Tuesday, August 4, 2009
At hofstra
Here I am, row I, center stage, Hofstra University. The crowd moves
in. Waiting for the formal part to start. The on thing I noticed is
that this is more of a labor movement than an Islanders movement,
which I think is good.
in. Waiting for the formal part to start. The on thing I noticed is
that this is more of a labor movement than an Islanders movement,
which I think is good.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Prospect Watch: News from Sweden
We’re entering the dog days of summer and this post-draft phase of Islander free agent acquisition has been well, quiet to say the least. Almost universally recognized as having been a solid signing was the quick scooping up of Dwayne Roloson, a fella who’s only a few months younger than our esteemed GM. The various fan boards polluting the Internet have been buzzing for weeks, with some fans lauding the safe, conservative, cost-effective free agency approach shown by Islanders’ management while the other 95% are growing weary about the lack of movement with regards to another top 6 forward, a top 4 defenseman and a bona fide enforcer. I guess most of them have simply overlooked the signings of Matt Moulson, Mark Flood and Jeremy Reich? :-)
Still, the intent of this article is to get back to the goaltending issue. To make a long story short, a team whose #1 goalie still has 11 years on his contract went about adding two more goalies to its system via the draft (consequently signing one even before signing Tavares), then picking up a top-flight 1A goalie in Roloson and an AHL goaltender (Munroe) whose latest season should place him right on the cusp of the NHL. Some of our readers have of course been curious to hear what this means for the other three previously drafted Islander goalie prospects, especially considering two of them were NOT at the recent Islanders Prospect Camp on Long Island. Most importantly for many Islander fans is what this means for Stefan Ridderwall, a no doubt very promising goaltending prospect who spent last season splitting duties for the SEL’s Djurgarden (yes, where Robin Figren also played), one of the most storied franchises in all of Europe.
As fate would have it, our insider had the opportunity to catch up with Stefan, who was most humble and courteous in informing his Islander fans stateside about how his still very young career is progressing in good ol’ ‘Sverige’. To get you up-to-date, Stefan began last season as one of several young Djurgarden goalies vying for playing time. It was his rookie year and he had even earned himself the bulk of the playing time coming out of the starting gates, something that is unusual in many parts of the hockey world, but that has become a bit of trend in Sweden in recent years. Unfortunately, he suffered a rupture in the anterior side of his thigh and that literally put him on ice for the rest of the season. The good news is that the injury has healed successfully, he’s feeling strong again, is in shape and ready to go. He should be in camp with Djurgarden no later than the beginning of August. With respect to the upcoming season, Djurgarden has also been playing the safety game in their planning and is going into the season with three goalies, something Stefan sees as healthy competition. He’s confident that he’ll step up to the plate in the face of the internal challenges for the #1 goaltending position.
Here are few quick quips on other things that he was kind enough to discuss….
On his goal for the upcoming season:
“My goal is to play as much as possible and do everything necessary to take the next few steps in my development!”
On having played together with Islanders prospect Robin Figren, and dealing with his locker room antics (ed.: something Figren has earned a reputation for):
“We were pretty good buddies even before we were drafted, so it was absolutely awesome to get to play together in the SEL with Djurgarden. Sure, I’ll miss his locker room jokes, but I’ll get my fill of that type of thing too now during the off-season, so I’ll be alright.”
On contractual relations with the Islanders to date:
“My primary goal at this point in my career is to become a regular goalie here in Sweden and to develop to the point where I’m ready for the challenges of North America. There have been discussions with the Islanders and we’re on the same level. Of course, I currently have an existing contract here. An agreement between the NHL and SEL must be met in order for me to be able to sign with the Islanders.”
On contact with the Islanders (i.e. Anders Kallur) and their scouting staff:
“Yes, we stay in contact. We meet at various venues around Sweden. He [Anders] keeps himself informed about how things are going. We even talk on the phone sometimes. Ryan (Jankowski) and the goaltending coach also keep in touch with me.”
On following Dipietro’s injuries and the Islanders’ current goaltending situation:
“To be honest, I don’t follow it directly. I know that Dipietro had a very difficult season with regard to his injuries, but I still have so much to do in focusing on things with my team here and my personal progress as a hockey player that I can’t yet afford to concern myself with what’s going on in North America.”
On following the 2009 Entry Draft from afar:
“I saw that they drafted Tavares, but I didn’t really see what else went on. I did however notice that they took Anders Nilsson from Lulea and he is quite a capable goaltender. They did very well in taking him. I’ve seen him a couple of times at the junior level and he’s a good goalie with great size.”
On not being at the Islanders’ recent Mini-Camp and his cousin Calle’s performance there:
“I am healthy and fit, but I would have had to sign first in order to take part in the Mini-Camp (ed.: see contractual details above). My cousin Calle has had some really solid seasons at the college level and was invited to camp. From what I’ve gathered, the camp went really, really well for him, which is absolutely fantastic! We are really good buddies and spend a lot of time together during the summer.”
On the possibility of being at the Islanders preseason camp in September:
“No, I don’t believe I’ll be there, but that too has much to do with the contractual situation involving the relations between the NHL and SEL.”
All in all, this should shed some light on Stefan’s situation at the moment and assure Islander fans that he’s anything but out the picture. The situation between the NHL and IIHF (and thus indirectly with the SEL and other European leagues) is no-where near the cold war status that can be understood with respect to the NHL/IIHF vis-à-vis the KHL, but there is a system in place to protect existing Swedish contracts as well as a cost structure to reimburse European clubs for developing the players they’ve raised and invested in. As such, it is and should remain Stefan’s goal to continue his development and become the best player he can be – which will ultimately decide where and to what degree he fits in the Islanders’ plans. At the same time, there’s no telling as to whether this particular contractual situation played a role in the Islanders deciding to go with two goalies in this past draft, one of which having already been signed (Koskinen).
Anyhow, I’d very much like to take this opportunity to thank Stefan for taking his time to answer the questions above and wish him all the best in the upcoming season. Islanders fans will be following your progress closely! I’m sure I speak for many of these fans when I say we’d have nothing against seeing you making a ‘Lundqvistian’ impact at some juncture in this part of New York.
Still, the intent of this article is to get back to the goaltending issue. To make a long story short, a team whose #1 goalie still has 11 years on his contract went about adding two more goalies to its system via the draft (consequently signing one even before signing Tavares), then picking up a top-flight 1A goalie in Roloson and an AHL goaltender (Munroe) whose latest season should place him right on the cusp of the NHL. Some of our readers have of course been curious to hear what this means for the other three previously drafted Islander goalie prospects, especially considering two of them were NOT at the recent Islanders Prospect Camp on Long Island. Most importantly for many Islander fans is what this means for Stefan Ridderwall, a no doubt very promising goaltending prospect who spent last season splitting duties for the SEL’s Djurgarden (yes, where Robin Figren also played), one of the most storied franchises in all of Europe.
As fate would have it, our insider had the opportunity to catch up with Stefan, who was most humble and courteous in informing his Islander fans stateside about how his still very young career is progressing in good ol’ ‘Sverige’. To get you up-to-date, Stefan began last season as one of several young Djurgarden goalies vying for playing time. It was his rookie year and he had even earned himself the bulk of the playing time coming out of the starting gates, something that is unusual in many parts of the hockey world, but that has become a bit of trend in Sweden in recent years. Unfortunately, he suffered a rupture in the anterior side of his thigh and that literally put him on ice for the rest of the season. The good news is that the injury has healed successfully, he’s feeling strong again, is in shape and ready to go. He should be in camp with Djurgarden no later than the beginning of August. With respect to the upcoming season, Djurgarden has also been playing the safety game in their planning and is going into the season with three goalies, something Stefan sees as healthy competition. He’s confident that he’ll step up to the plate in the face of the internal challenges for the #1 goaltending position.
Here are few quick quips on other things that he was kind enough to discuss….
On his goal for the upcoming season:
“My goal is to play as much as possible and do everything necessary to take the next few steps in my development!”
On having played together with Islanders prospect Robin Figren, and dealing with his locker room antics (ed.: something Figren has earned a reputation for):
“We were pretty good buddies even before we were drafted, so it was absolutely awesome to get to play together in the SEL with Djurgarden. Sure, I’ll miss his locker room jokes, but I’ll get my fill of that type of thing too now during the off-season, so I’ll be alright.”
On contractual relations with the Islanders to date:
“My primary goal at this point in my career is to become a regular goalie here in Sweden and to develop to the point where I’m ready for the challenges of North America. There have been discussions with the Islanders and we’re on the same level. Of course, I currently have an existing contract here. An agreement between the NHL and SEL must be met in order for me to be able to sign with the Islanders.”
On contact with the Islanders (i.e. Anders Kallur) and their scouting staff:
“Yes, we stay in contact. We meet at various venues around Sweden. He [Anders] keeps himself informed about how things are going. We even talk on the phone sometimes. Ryan (Jankowski) and the goaltending coach also keep in touch with me.”
On following Dipietro’s injuries and the Islanders’ current goaltending situation:
“To be honest, I don’t follow it directly. I know that Dipietro had a very difficult season with regard to his injuries, but I still have so much to do in focusing on things with my team here and my personal progress as a hockey player that I can’t yet afford to concern myself with what’s going on in North America.”
On following the 2009 Entry Draft from afar:
“I saw that they drafted Tavares, but I didn’t really see what else went on. I did however notice that they took Anders Nilsson from Lulea and he is quite a capable goaltender. They did very well in taking him. I’ve seen him a couple of times at the junior level and he’s a good goalie with great size.”
On not being at the Islanders’ recent Mini-Camp and his cousin Calle’s performance there:
“I am healthy and fit, but I would have had to sign first in order to take part in the Mini-Camp (ed.: see contractual details above). My cousin Calle has had some really solid seasons at the college level and was invited to camp. From what I’ve gathered, the camp went really, really well for him, which is absolutely fantastic! We are really good buddies and spend a lot of time together during the summer.”
On the possibility of being at the Islanders preseason camp in September:
“No, I don’t believe I’ll be there, but that too has much to do with the contractual situation involving the relations between the NHL and SEL.”
All in all, this should shed some light on Stefan’s situation at the moment and assure Islander fans that he’s anything but out the picture. The situation between the NHL and IIHF (and thus indirectly with the SEL and other European leagues) is no-where near the cold war status that can be understood with respect to the NHL/IIHF vis-à-vis the KHL, but there is a system in place to protect existing Swedish contracts as well as a cost structure to reimburse European clubs for developing the players they’ve raised and invested in. As such, it is and should remain Stefan’s goal to continue his development and become the best player he can be – which will ultimately decide where and to what degree he fits in the Islanders’ plans. At the same time, there’s no telling as to whether this particular contractual situation played a role in the Islanders deciding to go with two goalies in this past draft, one of which having already been signed (Koskinen).
Anyhow, I’d very much like to take this opportunity to thank Stefan for taking his time to answer the questions above and wish him all the best in the upcoming season. Islanders fans will be following your progress closely! I’m sure I speak for many of these fans when I say we’d have nothing against seeing you making a ‘Lundqvistian’ impact at some juncture in this part of New York.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Rechlicz - Pinhead or Patriot? PATRIOT!!!
Go to:
http://www.foxnews.com/oreilly/index.html
On the left side click on Pinheads & Patriots
Then in the middle column click on the July 20th edition (It says something about Jesse Ventura)
John and Joel Rechlicz, two Milwaukee WI, firefighters save a mother and child.
New York Islander Joel Rechlicz is from Milwaukee. I am wondering if there is a relationship.
http://www.foxnews.com/oreilly/index.html
On the left side click on Pinheads & Patriots
Then in the middle column click on the July 20th edition (It says something about Jesse Ventura)
John and Joel Rechlicz, two Milwaukee WI, firefighters save a mother and child.
New York Islander Joel Rechlicz is from Milwaukee. I am wondering if there is a relationship.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Stolen from Forever1940
The NHL allows teams to release their own pre-season schedules, so I have most of the Islanders', even though they haven't announced theirs.
(all times Eastern)
Wednesday September 16 at Edmonton Rexall Place 9:00 p.m.
Thursday September 17at Calgary 9:00 pm Saddledome
Saturday September 19 vs Calgary 9:00 pm Credit Union Centre/Saskatoon
Sunday September 20 vs Edmonton (at Saskatoon) Credit Union Centre 9:00 p.m.
Tuesday, September 22 vs. Los Angeles at Sprint Center in Kansas City, 8:00 pm.
The Rangers have announced their schedule -- the Islanders are not on it.
Teams can play as many as 9 pre-season games, so there will likely be a game or two closer to home. Traditionally, the Isles' last pre-seaon game is on Sunday (which would be September 27), but if rumors that the team will open at home on Saturday, October 3rd are correct, there might be time for another game.
One thing is for certain- the Isles' home opener will not be on Friday, October 2. That night the Coliseum is booked for another home opener -- the New York Majesty.
Who are the Majesty you might ask? They play in the LFL -- the Lingerie Football League.
Visit Eric's Blog at http://forever1940.blogspot.com/
(all times Eastern)
Wednesday September 16 at Edmonton Rexall Place 9:00 p.m.
Thursday September 17at Calgary 9:00 pm Saddledome
Saturday September 19 vs Calgary 9:00 pm Credit Union Centre/Saskatoon
Sunday September 20 vs Edmonton (at Saskatoon) Credit Union Centre 9:00 p.m.
