it looked like he was going to, perhaps, approach his 25 goal area he once gave us. However, this did not prove to be the case at all in the end.
Without a doubt, Trent’s defensive zone coverage is a strong point and his ability to play on the PP and PK, as well as his size and physical presence, makes him an important player for the Isles. Even so, we need more than 11 goals from him. We need him to use his size, go to the net and be a factor every game. There were just some games where he didn’t seem to be completely present, despite his value on the PK or his defensive game. Overall, all things considered, I would, unfortunately, have to give him a D rating for this season as we need a lot more from #7 on the ice in the future.

#4 – Mark Flood

He was an emergency call up for what became a patchwork defense at times and played 6 games with the Isles. According to the stats, he had 1 assist and was a -4 rating over the 6 games he played.
It’s hard to grade a guy who was thrown into the fire and had his development process rushed quite a bit. Also, because of this, his ice time was limited for the most part. It’s hard to say what Mark Flood will eventually bring in the future for us, but he certainly did well enough for the big club. Thus, I would give him a B rating, though I add the disclaimer that his 6 total games and limited ice time makes it difficult to give him a full appraisal.

#2 – Mark Streit

For these reviews that John and I will do – 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.
I am sure that John will add his thoughts on this and grade him too.
Next review – Mark Flood #4.

These are the reviews to date.  Check on this site, as well as my other blog site, which is www.eyesonisles.com, part of the FAN SIDED NETWORK, for more Islander information.

Posted under 2009-10 Review

All of the Islander reviews for this season is being done on my sister blog – EYES ON ISLES (www.eyesonisles.com).  Myself, and John Panarese are taking turns, grading the guys.  This is my post from the Eyes on Isles site, on #16, Jon Sim.

Stats: 77GP 13G 9A 22PTS 44PM

An enigma if there ever was one.  Simmer is the kind of a player that his role would be more relished on a stronger team than the Islanders.  He is a pest, a person that will tick off the front line, plays much bigger than he actually is – and can get involved in the offense as the situation dictates.

At the end of 08-09 – he was languishing in Bridgeport – wondering if he would be an NHL’er again.  As the season ended, he was playing good minutes and getting the team fired up.  You always see him slapping gloves and sticks of his teammates, and trying to get the guys pumped up.  He is never going to be a top6 forward, but a 3rd line agitator is a good choice.

I will give him a B- for this year, only because there were some moments in this season, where he was as lost as  Oceanic 815 (No – I never watched a second of LOST, but I know the flight number).  However, in the right situation – he may help a team tremendously.  Will he be signed next season?  I have my doubts.  He is a warrior and a good team guy, but Garth needs to take this team to the next level; and too many ‘good guys’ will just not do it.  He needs ‘better than good guys’ to mold with the Tavares’ and Moulsons of this team, as well as the kids that are coming.

Posted under 2009-10 Review

The last game….

The “Wrecker” is back in the lineup – replaceing Sean Bergenheim.

Now a line of Rechlicz, Haley and Gillies, would be our version of the Hansen Brothers.

Rollie in net.  Interesting to see who plays for the Pens.  I know that Sidney will need 2 for the “Rocket” award.  But it will quite an interesting development as te game progresses as to how much time the Pens mainstays will get.

Congrats to the Sound Tigers for making the playoffs.  Already see the signs for playoff tickets for next Saturday at Harbor Yard.  Too bad that Josh Bailey will not get to play after the hit he received on Thursday.

So forMacDonald, Kohn(upon injury return), Haley, Rechlicz, Gillies, and Reese, this is a continuationof things.

Doug the betmaker is asking if this is Jeff Tambellini’s last game as an Islander.  Unfortunately, no one is taking him on this bet.

After 2 periods, the Rangers are up 1-0; with the Flyers outshooting the Rangers by a 30-14 mark.  King Henry is playing like a mad man today, but there are 20 minutes left for the Philly boys to get their act together.

Will be updating this blog after each period…. Enjoy the game!

+++++++++++++++++++

1st period

Starting Lineup – Roloson – Streit, MacDonald, Moulson, Nielsen, Jackman

Good guy award – Martin Biron.

Greast jersey I saw in Section 201 – it was a DP jersey with the name 15YEARBUST on it!

IT’S GAME TIME

Crosby and Malkin are getting the start.  Will Jackman take a shot at one???

19:14 – just found out that the Flyers tied the score at 1.

18:59 – Fleury not in net – what a surprise.

18:05 – Gillies – Rechlicz and Park – the non thug.

16:51 – Malkin gets a gift from Mark Streit – and slaps it into an empty left corner of the net. 1-0 Pittsburgh

16:30 – Craig Adams - 2 for tripping Roloson – - Nice call Doug (alias Mr. Referee – should have been goalie interference).

