Last night, our Isles fell 3-0 to the Rangers! Here's some of my notes:
-Well for around half the game the Isles looked decent, and the other half they looked terrible! Not going to do much when that happens
-On the second goal, the guys went for a change with the puck at center ice. What in the world are you thinking? You learn when your young to get the puck deep when going off for a change.
I know this is small, but to be honest there's not much to say on this game to me, it was really bad!!
Next Game: Thursday @ Home VS Calgary (Blake Comeau returns to the Coliseum)
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 5-3!!!
Friday night, our Isles fell 5-3 to Phil Kessel and the Maple Leafs! Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Am I the only one who was pretty darn happy when they saw Doug Weight flipping out the bench after the possibly worst penalty call ever on Tavares toward the end of the third period? Its about time someone shows emotion, I don't understand how Cappy wasn't right there with him instead of telling him to calm down. Your STAR player gets cross checked in the head and gets called for a diving penalty and you don't do anything? Cmon now!! Also nice touch with the Gatorade when leaving the bench!
-Can NHL refs be fined for incompetency?? I know this seems like sour grapes, however when two head shots, plus brainless diving and a makeup call are made/missed how could it not be asked? I mean Tim Wallace was plainly hit right in the mouth coming up the boards, but nothing was called, even when he went down briefly. Then Matt Martin gets elbowed right in the face, and once again nothing is called. To top it off, the play continued for more then a little bit with him laying injured on the ice and the play on the total opposite end of the ice. Then the phantom dive as was just talked about. Then after that, they called Hamonic for cross checking in front of the net, and with the biggest makeup call of the year called the Leafs player for diving.
-PA Parenteau did something after the phantom trip that I had never seen before. He made motions with his arm similar to what football players do on defense to try and increase the crowd noise. However PA did it after the Tavares penalty, the first replay as he was skating back to the bench, he appeared to lift his arms in that motion as if encouraging the crowd to boo. I had never seen a hockey player do that before, and to be honest, props to PA for doing that because those refs deserved a lot worse then the extremely loud refs suck chant they got with a little over a minute left.
-The first two goals on Nabby were soft I thought!!!
-The shorty was embarrassing!
Well, two less then stellar games in a row for our Isles!! Hopefully they can turn it around in their next game!
Next Game: Tomorrow 7PM @ NY Rangers
-Am I the only one who was pretty darn happy when they saw Doug Weight flipping out the bench after the possibly worst penalty call ever on Tavares toward the end of the third period? Its about time someone shows emotion, I don't understand how Cappy wasn't right there with him instead of telling him to calm down. Your STAR player gets cross checked in the head and gets called for a diving penalty and you don't do anything? Cmon now!! Also nice touch with the Gatorade when leaving the bench!
-Can NHL refs be fined for incompetency?? I know this seems like sour grapes, however when two head shots, plus brainless diving and a makeup call are made/missed how could it not be asked? I mean Tim Wallace was plainly hit right in the mouth coming up the boards, but nothing was called, even when he went down briefly. Then Matt Martin gets elbowed right in the face, and once again nothing is called. To top it off, the play continued for more then a little bit with him laying injured on the ice and the play on the total opposite end of the ice. Then the phantom dive as was just talked about. Then after that, they called Hamonic for cross checking in front of the net, and with the biggest makeup call of the year called the Leafs player for diving.
-PA Parenteau did something after the phantom trip that I had never seen before. He made motions with his arm similar to what football players do on defense to try and increase the crowd noise. However PA did it after the Tavares penalty, the first replay as he was skating back to the bench, he appeared to lift his arms in that motion as if encouraging the crowd to boo. I had never seen a hockey player do that before, and to be honest, props to PA for doing that because those refs deserved a lot worse then the extremely loud refs suck chant they got with a little over a minute left.
-The first two goals on Nabby were soft I thought!!!
-The shorty was embarrassing!
Well, two less then stellar games in a row for our Isles!! Hopefully they can turn it around in their next game!
Next Game: Tomorrow 7PM @ NY Rangers
Happy Holidays!!!
We here at savetheisles just wanted to wish you all a very Happy Holiday season. We thank you so, so much for all your support over the last 6+ months and look forward to doing the blog for a lot longer!!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Pre Game: Maple leafs @ Islanders!!
Tonight, a high public enemy in Islander land named Dion Phaneuf travels to the Coliseum with the Maple Leafs to take on our Islanders.
Arthur Staple reported this morning that we will ice the same lineup tonight as last night, goalie included. That means Evgeni Nabakov will be making his second straight start for us. Additionally fighter, Michael Haley will be in the lineup.