Tuesday, September 22 vs. Los Angeles at Sprint Center in Kansas City, 8:00 pm.
The Rangers have announced their schedule -- the Islanders are not on it.
Teams can play as many as 9 pre-season games, so there will likely be a game or two closer to home. Traditionally, the Isles' last pre-seaon game is on Sunday (which would be September 27), but if rumors that the team will open at home on Saturday, October 3rd are correct, there might be time for another game.
One thing is for certain- the Isles' home opener will not be on Friday, October 2. That night the Coliseum is booked for another home opener -- the New York Majesty.
Who are the Majesty you might ask? They play in the LFL -- the Lingerie Football League.
Visit Eric's Blog at http://forever1940.blogspot.com/
Sunday, July 12, 2009
On and Off Ice Comments
Another one of my friends went to the prcatice and sent these comments:
ON ICE INSIGHTS:
Got a last minute invite to todays closed Prospects Camp @ Iceworks and met a few fellow fans there...
We arrived too late for the 10:30 group, but made it in time to see Tavares for the first time in an Isles uniform.
- Wrecker and MadDonald had a few one on one scrimages, and Wrecker held his own in the skating department. Now, I'm not sure if it was because MacDonald is severely lacking in the skating dept, or if Wrecker has improved there - but he seemed to look a tad more graceful out there than at the end of the season. If he can improve in that area and work with Cairnsy some more on his fisticuffs - perhaps our friend Pats favorite Islander of the 21st century will be a keeper (of course adding some lead to that chin won't hurt either).
- Martin? looked pretty fluid out there for a "bigger guy".
- One of the goalies NOT drafted this year looked pretty good. Our goalies drafted in the 2nd and 3rd round this year were on the ice with the first group - so nothing to report there.
- Some kid named Tavares looked to have some pretty decent hockey talent. He might be someone to keep an eye on. Hell, it wouldn't surprise me to see him on the opening day roster.
OFF ICE INSIGHTS
We came prepared with things for the players to sign - sticks, jerseys, miniature Stanley Cups, etc.
Bailey was our first "victim", as he was already done with his skate for the day. Seems like a real nice kid - well spoken, very cordial, and apparently great with the fans. Hearing him speak - he doesn't act like he's got a roster spot locked up because of some sort of "entitlement", which was nice to hear. I'm looking forward to him feeding Okposo, along with Taylor Hall feeding Tavares - for many years to come! :)
Up next at the BBQ were a bunch of kids - most of whom have only a slightly better chance than Doug and I in suiting up for the Isles next season. I'm not sure if its an organizational deficiency, or the players are starting to trend back towards the smaller side - but the majority of these kids were under 5'10. Heres hoping they're all working on their college degrees to have something to fall back on!
Corey Trevino then came out for a bit - at first he was fairly unnoticed by most of the fans. Colin Wilson is gone from BU (not sure if he graduated or is just sticking with Nashville), so Trevino should see much more ice-time this season. The Isles list him @ 6'1, but they must have measured this kid with his skates on, because he's small. However, like Bailey - this kid seems to have his head on straight and was a pleasure to speak with.
Then, when things were breaking up - that Tavares guy came out and started signing things for the fans. Now this is obviously only my first "in person" impression of him - but the first wasn't one I want to remember. Getting straight to the point - he acted like a spoiled brat this afternoon to the fans who waited in some cases HOURS to get the chance to meet him. Obviously, he gets the benefit of the doubt - with all the public craziness he's endured throughout the last few weeks and months.
And while not wanting to blame the Isles for his "bratty" behavior today (shouldn't he be used to it by now, AND expect it?) - it may be deserved. This kids 18 years old, and has had HUGE expectations placed on his shoulders. While its nice to market this kid and strike while the irons hot - lets take baby steps here and NOT make this kid feel like he HAS to become the next Michael Bossy in his first season. Perhaps keeping ALL the players away from these direct "meet and greets" (to sell more tickets) after their skates should be the course of action, so they can ALL concentrate on what their really there for - and thats NOT to sell tickets!
ON ICE INSIGHTS:
Got a last minute invite to todays closed Prospects Camp @ Iceworks and met a few fellow fans there...
We arrived too late for the 10:30 group, but made it in time to see Tavares for the first time in an Isles uniform.
- Wrecker and MadDonald had a few one on one scrimages, and Wrecker held his own in the skating department. Now, I'm not sure if it was because MacDonald is severely lacking in the skating dept, or if Wrecker has improved there - but he seemed to look a tad more graceful out there than at the end of the season. If he can improve in that area and work with Cairnsy some more on his fisticuffs - perhaps our friend Pats favorite Islander of the 21st century will be a keeper (of course adding some lead to that chin won't hurt either).
- Martin? looked pretty fluid out there for a "bigger guy".
- One of the goalies NOT drafted this year looked pretty good. Our goalies drafted in the 2nd and 3rd round this year were on the ice with the first group - so nothing to report there.
- Some kid named Tavares looked to have some pretty decent hockey talent. He might be someone to keep an eye on. Hell, it wouldn't surprise me to see him on the opening day roster.
OFF ICE INSIGHTS
We came prepared with things for the players to sign - sticks, jerseys, miniature Stanley Cups, etc.
Bailey was our first "victim", as he was already done with his skate for the day. Seems like a real nice kid - well spoken, very cordial, and apparently great with the fans. Hearing him speak - he doesn't act like he's got a roster spot locked up because of some sort of "entitlement", which was nice to hear. I'm looking forward to him feeding Okposo, along with Taylor Hall feeding Tavares - for many years to come! :)
Up next at the BBQ were a bunch of kids - most of whom have only a slightly better chance than Doug and I in suiting up for the Isles next season. I'm not sure if its an organizational deficiency, or the players are starting to trend back towards the smaller side - but the majority of these kids were under 5'10. Heres hoping they're all working on their college degrees to have something to fall back on!
Corey Trevino then came out for a bit - at first he was fairly unnoticed by most of the fans. Colin Wilson is gone from BU (not sure if he graduated or is just sticking with Nashville), so Trevino should see much more ice-time this season. The Isles list him @ 6'1, but they must have measured this kid with his skates on, because he's small. However, like Bailey - this kid seems to have his head on straight and was a pleasure to speak with.
Then, when things were breaking up - that Tavares guy came out and started signing things for the fans. Now this is obviously only my first "in person" impression of him - but the first wasn't one I want to remember. Getting straight to the point - he acted like a spoiled brat this afternoon to the fans who waited in some cases HOURS to get the chance to meet him. Obviously, he gets the benefit of the doubt - with all the public craziness he's endured throughout the last few weeks and months.
And while not wanting to blame the Isles for his "bratty" behavior today (shouldn't he be used to it by now, AND expect it?) - it may be deserved. This kids 18 years old, and has had HUGE expectations placed on his shoulders. While its nice to market this kid and strike while the irons hot - lets take baby steps here and NOT make this kid feel like he HAS to become the next Michael Bossy in his first season. Perhaps keeping ALL the players away from these direct "meet and greets" (to sell more tickets) after their skates should be the course of action, so they can ALL concentrate on what their really there for - and thats NOT to sell tickets!
Practice Observation from My Friend Doug
Some things I saw yesterday (we only saw the second session, so we did not see some of the players):
1. Tavares is one of those guys that doesn't seem like he's doing a whole hell of a lot- until he lets that shot go. He ripped one into the net from the inside of the right circle yesterday. The goalie didn't move until after it hit the twine. This is something we have needed since Zigmund Palffy got on a plane to Los Angeles and didn't come back. I don't really give a darn if he does NOTHING ELSE, to be honest with you.
2. I can see why Calvin de Haan was drafted in the first round. He's very smart in his own end of the ice. On every two on one that he defended, the player with the puck took the shot, which is what you want. Very good positionally, and a good passer. He'll be here soon. Probably not this year, but soon.
3. As for some of the others who stood out for positive reasons: I liked Ridderwall and DiBenedetto, and both for the same reason- they hustle. Lee has some talent as well, although he needs to get stronger. Matt Martin is a big boy; he will be a solid player in the NHL- what that means in terms of scoring, I'm not sure, but he can play. Rakhshani is quick, and very talented, but he is definitely on the smaller side, so that will be a question until we see him play against NHL players. Poulin did a very good job of keeping the puck out of his net, considering the amount of times they had three guys coming at him with one or no defensemen in front of him- I guess the Quebec League helped with training for that situation...LOL.
4. The negatives: the goalie at the other end of the ice wasn't nearly as good, IMO (Lawson?). The defenseman MacDonald doesn't look fast enough to play regularly in the NHL, to be honest with you. Most of the other defensemen need work. Kohn was decent, but he's nothing special, IMO. That said, we just have to remember at this point that these are all kids, so it will be a while before we can figure out whether or not they really will be any good.
One negative I forgot about: OK, so you have a practice session where fans are in attendance. These kids work their tails off on the ice, and they come out the side door of the building hungry, and then get mobbed for autographs. No one knows who they are, unless they ask. Some come out the side, and some come out the front to go to the bus. Nobody says anything about what the plan is, so no one knows who will show up where or when.
The good news is, this organization seems to finally have turned the corner in terms of legitimate talent, with a plan and a goal in mind, on ice. Off the ice, however, it is still an absolute disaster. All I kept thinking yesterday was this: I could have planned this better myself. Just that thought alone says it all, because "cruise director" is normally my wife's role in our family.
I mean, seriously: bring the food inside to them, so they can eat in peace. Then bring them out five or ten at a time, to sit at tables and sign autographs. I don't know, maybe have a card on the table with the player's name on it, so one might know who they are. That would have taken 30 seconds to plan, and about five minutes to set up. Yeah, I know, I just found something to bitch about, as usual, but you have to admit that was ridiculous, and it wouldn't have been hard to do the right way.
Doug
1. Tavares is one of those guys that doesn't seem like he's doing a whole hell of a lot- until he lets that shot go. He ripped one into the net from the inside of the right circle yesterday. The goalie didn't move until after it hit the twine. This is something we have needed since Zigmund Palffy got on a plane to Los Angeles and didn't come back. I don't really give a darn if he does NOTHING ELSE, to be honest with you.
2. I can see why Calvin de Haan was drafted in the first round. He's very smart in his own end of the ice. On every two on one that he defended, the player with the puck took the shot, which is what you want. Very good positionally, and a good passer. He'll be here soon. Probably not this year, but soon.
3. As for some of the others who stood out for positive reasons: I liked Ridderwall and DiBenedetto, and both for the same reason- they hustle. Lee has some talent as well, although he needs to get stronger. Matt Martin is a big boy; he will be a solid player in the NHL- what that means in terms of scoring, I'm not sure, but he can play. Rakhshani is quick, and very talented, but he is definitely on the smaller side, so that will be a question until we see him play against NHL players. Poulin did a very good job of keeping the puck out of his net, considering the amount of times they had three guys coming at him with one or no defensemen in front of him- I guess the Quebec League helped with training for that situation...LOL.
4. The negatives: the goalie at the other end of the ice wasn't nearly as good, IMO (Lawson?). The defenseman MacDonald doesn't look fast enough to play regularly in the NHL, to be honest with you. Most of the other defensemen need work. Kohn was decent, but he's nothing special, IMO. That said, we just have to remember at this point that these are all kids, so it will be a while before we can figure out whether or not they really will be any good.
One negative I forgot about: OK, so you have a practice session where fans are in attendance. These kids work their tails off on the ice, and they come out the side door of the building hungry, and then get mobbed for autographs. No one knows who they are, unless they ask. Some come out the side, and some come out the front to go to the bus. Nobody says anything about what the plan is, so no one knows who will show up where or when.
The good news is, this organization seems to finally have turned the corner in terms of legitimate talent, with a plan and a goal in mind, on ice. Off the ice, however, it is still an absolute disaster. All I kept thinking yesterday was this: I could have planned this better myself. Just that thought alone says it all, because "cruise director" is normally my wife's role in our family.
I mean, seriously: bring the food inside to them, so they can eat in peace. Then bring them out five or ten at a time, to sit at tables and sign autographs. I don't know, maybe have a card on the table with the player's name on it, so one might know who they are. That would have taken 30 seconds to plan, and about five minutes to set up. Yeah, I know, I just found something to bitch about, as usual, but you have to admit that was ridiculous, and it wouldn't have been hard to do the right way.
Doug
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
The Montreal Draft from My Friend Doug
OK, I'm finally going to do this now. I kept waiting for this team to do something else, other than fill out Bridgeport's roster, but apparently, that either isn't the plan, or they are having a hard time getting anyone to sign here, just yet. I do know they need to save spots for the youngsters (we HAVE been making this argument for years, haven't we?), but they really need more than five or six veterans to teach these kids the ropes, especially if two of them are goalies.
Personally, I think they should resign Hilbert. I know everyone hates the guy- I did, too, in the wrong role. The guy is not a first or second line player, who should be getting power play ice time. THOSE are the roles in which they desperately need the kids to get their feet wet. However, as a fourth line penalty killer, there aren't too many guys who bust their ass out on the ice more than he does, and that alone is a lesson for the youngsters in regards to showing up every night, and not taking anything for granted.