16:00 – Moulson had 30 in front of the net – but puck trickles away.

14:19 – One shot on the PP – not a lot of puck control

13:57 – Ice girls out.

13:55 – The Wrecker – one left to Rupp and he goes down like a sack of onions!

13:25 – Eric Godard got the puck past a diving Roloson – and give the Penguins a 2-0 lead.

12:00 – Moulson gets a good chance at Johnson – easy save.  Godard gets his first. in the 82nd game of the season.

11:05 – Interference on Gillies.  Just what this driving Pittsburgh team needs, a power play.

10:54 – the talk on the box is that this game will get out of hand and quickly at that.

8;32 – Pens get a penalty – Staal -  hooking   .  However, the Isles should hae declined the penalty.

7:25 – Streit – interference.  Well – so much for that power play.

6:56 – Hunter hit the post for about the 30th time this season (sarcastic – but it feels that way)

6:18 – Rollie flopping mad – making saves on Crosby.

5:39 – Guerin called for interference.  Iguess these refs like interference – call of the day.

442 – Isles on PP.  Trying to set up Moulson for #30.

4:03 – Okposo had a lane – but dumped to Tavares – who had his lane blocked by the Pitt D.

2:57 – As the Haley, Rechlicz and Gillies line was out – Malkin spotted Crosby streaking down the left wing, and puts it byRoloson for #50.  Penguins 3 – 0.

2:36 – Let’s Go Pens chants go out.  Almost sounded like Let’s go Met’s.

1:42 – Staal called for a crosscheck.  Ranger game is going to a shootout.  The playoff spot is going to a skils contest.  Thanks to SlingBox, we are wathcing it.

1:06 – Letang -delay of game – 5 on 3.

0:43 – JT cleans up the garbage and gets his 23rd. 3-1 Pens

++++++++++

2nd period

19:05 – Cosby scores again as the penalty expires:  4-1 Pittsburgh. He now has 51 – if Stamkos does not get 1 – the Rocket award is his.

But Islander fans are not as forlorn, as the Rangers have been eliminated at the hands of the Philadelphia Flyers in a shootout.

19:00 – ok – do we see some fights this period?

18:43 – major scrum in front of thpenalty box, and the funny part was that Jackman nearly took off the helmet to get in a fight.  First of all – the hit from Hillen on Dupuis was legal… 

18:05 – Islanders PP Goal – #30 for Matt Moulson!  Yes 4-2 Pittsburgh

16:43 – Rechlicz and Godard – great heavyweight bout – to a draw.

16:43 – Malkin ad Jackman – jostling in the faceoff circle – both sent to the box – two minutes – unsportsmanline conduct.

15:10 – Bruno Gervais – the BLACK HOLE ON DEFENSE – kept the puck in the offensive zone -

14:08 -  Malkin – gets 4 – 2 interference and 2 unsportmanlike – and Jackman – 10 misconduct.

13:50 – Moulson – two on net -and nothing on net.

12:10 – box is talking about this being Park’s final game.  That is a tough one for me.  I like his professionalism – but younger players are needed ore on this suad right now.

11:30 – Isles outshooting Pitt 17-14.

11:20 – PP playing much better.  Johnson made a great save on a Streit slapper from in front of the left faceoff circle.

10:20 – Trent Hunterhad two fantastic opportunities – and just missed on both.  JT- embellished a hit a little bit – but no penalty called.

8:51 – Malkin scores from guess who….. 5-2 Penguins. Can’t get Popcorn without a goal being scored.

5:51 – game has calmed down a little bit… 76 minutes in penalties called in this game so far – 46 for the Isles.

4:20 – Hunter making some un-Hunterlike moves,but still could not get the puck past Johnson.

3:03 – Haley gets called for Goalie Interference and gets hurt after the play, (looks like a knee).  Just what Bridgeport needs.

2:20 – Crosby just hit the pot on an open shot at net.

0:31 – Okposo – drew a penalty to end the 2nd with.

+++++++++++++++++++++

3rd period

Isles start the period on the PP.  Get one here, and there is  glimmer of hope.  See if Gillies an the Wrecker will get one fight in before the season ends.

17:40 – not much for typing now.  Unless something excites me – I will be keeping my mouth shut (now that’s a change.)

15:51 – Kyle Okposo drills one from the right faceoff circle – 5-3 Pittsburgh.  Still a game here…

15:07 – Jon Sim gets in and puts one by Johnson in front of the net.  5-4 Pens.

We have ourselves a hockey game here!

14:33 – Roloson made a great save on Kennedy.  Crowd getting into it.  This is a nice way to end the season.

13:30 – Jackman and MacDonald get twopoint blank shots on Johnson.  Getting loud and raucous. YES!

12:20 – Rollie – some spectacular saves.

Just heard that Stamkos scored his 51st of the season.  So Crosby needs one to have the award on his own.