The last time Haley was in the lineup vs the Leafs it got interesting. You might remember in a game last season, after Dion laid what appeared to be a questionable hit on forward Justin Dibendetto, Haley went up to Phaneuf and just knocked him right down, and ended getting a two minute penalty for the hit.
I am hoping tensions such as that are in full force tonight, and I expect the boo birds will be out in full force for Phaneuf.
The Leafs played last night to so lets hope the Isles can use the younger legs they have to jump on them early and often. Also throughout this game I have a feeling Phil Kessel and Travis Hamonic will become quite friendly with each other.
Arthur Staple reported this morning that we will ice the same lineup tonight as last night, goalie included. That means Evgeni Nabakov will be making his second straight start for us. Additionally fighter, Michael Haley will be in the lineup.
The last time Haley was in the lineup vs the Leafs it got interesting. You might remember in a game last season, after Dion laid what appeared to be a questionable hit on forward Justin Dibendetto, Haley went up to Phaneuf and just knocked him right down, and ended getting a two minute penalty for the hit.
I am hoping tensions such as that are in full force tonight, and I expect the boo birds will be out in full force for Phaneuf.
The Leafs played last night to so lets hope the Isles can use the younger legs they have to jump on them early and often. Also throughout this game I have a feeling Phil Kessel and Travis Hamonic will become quite friendly with each other.
Post Game: Isles lose 4-2!!
Last night our Islanders fell 4-2 to the Rangers! Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Poor defense costed us in this one!
-On the first Ranger goal it was like nobody wanted to defend Dubinsky. He just went right through two people like it was nothing! That is unacceptable!!
-The second Ranger goal was blown coverage! No offensive player should ever be left alone in front off a faceoff, let alone a guy with the skill of Gaborik. Bad job by Grabner there losing his man!
-It was nice to finally get some powerplay goals in this game! However, I am still far from sold on it!
-Nice third period by Tim Wallace and Matt Martin trying to give the team some energy to get back in the game.
-I think Howie was rusty last night because he was screwing peoples names up left and right. He was taking a page from the book of Goring/Peter.
Well, this was a disappointing game to say the least! However lets hope the Isles can rebound with a big win tonight!
Next Game: Tonight @ Home VS Toronto
-Poor defense costed us in this one!
-On the first Ranger goal it was like nobody wanted to defend Dubinsky. He just went right through two people like it was nothing! That is unacceptable!!
-The second Ranger goal was blown coverage! No offensive player should ever be left alone in front off a faceoff, let alone a guy with the skill of Gaborik. Bad job by Grabner there losing his man!
-It was nice to finally get some powerplay goals in this game! However, I am still far from sold on it!
-Nice third period by Tim Wallace and Matt Martin trying to give the team some energy to get back in the game.
-I think Howie was rusty last night because he was screwing peoples names up left and right. He was taking a page from the book of Goring/Peter.
Well, this was a disappointing game to say the least! However lets hope the Isles can rebound with a big win tonight!
Next Game: Tonight @ Home VS Toronto
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Pre Game: Isles @ Jets
photo taken from images.wikia.com
Tonight, our New York Islanders travel to the home town of defenseman Travis Hamonic to take on Evander Kane and the Jets.
Al Montoya will get the nod in net for the Isles tonight, with the same lineup taking the ice for the Isles tonight as the lineup in their game over the weekend in Minny.
Arthur Staple reported that Evgeni Nabakov will start at least one of the next three games because we have three in the next four days.
You have to think the Isles will come out looking for revenge because the Jets really took it to the Isles in their visit to the Coliseum back in November. So it should be interesting to see how this game turns out.
Tonight, our New York Islanders travel to the home town of defenseman Travis Hamonic to take on Evander Kane and the Jets.
Al Montoya will get the nod in net for the Isles tonight, with the same lineup taking the ice for the Isles tonight as the lineup in their game over the weekend in Minny.
Arthur Staple reported that Evgeni Nabakov will start at least one of the next three games because we have three in the next four days.
You have to think the Isles will come out looking for revenge because the Jets really took it to the Isles in their visit to the Coliseum back in November. So it should be interesting to see how this game turns out.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Post Game: Isles win 2-1 in shootout!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders defeated the best team in the NHL the Minnesota Wild by a score of 2-1 in a shootout. Here are some of my notes:
-Isles played really really well tonight!!
-Large portion of the game they outplayed the best team in the NHL which is pretty impressive!!
-What the heck is wrong with Mark Streit?