I'd also like to see them at least take a shot at some sort of veteran who can score a bit as well since, let's face it, we don't have that many, needless to say. That said, maybe the plan is to be at the top of the draft heap again next year, which isn't really an awful idea- it would probably guarantee that this will be a really good team, three or four years from now. We shall see.
I also understand the reluctance to sign a full time goon- those guys are getting decent money at this point, and there are only really a few of them left. You really don't need them every night, so having a guy on a two-way for bottom of the barrel dollars makes sense, in my opinion- as long as he can fight. The issue we had last year was that Fritz can fight like hell, but he can't play any better than I can, where as Rechlicz is at least presentable on the ice, but seems to be a so-so fighter. I'm guessing the plan is to hopefully get the latter to develop into a legitimate heavyweight. We shall see.
At any rate, as you can see from the picture, I was in Montreal at the draft with Roger, thanks to him letting me know he had a ticket for me at the last minute. Thanks again for the ticket, my friend- I love the NHL draft, and I try to go whenever I can. Just a couple of quick observations in regards to the surroundings- the Bell Centre is a monstrous cavern. I doubt we'd ever need anything nearly that big. It's not really impressive on the outside, except for the statues of all the Hall-of-Famers that surround it. However, the arena itself is huge. The thing I like most about it is that the upstairs seats are steep and close to the ice, so the view is probably decent from up there. This is in contrast to NJ, where the "steep" concept apparently failed to enter the engineer's mind, and so I've been told that one can spend the entire game watching the back of the head of the person in front of them.
The second thing is…well, (what else?) the snobby French-Canadians, especially the women. Hate to break this to you honey, but I have been married for 14 years- try not to flatter yourself. I just want the pen that I dropped under your seat back, OK? See you next Tuesday, sweetheart. The best are the ankle biters, though- Roger's brother-in-law is a Leafs fan, and he wore the sweater. I don't know how many people told him the Leafs suck, either while running by at full speed, or from the other side of a busy street, but that applied to pretty much everyone who said anything to him. He was getting annoyed that he had to deal with them (especially since Roger kept pointing him out to everyone….LOL), but let's put it this way- Rag$ fans they are not. That's basically spring training for dealing with the helmet-wearing drunks who ride the short bus to Madison Square Garden, or the Wachovia Center in south Philly. I was not impressed, to say the least.
What I was impressed by was Garth Snow, who spent two months essentially pissing off the Canadian press, on purpose. After all that, he walked up to the podium, and he had this big shit eating grin on his face when he said, "John Tavares," as if he was saying, "guess what, you jerks….who the heck did you think I was going to take?....morons." That was classic.
As for the other pick, he can say whatever he wants, but I still believe he moved up to 16th, thinking he could draft Ellis, and then when Nashville grabbed him, he figured the defenseman parade was on, so he moved up again. I don't question the moving up, but I think that the first time, he probably should have waited until it got down to what triggered the second deal. I'm not a big fan of moving up without a specific use for the pick in mind, which means I don't move up to 16th when the draft is only at pick number 7- but that's just me. That said, we did meet Calvin de Haan toward the end of the night, and he seemed like a nice kid, with a good family, so hopefully that translates into something. I don't think we will see him until next year, though.
As for the rest of the draft, I question the second goalie, because I think it's overkill, but other than that, as with any draft, you can't tell what it's going to be until a few years from now. You can say what you want about the kid with the legal issue, but if he is as good as he was projected prior to it, we may have gotten very lucky with that pick. Some of the others seem to be projects as well, but you can't really complain about anything in rounds 4-7 as far as I'm concerned, because if the draft is a crap shoot, that part is REALLY a crap shoot. Again, we shall see.
At any rate, that is what I have seen so far. Hopefully, they will do at least something else in terms of a free agent signing before the season starts, however little it might help this year. I do think this team has the potential to be really good in the not too distant future, and I haven't been able to say that in forever. I don't know how it will shake out, but I do know that we're probably not going to trade Calvin de Haan for Oleg Kvasha, and that alone gives me hope.
Doug
.
Personally, I think they should resign Hilbert. I know everyone hates the guy- I did, too, in the wrong role. The guy is not a first or second line player, who should be getting power play ice time. THOSE are the roles in which they desperately need the kids to get their feet wet. However, as a fourth line penalty killer, there aren't too many guys who bust their ass out on the ice more than he does, and that alone is a lesson for the youngsters in regards to showing up every night, and not taking anything for granted.
I'd also like to see them at least take a shot at some sort of veteran who can score a bit as well since, let's face it, we don't have that many, needless to say. That said, maybe the plan is to be at the top of the draft heap again next year, which isn't really an awful idea- it would probably guarantee that this will be a really good team, three or four years from now. We shall see.
I also understand the reluctance to sign a full time goon- those guys are getting decent money at this point, and there are only really a few of them left. You really don't need them every night, so having a guy on a two-way for bottom of the barrel dollars makes sense, in my opinion- as long as he can fight. The issue we had last year was that Fritz can fight like hell, but he can't play any better than I can, where as Rechlicz is at least presentable on the ice, but seems to be a so-so fighter. I'm guessing the plan is to hopefully get the latter to develop into a legitimate heavyweight. We shall see.
At any rate, as you can see from the picture, I was in Montreal at the draft with Roger, thanks to him letting me know he had a ticket for me at the last minute. Thanks again for the ticket, my friend- I love the NHL draft, and I try to go whenever I can. Just a couple of quick observations in regards to the surroundings- the Bell Centre is a monstrous cavern. I doubt we'd ever need anything nearly that big. It's not really impressive on the outside, except for the statues of all the Hall-of-Famers that surround it. However, the arena itself is huge. The thing I like most about it is that the upstairs seats are steep and close to the ice, so the view is probably decent from up there. This is in contrast to NJ, where the "steep" concept apparently failed to enter the engineer's mind, and so I've been told that one can spend the entire game watching the back of the head of the person in front of them.
The second thing is…well, (what else?) the snobby French-Canadians, especially the women. Hate to break this to you honey, but I have been married for 14 years- try not to flatter yourself. I just want the pen that I dropped under your seat back, OK? See you next Tuesday, sweetheart. The best are the ankle biters, though- Roger's brother-in-law is a Leafs fan, and he wore the sweater. I don't know how many people told him the Leafs suck, either while running by at full speed, or from the other side of a busy street, but that applied to pretty much everyone who said anything to him. He was getting annoyed that he had to deal with them (especially since Roger kept pointing him out to everyone….LOL), but let's put it this way- Rag$ fans they are not. That's basically spring training for dealing with the helmet-wearing drunks who ride the short bus to Madison Square Garden, or the Wachovia Center in south Philly. I was not impressed, to say the least.
What I was impressed by was Garth Snow, who spent two months essentially pissing off the Canadian press, on purpose. After all that, he walked up to the podium, and he had this big shit eating grin on his face when he said, "John Tavares," as if he was saying, "guess what, you jerks….who the heck did you think I was going to take?....morons." That was classic.
As for the other pick, he can say whatever he wants, but I still believe he moved up to 16th, thinking he could draft Ellis, and then when Nashville grabbed him, he figured the defenseman parade was on, so he moved up again. I don't question the moving up, but I think that the first time, he probably should have waited until it got down to what triggered the second deal. I'm not a big fan of moving up without a specific use for the pick in mind, which means I don't move up to 16th when the draft is only at pick number 7- but that's just me. That said, we did meet Calvin de Haan toward the end of the night, and he seemed like a nice kid, with a good family, so hopefully that translates into something. I don't think we will see him until next year, though.
As for the rest of the draft, I question the second goalie, because I think it's overkill, but other than that, as with any draft, you can't tell what it's going to be until a few years from now. You can say what you want about the kid with the legal issue, but if he is as good as he was projected prior to it, we may have gotten very lucky with that pick. Some of the others seem to be projects as well, but you can't really complain about anything in rounds 4-7 as far as I'm concerned, because if the draft is a crap shoot, that part is REALLY a crap shoot. Again, we shall see.
At any rate, that is what I have seen so far. Hopefully, they will do at least something else in terms of a free agent signing before the season starts, however little it might help this year. I do think this team has the potential to be really good in the not too distant future, and I haven't been able to say that in forever. I don't know how it will shake out, but I do know that we're probably not going to trade Calvin de Haan for Oleg Kvasha, and that alone gives me hope.
Doug
.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Goaltending Around
So, I felt a statement was made about Dipietro's situation last Saturday.
We knew a strong back-up was coming in. It happened.
Roloson is older, but he's coming off his best season ever. The numbers were good. He can play 30 or 60 games. It's a good signing. $2.5 isn't cheap, but we're under the cap level, so no problem.
Throw in this kid Munroe, who just went 31-19-4 with an excellent .926 SV% and well, Bridgeport would seem very well stacked, considerin All Rookie Team goalie Lawson is there and Koskinen is scheduled for BPort too.
Now, not even one week later, the statement has become stronger.
Precaution is one thing, but what the Islanders are doing is more than being careful. They're planning as if Dipietro isn't there. They're planning as if they're assuming Roloson will hold the fort for two years, just to clear the way for Koskinen.
Well, I guess it's the safest way to go.
Makes Dipietro's future look dimmer and dimmer though.
Hope I'm wrong about that!
We knew a strong back-up was coming in. It happened.
Roloson is older, but he's coming off his best season ever. The numbers were good. He can play 30 or 60 games. It's a good signing. $2.5 isn't cheap, but we're under the cap level, so no problem.
Throw in this kid Munroe, who just went 31-19-4 with an excellent .926 SV% and well, Bridgeport would seem very well stacked, considerin All Rookie Team goalie Lawson is there and Koskinen is scheduled for BPort too.
Now, not even one week later, the statement has become stronger.
Precaution is one thing, but what the Islanders are doing is more than being careful. They're planning as if Dipietro isn't there. They're planning as if they're assuming Roloson will hold the fort for two years, just to clear the way for Koskinen.
Well, I guess it's the safest way to go.
Makes Dipietro's future look dimmer and dimmer though.
Hope I'm wrong about that!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Mikko 2009 NHL Draft Videos
Mikko 31st Pick
Mikko Meets the Islanders
Meet Mikko
Tall
Mikko Signs Autographs
Mikko Meets the Islanders
Meet Mikko
Tall
Mikko Signs Autographs
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Montreal Videos - More to come!!!!
Anatomy of the second trade - part 1
Anatomy of the second trade - part 2
Round Three Board turns
Anatomy of the second trade - part 2
Round Three Board turns
Montreal Final Night
I am just getting in from partying like a rock star with many of the Isles Bloggers and BD Gallof and Eklund.
It is one of those days where more things happened then I can really remember.
One of the major events form last night is walking into a bar and meeting sudsie and the Isles Finish scout.
I asked both of them why they chose Mikko. Sudsie said his athletic ability for a guy 6 foot 7. and the scout said "because he can stop the puck."
Again we bumped into Calvin deHaan walking around. He is very excited to be an Islander.
I can not tell you all the different people I met this weekend but I do know that the Islanders went out and got the players they wanted. Plain and simple. All the Isles execs said that this was Snowies draft and although Wang was ever present it was all Snow.
I was hearing rumors from a couple of sources that there was some disparity amongst the scouts. Although I didn't hear anything directly I did hear this from several of my own sources. I expect Brian to have some strong follow up on this topic.
Once I can see straight I will post some more videos of tonight's events including the series on "Excuse me are those your shoes?"
As I walked with the group of Islander fans etc, you can tell the Montreal fans were all envious of our pick for JT,
My head hurts so I will post more later.
It is one of those days where more things happened then I can really remember.
One of the major events form last night is walking into a bar and meeting sudsie and the Isles Finish scout.
I asked both of them why they chose Mikko. Sudsie said his athletic ability for a guy 6 foot 7. and the scout said "because he can stop the puck."
Again we bumped into Calvin deHaan walking around. He is very excited to be an Islander.
I can not tell you all the different people I met this weekend but I do know that the Islanders went out and got the players they wanted. Plain and simple. All the Isles execs said that this was Snowies draft and although Wang was ever present it was all Snow.
I was hearing rumors from a couple of sources that there was some disparity amongst the scouts. Although I didn't hear anything directly I did hear this from several of my own sources. I expect Brian to have some strong follow up on this topic.
Once I can see straight I will post some more videos of tonight's events including the series on "Excuse me are those your shoes?"
As I walked with the group of Islander fans etc, you can tell the Montreal fans were all envious of our pick for JT,
My head hurts so I will post more later.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Recapping
So, the draft has come and gone. If you haven't seen all the picks and wheeling 'n dealing, check out the Islander homepage for details, although they haven't yet posted a simple list of their picks and results.
From what I gather, it's like this:
F Tavares, D de Haan, G Koskinen, G Nilsson, Coyote's 3rd in 2010, C Cizikas, D Klementyev, C Lee
That's what we picked up.
The Plus:
The Isles OBVIOUSLY had Tavares, de Haan and Koskinen on their list of players that they simply had to have. They got them and they didn't care who they skipped or what it cost in the process.
The Minus:
The Isles OBVIOUSLY had Tavares, de Haan and Koskinen on their list of players that they simply had to have. They got them and they didn't care who they skipped or what it cost in the process.
General feeling:
It's funny, because Tavares, de Haan and Koskinen were three guys I had really hoped to get out of this draft. That's exciting. If you had told me beforehand that we'd have them, I'd have been quite happy and probably would have said, "Can't wait to hear about the other 8 picks!"