11:28 – Gervais takes a penalty giving Pittsburgh a PP – and some of the blog boxers are excited.

9:20 – Hillen gets 2 for goalie interference.  Anothr power play for the Pens.

3rd period has been realtively penalty free, but exciting to say the least.

4:13 – Freddy Meyer pushes a puck through that was tipped by Tavares, and it is 5-5!

3:27 – Nielsen – nearly got a five-hole through Johnson.  The other Bloggers are attempting to commit hari-kari, because the point would put the Isles in 6th, and have no chance for the 1st pick.

They gave Meyer the goal, but we clearly saw JT’s stick touch the puck as it was going in.

2:39 – I am sorry – but I am not in the sae belief as these guys are – whatever happens, happens, and if they end up 6th from bottom – so be it.

0:50 – Roloson is playing outstanding.  Making saves out of nowhere.  This crowd sounds like it is at Game 7 of the Conference Finals.

Timeout – Pittsburgh

15.1 seconds to go.

Islanders now got point number 79.  Still have a chance to get number 80.

The balloons are falling from section 319 and down to the lower levels.

End to end action that is exciting and driving my nerves in a frenzy.

Leopold scores with 34.4. seconds left – what a fantastic game! 6-5 Penguins.

Posted under Blog Box, Islanders 09-10

Pregame musings

Another Islander hits the ‘Out for the Season’ status, as the Captain is having shoulder surgery next week.  Too bad, but it looks like another chance for #15.

Question on the Devils as I await the teams to come out… Will we see Yann Danis tonight?  With the major emotional effort against the Pens last night – it may be a good opportunity to bring out the number 2 netminder.

Looks like Danis will get the start tonight.  Rollie for the Isles.  And yes – Tambellini on the ice.

Player to watch:  Have to keep an eye on Tamby. Let’s see what energy he brings to the team, and can he get the offensive side of the game going, without being clueless on the ice.

______________________________________________________________

1st period

I have a request to Islander country…  As you may know – I have a connection with the Sheffield Steelers of the British Elite Hockey League.  Their version of the Rangers is the Nottingham Panthers.  The Panthers have been the brunt of many of an Steeler beating over the years, with the Panthers not winning the league title in their country since 1954.  Sound familiar?  Well – there is an opportunity for the team from Nottingham to clinch the league title next weekend in Sheffield.  That would be in some instances even worse than 1994.  I personally had the opportunity to see Sheffield win the league title in Nottingham’s home rink, in 2003.  I have been to many of an Islander celebration, but to be honest – this was as loud and crazy with about 35% of the amount of people that we would have. 

We have to send some positive vibes to our friends in Sheffield, to make sure that Nottingham does not win and take the trophy in Sheffield next weekend.  Please make sure that you keep those thoughts in your prayers.

Starting Lineups

Devils – Danis, White and Mottau, Parise, Zajac and Zubrus.

Islanders – Roloson,. Streit, Gervais, Nielsen, Bergenheim, Okposo

Game on.

Establish forecheck – and keep the legs moving – will be the first tst for the Isles tonight.

1:04 – first shot on goal

2:00 – Isles keeping the puck mostly at th Devs end of the ice.

2:20 – Tamby first shift -got a hit – seems to have a small sping in his step.  Especially getting back to forecheck.

2:52 – Devils score, as a dump from the right point by Mike Mottau gets between the 5-hole of Rollie – 1-0 New Jersey.  Tamby a -1 for that shift.

3:33 – Trevor Gillies forgot that we were in blue, and gave a beautiful pass to Dainus Zubrus.

4:30 – Tavares back on a line with Moulson – honestly – never should have been taken off his line.  Nice effort to strip the puck from a Devil d-man

5:35 – Tamby slips and hears it from the crowd.  Then gets a good shot off and hears better noise.

6:24 – Meyer hip checks McAmmond  – nice effort.  Game is getting a lot more physical – awaiting a little fisticuffs soon.

8:00 – Kovalchuk just made Hillen look lousy, as he stripped #38 of the puck and got two chances on Roloson.

9:00 – Okposo has such a blast when he snaps it off from the off circle.

10:10 – Pelley just threw Sim to the ice like a Rag doll in front of the ref – no call.

10:50 – every time I see Parise get a open lane to shoot – I still want to CHOKE Mike Milbury.  Don’t you?

11:40 – 1 shot for the Isles…. Hmmm?  And now Roloson gets 2 for delay of game, when he holds onto the puck outside the crease, despite pressure from the Devil forwards.

12:02 – Devil power play gets two quick chances, and Rollie smothers the rebound.  Kovalchuk scoares me when he has that stick teed up and ready to go anytime.  Interesting how the Devs play 5 forwards on the power play too.