-Backstrom stood on his head for Minny stoning the Isles on many good chances!!
-Tavares and Okposo both had solid games!!
-Hamonic and Amac is def the Isles number one d pair now. Mark Streit definitely isn't a top two defenseman anymore.
-Solid game by the fourth line!!
-The Bridgeport callups continue to play solid games!! They don't look out of place and are doing there jobs well!
-Day off helped Montoya!! He played really solid tonight!!
-Having Amac and Nino back made a difference!! This was one of the Isles best games in weeks!!
This afternoon I said that hopefully the roster upgrades will come in handy and it looks as though they did. This was a huge win as the Isles largely outplayed the best team in the NHL right now! Hopefully we can build on this vs the Jets
Next Game: Tuesday @ WPG 8:30 PM
-Isles played really really well tonight!!
-Large portion of the game they outplayed the best team in the NHL which is pretty impressive!!
-What the heck is wrong with Mark Streit?
-Backstrom stood on his head for Minny stoning the Isles on many good chances!!
-Tavares and Okposo both had solid games!!
-Hamonic and Amac is def the Isles number one d pair now. Mark Streit definitely isn't a top two defenseman anymore.
-Solid game by the fourth line!!
-The Bridgeport callups continue to play solid games!! They don't look out of place and are doing there jobs well!
-Day off helped Montoya!! He played really solid tonight!!
-Having Amac and Nino back made a difference!! This was one of the Isles best games in weeks!!
This afternoon I said that hopefully the roster upgrades will come in handy and it looks as though they did. This was a huge win as the Isles largely outplayed the best team in the NHL right now! Hopefully we can build on this vs the Jets
Next Game: Tuesday @ WPG 8:30 PM
Pre Game: Isles @ Wild!! Amac/Nino returning!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders travel to the hometowns of Kyle Okposo as well as prospect Aaron Ness to take on Dany Heatly and the Minnesota Wild.
Tonight, defenseman Andrew MacDonald and forward Nino Niederreiter return to the lineup. MacDonald has been out since blocking a shot late in a game in Buffalo a few weeks ago and getting a bad bone bruise in his leg. Nino has been out for exactly two weeks, after being concussed on a dirty hit by Dallas Stars defensman Mark Fistric. Brian Rolston will be out of the lineup tonight after reportedly suffering a concussion in the game the other night.
Al Montoya will return to the net tonight getting the start for the Isles. Hopefully his day off Thursday will help him out!
This will be a tough game for our Isles as Minnesota is a good team!! Getting Nino and Amac back will certainly help though, so hopefully the roster upgrades will help lead us to victory tonight as we could sure use it.
Tonight, defenseman Andrew MacDonald and forward Nino Niederreiter return to the lineup. MacDonald has been out since blocking a shot late in a game in Buffalo a few weeks ago and getting a bad bone bruise in his leg. Nino has been out for exactly two weeks, after being concussed on a dirty hit by Dallas Stars defensman Mark Fistric. Brian Rolston will be out of the lineup tonight after reportedly suffering a concussion in the game the other night.
Al Montoya will return to the net tonight getting the start for the Isles. Hopefully his day off Thursday will help him out!
This will be a tough game for our Isles as Minnesota is a good team!! Getting Nino and Amac back will certainly help though, so hopefully the roster upgrades will help lead us to victory tonight as we could sure use it.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Former Isles coach/GM Milbury facing charges of assault and battery on a child!
According to various news outlets, former Isles and Bruins coach and Islanders GM Mike Milbury is facing charges of assault and battery on a child, threatening to commit a crime, and disorderly conduct.
Milbury through his attorney denied all allegations saying that he intervened in an altercation between his son and another player. Also that noone was hurt or threatened.
According to reports the incident happened on December 9th in a game between Milburys sons team and another team in which Milbury was acting as an assistant coach for his sons team. There was allegedly some talk back and forth between Milburys son and this other boy, and that caused Milbury to come off the bench onto the ice and grab the twelve year old boy.
Milbury allegedly picked the boy up by his shirt collar and shook him before some other parents stepped in to break it up.
Wow, I don't even know what to say to this! If this is in fact true, then Milbury is even stupider then we all thought he was!!
Milbury through his attorney denied all allegations saying that he intervened in an altercation between his son and another player. Also that noone was hurt or threatened.
According to reports the incident happened on December 9th in a game between Milburys sons team and another team in which Milbury was acting as an assistant coach for his sons team. There was allegedly some talk back and forth between Milburys son and this other boy, and that caused Milbury to come off the bench onto the ice and grab the twelve year old boy.