Problem is, there are no other 8 picks. We have 4 more relatively unknown bodies and a remnant for next year's draft (granted, the Coyote pick is bound to be better placed than this year's 91, although next summer's draft isn't [yet] considered as deep as this summer's).
This draft will always leave me wondering if we couldn't have gotten de Haan or Koskinen at another point, under other circumstances? I will always wonder if we could've gotten de Haan without having to give up the five picks it took to get him? I will always wonder if anyone else was thinking of taking Koskinen anywhere near the 2nd round?
What to make of it all:
Ultimately, some fans will give this team the thumbs up for this draft. Heck, I too see three future NHLers in no less than Tavares, de Haan and Koskinen, which is a pretty good turnout for one draft.
However, now viewing the other three bodies and the general bevy of picks that came and well, mostly went, I feel as though the scouting stuff didn't really take things seriously after getting the three guys they knew they wanted. I get they let themselves rest a bit on the laurels of last summer and the belief that they got three future impact players with their picks between 1-31. When you hear what the staff says about Nilsson, Cizikas, Klementyev and Lee (who I think may just be a real gem at some point in the distant future), you get the jist that they kind of, sort of, just, well, were plucking at hunches.
Now, I am but a simple fan, but other than the Tavares pick, which in many respects is about the only one of real interest to a large portion of the fanbase, I can name you no less than five guys in each round who went AFTER each one of the players the Islanders picked in each respective round who I feel would have been much better choices. This goes for the de Haan pick as well - I truly feel he went a good 8-12 spots ahead of where he should have, well, when you compare him to some of the other first round talent (especially Kulikov, Rundblad, Leblanc and Schroeder)! This is not to say that the Isles didn't have good reason to believe that maybe a Florida, per se, was geared to take him 14th, but a good read of the many draft preview publications would give any ol' Joe this feeling.
With the draft hardly over, and of course excluding Tavares, I think we fans will look back at this draft and think "Doggone, THAT guy was still on the board when we took so-n-so and is now way better! How did the scouting staff miss him???"
Biggest statement made by this draft:
Now to the crux of it all - IMHO, this draft pretty much pointed out that this team no longer sees Dipietro as the longterm answer in goal, or as the face of this franchise. I'll tackle the latter point first.
As is, Tavares definitely becomes the new face of the franchise. There is little doubting of this. Aside from the humongous fanfare, when was the last time this team could call one of Canada's most adored sons one of its own? He puts us back on the map for those in the know....
So, with Dipietro being hereby replaced as the face of this franchise, the Islanders go WAY off the board to take the draft's most interesting and most NHL-READY goaltender. I had this guy pegged for round 3. They kicked off Saturday with the announcement of his name. I can only think: WOW!
In a draft this deep and with this team dishin' off five picks to get de Haan, this Finnish kid hasn't been taken to, uhhh, maybe be a back-up at some point. This pick speaks volumes about what the Isles feel about Dipietro's situation. It tells me, they're doubting Dipietro's longterm future. Heck, it tells me, they're doubting Dipietro's shortterm future.
This pick is a scary statement!
Top it off with the NEXT pick being yet another goalie, one not generally cosidered amongst the best available in this draft and well, those doubting the healthy return of Dipietro have been given a boatload of ammunition.
Know this: the team is still pretty high on Kevin Poulin, a monstrous goalie from the Q who they took last summer. In addition, Stefan Ridderwall is a part-time starter in the SEL and Jase Weslosky had the best numbers of any goalie in the system last year and is heading into a big senior year.
If you ask me, this draft wasn't just about the Islanders' future, but rather of its future WITHOUT Dipietro......
From what I gather, it's like this:
F Tavares, D de Haan, G Koskinen, G Nilsson, Coyote's 3rd in 2010, C Cizikas, D Klementyev, C Lee
That's what we picked up.
The Plus:
The Isles OBVIOUSLY had Tavares, de Haan and Koskinen on their list of players that they simply had to have. They got them and they didn't care who they skipped or what it cost in the process.
The Minus:
The Isles OBVIOUSLY had Tavares, de Haan and Koskinen on their list of players that they simply had to have. They got them and they didn't care who they skipped or what it cost in the process.
General feeling:
It's funny, because Tavares, de Haan and Koskinen were three guys I had really hoped to get out of this draft. That's exciting. If you had told me beforehand that we'd have them, I'd have been quite happy and probably would have said, "Can't wait to hear about the other 8 picks!"
Problem is, there are no other 8 picks. We have 4 more relatively unknown bodies and a remnant for next year's draft (granted, the Coyote pick is bound to be better placed than this year's 91, although next summer's draft isn't [yet] considered as deep as this summer's).
This draft will always leave me wondering if we couldn't have gotten de Haan or Koskinen at another point, under other circumstances? I will always wonder if we could've gotten de Haan without having to give up the five picks it took to get him? I will always wonder if anyone else was thinking of taking Koskinen anywhere near the 2nd round?
What to make of it all:
Ultimately, some fans will give this team the thumbs up for this draft. Heck, I too see three future NHLers in no less than Tavares, de Haan and Koskinen, which is a pretty good turnout for one draft.
However, now viewing the other three bodies and the general bevy of picks that came and well, mostly went, I feel as though the scouting stuff didn't really take things seriously after getting the three guys they knew they wanted. I get they let themselves rest a bit on the laurels of last summer and the belief that they got three future impact players with their picks between 1-31. When you hear what the staff says about Nilsson, Cizikas, Klementyev and Lee (who I think may just be a real gem at some point in the distant future), you get the jist that they kind of, sort of, just, well, were plucking at hunches.
Now, I am but a simple fan, but other than the Tavares pick, which in many respects is about the only one of real interest to a large portion of the fanbase, I can name you no less than five guys in each round who went AFTER each one of the players the Islanders picked in each respective round who I feel would have been much better choices. This goes for the de Haan pick as well - I truly feel he went a good 8-12 spots ahead of where he should have, well, when you compare him to some of the other first round talent (especially Kulikov, Rundblad, Leblanc and Schroeder)! This is not to say that the Isles didn't have good reason to believe that maybe a Florida, per se, was geared to take him 14th, but a good read of the many draft preview publications would give any ol' Joe this feeling.
With the draft hardly over, and of course excluding Tavares, I think we fans will look back at this draft and think "Doggone, THAT guy was still on the board when we took so-n-so and is now way better! How did the scouting staff miss him???"
Biggest statement made by this draft:
Now to the crux of it all - IMHO, this draft pretty much pointed out that this team no longer sees Dipietro as the longterm answer in goal, or as the face of this franchise. I'll tackle the latter point first.
As is, Tavares definitely becomes the new face of the franchise. There is little doubting of this. Aside from the humongous fanfare, when was the last time this team could call one of Canada's most adored sons one of its own? He puts us back on the map for those in the know....
So, with Dipietro being hereby replaced as the face of this franchise, the Islanders go WAY off the board to take the draft's most interesting and most NHL-READY goaltender. I had this guy pegged for round 3. They kicked off Saturday with the announcement of his name. I can only think: WOW!
In a draft this deep and with this team dishin' off five picks to get de Haan, this Finnish kid hasn't been taken to, uhhh, maybe be a back-up at some point. This pick speaks volumes about what the Isles feel about Dipietro's situation. It tells me, they're doubting Dipietro's longterm future. Heck, it tells me, they're doubting Dipietro's shortterm future.
This pick is a scary statement!
Top it off with the NEXT pick being yet another goalie, one not generally cosidered amongst the best available in this draft and well, those doubting the healthy return of Dipietro have been given a boatload of ammunition.
Know this: the team is still pretty high on Kevin Poulin, a monstrous goalie from the Q who they took last summer. In addition, Stefan Ridderwall is a part-time starter in the SEL and Jase Weslosky had the best numbers of any goalie in the system last year and is heading into a big senior year.
If you ask me, this draft wasn't just about the Islanders' future, but rather of its future WITHOUT Dipietro......
Meeting Calvin deHaan
I talked with Calvin's parents last night. Turns out they live like 20 minutes from Jen's parents house in Ontario. I was really excited to meet him and tell him about Long Island and how great it is there.
As I talked to his parents, they told me that the Islanders wanted Calvin from early on. They knew they wanted him as did other teams. They told me that he was out with Chicago the night before and met with the Canes people in the morning before the draft. He also said that Philly and Jersey had an interest in him.
It appears that this is the kid they wanted and they traded up to make it happen. Plain and simple.
The Isles see something in this kid and I said that our scouting staff has been doing very well for us lately and they are right.
Later in the night we are walking down the street and I see someone in an Islander's jersey and hat. Lo and behold, Calvin deHaan!! I asked him what he knew about the team. I also asked him if he was a Ranger fan and he said NO.
Calvin, you will fit right in and welcome to our home on Long Island!!!
As I talked to his parents, they told me that the Islanders wanted Calvin from early on. They knew they wanted him as did other teams. They told me that he was out with Chicago the night before and met with the Canes people in the morning before the draft. He also said that Philly and Jersey had an interest in him.
It appears that this is the kid they wanted and they traded up to make it happen. Plain and simple.
The Isles see something in this kid and I said that our scouting staff has been doing very well for us lately and they are right.
Later in the night we are walking down the street and I see someone in an Islander's jersey and hat. Lo and behold, Calvin deHaan!! I asked him what he knew about the team. I also asked him if he was a Ranger fan and he said NO.
Calvin, you will fit right in and welcome to our home on Long Island!!!
Videos from 2009 NHL Draft - Montreal
GARTH AT PODIUM
GARTH MAKES THE PICK
FOLLOW ON TAVARES
THE ISLANDERS DRAFT TABLE
NEWS 12 LI
NEWS 12 LI Part 2
OUTSIDE BELL CENTER
INSIDE BELL CENTER
Friday, June 26, 2009
The 31st
So folks, the first round is over and as disappointed as I was with what essentially ended up being 5 picks for Calvin de Haan, we do have five picks tomorrow, including the 31st.
With that in mind, two fairly big fish are still available at this point:
A) Forward Jeremy Morin (21 THN, 28 CSS), considered by many to be the 2nd best sniper in this draft, 2nd only to Tavares.
B) Defenseman Stefan Elliot (27 THN, 32 CSS), an offensive Dman from the WHL who reminds many of Mike Green.
Also of note are C Drew Shore, W Landon Ferraro, C Cal O'Reilly, C Ethan Werek, C Richard Panik, C Joonas Nattinen and W Carl Klingsberg.
I sure wish we were going into tomorrow knowing that we'd be getting two of those guys, but be that as it may, we should have a great pick with the number 31.
Pre-Saturday Prediction:
- Should Colorado not be willing to trade 33 and 49 for 31 and 91, then the 31st should wind down to being one of Morin and Elliot. It's a no lose selection at this point.
- I think the team will look to pawn off #56, hopefully to a team like Montreal (home town crowd still wanting more?), from whom they should be able to get #s 65 and 79.
- With pick 91, should it not be moved, expect the team to select a goalie.
Some interesting names for later rounds should be Bubnick, Nestrasil, Vincour, Orlov, Silfverberg, Lehner, Kostinen, Koskinen, Wrenn, Hankowski, Flueler, Hackett, Barrie, Bertilsson, Vanek, Foligno, Dumoulin, Doherty, Vatanen, Bourque, and Kuchin.
Enjoy it folks!
With that in mind, two fairly big fish are still available at this point:
A) Forward Jeremy Morin (21 THN, 28 CSS), considered by many to be the 2nd best sniper in this draft, 2nd only to Tavares.
B) Defenseman Stefan Elliot (27 THN, 32 CSS), an offensive Dman from the WHL who reminds many of Mike Green.
Also of note are C Drew Shore, W Landon Ferraro, C Cal O'Reilly, C Ethan Werek, C Richard Panik, C Joonas Nattinen and W Carl Klingsberg.
I sure wish we were going into tomorrow knowing that we'd be getting two of those guys, but be that as it may, we should have a great pick with the number 31.
Pre-Saturday Prediction:
- Should Colorado not be willing to trade 33 and 49 for 31 and 91, then the 31st should wind down to being one of Morin and Elliot. It's a no lose selection at this point.
- I think the team will look to pawn off #56, hopefully to a team like Montreal (home town crowd still wanting more?), from whom they should be able to get #s 65 and 79.
- With pick 91, should it not be moved, expect the team to select a goalie.
Some interesting names for later rounds should be Bubnick, Nestrasil, Vincour, Orlov, Silfverberg, Lehner, Kostinen, Koskinen, Wrenn, Hankowski, Flueler, Hackett, Barrie, Bertilsson, Vanek, Foligno, Dumoulin, Doherty, Vatanen, Bourque, and Kuchin.
Enjoy it folks!
Picks Tomorrow
Well, unless something completely unexpected happens, the Isles will go into tomorrow's action with 5 picks.
Coming into the draft, we were looking at 2 picks tonight and 9 picks tomorrow.
As of now, we'll be picking 31, 56, 91, 122 and 152.
Correction:
I made a typo earlier.... we traded pick 182 to Minnesota, not 108.
Looking ahead, I suspect that pick 91 will be used on a goaltender.
Picks 31 and 56 could turn out to be some real gems. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Tim Erixon can be had at 31. Maybe a McNabb, Panik or Rajala is available at 56.