13:17 – Okie gets a blast off – that Danis has to save.  Board says shot was 65 MPH.  Think scoreboard operator is drinking on the job.

13:55 – Good kill, despite three shots on net.

14;15 - First nice offensive effort in front of the net – with Bailey pushing one through

15:40 – Tamby skating with a little more purpose.  He does not look lost, despite some of the coments in the stands.

17:23 – Jackman coming behind Bailey and Meyer on a rush gets a shot off, and Freddy Meyer gets the rebound in - 1-1.

18:00 – The sleeping giant awakens. Okie looks like a man possessed. 

Overall first period assessment… Devils should have gotten more than 1.  They have dominated the play, and actually have done more physical damage than I thought they would, but the Isles have persevered, and have the game knotted at 1.  If you are the coach – you have to feel happy with the last few minutes, the life has returned to the building.

____________________________________

2nd period

Isles come out hitting – and that is a good sign.  Need to sustain that pressure.

4:03 – Clarkson looking like he just took out a 2-7 baby split – gets called for interference.

Time for the PP to setp up a notch.  – Results nothing – but at the end – Moulson and Bergie got some opportunities.

5:45 – like how Comeau is using his strength and making chances.  Very pleased with his recent progress.

This period – the Isles definitely have their sea legs going.  Their are not flat footed, and getting their chances.  Moulson gets hooked at 9:04 by Parise – giving the Isles their second consecutive power play.

Tavares on the point – interesting move – however- the boys are not one-timing their shots.  The delay is allowing the D to prepare for it.

11:59 – Jon Sim gets an opporunity and slips it by Danis – 5-hole – 2-1 Islanders

Nice to see the guys take advantage of a broken play and capitalize on it.

12:40 – Kovalchuk clips Bergenheim in the face – and gets two minutes for high-sticking.

12:49 – Streit slams a shot home  9 seconds into the PP – 3-1 Islanders

OK – the crowd is pumped NOW! They got their FREE CHILI! Now that they got the lead and two goals – the object is not to let the Devils back into the game – they need to sustainthe pressure, but now lower themselves.

17:50 -  can honestly say it – the Devils look clueless out there this period – have to keep our intensity going.

If you are an Islander fan – you are happy.  They are handing themselves well – and are keeping up with the high flying Devils.  They are limiting their scoring  chances, and need to play another 20 minutes like the last period.

_______________________________________

3rd period

Stats:

Streit – 17:47 of ice time – Okposo – Moulson and Comeau with three shots a piece.  Jackman at a +2.

What Islander team will we see this period?  Will it be the Jekyll team, or the Hyde squad….. The next 20 minutes should be interesting.

1:41 – Kovalchuk -he is such a scary player.  Rifles a sht from just behind the circle – five hole – 3-2 Islanders

Now will be a test to see what the intestinal fortitude of the Islanders will be.

It looks like the Devils got an inspired talk from coach Lemaire.  They have extra spring in their step.  I do not think that the Isles came out flat, but the converse is definitely true.

It is so amazing how sticks can snap like a dead twig so easily.  Bergenheim tres to stop a passing attempt, and th stick shatters.

4:15 – Devils are cycling brilliantly, but Rollie was up to the test.  Going to be a long 15 minutes of hockey.

4:50 – Sim trying to do his best impression of Ray Ferraro.

5:44 – a few dangling puck in front of Roloson and he has been up to the task.  He looked shaky at the start, but has seemed a lot more comfortable in his skin.

7:58 – I like seeing Roloson communicate with his defensemen – to slow down the play.  Hille looked like he was running a 100 MPH – but #30 put the glove in a motion to say take it easy, and Jack did just that.

9:01 – a couple of great chances – with Roloson stopping them all.  The ROLLIE chant going up in LOUDVILLE.

9:15 – Dylan Reese got 4 for high-sticking.  This is a BIG test for the PK.  Got to stand up to the Devils.

11:33 – Shorty – Bergenheim!  Great play by Comeau to strip the puck , and passes off to Bergenheim all alone – Danis saves the first – but Bergie gets the rebound home 4-2 Islanders! – Wait – play under formal review!

IT’S A GOAL!

Now – kill the last 90 seconds – and we are golden!  Bailey gets a shot opportunity as well.  Just love watching the pendulum swing back and forth.

12:26 – Penalty on Comeau – Islanders down 2 for 50 seconds.  It is swinging the other way again?

Devils with 5 forwards again on the PP.

Nice job my Meyer to take time off the clock.

One penalty down – 1 to go.

Guys are sacrificing their bodies, in Roloson’s case – his mask.

14:15 – penalty over – Isles prevented any damage.  Great effort!

14:30 – Comeau comes out of the box, and gets a breakaway,which Danis denies him.  That would have been a nice nail to the coffin.  Five minutes left.