Milbury allegedly picked the boy up by his shirt collar and shook him before some other parents stepped in to break it up.
Wow, I don't even know what to say to this! If this is in fact true, then Milbury is even stupider then we all thought he was!!
Post Game: Isles lose 3-2 to Dallas!!
Last night, our Islanders fell 3-2 to the Dallas Stars. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Dallas wussied out by scratching Fistric for this game. They should've played him so he couldve answered for what he did. Hopefully he will get his, sooner rather then later.
-Refs were GOD AWFUL last night!!! I don't know how someone just didn't throw a freaking fit with the amount of soft and just plain bad calls that the refs made!!
-Were you as surprised as I was that they allowed the first Isles goal to stand? After seeing the replay I thought they were going to disallow it but was pleasantly surprised they didn't. They got lucky because they looked terrible in the first period so to come out with a tie was big.
-Poulin played pretty well! Outside of that third goal which I am sorry but he has to stop, he didn't play bad, and I was pleasantly surprised!
-Powerplay is atrocious!!
-If you didn't realize, Brian Rolston left the game last night with a concussion. So thats possibly Staios and now Rolston out with concussions. The only good thing about the powerplay last night was that Rolston was no longer on the point, because he is horrible there! One thing that made me cringe though was seeing Mike Mottau out there.
-Calvin De Haan didn't look bad in his NHL debut, if you didn't see, he and Poulin were both returned to Bridgeport today.
This wasn't an idea game by any stretch of the word, however the Isles didn't play horrible!! Hopefully they are able come back with a better showing tomorrow night!
Next Game: Tomorrow night 8PM @ Minny
-Dallas wussied out by scratching Fistric for this game. They should've played him so he couldve answered for what he did. Hopefully he will get his, sooner rather then later.
-Refs were GOD AWFUL last night!!! I don't know how someone just didn't throw a freaking fit with the amount of soft and just plain bad calls that the refs made!!
-Were you as surprised as I was that they allowed the first Isles goal to stand? After seeing the replay I thought they were going to disallow it but was pleasantly surprised they didn't. They got lucky because they looked terrible in the first period so to come out with a tie was big.
-Poulin played pretty well! Outside of that third goal which I am sorry but he has to stop, he didn't play bad, and I was pleasantly surprised!
-Powerplay is atrocious!!
-If you didn't realize, Brian Rolston left the game last night with a concussion. So thats possibly Staios and now Rolston out with concussions. The only good thing about the powerplay last night was that Rolston was no longer on the point, because he is horrible there! One thing that made me cringe though was seeing Mike Mottau out there.
-Calvin De Haan didn't look bad in his NHL debut, if you didn't see, he and Poulin were both returned to Bridgeport today.
This wasn't an idea game by any stretch of the word, however the Isles didn't play horrible!! Hopefully they are able come back with a better showing tomorrow night!
Next Game: Tomorrow night 8PM @ Minny
Nino Cleared to play!!
According to the Islanders twitter account, Jack Capuano confirmed this morning that rookie forward Nino Niederreiter has been cleared to play.
Nino who hasn't played in two weeks after being concussed by Dallas defenseman Mark Fistric in a game two weeks ago in Dallas would be a big asset for the Isles to get back. Nino seemed to be getting his legs under him right before he got taken out.
Hopefully he is able to return without any set backs and pick up right from where he left off. However as we've seen all to many times this year in the NHL especially with concussions, you just never know.
Nino who hasn't played in two weeks after being concussed by Dallas defenseman Mark Fistric in a game two weeks ago in Dallas would be a big asset for the Isles to get back. Nino seemed to be getting his legs under him right before he got taken out.
Hopefully he is able to return without any set backs and pick up right from where he left off. However as we've seen all to many times this year in the NHL especially with concussions, you just never know.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 6-3! Hamonic lost on terrible call!
Tonight, our Isles fell 6-3 to the Penguins! Heres some notes:
-AWFUL call on Hamonic in the 2nd period! To me that call shouldn't have even been a penalty, let alone a 5 min major and a misconduct! What the hell was the ref looking at to make that call? I know it certainly wasn't the game!! Hamonic didn't even hit him above shoulder level and Orpiks OWN stick hit himself in the face. One of the most bogus penalty calls period that I have ever seen!! How that is called but the hit on Nino isn't mystifies me.
-Rare bad game for Al Montoya, let in more then one soft goal. Ill give him a pass because its bound to happen though!