Coming into the draft, we were looking at 2 picks tonight and 9 picks tomorrow.
As of now, we'll be picking 31, 56, 91, 122 and 152.
Correction:
I made a typo earlier.... we traded pick 182 to Minnesota, not 108.
Looking ahead, I suspect that pick 91 will be used on a goaltender.
Picks 31 and 56 could turn out to be some real gems. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Tim Erixon can be had at 31. Maybe a McNabb, Panik or Rajala is available at 56.
Moves Exciting - Pick Not
I've got no problems with Calvin de Haan.
I have HUGE problems with this team essentially trading 26, 37, 62, 92 and 108 to get a guy who may VERY well have been there at 26 anyways.
In addition, I can't imagine that ANYONE would have taken him between 13-16.
Very disappointed.
Well, I sure hope Kyle Woodlief - of all people - is right, because at some point he praised de Haan as being as good if not better than Ellis.
I have HUGE problems with this team essentially trading 26, 37, 62, 92 and 108 to get a guy who may VERY well have been there at 26 anyways.
In addition, I can't imagine that ANYONE would have taken him between 13-16.
Very disappointed.
Well, I sure hope Kyle Woodlief - of all people - is right, because at some point he praised de Haan as being as good if not better than Ellis.
Minnesota
Welp, Nashville takes another Dman and it's not a big surprise.
A big surprise would be Minnesota passing on Schroeder. Can't see it happening.
That'd leave Kulikov, Rundblad and Moore as the last 3 prospects I feel were worth moving the 26 and 37 for, much less the two 3rds.
Will we have one?
A big surprise would be Minnesota passing on Schroeder. Can't see it happening.
That'd leave Kulikov, Rundblad and Moore as the last 3 prospects I feel were worth moving the 26 and 37 for, much less the two 3rds.
Will we have one?
First Slight Surprises
Ok, I didn't expect Burke to pass on a MSP or Cowen at 7. He did. I'd have thought Kadri would slide a bit. Minimal surprise.
However, Dallas taking Glennie over Kulikov or Cowen or even MSP was a real surprise.
This bodes well for the Isles.
With six bodies to be taken before pick 16, there are still some decent chances that one of Kulikov, Rundblad or Moore will be around at 16. If Schroeder were there, it'd be awesome.
Can't see each of Buffalo and Florida passing on Ellis.
However, Dallas taking Glennie over Kulikov or Cowen or even MSP was a real surprise.
This bodes well for the Isles.
With six bodies to be taken before pick 16, there are still some decent chances that one of Kulikov, Rundblad or Moore will be around at 16. If Schroeder were there, it'd be awesome.
Can't see each of Buffalo and Florida passing on Ellis.
Deal in
16, 77
for
26, 37, 62, 92
Hmmmmm.... We'll have to see.
Who will it be at 16?
Rundblad?
I sure hope this staff knows what it's doing!
Sidenote: could the Isles really be trying to couple picks 16 and 31 to move up even further?
for
26, 37, 62, 92
Hmmmmm.... We'll have to see.
Who will it be at 16?
Rundblad?
I sure hope this staff knows what it's doing!
Sidenote: could the Isles really be trying to couple picks 16 and 31 to move up even further?
Just Reported
Islanders and Columbus have made a deal.
Going from 26 to 16.
I tell you what though, if it took anything more than the 37 (i.e. 56, 62, etc.) then I'm thinking it may not have been worth it.
I certainly hope it doesn't turn into Kassian or Holland.
Still, we'll see happens. I know many fans are looking forward to a move like this.
Going from 26 to 16.
I tell you what though, if it took anything more than the 37 (i.e. 56, 62, etc.) then I'm thinking it may not have been worth it.
I certainly hope it doesn't turn into Kassian or Holland.
Still, we'll see happens. I know many fans are looking forward to a move like this.
We got him!
There he is! Tavares is an Islander.
By the way - Roger was visible. He was shown no less than two times on the broadcast. Everyone saw you!
First Tavares Fan Club meeting.... didn't quite catch the date:-)
By the way - Roger was visible. He was shown no less than two times on the broadcast. Everyone saw you!
First Tavares Fan Club meeting.... didn't quite catch the date:-)
Montreal Report 1
First Report...'
Outside Bell Center
Met Jamie Stewart News 12 Long Island.
Ryan, Charles and Garth Just walked into the Bell Center. Ryan went one direction and Garth and Charles went another. Time 1710.
My buddy Paolo asked Charles if he was going to pick Tavares. Charles answer, "Who?"
Outside Bell Center
Met Jamie Stewart News 12 Long Island.
Ryan, Charles and Garth Just walked into the Bell Center. Ryan went one direction and Garth and Charles went another. Time 1710.
My buddy Paolo asked Charles if he was going to pick Tavares. Charles answer, "Who?"
Just 5 more hours to go!
The night will be one that starts with a good amount of fanfare. I can see the first 5 picks taking a good hour.
From an Islander standpoint, I'm fascinated with seeing if the Isles move up or if they stick with the 26th pick. Many assume they'll move up, but I'm thinking a move up is only coming if:
A) a certain player of desire is dropping
B) the price is right
From all accounts, this draft is a deep one. Here's hoping the staff has that in mind when evaluating the value of a player in the 13-20 range as opposed to say two players+ in the 26-37 range.
In addition, I'm hoping any deals that Snow might wish to make may include the pawning off of a Dman currently on the roster. Whether Sutton, Witt, Martinek or Meyer, each may have some attraction AS AN ADDITION to say pick 26. They wouldn't necessarily have it alone. The UFA market has a number of Dmen who might look good in Coach Gordon's system.
In any case, as a fan I'd be very pleased if this team could move up without sacrificing 2 or more of the picks 26-62.
From an Islander standpoint, I'm fascinated with seeing if the Isles move up or if they stick with the 26th pick. Many assume they'll move up, but I'm thinking a move up is only coming if:
A) a certain player of desire is dropping
B) the price is right
From all accounts, this draft is a deep one. Here's hoping the staff has that in mind when evaluating the value of a player in the 13-20 range as opposed to say two players+ in the 26-37 range.
In addition, I'm hoping any deals that Snow might wish to make may include the pawning off of a Dman currently on the roster. Whether Sutton, Witt, Martinek or Meyer, each may have some attraction AS AN ADDITION to say pick 26. They wouldn't necessarily have it alone. The UFA market has a number of Dmen who might look good in Coach Gordon's system.
In any case, as a fan I'd be very pleased if this team could move up without sacrificing 2 or more of the picks 26-62.
Packed House - Could it be anyone else
In preparation for tonight's events, here's just a little thought.
With a packed house at the coliseum and a fanbase whose majority is - rationally or not - thirsty for one name and one name only, is there any doubt who the 2009 NHL Draft's #1 overall pick is going to be? I mean, could it be anyone else?
More in a few hours....
With a packed house at the coliseum and a fanbase whose majority is - rationally or not - thirsty for one name and one name only, is there any doubt who the 2009 NHL Draft's #1 overall pick is going to be? I mean, could it be anyone else?
More in a few hours....
2009 Draft Esoteric
John Tavares will be the 404th player drafted in by the NY Islanders franchise.
Of course everone knows the first pick ever was Billy Harris. The last pick from last years draft was 196th pick overall, 7th rounder, Simon Lacroix.
Incidentally, we have drafted 254 players since we last won a cup. That is alot of players to come through our system. The last player drafted while we were cup winners was Allister Brown. He was 249th overall picked up in the 12th round.
Post cup era had us pick Brad Dalgarno 6th overall in 1985 followed by Derek King at 13th overall that same year.
The final number of futility is 131. As in 131 players drafted by the Islanders since we last won a playoff series in 1993. Last pick of the playoff winning era was Carl Charland at 274th overall in the 11th round. First pick in the post playoff series winning era (16years and counting) was Brett Lindros.
Of course everone knows the first pick ever was Billy Harris. The last pick from last years draft was 196th pick overall, 7th rounder, Simon Lacroix.
Incidentally, we have drafted 254 players since we last won a cup. That is alot of players to come through our system. The last player drafted while we were cup winners was Allister Brown. He was 249th overall picked up in the 12th round.
Post cup era had us pick Brad Dalgarno 6th overall in 1985 followed by Derek King at 13th overall that same year.
The final number of futility is 131. As in 131 players drafted by the Islanders since we last won a playoff series in 1993. Last pick of the playoff winning era was Carl Charland at 274th overall in the 11th round. First pick in the post playoff series winning era (16years and counting) was Brett Lindros.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Live from Montreal.
I have the distinct of joining fellow bloggers up in Montreal. From what I understand there will be 5 other bloggers from the NY Islanders world. In no particular order they are as follows:
Tom of http://www.thetigertrack.com/
Ken of http://okposo.blogspot.com/
Doug of http://islesofficialsoutlook.blogspot.com/
Mike of http://www.islesblogger.com/
Brian of http://www.islandersindependent.com
Doug has set up a live feed at www.coveritlive.com. Go there and find the event titled, "Live Event: 2009 NHL Entry Draft: Blog Box Live from Montreal" to follow along. There will also be a link for Saturday as well.
.
Tom of http://www.thetigertrack.com/
Ken of http://okposo.blogspot.com/
Doug of http://islesofficialsoutlook.blogspot.com/
Mike of http://www.islesblogger.com/
Brian of http://www.islandersindependent.com
Doug has set up a live feed at www.coveritlive.com. Go there and find the event titled, "Live Event: 2009 NHL Entry Draft: Blog Box Live from Montreal" to follow along. There will also be a link for Saturday as well.
.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Garth and Public Opinion - Part II
Chris Botta posted yesterday on Islanderspointblank.com about the true fan. Try getting a word in edge wise over there and you have better luck ice skating on the Ottawa River (Its 30 degree Celsius) in Ontario.
He basically states if you are reading these blogs in June chances are you will still be around come October. His points about true fans are valid and obvious. The issue not stated is the lack of synergy with the Islander's franchise and the rest of Long Island.
My opinions here are not absolute through and through but more of a general feeling I get from when I come home to Long Island a few times a year. I guess I say this because I have two groups of friends from back home. There are my Islander friends. And there are the rest of my friends. They are two distinct groups and as hard as I have tried over the years the non-Isles friends just don't get the Islanders. They do get the Yankees. They do get the Mets. They do get the Giants and they do get the Jets. Islanders not so much. This is where this whole idea is born.
For years of missteps and bad luck, the general population really doesn't care. In order for the franchise and the Lighthouse project to succeed this all needs to improve. I mentioned my wayward non-Isles friends but in this case let me use my own parents as a barometer. A typical phone call from my paternal parent consists of a phone call that starts off with, "Did you hear what the Islanders did now?" After which we could discuss anything from Spano to Sanjay, Muller to Milbury, Smith to Smyth, or one of the multiple 7, 8, 9, 10 plus game losing streaks. The point being that my parents are casual fans. Without my ongoing and never ending corrections they would think that most of the articles in the news are true. While most of the stories have basis in fact, I am able to give them "the rest of the story." It has apparently worked because I have gotten them to show up at a few games the past few years. Although, mi madre refuses to ever go to a Islander-Ranger game again.
What about the casual fans that don't have the NHL Fan of the Year for a son? Who will tell them the real deal about the franchise? For this is why we need to make sure that we do the right thing this weekend.
WE NEED THE GOOD PRESS!!!!
The success of this franchise on Long Island depends on the Lighthouse Project. The Lighthouse Project is invariably attached at the hip to the NY Islanders. If the NY Islanders are perceived as inept so will the general public's view of the Lighthouse.
I do not agree that the two should be connected and wish someone would correct all the people that continue to use the team name and the Lighthouse project in the same sentence because in reality while they are closely related each should not have anything to do with the other. The Lighthouse is the lighthouse and the Islanders are the Islanders. The perception that most people have that the Lighthouse is for the Islanders is wrong. The Lighthouse project is needed for us the citizens and the community of Long Island. The fact that the Islanders will benefit from it is an added bonus for a die hard fan like myself. It still doesn't change the fact that my parents spend more in a month for their property taxes in a month in TOH that I do in a year in North Carolina.
The connection between the two is distinct regardless of how I may feel. The connection is why John Tavares needs to be the name that Garth says at the podium on Friday night.
He basically states if you are reading these blogs in June chances are you will still be around come October. His points about true fans are valid and obvious. The issue not stated is the lack of synergy with the Islander's franchise and the rest of Long Island.
My opinions here are not absolute through and through but more of a general feeling I get from when I come home to Long Island a few times a year. I guess I say this because I have two groups of friends from back home. There are my Islander friends. And there are the rest of my friends. They are two distinct groups and as hard as I have tried over the years the non-Isles friends just don't get the Islanders. They do get the Yankees. They do get the Mets. They do get the Giants and they do get the Jets. Islanders not so much. This is where this whole idea is born.
For years of missteps and bad luck, the general population really doesn't care. In order for the franchise and the Lighthouse project to succeed this all needs to improve. I mentioned my wayward non-Isles friends but in this case let me use my own parents as a barometer. A typical phone call from my paternal parent consists of a phone call that starts off with, "Did you hear what the Islanders did now?" After which we could discuss anything from Spano to Sanjay, Muller to Milbury, Smith to Smyth, or one of the multiple 7, 8, 9, 10 plus game losing streaks. The point being that my parents are casual fans. Without my ongoing and never ending corrections they would think that most of the articles in the news are true. While most of the stories have basis in fact, I am able to give them "the rest of the story." It has apparently worked because I have gotten them to show up at a few games the past few years. Although, mi madre refuses to ever go to a Islander-Ranger game again.