15:30 – Devils starting to take more chances and getting aggressive.  Isles standing up to them.

15:45 – Isles down 47-53%(20-22)  in face offs.  This is definitely a stat that needs to improve next season.

16:45 – Comeau Okposo Bailey have some real chemistry together – like their abilities together.

17:30 – Last 2 minutes – can not afford to get sloppy.

18:08 – Roloson makes great stop on a Rolston slapper.  Shots 35-29 NJD.

18:15 – Danis out of net.

18:40 – great job my Okposo to slow game and muscle Skoula off puck.  18:52  – Danis back in net.  Time out Isles.

19:00 – Danis out of net again.

Good win!

Posted under Blog Box, Islanders 09-10

What a beatuiful afternoon.. Snow is melting – crocuses should be blooming soon.  Spring is coming. 

But it is a hockey game in Uniondale today, and I am here in the Blog Box (FOR A CHANGE), to cover the game.

Warmups notes

No sign of Tambellini… Are you surprised?  Not me; and  I was always one to defend him, but his play, in a word, STUNK!   He needs to make a decision as to what direction he wants his career to go.  Rob Schremp did, but Tamby has not done that.  Hence, a return to the press box.

Rollie shouold be in net – as he came out first.  I believe that Tim Thomas is between the pipes for the B’s.  Thomas’ stock has declined more than AIG since the Winter Classic.  Boston has struggled mightily, and the play of Thomas has not helped their cause at all.

LOTS of Black and Gold in the stands today.  Should be interesting to see how loud it will be if the Blues get one in the net.

 

Player to watch today: Jack Hillen – I just get more and more impresed with his play with every game.  He just brings out a quiet sense of confidence that helps out the rest of the team.  It is great to see how he came back so early from that horrific jaw injury thanks to Alex Ovechkin.  But Hillen is  team player, and is not only back, but playing a pivotal part of the Islander D and getting major minutes a game.  Look to see what he does.

1ST PERIOD

0:00  – Isles starting lineup – Roloson, Streit, Gervais, Okposo, Bailey, Nielsen – Boston – Thomas, Wideman, Stuart, Recchi, Bergeron, Krejci

GAME TIME!

0:30 – you can see that the strength factor on Bailey has increased greatly in the past year.

1″00 - the Let’s Go Bruins – and the subsequent BOSTON SUCKS chant behins.  How long until we hear the Let’s Go Yankees chant.  Oh – we did.

1:27 – Penalty on the Isles – Sim for tripping – or just being a pain the arse?

2:30 – the PP for Boston is mightyaggressive, but the OK has stood up to them – even with broken sticks. Postionally well – as Billy Jaffe would say.  Good kill boys!

3:45 – Streit got away from the defenders, and got a great shot off – just past the glove of Thomas, but just wide of th post.

4:45 – Jackman trying to get under Charas skin.  Tune in later to see if it worked.  Savard – doing a nice toe drag to get his shot off, and was deflected ove the glass.

5:40 – first real opportunity for Isles offensively – scrum in front of Thomas- one shot, but relief came for Boston.

6:50 – Boston sucks chant comes back with a vengence.   If I have to hear about Red Sox Nation again….

8:40 – meyer streaking down the right wing – got a shot off – good stop by Thomas

9″00 – not  a great deal of chemistry with the lines or the basic game process at this point.  A lot bustle, but not the most amout of hustle.

10:30 – is it just me – ir is it the defensive guys that are providing the most spark on this team today. 

11:20 – Dylan Reese just looks about a half step behind.  Hillen, MacDonald and Kohn have been able to fill the level up quite nicely.  Not that he can not do it – I just think he is a little more raw than the other guys.

12:15 – Tavare misses a golden opportunity.  He has to STICK those.  Keep charging and keep trying John.

13:10 – Isles outshot right now 12-3.  Got to make more opportunities on net.  Got to come out of the neutral zone with some confidence.

14:40 -  Freddy IV great garbage clearance in front ot the Isles net – saving a goal.

15:00 – Isles are just getting beaten so much in the puck battles, and the decision making, after the debacle on Thursday – you would think that the team would respond better.

16:00 – Bergie got off a beauty – just wide

18:25 – I am just talking to m conterpart saying that we had 22 shots in the 1st period on Thursday, and gave up 4.  Wewere looking this sloppy, and there was no score…. Oh well – a shot from between the circles by Lucic gives the road eam the 1-0 lead on their 15th shot of th period (as opposed to New York’s 4).

1st period conclusion – this team needs a shot of adrenaline – or maybe a taser or two.

2nd period

2:18 – ISLES tie it up on the power play- a lot of pressure in front of Thomas – with Bailey jamming it home on just their 8th shot of the contest.  Streit and Okposo got the helpers on Bailey’s 14th of the season.