-Nice goal by Ullstrom
-Terrible game by Mark Streit tonight!! He was responsible for the first pens goal and just had a bad game all around tonight!!
-Lot of defensive breakdowns which led to many easy chances for the Pens.
-Doug Weight needs to get to work because the powerplay is terrible!!! Hes gotta do something because what ever he is doing now is obviously, not working!!
-Brian Rolston is atrocious!! He brings nothing to the team outside of being an older player which hasn't done much good yet this year!!
-Why is Marty Reasoner playing over Haley??? Haley brings energy to the team which is something Reasoner lacks extremely and Reasoner has stone hands. Sure Haley is no sniper but he can do the role Reasoner has been playing this year a hell of a lot better then Reasoner can.
-Further if Haley isn't going to play why not just send him back to Bridgeport? Makes no sense to make him sit in the press box every game almost.
-Congrats to Matt Martin on his 100th game with the Islanders!
-That third period tonight was just pathetic! Its like I said on twitter, the Isles would've been better off not even coming out for the third because they didn't even play. They seemed to be like asleep for the hole period! After this game I would've been embarrassed to be in that room, because they had a big crowd here tonight and to come out and play like that, just going through the motions basically is disgraceful, and a disservice to the fans!!
After some hot play recently this game certainly lightened the sails so to speak.
Next Game: Tuesday @ Montreal
-AWFUL call on Hamonic in the 2nd period! To me that call shouldn't have even been a penalty, let alone a 5 min major and a misconduct! What the hell was the ref looking at to make that call? I know it certainly wasn't the game!! Hamonic didn't even hit him above shoulder level and Orpiks OWN stick hit himself in the face. One of the most bogus penalty calls period that I have ever seen!! How that is called but the hit on Nino isn't mystifies me.
-Rare bad game for Al Montoya, let in more then one soft goal. Ill give him a pass because its bound to happen though!
-Nice goal by Ullstrom
-Terrible game by Mark Streit tonight!! He was responsible for the first pens goal and just had a bad game all around tonight!!
-Lot of defensive breakdowns which led to many easy chances for the Pens.
-Doug Weight needs to get to work because the powerplay is terrible!!! Hes gotta do something because what ever he is doing now is obviously, not working!!
-Brian Rolston is atrocious!! He brings nothing to the team outside of being an older player which hasn't done much good yet this year!!
-Why is Marty Reasoner playing over Haley??? Haley brings energy to the team which is something Reasoner lacks extremely and Reasoner has stone hands. Sure Haley is no sniper but he can do the role Reasoner has been playing this year a hell of a lot better then Reasoner can.
-Further if Haley isn't going to play why not just send him back to Bridgeport? Makes no sense to make him sit in the press box every game almost.
-Congrats to Matt Martin on his 100th game with the Islanders!
-That third period tonight was just pathetic! Its like I said on twitter, the Isles would've been better off not even coming out for the third because they didn't even play. They seemed to be like asleep for the hole period! After this game I would've been embarrassed to be in that room, because they had a big crowd here tonight and to come out and play like that, just going through the motions basically is disgraceful, and a disservice to the fans!!
After some hot play recently this game certainly lightened the sails so to speak.
Next Game: Tuesday @ Montreal
Pre Game: Pens @ Isles
Tonight, the Sidney Crosbyless Penguins visit the Nassau Coliseum to take on the surging NY Islanders.
Al Montoya gets the start in net for us once again tonight!! It should be the same lineup for the Isles as two nights ago vs the Blackhawks.
If you didn't see, the Penguins will be missing some key players tonight as Sidney Crosby, Jordan Staal, Kris Letang, and Z. Michalek will all not be suiting up tonight for the Pens.
With them out, tonight is a huge chance for the Isles to pull off a victory!!
Lets hope the Isles can keep the hot play up tonight vs a depleted Pens team!!
Al Montoya gets the start in net for us once again tonight!! It should be the same lineup for the Isles as two nights ago vs the Blackhawks.
If you didn't see, the Penguins will be missing some key players tonight as Sidney Crosby, Jordan Staal, Kris Letang, and Z. Michalek will all not be suiting up tonight for the Pens.
With them out, tonight is a huge chance for the Isles to pull off a victory!!
Lets hope the Isles can keep the hot play up tonight vs a depleted Pens team!!
Friday, December 9, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 3-2 in shootout!!
Last night, our New York Islanders fell 3-2 in overtime to the Blackhawks. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Not a bad overall game from the team and nice to get a point!
-The first Blackhawk goal was a rare cheapy!
-Powerplay needs to bounce back, you can't have a full two minute 5-3 and not pot one!