What about the casual fans that don't have the NHL Fan of the Year for a son? Who will tell them the real deal about the franchise? For this is why we need to make sure that we do the right thing this weekend.
WE NEED THE GOOD PRESS!!!!
The success of this franchise on Long Island depends on the Lighthouse Project. The Lighthouse Project is invariably attached at the hip to the NY Islanders. If the NY Islanders are perceived as inept so will the general public's view of the Lighthouse.
I do not agree that the two should be connected and wish someone would correct all the people that continue to use the team name and the Lighthouse project in the same sentence because in reality while they are closely related each should not have anything to do with the other. The Lighthouse is the lighthouse and the Islanders are the Islanders. The perception that most people have that the Lighthouse is for the Islanders is wrong. The Lighthouse project is needed for us the citizens and the community of Long Island. The fact that the Islanders will benefit from it is an added bonus for a die hard fan like myself. It still doesn't change the fact that my parents spend more in a month for their property taxes in a month in TOH that I do in a year in North Carolina.
The connection between the two is distinct regardless of how I may feel. The connection is why John Tavares needs to be the name that Garth says at the podium on Friday night.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Garth and Public Opinion
IMNSHO, the issue here isnt getting the best player or even the right player for that matter. The issue is the Islanders doing the right thing for a change - or perhaps better stated - the normal thing.
We have been through too many damn experiments, restarts and down right abuse. Garth needs to simply do the right thing. He needs to show the maturity of getting this done and in turn it will be the first step in turning this organization around.
I have been trying to figure how to put my thoughts into words about this and I think it comes down to this. The survival of this franchise depends on the lighthouse project. Public approval will be a big part of this. Right now there is a lot of apathy towards the whole lighthouse project. My feeling is that if those supposed 15,000 people leave the coliseum on Friday with a lot of bad feeling it will go a long way towards effecting local support for the coliseum.
If they can't make the right decision on hockey how can they be expected to make the right decision when it comes to something big, like the Lighthouse Project?
Another way to look at it is that we are pretty much the laughing stock around the league with all the issues we have had over the last 15 years. Friday is day 1 of a new generation and of new luck.
Do the right thing Garth and show the people you care about them. As I have said before, the Ryan Smyth trade was about saving the season, last year trading down for Bailey and all those picks was to save the franchise's empty prospect coffers, this year is to save the fans and the team.
We have been through too many damn experiments, restarts and down right abuse. Garth needs to simply do the right thing. He needs to show the maturity of getting this done and in turn it will be the first step in turning this organization around.
I have been trying to figure how to put my thoughts into words about this and I think it comes down to this. The survival of this franchise depends on the lighthouse project. Public approval will be a big part of this. Right now there is a lot of apathy towards the whole lighthouse project. My feeling is that if those supposed 15,000 people leave the coliseum on Friday with a lot of bad feeling it will go a long way towards effecting local support for the coliseum.
If they can't make the right decision on hockey how can they be expected to make the right decision when it comes to something big, like the Lighthouse Project?
Another way to look at it is that we are pretty much the laughing stock around the league with all the issues we have had over the last 15 years. Friday is day 1 of a new generation and of new luck.
Do the right thing Garth and show the people you care about them. As I have said before, the Ryan Smyth trade was about saving the season, last year trading down for Bailey and all those picks was to save the franchise's empty prospect coffers, this year is to save the fans and the team.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
A Good Post from My Friend Doug
Garth Snow and his staff draft players. Mike Milbury and his staff drafted players. The "Islanders" do not do anything. A lot of fans talk about "the Islanders", as if they're the Wizard of Oz, like a Godzilla-sized logo that walks around destroying toy train sets- alright, I've seen too many crappy movies.
The point is this: Last year, Garth Snow decided that four extra players were worth the difference between Luke Schenn and Josh Bailey. The jury is still out on that, but it can't be deemed "a failure, because the Islanders always screw everything up". There is no such thing as "the Islanders". There are people, and some are better than others at what they do. I like Tavares myself, but if their staff thinks either Duchene or Hedman is better, all I can say is, that's what THEY get paid to do. Time will tell if they are correct.
"The Islanders" were ONE person, for 10 years. The reason Milbury gets strung up by his balls over Parise, for example, is not because it's Parise, it's because he'd already spent eight years prior doing stupid shit like that. These guys have not proven to have failed yet. Snow has been the GM for three years, and he inherited a steaming pile of crap. Ten years of stupidity is far too much rope, but I think you almost HAVE to give someone five, especially considering what was here when he showed up.
My prediction is this: They will not trade the pick. To do that, he would have to get blown away with an Eric Lindros style, "I'll trade you the Stanley Cup for a rockhead" offer of monumental stupidity. Being that, as Bob McKenzie says, Tavares is not a "generational talent", I don't think you're going to see that next weekend. By the same token, this is not last year- the first pick in the draft is the first pick in the draft. I just can't see him trading down for a couple of middling draft choices this time.
That said, this year, so far he's done the right thing, because he's seeing if someone is going to go to the Bob Clarke/Mike Milbury level of stupidity to acquire Tavares, and still leave him with the opportunity to take a player he really likes. Why would you not do that? He's not going to draft a goalie when we already have one, and then trade our goalie and a solid power forward for crap. He's not going to trade a monster defenseman and the second pick in the draft for more crap. It's not going to happen, because "the Islanders" didn't do that. Mike Milbury did that, and I'm pretty sure that Garth Snow's driver's license doesn't say Mike Milbury on it. Give the guy a chance is all I'm saying.
Doug
The point is this: Last year, Garth Snow decided that four extra players were worth the difference between Luke Schenn and Josh Bailey. The jury is still out on that, but it can't be deemed "a failure, because the Islanders always screw everything up". There is no such thing as "the Islanders". There are people, and some are better than others at what they do. I like Tavares myself, but if their staff thinks either Duchene or Hedman is better, all I can say is, that's what THEY get paid to do. Time will tell if they are correct.
"The Islanders" were ONE person, for 10 years. The reason Milbury gets strung up by his balls over Parise, for example, is not because it's Parise, it's because he'd already spent eight years prior doing stupid shit like that. These guys have not proven to have failed yet. Snow has been the GM for three years, and he inherited a steaming pile of crap. Ten years of stupidity is far too much rope, but I think you almost HAVE to give someone five, especially considering what was here when he showed up.
My prediction is this: They will not trade the pick. To do that, he would have to get blown away with an Eric Lindros style, "I'll trade you the Stanley Cup for a rockhead" offer of monumental stupidity. Being that, as Bob McKenzie says, Tavares is not a "generational talent", I don't think you're going to see that next weekend. By the same token, this is not last year- the first pick in the draft is the first pick in the draft. I just can't see him trading down for a couple of middling draft choices this time.
That said, this year, so far he's done the right thing, because he's seeing if someone is going to go to the Bob Clarke/Mike Milbury level of stupidity to acquire Tavares, and still leave him with the opportunity to take a player he really likes. Why would you not do that? He's not going to draft a goalie when we already have one, and then trade our goalie and a solid power forward for crap. He's not going to trade a monster defenseman and the second pick in the draft for more crap. It's not going to happen, because "the Islanders" didn't do that. Mike Milbury did that, and I'm pretty sure that Garth Snow's driver's license doesn't say Mike Milbury on it. Give the guy a chance is all I'm saying.
Doug
The Tavares Quest
One night from tonight is the NHL draft. Our New York Islanders have the first overall pick.
I will be there.
By saying being there I don't mean at the draft party at the coliseum but at the actual draft in Montreal.
I will be there.
By saying being there I don't mean at the draft party at the coliseum but at the actual draft in Montreal.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Stuff
So my blog page is misaligned. Argghhh.
The Islanders are playing like they should be playing but getting through it all is tough and I am bored. I know there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Or should I say lighthouse at the end of the tunnel?
At times like this I enjoy the fall of the rangers. They have given up 22 Goals in the last five games. They have scored only 5 goals in the same period of time. They now sit a mere 5 points from 9th place. I cant wait.
The Islanders on the other hand can now only score 96 points total. It really means that we have 3 games that we can lose before we are not able to make the playoffs based on past performances.
To put this in perspective, The Bruins have 85 points. Which means we have 11 points to give before we are eliminated from the #1 spot for the season.
The Islanders are playing like they should be playing but getting through it all is tough and I am bored. I know there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Or should I say lighthouse at the end of the tunnel?
At times like this I enjoy the fall of the rangers. They have given up 22 Goals in the last five games. They have scored only 5 goals in the same period of time. They now sit a mere 5 points from 9th place. I cant wait.
The Islanders on the other hand can now only score 96 points total. It really means that we have 3 games that we can lose before we are not able to make the playoffs based on past performances.
To put this in perspective, The Bruins have 85 points. Which means we have 11 points to give before we are eliminated from the #1 spot for the season.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Stolen From Forever 1940
Joey MacDonald played his first game in over three weeks, and seemed a little rusty early. Rusty enough to end the Isles 4 game win streak. On to the trick:
1. JAy Bouwmeester and Karlin Skrastins scored first period goals for the Cats, who had the game's first six shots, leading up to a long-range goal by Bouwmeester.
2. The Isles benefited from 4 Panther penalties in the second period. scoring twice with the extra-man. Josh Bailey and Trent Hunter had the goals -- it was the 2nd goal for Bailey and the 88th career goal for Hunter --with exactly 1/4 of them on the powerplay (22).
3. Richard Zednik sandwiched the Isle pp goals with a beautiful goal of his own. Another ex-Isle, Bryan McCabe, earned an assist on the game-winning tally as the Panthers improved to 9-2-3 in 2009.
and a few more...
4. Kyle Okposo was on the ice for both pp goals, but did not record a point, ending his point streak at 5.
5. MacDonald made 26 saves, but drops his 4th straight decision. He's 1-13-2 in his last 17 appearances (1 no decision)'
6. The Isles had only 22 shots on goal on Tomas Vokoun, but there were 18 shots blocked by Panthers and 16 others that missed the net
7. The home team won all 4 games of this series. The Isles have dropped 5 straight in Sunrise.for the first time in thier history.
8. With Mark Streit out injured, Chris Campoli saw his time on the pp (5:08) and led the Ises with 24:24 of overall ice-time. Nate THompson played only 2:33 and left with a shoulder injury.. Jack Hillen and Joe Callahan replaced the injured Streit and Pock and each played over 12:30
9. Maybe it's the Islander-Ranger thing, but Soup's son Gregory Campbell always seems to play well against the Isles. Tonight was no exception, winning 11 of 16 draws, with three hits and two blocks.
10. Up next: the mini road trip concludes in Tampa on Saturday. The Isles lead the season 2 games to 0 (4 points to 1). Overall the Isles have won 5 of 6 from Tampa and earned points in 5 of the last 7 (5-1-1) between the teams.
1. JAy Bouwmeester and Karlin Skrastins scored first period goals for the Cats, who had the game's first six shots, leading up to a long-range goal by Bouwmeester.
2. The Isles benefited from 4 Panther penalties in the second period. scoring twice with the extra-man. Josh Bailey and Trent Hunter had the goals -- it was the 2nd goal for Bailey and the 88th career goal for Hunter --with exactly 1/4 of them on the powerplay (22).
3. Richard Zednik sandwiched the Isle pp goals with a beautiful goal of his own. Another ex-Isle, Bryan McCabe, earned an assist on the game-winning tally as the Panthers improved to 9-2-3 in 2009.
and a few more...
4. Kyle Okposo was on the ice for both pp goals, but did not record a point, ending his point streak at 5.
5. MacDonald made 26 saves, but drops his 4th straight decision. He's 1-13-2 in his last 17 appearances (1 no decision)'
6. The Isles had only 22 shots on goal on Tomas Vokoun, but there were 18 shots blocked by Panthers and 16 others that missed the net
7. The home team won all 4 games of this series. The Isles have dropped 5 straight in Sunrise.for the first time in thier history.
8. With Mark Streit out injured, Chris Campoli saw his time on the pp (5:08) and led the Ises with 24:24 of overall ice-time. Nate THompson played only 2:33 and left with a shoulder injury.. Jack Hillen and Joe Callahan replaced the injured Streit and Pock and each played over 12:30
9. Maybe it's the Islander-Ranger thing, but Soup's son Gregory Campbell always seems to play well against the Isles. Tonight was no exception, winning 11 of 16 draws, with three hits and two blocks.
10. Up next: the mini road trip concludes in Tampa on Saturday. The Isles lead the season 2 games to 0 (4 points to 1). Overall the Isles have won 5 of 6 from Tampa and earned points in 5 of the last 7 (5-1-1) between the teams.
Great Deals on Dell Laptops. Starting at $499.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Tavares Musical Interlude
The Musical Group, Tavares
"Heaven Missing an Angel"
"More Than a Woman"
RaRa Note: I prefer the #5 version from the movie Short Circuit.
"She's Gone"
"Never Had a Love Like This Before"
"Heaven Missing an Angel"
"More Than a Woman"
RaRa Note: I prefer the #5 version from the movie Short Circuit.