3:10 – I think that the wake up call came through – Bergenheim got through about 4 Boston players  and got a shot through with Schremp providing support as well.

5:04 – Bruins take the lead back as Krejci got his second of the game on an empty net as Roloson went to the left corner to block the side.

6:15 – again – Reese looks a little intimidated…  Chara just rent off the ice, but I believe it is for equipment reasons.

7:40 – found out that our old friend Miro Satan got the assist on the second goal.

8:00 – Isles get a little flourish going, with Schremp getting a nice pass off to Reese who nraly got it glove side.

8:26 – Penalty to the Islanders – Reese for Interference.  Chara returns to the bench.

9:20 – Roloson commits probably the most major faux paus of the year, he slid back as the puck went over the net, and then slid right in front of the crease to a very fortunate Savard who tamely slid the puck into another open net. 3-1 Boston.  So much for the momentum swing.  Hey Mark – make sure that you buy the Isles some alcohol…

9:50 – Thornton takes down Roloson and no call.  Interesting….

10:40 – once again – sloppy decisions, and basically – the inability to bring the puck out of their defensive zone – is making life a little difficult.

12:00 – Thomas makes a great stop on Comeau, and 5 seconds late – Boston hits the post.

13:15 – Milan Lucic sets up for his bog slap shot – and Richard Park comes in and steals it before the blade can touch the puck.  It is so cartoon like.. Then Blake Wheeler, skates by the puck as he is ready to get a cross ice pass.  It is so keystone cops.

14:25 – Jackman and Chara going at it again…..

14:25 -Hillen just about a little anonymous tonight.  Done some good work with his puck movement, but looks a little tentative in only his 3rd game back from injury.  Not making thisa negative, but a work in progress.

15:10 – Bergie had a chance for a breakaway, but 1/2 twist of a puck made it look lie a missed opportunity.

16:06 – Michael Ryder slams Blake Comeau to the boards, landing face first to the ice.  After a few minutes – he is on his knees, and is getting on his skats and leaving the ice.  Ryder gets a five minute major for checking from behind and a game misconduct.  If there ever was a time to change the momentum of a game – this is IT!

17:30 – 1 minute into it – and they seem to be looking for the highlight net.  Need to crash the net and make chances.  Schremp, Tavares and Moulson were going that – getting a couple of shots on net.

18:45 -what this PP does NOT do is keep the feet moving. 

19:30 – Bailey misses a wide open net, which gives the crowd a warm fuzzy feeling.

2nd period conclusion – A little better – but this team needs to take advantage of the last 66 seconds of the power play and get the score closer.

3rd PERIOD

Notes – Streit leading all D with 17:35 of ice time.  Kohn the lowest on the D with just over 8 minutes.  On the forwards, Okposo is just under 13 minutes, and Bailey is the only other forward with over 12 minutes.  Schremp and Tacares are the shot leaders at 4.

 1:30 – PP ended a little flat – Isles have a little hill to climb here – and can not make any mistakes.

At one point late in the first period- the Bruins had a 15-4 shot advantage.  With 16:55 left in the 3rd, it is now 28-28.

3:37 – Congrats to Mark Streit on getting his 200th NHL point with the assist on the Bailey goal.

5:47 – Moulson – left alone in the slot, gets it by Thomas – it is now a one goal deficit.  Team leading 23rd goal of the season.  Not bad for an AHL’er with nowhere to go…

7:00 – one more to a CHILI goal – on

8:30 – Boston is now playing a rope-a-dope style, trying to hold on.  This is not the team that was at the top of the East last season.

9:40 – Gervais just clanked, and the Isles seem to turn the tide around.

12:20 – Sim gets clipped in the face – and of course – no official saw it.

14:40 – Boston getting a few chances on Rollie, and he stands up to the pressure.  Big stat that I saw on the scoreboard.  70-30% face off wins for the Bruins.  You should NOT be losing that many draws at HOME guys!

15:10 – time for the Isles to take some more chances – and get more aggressive in the O zone.

16:30 – shift with Okie and Moulson performed good  got some action on the net.  Have to keep that pressure going.

17:00 – ok boys – time to get desperate.

18:45 – Rollie leaves the net.  However, get the puck into the O Zone.

19:10 – Okposo get raped, but no call.

Game over.. Nice try guys.

Posted under Blog Box, Islanders 09-10

Pregame

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The last home game of 2009 – will the Isles snag two points from the visitors from Ohio?

Roloson in net tonight – Steve Mason in nets for the visitors. The Jackets come in with the ame record as the Isles – and are fresh off a 1-0 win against the Red Wings in OT.

Jeff Tambellini is in - Thompson is out.

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Period 1

Lineup – Roloson – Streit -MacDonald - Sim – Jackma – Park

Goals for the Isles – YES – get them.  There isnot a lot of offense other than Huselius, Umberger (an Islander killer) and Nash.  Keep them down – and there are opportunities.