-Nice crowd after tuesdays small attendance!
-Nice comeback from the team though!! They showed good resolve to not be blown down by the fact that they were having trouble beating Emery and just stick with it and low and behold.
-Not the way you would've like to see the game end with the bad rebound but a points a point, now we stroll on to tomorrow!
Next Game: Tomorrow Night @ home vs the Penguins
-Not a bad overall game from the team and nice to get a point!
-The first Blackhawk goal was a rare cheapy!
-Powerplay needs to bounce back, you can't have a full two minute 5-3 and not pot one!
-Nice crowd after tuesdays small attendance!
-Nice comeback from the team though!! They showed good resolve to not be blown down by the fact that they were having trouble beating Emery and just stick with it and low and behold.
-Not the way you would've like to see the game end with the bad rebound but a points a point, now we stroll on to tomorrow!
Next Game: Tomorrow Night @ home vs the Penguins
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Pre Game: Blackhawks @ Islanders
Tonight, Patrick Kane and the Chicago Blackhawks travel to the old barn in Hempstead for their lone visit on the year to take on John Tavares and our New York Islanders.
Al Montoya is going to get his 7th straight start tonight in net for the Islanders, and he will go up against Ray Emery for the Blackhawks. Ray Emery is 5-0-1 with a GAA under two versus the Islanders in his career, so hopefully the Islanders can knock him off his high horse so to speak and light him up tonight sorta like they did Crawford last week in Chicago.
Michael Grabner will be returning to the lineup tonight for the Islanders after missing Tuesday Nights game with a back issue. Tim Wallace was switched from an emergency recall to a regular recall and Michael Haley will be scratched tonight to make room back in the lineup for Grabner.
The Islanders with points in their last 5 games are starting to put that month and a half of crap play to bed slowly. Lets hope they can keep it up with another nice effort tonight!!
Al Montoya is going to get his 7th straight start tonight in net for the Islanders, and he will go up against Ray Emery for the Blackhawks. Ray Emery is 5-0-1 with a GAA under two versus the Islanders in his career, so hopefully the Islanders can knock him off his high horse so to speak and light him up tonight sorta like they did Crawford last week in Chicago.
Michael Grabner will be returning to the lineup tonight for the Islanders after missing Tuesday Nights game with a back issue. Tim Wallace was switched from an emergency recall to a regular recall and Michael Haley will be scratched tonight to make room back in the lineup for Grabner.
The Islanders with points in their last 5 games are starting to put that month and a half of crap play to bed slowly. Lets hope they can keep it up with another nice effort tonight!!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Shanny does right, Suspends Fistric for 3 games for hit on Nino!
Earlier this afternoon, it was announced that Dallas Stars defenseman Mark Fistric would be suspended 3 games for his hit on Nino in the game this past Saturday night in Dallas.
As a result of this hit Nino suffered a concussion, and hasn't been on the ice since.
In his video explaining the suspension, Shannahan cited the dirty nature of the hit, the injury suffered by Nino, and Fistrics history as key reasons for the suspension. Fistric was given a match penalty and fined for a similar hit last season for those that didn't know.
I am personally happy with this!! I didn't expect him to get suspended this long based of prior history of cases similar to this involving the Islanders. The fact that he got suspended was a pleasing surprise for me. Now, we just need to hope that Nino is back soon!!
As a result of this hit Nino suffered a concussion, and hasn't been on the ice since.
In his video explaining the suspension, Shannahan cited the dirty nature of the hit, the injury suffered by Nino, and Fistrics history as key reasons for the suspension. Fistric was given a match penalty and fined for a similar hit last season for those that didn't know.
I am personally happy with this!! I didn't expect him to get suspended this long based of prior history of cases similar to this involving the Islanders. The fact that he got suspended was a pleasing surprise for me. Now, we just need to hope that Nino is back soon!!
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Post Game: Isles win 5-1 in dominating fashion!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning by a score of 5-1. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Congrats to David Ullstrom on his first National Hockey League goal!!! First of many!!
-Nice to see Tavares finally get back on the board!!!
-Matt Moulson is well saying he is on fire is a drastic drastic understatement!! On pace for 46 goals, lets hope!!
-The passing on that third goal was so pretty!! Left me with my jaw on the floor!!!
-Al Montoya continues to be an absolute beast!!
-Crowd was on the smaller side tonight but they were into the game!!
-Nice game by Tim Wallace, picking up the assist on Matt Martins goal and overall played well!!