"She's Gone"
"Never Had a Love Like This Before"
NHL Standings as of 01/02/2009!
Awwww, the Rangers are in 4th place. One more loss could find them in 6th place.
EASTERN CONFERENCE (42)
1. Boston - 62 [38] -------- vs. 8. Pittsburgh - 42 [38]
2. Washington - 53 [39] ---- vs. 7. Carolina - 43 [39]
3. Philadelphia - 49 [38] -- vs. 6. New Jersey - 47 [37]
4. NY Ranjerks - 49 [39] --- vs. 5. Montreal - 48 [37]
1. Boston - 62 [38] -------- vs. 8. Pittsburgh - 42 [38]
2. Washington - 53 [39] ---- vs. 7. Carolina - 43 [39]
3. Philadelphia - 49 [38] -- vs. 6. New Jersey - 47 [37]
4. NY Ranjerks - 49 [39] --- vs. 5. Montreal - 48 [37]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Buffalo - 41 [38] -1
10. Florida - 37 [37] -5
11. Toronto - 36 [38] -6
12. Ottawa - 31 [35] -11
13. Atlanta - 31 [39] -11
14. Tampa Bay - 30 [37] -12
15. NY Islanders - 28 [39] -14
9. Buffalo - 41 [38] -1
10. Florida - 37 [37] -5
11. Toronto - 36 [38] -6
12. Ottawa - 31 [35] -11
13. Atlanta - 31 [39] -11
14. Tampa Bay - 30 [37] -12
15. NY Islanders - 28 [39] -14
WESTERN CONFERENCE (40)
1. San Jose - 61 [37] -- vs. 8. Columbus - 40 [38]
2. Detroit - 55 [37] --- vs. 7. Phoenix - 43 [39]
3. Calgary - 48 [37] --- vs. 6. Anaheim - 43 [39]
4. Chicago - 47 [35] --- vs. 5. Vancouver - 46 [40]
1. San Jose - 61 [37] -- vs. 8. Columbus - 40 [38]
2. Detroit - 55 [37] --- vs. 7. Phoenix - 43 [39]
3. Calgary - 48 [37] --- vs. 6. Anaheim - 43 [39]
4. Chicago - 47 [35] --- vs. 5. Vancouver - 46 [40]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Colorado - 39 [38] -1
10. Minnesota - 38 [36] -2
11. Edmonton - 37 [36](17W) -3
12. Dallas - 37 [36](16W) -3
13. Nashville - 37 [37] -3
14. Los Angeles - 36 [37] -4
15. St. Louis - 31 [38] -9
9. Colorado - 39 [38] -1
10. Minnesota - 38 [36] -2
11. Edmonton - 37 [36](17W) -3
12. Dallas - 37 [36](16W) -3
13. Nashville - 37 [37] -3
14. Los Angeles - 36 [37] -4
15. St. Louis - 31 [38] -9
564 games played - 137 into OT - 24.3%.
137 OT games - 76 end in shootout = 55.5% OR 13.5% of ALL games end
in shootout.
Yesterday - 40 goals scored in 6 games = 6.67 goals per game.
Total - 3,295 goals scored in 564 games = 5.84 gpg.
3,295 goals minus 76 SO goals = 3,219 = 5.71 gpg minus shootout.
There have been 69 shutouts = 1 per 8.17 games.
The eastern conference is 55-59-15 for 125 out of a possible 258
points against the western conference. That equates to 48.5%.
The Isles have scored 102 goals = 2.62 gpg.
The Isles have allowed 141 goals = 3.62 gpg.
137 OT games - 76 end in shootout = 55.5% OR 13.5% of ALL games end
in shootout.
Yesterday - 40 goals scored in 6 games = 6.67 goals per game.
Total - 3,295 goals scored in 564 games = 5.84 gpg.
3,295 goals minus 76 SO goals = 3,219 = 5.71 gpg minus shootout.
There have been 69 shutouts = 1 per 8.17 games.
The eastern conference is 55-59-15 for 125 out of a possible 258
points against the western conference. That equates to 48.5%.
The Isles have scored 102 goals = 2.62 gpg.
The Isles have allowed 141 goals = 3.62 gpg.
Esoteric Attendance Report
Last night, there were 3 out of 6 games played with more than 2,000
empty seats, or 50.0%.
Out of 564 games played, there have been 150 played with MORE than
2,000 empty seats, or 26.6% of all games played.
There have been 34 east vs. west games out of 129 played on this
list, for a 26.4%.
There have been 36 divisional games played on this list, or 6.4%.
There have been 41 games played at less than 75% capacity, or 7.2%.
Out of 150 games, the Islanders appear 12 times on this list, or 8.1%
and 2.2% out of 564 games.
** = new statistic.
Team leaders at more than 2,000 HOME empty seat games (150):
18 - Atlanta.
17 -
16 - Phoenix, Carolina.
15 -
14 - Columbus.
13 - Tampa Bay, Los Angeles.
12 - NY Islanders, Florida.
11 -
10 - Nashville, New Jersey.
9 - Colorado.
8 - / 7 - / 6 - / 5 - / 4 -
3 - Dallas.
2 - Boston, St. Louis.
1 -
Team leaders at less than 75% capacity games (41):
6 - Columbus, Atlanta.
5 - NY Islanders, Florida.
4 - Nashville, Tampa Bay, Carolina.
3 - New Jersey.
2 - Phoenix.
1 - Los Angeles, Colorado.
Team leaders at more than 2,000 TOTAL (home and away) empty seat
games (300):
23 - Atlanta.
22 - Phoenix, Carolina.
21 - Columbus.
20 - Florida.
19 - Nashville.
18 - Tampa Bay.
17 - NY Islanders, Los Angeles.
16 -
15 - Colorado.
14 -
13 - New Jersey.
12 - / 11 - / 10 -
9 - Minnesota.
8 - Dallas, San Jose.
7 - St. Louis, Vancouver.
6 - Edmonton, Ottawa, Philadelphia, Toronto.
5 - Calgary, Boston, Buffalo.
4 - Montreal, Pittsburgh, Washington.
3 - Anaheim, NY Ranjerks.
2 - Chicago.
1 -
0 - Detroit.
smallest crowd:
15. 10/23 - I-Dallas @ NY Islanders-16,234 - 10,183 = 6,051 = 62.7%.
lowest % of attendance:
41. 11/2 - D-Florida @ Atlanta - 18,545 - 10,584 = 7,961 = 57.1%.
empty seats, or 50.0%.
Out of 564 games played, there have been 150 played with MORE than
2,000 empty seats, or 26.6% of all games played.
There have been 34 east vs. west games out of 129 played on this
list, for a 26.4%.
There have been 36 divisional games played on this list, or 6.4%.
There have been 41 games played at less than 75% capacity, or 7.2%.
Out of 150 games, the Islanders appear 12 times on this list, or 8.1%
and 2.2% out of 564 games.
** = new statistic.
Team leaders at more than 2,000 HOME empty seat games (150):
18 - Atlanta.
17 -
16 - Phoenix, Carolina.
15 -
14 - Columbus.
13 - Tampa Bay, Los Angeles.
12 - NY Islanders, Florida.
11 -
10 - Nashville, New Jersey.
9 - Colorado.
8 - / 7 - / 6 - / 5 - / 4 -
3 - Dallas.
2 - Boston, St. Louis.
1 -
Team leaders at less than 75% capacity games (41):
6 - Columbus, Atlanta.
5 - NY Islanders, Florida.
4 - Nashville, Tampa Bay, Carolina.
3 - New Jersey.
2 - Phoenix.
1 - Los Angeles, Colorado.
Team leaders at more than 2,000 TOTAL (home and away) empty seat
games (300):
23 - Atlanta.
22 - Phoenix, Carolina.
21 - Columbus.
20 - Florida.
19 - Nashville.
18 - Tampa Bay.
17 - NY Islanders, Los Angeles.
16 -
15 - Colorado.
14 -
13 - New Jersey.
12 - / 11 - / 10 -
9 - Minnesota.
8 - Dallas, San Jose.
7 - St. Louis, Vancouver.
6 - Edmonton, Ottawa, Philadelphia, Toronto.
5 - Calgary, Boston, Buffalo.
4 - Montreal, Pittsburgh, Washington.
3 - Anaheim, NY Ranjerks.
2 - Chicago.
1 -
0 - Detroit.
smallest crowd:
15. 10/23 - I-Dallas @ NY Islanders-16,
lowest % of attendance:
41. 11/2 - D-Florida @ Atlanta - 18,545 - 10,584 = 7,961 = 57.1%.
Stolen from Forever1940
Visit forever1940.blogspot.com
A pair of third period milestones, but in the end an 11th straight road loss. On to the trick:
1. Moments after ex-Isle Olli Jokinen had given the Coyotes a 4-1 lead, Josh Bailey struck for the first NHL goal of his career. It came in his 25th NHL game. Bailey also was _+2, had four shots on goal and won 12 of 15 draws.
2. The game looked out of reach, but Richard Park scored twice in the final 3:06 to make the final minutes interesting. Doug Weight assisted on both goals for the 1000th and 1001st points of his NHL career. It was his 6th two-point game of the season. Weight leads the Isles in both assists (25) and points (32).
3. Weight reaches the milestone in 1167 games. He did it against one of his favorite opponents; Weight now has 63 points in 58 career games against the Jets/Coyotes.
and a few more...
4. The Isles are now 1-6-2 all-time in Phoenix, winning only in 2004.
5. The Isles have now scored four 6th attacker goals and allowed 1 in the last four games.
6. Guerin and Okposo each recorded assists to extend their point streaks to 5, but Comeau's point streak stopped at four, while Comrie's goal streak ended at 3. Comrie wnet down fighting -- a game-high 7 shots on goal; it's the 2nd straight game he's had 7 SOG's.
7. Rick DiPietro made 28 saves in his 5th start of the season. He recorded an assist for the second straight appearance, extending his club records for assists and points by a goalie to 15.
8. Lots of crooked numbers on the Isles +/- tonight. Gervais, Park, Guerin and Campoli were all +3 while Bailey was +2. However, Meyer was -4, Witt, Jackman, and Comrie were -3, Comeau and Bergenheim were -2. Only two crookeds for the Yote's: Michalek was +3 while Morris was -2.
9. When all was said and done, the Isles dropped to 6-12 in one-goal games (includes 4 ot/so losses). The 8 regulation one-goal losses share the league lead.
10. Up next: the road trip doesn't get any easier as the Isles head to the Tank to face the Sharks. The Sharks are 18-0-2 at home this season and haven't been beaten in regulation at home in over 10 months (26-0-3). The Sharks are 28-4-5 overall. A difficult task to be sure. But that's why they play the games.
1. Moments after ex-Isle Olli Jokinen had given the Coyotes a 4-1 lead, Josh Bailey struck for the first NHL goal of his career. It came in his 25th NHL game. Bailey also was _+2, had four shots on goal and won 12 of 15 draws.
2. The game looked out of reach, but Richard Park scored twice in the final 3:06 to make the final minutes interesting. Doug Weight assisted on both goals for the 1000th and 1001st points of his NHL career. It was his 6th two-point game of the season. Weight leads the Isles in both assists (25) and points (32).
3. Weight reaches the milestone in 1167 games. He did it against one of his favorite opponents; Weight now has 63 points in 58 career games against the Jets/Coyotes.
and a few more...
4. The Isles are now 1-6-2 all-time in Phoenix, winning only in 2004.
5. The Isles have now scored four 6th attacker goals and allowed 1 in the last four games.
6. Guerin and Okposo each recorded assists to extend their point streaks to 5, but Comeau's point streak stopped at four, while Comrie's goal streak ended at 3. Comrie wnet down fighting -- a game-high 7 shots on goal; it's the 2nd straight game he's had 7 SOG's.
7. Rick DiPietro made 28 saves in his 5th start of the season. He recorded an assist for the second straight appearance, extending his club records for assists and points by a goalie to 15.
8. Lots of crooked numbers on the Isles +/- tonight. Gervais, Park, Guerin and Campoli were all +3 while Bailey was +2. However, Meyer was -4, Witt, Jackman, and Comrie were -3, Comeau and Bergenheim were -2. Only two crookeds for the Yote's: Michalek was +3 while Morris was -2.
9. When all was said and done, the Isles dropped to 6-12 in one-goal games (includes 4 ot/so losses). The 8 regulation one-goal losses share the league lead.
10. Up next: the road trip doesn't get any easier as the Isles head to the Tank to face the Sharks. The Sharks are 18-0-2 at home this season and haven't been beaten in regulation at home in over 10 months (26-0-3). The Sharks are 28-4-5 overall. A difficult task to be sure. But that's why they play the games.
The Captains Game Report - Nassau Coliseum
Dec 31, 2008
Islanders 4 Florida Panthers 2 FINAL
Where do I begin?
Happy New Year to all !
Lets Go Tampa and Lets Go Atlanta tonight !!! We gained back two
of the points of the three point lead we have in the Tavares derby.
No wonder none of my "Mitch Fritz" text messages made it on the
scoreboard today. Mitch was waived today - and likely winds up in
Bridgeport. I am unhappy about this. We need a big time goon to go
up against Daniel Carcillo in PHX on Fri. Is Jackman going to be the
guy to get beat up again?