Sim had a chance off a deflected shot in front of Mason – 4th line needs to establish the energy, and bring it all around.

Sutton starting the physical play an early, but missed a check on Voracek. 

First few minutes – Bailey a little sloppy.  Tavares - beginning to show some signs of a little tentativeness in his play.

Looks more like a feeling out process – rather than any swing of the pendulum.

Player to watch…. Mark Streit – needs to get involved in the scoring and less mistakes.

Can you believe that Andrew MacDonald is a +7?

“Trade Jon Sim” chants going up in Loudville right now.

7:30 – great save by Roloson on Vermette.  Isles come right back with some pressure by Moulson and JT.

WJC Note – Kirill Petrov scored for the Russians today.   Get the “We want Petrov” calls going. 

Ice girls back to their blue skirts.  Much better than the Xmas outfits.

10 minutes in – shots 6-4 —> not a lot of fluid play – about equal in puck battle

1-0 Isles – Bailey put the puck in of an Okposo blast  that went over Mason’s head and trickled behind him.  Mike (Islesblogger.net) claimed that Bailes stole the goal from Okie, which would have mke Ken from Okposo.net very upset.

This is just was the Isles needed.  This team needs to crash the net more.  Park with Moulson an Comeau had a good shift afterwards.  The opportunity is there – now time to capitalize.

The goal was credited to Okposo – we thought that Bailey tapped it in – and I guess that the video folks upstairs have a better view of it than I do.

Congratulations to Sgt. Jason Edwards who ws Celino and Barnes military salute of the game – who just engaged during the break to his girlfriend- who is a former ice girl.  Sgt. Edwards is off to the middle east in a few days – best of luck to you both!

14:00 – Sutton saved a goal – as he cleared out a Blue Jacket opportunity.

Game is starting to get a little chippy, as Nash blind sided Hunter – who appropriately gave him a whallop as they got to the bench.

Isles winning face offs at abot a 65% clip - that makes a big difference in they way that they can dictate the play.

Gordie How is at the game today!  Just thought you would like to know.

1st penalty of the game goes to Sutton for interference.  The PK has improved of late – Thompson, although, not in the lineup.  Comeau takes his place on the first unit.  Okie and Nielsen on the second unit.

Looked well – only one shot – and were effective – and nearly had one great opportunity on net.

Despite being outshot 14-7 – the Isles had a decent period – just need to crash more, and make smart decisions.

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________ 

2nd Period

So far – first few minutes were pretty tame – more feeling out – like kissing your sister.

4:11 – Park – holding the stick.  Columbus on their second PP of the game.  Columbus is 4th on the road pp with a 24% efficiency – Isles 27th on the PK at 74%

Goal scored was changed to Okoposo – 7th of the season.

Good solid kill for the Isles – it seems that the extra practice has seemed to pay off.

JT gets boarded by Jan Hejda – and no call. 

Park saved another chance on net – and gets dumped (with no call) for his troubles.

I would not say slow and mythotical is the word of this period… zzzzzzzzz.

Tambellini work up and had a breakway – but had the puck stripped from him by Vermette.

Observation:  Too many times, the forwards looking for a streaking winger to take a 40 foot shot, rather than try to penetrate between the circles, and get a deke in front of the net.

Observation2: will Columbus ever get a penalty tonight?  They are getting into a great of extra-curricular activities, but nothing to show for it.

Huselius – got a nice snap shot off – Roloson right pad save.  We were supposed to have tried to get him – I think he would have been a great acquisition for us.

Comeau has been real physical for us.  He has been a good fit with JT and Moulson – JT – is just not in sync.  That is normal for any 18 year old.  However, so many people are looking at him.  That makes it kind of tough.  He has to rise above, and for sure – he will.  This is a chance to prove his perseverence.

__________________________________________________________________

Period 3

After 2 periods – 26-15 shots in favor of the visitors.

Comeau leading the forwards in ice time with almost 14 minutes.  Andy Sutton with just over 16 leading the defense.  Andy MacDonald with almost 15 minutes, along with Hillen.  Gervais and Witt (with a combined -32) with just over 10 minutes taking the rear. Coach Gordon is keeping the lineup shuffled, with fowards between 8 and 11 minutes, with the exception of Comeau.

Goal for the third period – keep the smart defensive position, but they need to improve the offensive mentality.  The decision making process needs to be smart and decisive.

Finally – a penalty against Columbus.  Umberger  gets the sin bin for the trip.  Time for the anemic power play to get on track.

NYI 28th on PP at home – 13.8% – Col 15th on P – 79.4%

Columbus gets 2 for dlay of game – 47 seconds 5 on 3 – need to cam thenet and get shots on – well not yet…

Great chance by Okie on a cross ice pass from Streit.  A couple of bangs in front of Mason to no avail.