-Nice goal by Matt Martin, an argument can certainly be made that he is the Islanders most improved player this year!
-I don't know what happened to Marty Reasoner but he hasn't been good this year!! He had 32 points last year which for a bottom 6 forward is pretty good, what happened to that? If this is all he is going to be then Konopka shouldve been kept. In my opinion at least!!
Well, it was certainly nice after their nice road trip for the team to come home and not only beat but in large part dominate the team that made it to the Eastern Conference Finals last year.
Next Game: Thursday @ Home VS The Blackhawks
-Congrats to David Ullstrom on his first National Hockey League goal!!! First of many!!
-Nice to see Tavares finally get back on the board!!!
-Matt Moulson is well saying he is on fire is a drastic drastic understatement!! On pace for 46 goals, lets hope!!
-The passing on that third goal was so pretty!! Left me with my jaw on the floor!!!
-Al Montoya continues to be an absolute beast!!
-Crowd was on the smaller side tonight but they were into the game!!
-Nice game by Tim Wallace, picking up the assist on Matt Martins goal and overall played well!!
-Nice goal by Matt Martin, an argument can certainly be made that he is the Islanders most improved player this year!
-I don't know what happened to Marty Reasoner but he hasn't been good this year!! He had 32 points last year which for a bottom 6 forward is pretty good, what happened to that? If this is all he is going to be then Konopka shouldve been kept. In my opinion at least!!
Well, it was certainly nice after their nice road trip for the team to come home and not only beat but in large part dominate the team that made it to the Eastern Conference Finals last year.
Next Game: Thursday @ Home VS The Blackhawks
Monday, December 5, 2011
Nino has a concussion!!
If you missed it, rookie forward Nino Niederriter was diagnosed with a concussion yesterday after taking the in my opinion illegal check courtesy of Stars defenseman Mark Fistric on Saturday night in the Islanders @ Stars game.
About six minutes into the first period the Stars defenseman lined Nino up and came across the ice and in my opinon aimed right for the head and after contact left his feet on the follow through. Right following the hit, Matt Martin who was right beside the play dropped his gloves and went with Fistric. However, the refs broke them up quickly so they didn't really have a chance to go. Look for them to go on December 15th though when the Stars come to the Coliseum.
Nino, at first looked ok, but after he started skating you could see he was out of it and needed to be helped off the ice. What got me was, on the play it actually resulted in the Islanders being down a man since Fistric wasn't penalized for the hit. Matt Martin was given a double minor for roughing and Fistric simply a roughing minor. Very, very poor job by the officials there!!!
Speculation from Chris Botta and BD Gallof on twitter suggest that they expect Fistric to be suspended between 1 and 3 games. I hope they are right because it would be a gross injustice if they let him off scot free.
About six minutes into the first period the Stars defenseman lined Nino up and came across the ice and in my opinon aimed right for the head and after contact left his feet on the follow through. Right following the hit, Matt Martin who was right beside the play dropped his gloves and went with Fistric. However, the refs broke them up quickly so they didn't really have a chance to go. Look for them to go on December 15th though when the Stars come to the Coliseum.
Nino, at first looked ok, but after he started skating you could see he was out of it and needed to be helped off the ice. What got me was, on the play it actually resulted in the Islanders being down a man since Fistric wasn't penalized for the hit. Matt Martin was given a double minor for roughing and Fistric simply a roughing minor. Very, very poor job by the officials there!!!
Speculation from Chris Botta and BD Gallof on twitter suggest that they expect Fistric to be suspended between 1 and 3 games. I hope they are right because it would be a gross injustice if they let him off scot free.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Post Game: Isles win 5-4 amognst injuries!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders defeated the Stars by a score of 5-4. Here are some of my notes:
-I have will have an entry following this one on the Nino hit, briefly though I thought it was dirty and think it will be reviewed by Shannahan.
-Matt Moulson is the story tonight!! 4 goals in a game, wow he is crazy hot right now!! Five years to the day since an Islander got 4 goals in a game (Kozlov 12/3/06 vs the Rangers)
-Why does Marty Reasoner play over Haley?? Now with the injuries they'll both be in there, but before the injuries it didn't make sense to me. Capuano requests Haley be called up, he plays two games, does his and job and well then gets scratched for the subsequent games. It makes no sense to me!!
-Al Montoya saved us again in the third period especially in the final minute! He is simply amazing!!
-Rick Dipietro was injured in the second period today which is why Montoya had to come in. One has to wonder if this injury is severe enough to warrant a Bridegport callup.
-Congrats to Dylan Reese on his first goal of the season!!