The ones that made it up ?
" Happy New Year"
"RaRa luvs the Lighthouse"
My theory - is that they take some early texts - those made early in
the night and loop them. Some guy named Tristan's name was up there
32 times. Then some attendant adds a few in - after scanning them
for things which might be offensive or not "Wang Approved" so
patience and an early arrival are key.
National Anthem singer - Alyssa Cavallano - a teenage girl who gave
a worthy effort - Happy New Year Alyssa !
Your State Farm Agent of the game ? Sandra Simpson of Wantagh.
Brithday of the day on the big screen ? Jason Sirianni - six years
old today and IN THE HOUSE!
Tuscan Dairy goal for first Comrie goal = Section 205 Row H Seat 7
The Scotto Brothers fan of the game - getting a certificate for
dinner for two at Fox Hollow Inn was in seat 6 Row C Section 124 x
Second goal by Comrie - SECTION 303 !!!! However, Row S seat 6 was
your winner - not us.
Bergenheim goal Section 337 Row F Seat 2 was the Tuscan Goal
winner of a Bergie autographed puck
The choice of songs for the Islanders to skate onto the ice to for
the third period
* Next to you - Buckcherry
* Tick Tock Boom - Hives
* Stay with me - Finch
GUess what won ? ( will disclose at end of report.)
Instead of the Lucky Puck Shuffle - with the three pucks ( one with
an Islander Logo) - having to guess which one has the logo after the
shuffle.....
in honor of Stonebridge Golf Course in Hauppauge. There were 4
bottles. Will disclose winner at end of report.
The Ice Girl 50/50 raffle was won by ticket number 488597 $ 1,065
was the winning amount. Our friend Dave O had ticket number 488598.
Last goal was Sectoin 104 Row J - Mark Streit
Comic Book Characters in attendance: Spiderman, Wolverine, Captain
America, the Incredible Hulk and Iron Man.
Hall of Fame announcers to make the scoreboard - Jiggs McDonald
(Back from Thailand !)
Also, one of the NY Lottery ladies - sorry - forgot which one -
hosted the between periods on ice gig where they give out prizes for
those who shoot the puck in the net from center ice.
My son's potential last game of the year before he heads back to
Chicago - is a winner. Suppose that his record - combined with
Roger's (who was in attendance) - they canceled each other out.
The game ? Not such an interesting game. We had a goal disallowed
and Comrie's first goal had to be reviewed. I am more interested in
game operations than the game these days. Have to get Tavares and
today's result is not helping.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL !!
Pat
************
Winning Song - Tick Tock Boom.
Champagne Puck Shuffle - Bottle # 1 was the correct answer. The dude
in the stands picked Bottle 4 - but they gave the prize anyway.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Esoteric NHL Standings 12 / 22 / 2008
EASTERN CONFERENCE (37)
1. Boston - 52 [33] ------- vs. 8. Buffalo - 37 [34]
2. NY Ranjerks - 46 [36] -- vs. 7. Pittsburgh - 40 [33]
3. Washington - 43 [34] --- vs. 6. New Jersey - 41 [31]
4. Philadelphia - 43 [33] - vs. 5. Montreal - 42 [33]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Carolina - 37 [34] -0
10. Florida - 34 [32] -3
11. Toronto - 34 [33] -3
12. Ottawa - 29 [31] -8
13. Atlanta - 26 [33] -11
14. Tampa Bay - 23 [32] -14
15. NY Islanders - 23 [33] -14
WESTERN CONFERENCE (35)
1. San Jose - 55 [33] --- vs. 8. Nashville - 35 [32]
2. Detroit - 48 [32] ---- vs. 7. Phoenix - 36 [34]
3. Vancouver - 41 [34] -- vs. 6. Anaheim - 39 [34]
4. Chicago - 43 [31] ---- vs. 5. Calgary - 40 [33]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Minnesota - 34 [32] -1
10. Edmonton - 33 [32] -2
11. Colorado - 33 [33] -2
12. Columbus - 32 [33](14W) -3
13. Los Angeles - 32 [33](13W) -3
14. Dallas - 31 [32] -4
15. St. Louis - 29 [33] -6
493 games played - 125 into OT - 25.4%.
125 OT games - 69 end in shootout = 55.2% OR 14.0% of ALL games end
in shootout.
Yesterday - 28 goals scored in 4 games = 7.00 goals per game.
Total - 2,887 goals scored in 493 games = 5.86 gpg.
2,887 goals minus 69 SO goals = 2,818 = 5.72 gpg minus shootout.
There have been 57 shutouts = 1 per 8.65 games.
The eastern conference is 48-51-15 for 111 out of a possible 228
points against the western conference. That equates to 48.7%.
The Isles have scored 81 goals = 2.45 gpg.
The Isles have allowed 120 goals = 3.64 gpg.
1. Boston - 52 [33] ------- vs. 8. Buffalo - 37 [34]
2. NY Ranjerks - 46 [36] -- vs. 7. Pittsburgh - 40 [33]
3. Washington - 43 [34] --- vs. 6. New Jersey - 41 [31]
4. Philadelphia - 43 [33] - vs. 5. Montreal - 42 [33]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Carolina - 37 [34] -0
10. Florida - 34 [32] -3
11. Toronto - 34 [33] -3
12. Ottawa - 29 [31] -8
13. Atlanta - 26 [33] -11
14. Tampa Bay - 23 [32] -14
15. NY Islanders - 23 [33] -14
WESTERN CONFERENCE (35)
1. San Jose - 55 [33] --- vs. 8. Nashville - 35 [32]
2. Detroit - 48 [32] ---- vs. 7. Phoenix - 36 [34]
3. Vancouver - 41 [34] -- vs. 6. Anaheim - 39 [34]
4. Chicago - 43 [31] ---- vs. 5. Calgary - 40 [33]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Minnesota - 34 [32] -1
10. Edmonton - 33 [32] -2
11. Colorado - 33 [33] -2
12. Columbus - 32 [33](14W) -3
13. Los Angeles - 32 [33](13W) -3
14. Dallas - 31 [32] -4
15. St. Louis - 29 [33] -6
493 games played - 125 into OT - 25.4%.
125 OT games - 69 end in shootout = 55.2% OR 14.0% of ALL games end
in shootout.
Yesterday - 28 goals scored in 4 games = 7.00 goals per game.
Total - 2,887 goals scored in 493 games = 5.86 gpg.
2,887 goals minus 69 SO goals = 2,818 = 5.72 gpg minus shootout.
There have been 57 shutouts = 1 per 8.65 games.
The eastern conference is 48-51-15 for 111 out of a possible 228
points against the western conference. That equates to 48.7%.
The Isles have scored 81 goals = 2.45 gpg.
The Isles have allowed 120 goals = 3.64 gpg.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
The Captain's Coliseum Report
Game Report
Capitals 5 Isles 4 ( OT )
Halfway decent crowd for a snowy night. Positive Bruce was there
with his son - and my son enjoyed sitting with them.
Brashear chickened out of a fight vs. Mitch Fritz. I remember
Brashear getting suspended for inferring that one of the Isles who
did not fight him a few years back ( Cairns?) was a nasty
term........and made a gesture which was quite vulgar.
As far as the game went - the Isles could have won this one. Nice
comeback effort. THe Caps have a pretty good team. they should have
won big.
Both goalies had goals they might want back. Especially Laich's goal
Getting to the important part
* State Farm Agent of the game - Victoria Van De Ven of Seaford -
named so at 7:28 PM.
* 50 / 50 raffle = $ 783.00
I got a lot in the third - when everyone thought they were done.
# of times - "Everybody clap your hands" = three
Song highlights - " Way-O" - "I like it like that" - "Dance Dance
Dance"
Song voted by the fans for the Isles to skate onto the ice in period
three - I forgot - but it was by Nickelback
I am not sure on the last sequence if Ovie had scored twice on the
same sequence - like Campoli did or not.
Anthem Singer - NONE - This was my 4th game in a row with out a
singer. Is this a cost cutting move - no one want to do it ?
End of report
Capitals 5 Isles 4 ( OT )
Halfway decent crowd for a snowy night. Positive Bruce was there
with his son - and my son enjoyed sitting with them.
Brashear chickened out of a fight vs. Mitch Fritz. I remember
Brashear getting suspended for inferring that one of the Isles who
did not fight him a few years back ( Cairns?) was a nasty
term........
As far as the game went - the Isles could have won this one. Nice
comeback effort. THe Caps have a pretty good team. they should have
won big.
Both goalies had goals they might want back. Especially Laich's goal
Getting to the important part
* State Farm Agent of the game - Victoria Van De Ven of Seaford -
named so at 7:28 PM.
* 50 / 50 raffle = $ 783.00
I got a lot in the third - when everyone thought they were done.
# of times - "Everybody clap your hands" = three
Song highlights - " Way-O" - "I like it like that" - "Dance Dance
Dance"
Song voted by the fans for the Isles to skate onto the ice in period
three - I forgot - but it was by Nickelback
I am not sure on the last sequence if Ovie had scored twice on the
same sequence - like Campoli did or not.
Anthem Singer - NONE - This was my 4th game in a row with out a
singer. Is this a cost cutting move - no one want to do it ?
End of report
Monday, December 15, 2008
Esoteric NHL Standings
EASTERN CONFERENCE (33)
1. Boston - 46 [30] ------- vs. 8. Buffalo - 33 [30]
2. NY Ranjerks - 42 [33] -- vs. 7. New Jersey - 34 [27]
3. Washington - 39 [31] --- vs. 6. Pittsburgh - 36 [30]
4. Philadelphia - 38 [29] - vs. 5. Montreal - 37 [29]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Florida - 31 [30](14W) -2
10. Carolina - 31 [30](13W) -2
11. Toronto - 28 [29] -5
12. Ottawa - 27 [28] -6
13. Atlanta - 22 [29] -11
14. NY Islanders - 22 [30](10W) -11
15. Tampa Bay - 22 [30](7W) -11
WESTERN CONFERENCE (31)
1. San Jose - 50 [29] --- vs. 8. Minnesota - 31 [29]
2. Detroit - 44 [29] ---- vs. 7. Nashville - 33 [29]
3. Vancouver - 37 [31] -- vs. 6. Calgary - 35 [30]
4. Chicago - 37 [28] ---- vs. 5. Anaheim - 37 [31]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Phoenix - 31 [30] -0
10. Edmonton - 30 [28] -1
11. Los Angeles - 30 [29] -1
12. Colorado - 29 [29] -2
13. Columbus - 29 [30] -2
14. St. Louis - 27 [29] -4
15. Dallas - 26 [29] -5
443 games played - 108 into OT - 24.4%.
108 OT games - 63 end in shootout = 58.3% OR 14.2% of ALL games end
in shootout.
Yesterday - 18 goals scored in 3 games = 6.00 goals per game.
Total - 2,580 goals scored in 443 games = 5.82 gpg.
2,580 goals minus 63 SO goals = 2,517 = 5.68 gpg minus shootout.
There have been 52 shutouts = 1 per 8.52 games.
The eastern conference is 40-48-14 for 94 out of a possible 204
points against the western conference. That equates to 46.1%.
The Isles have scored 76 goals = 2.53 gpg.
The Isles have allowed 110 goals = 3.67 gpg.
1. Boston - 46 [30] ------- vs. 8. Buffalo - 33 [30]
2. NY Ranjerks - 42 [33] -- vs. 7. New Jersey - 34 [27]
3. Washington - 39 [31] --- vs. 6. Pittsburgh - 36 [30]
4. Philadelphia - 38 [29] - vs. 5. Montreal - 37 [29]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Florida - 31 [30](14W) -2
10. Carolina - 31 [30](13W) -2
11. Toronto - 28 [29] -5
12. Ottawa - 27 [28] -6
13. Atlanta - 22 [29] -11
14. NY Islanders - 22 [30](10W) -11
15. Tampa Bay - 22 [30](7W) -11
WESTERN CONFERENCE (31)
1. San Jose - 50 [29] --- vs. 8. Minnesota - 31 [29]
2. Detroit - 44 [29] ---- vs. 7. Nashville - 33 [29]
3. Vancouver - 37 [31] -- vs. 6. Calgary - 35 [30]
4. Chicago - 37 [28] ---- vs. 5. Anaheim - 37 [31]
OUT OF PLAY-OFFS
9. Phoenix - 31 [30] -0
10. Edmonton - 30 [28] -1
11. Los Angeles - 30 [29] -1
12. Colorado - 29 [29] -2
13. Columbus - 29 [30] -2
14. St. Louis - 27 [29] -4
15. Dallas - 26 [29] -5
443 games played - 108 into OT - 24.4%.
108 OT games - 63 end in shootout = 58.3% OR 14.2% of ALL games end
in shootout.
Yesterday - 18 goals scored in 3 games = 6.00 goals per game.
Total - 2,580 goals scored in 443 games = 5.82 gpg.
2,580 goals minus 63 SO goals = 2,517 = 5.68 gpg minus shootout.
There have been 52 shutouts = 1 per 8.52 games.
The eastern conference is 40-48-14 for 94 out of a possible 204
points against the western conference. That equates to 46.1%.
The Isles have scored 76 goals = 2.53 gpg.
The Isles have allowed 110 goals = 3.67 gpg.
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