1st penalty over – with no shots.  Crowd getting on JT – he just needs to realx.  Best shot on PP was by the visitors.  This man advantage should have hd the chance to decline the penalty.

Best chance – when the penalty ended. Nielsen chunked a pass from Moulson, but Sutton got a blast on net.

Columbus dictating the play over the past few minutes; Isles not playing rope-a-dope, but it is a close facsimilie.

Too many of the forwards are on ther heels.  Columbus may not be the Washington Capitals, but theyhave forwards that can get the puck in – if you are not discipined enough.  Something to watch for over the last 10 minutes of the game.

Umberger made the Isles pay – the Islander killer does it again – stuffs a backhander throught the five hole of Roloson – Tied at 1. 

OK – no more rope-a-dope.

And another Ranger fan happy that the opponent scored a the Coliseum. 

Roloson makes a fine glove save on former Islander Raffi Torres, as Mike (Islesblogger) said, a great move my Milbury – letting him get away.

Gordon calles a time out with 9:31 left.  Smart move.  This team needs to get their collective heads together, and fight through this.

Half way though the period – shots are 9-3 Columbus.

Interesting stat of the game – Isles have blocked 27 shots as opposed to 11 for the Jackets.

Nash was denied on a quick opportunity on Rolle.  Witt gives Torres a face wash as another chance is given to Columbus.

Hi to Jiggs McDonald – covering the team for the week fo the vacationing Howie Rose.

Moulson missed a great chance on a tic-tac-toe effort.

Sutton plastered Umberger to he glass, and Matthieu Roy gets two for roughing for going after #25.  A great, clean hit, and did not retalliate.  Power play – Isles.

Now is the time to take advantage and get the goal – with the crowd pumped up.  Streit – blasted it ff the post!

Another good chance for Okposo – not there.  With a couple of great chances, Schremp gets two for goalie interference.  Momentum lost!

Now – Isles on the kill.  Smart and keep the box.  Sacrificing the body – an a LOUD chant of DEFENSE going on.  With 3:12 left – shots now 40-19 Jackets.  Time out Columbus.

Penalty killed – 150 seconds to go.  Crowd urging the team on.

Columbus gets another delay of game penalty (Modin) - with 1:42 left in regultion.  PLEASE, score!

Confusion between JT and Schremp loses another 20 seconds of time – and then an offside play.  28.8 to go.

____________________________________________________________

Overtime is coming….

Shots 12-5 in the 3rd.  40-20 for 3 periods.  Isles still on power play for 18 seconds.

Moulson and Nielsen out with Okposo and Streit. 

Moulson just missed high glove  – Okposo snapped one off in Maso’s jersey crest.

Comeau blasted one that just missed.  Sutton was pulled down with no call.

Isles did come out aggressive.  Nash can be quite scarywhen he makes his moves. Rollie makes his 40th save of the night.

Okposo and Park now the front men.

Two minutes left.  3- shots in OT – Hunter with a one-time – just missed the right post.  Gets another chance – that Mason gloves.  Where was this effort in the thid period?

Columbus with a 3 on 2 just had a stupid offside play.

1 minute to go.

Bailey hits the post.  That is two in OT.

Moulson with a dynmite chance to put one in with 4 ticks left – not enough wood (or synthetic).

SHOOTOUT!

Tambellini – NO

Huselius – NO

Nielsen – Missed an open net…. Ugh!

Nash – Rollie denies him the post!

Schremp – Great move to beat Nash!  GOAL!

Tyutin – A Defenseman? Missed!

ISLES WIN 2-1!  YES!

Great finish to a blah game – but they will take the two points!

Posted under Blog Box, Islanders 09-10

Well – the guys in Toronto have those great lenses?  Not that it mattered in the final outcome, but no angle shown on TV made any conclusive evidence to the goal actually being scored.

OK – the streak is over, the team laid an egg.  Getting a little too high?  Perhaps.

Buffalo had players return from the Flu bug.  A goalie that was pissed from his last performance, and wanted to redeem himself.  All important cogs in the recipe for Islander disaster.

It all came to a head.  Nothing to be proud of.

The biggest thing that bothered me is the faceoff percentage.  At one point in the end of the 3rd, they had won 8 out of 38.

I repeat, 8 out of 38!

The main point that got the Islanders into those wins over the last 4 games, shot them in the arse last night.

Menu for today – revisit the system – get the motivation going and prepare for the Devils.  Since they are playing in NJ, there is a chance, since the Devils have not lost a game on the road.

Well – congrats to the Yanks… I am happy that Philly did not repeat.  I am a Met fan – but I do not hate the Yankees.   I respect them enough to say that the best team won this year. 

Now – I said it – that is it!

Posted under Islanders 09-10, Ramblings