-Even though he isn't scoring Tavares continues to put up points.
-Pa Parenteau is quietly having a solid season!!
-Travis Hamonic was huge in the final minute killing nearly ten second taking on three Stars players.
In the pre game I said that this game could go one of two ways. Either they could come out tired and put up a clunker or they could come out play another solid game and start to prove something. I don't know about you but I am very happy it was the latter.
Next Game: Tuesday @ Home 7PM VS the Lightning
-I have will have an entry following this one on the Nino hit, briefly though I thought it was dirty and think it will be reviewed by Shannahan.
-Matt Moulson is the story tonight!! 4 goals in a game, wow he is crazy hot right now!! Five years to the day since an Islander got 4 goals in a game (Kozlov 12/3/06 vs the Rangers)
-Why does Marty Reasoner play over Haley?? Now with the injuries they'll both be in there, but before the injuries it didn't make sense to me. Capuano requests Haley be called up, he plays two games, does his and job and well then gets scratched for the subsequent games. It makes no sense to me!!
-Al Montoya saved us again in the third period especially in the final minute! He is simply amazing!!
-Rick Dipietro was injured in the second period today which is why Montoya had to come in. One has to wonder if this injury is severe enough to warrant a Bridegport callup.
-Congrats to Dylan Reese on his first goal of the season!!
-Even though he isn't scoring Tavares continues to put up points.
-Pa Parenteau is quietly having a solid season!!
-Travis Hamonic was huge in the final minute killing nearly ten second taking on three Stars players.
In the pre game I said that this game could go one of two ways. Either they could come out tired and put up a clunker or they could come out play another solid game and start to prove something. I don't know about you but I am very happy it was the latter.
Next Game: Tuesday @ Home 7PM VS the Lightning
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Pre Game: Isles @ Dallas!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders finish off their 4 game road trip and travel to Dallas to take on Brandon Morrow and the Dallas Stars.
Andrew Rycroft will be in net for Dallas, and although it hasn't been announced given his heavy workload recently I expect Al Montoya to get the night off tonight and have Rick Dipietro get the start between the pipes.
After a very solid game last night, but a long game it should be interesting to see how the team looks. There is a chance that after a 65 minute game plus shootout last night then flight after the game that they could come out tired and have this be a real downer to end what has otherwise been a pretty solid trip. Or they could come out and start to prove that they are ready and put on a solid showing. Either way it should be an interesting game from Dallas tonight!!
Andrew Rycroft will be in net for Dallas, and although it hasn't been announced given his heavy workload recently I expect Al Montoya to get the night off tonight and have Rick Dipietro get the start between the pipes.
After a very solid game last night, but a long game it should be interesting to see how the team looks. There is a chance that after a 65 minute game plus shootout last night then flight after the game that they could come out tired and have this be a real downer to end what has otherwise been a pretty solid trip. Or they could come out and start to prove that they are ready and put on a solid showing. Either way it should be an interesting game from Dallas tonight!!
Post Game: Isles lose 5-4 in a shootout!!
Last night, our New York Islanders fell to the Blackhawks by a score of 5-4 in a shootout. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Outside of the second period this was a very good game!!
-The second period was awful, the team got ridiculously outplayed and its fair to say that with a better second period that we would've gotten the extra point in this one.
-The third period however, might've been the best third period I have seen this team play throughout the course of this rebuild. They simply dominated them from start to finish coming just two shots away from setting a franchise record for shots in a period.
-You know this game is something when the powerplay actually plays well!!!
-40 shots on goal must be a season high, it was really nice to see the team actually SHOOT!!!
-Al Montoya is a beast!! Simple as that!!
-Great shot by Nino on the tying goal!! Hopefully this gets him started!!
Overall, minus the second period this was a very good game from the team!! Hopefully the play continues tonight, should be interesting to see if the team is any different since I expect DP to be in net.
Next Game: Tonight 8:30PM @ Dallas
-Outside of the second period this was a very good game!!
-The second period was awful, the team got ridiculously outplayed and its fair to say that with a better second period that we would've gotten the extra point in this one.
-The third period however, might've been the best third period I have seen this team play throughout the course of this rebuild. They simply dominated them from start to finish coming just two shots away from setting a franchise record for shots in a period.
-You know this game is something when the powerplay actually plays well!!!
-40 shots on goal must be a season high, it was really nice to see the team actually SHOOT!!!
-Al Montoya is a beast!! Simple as that!!
-Great shot by Nino on the tying goal!! Hopefully this gets him started!!
Overall, minus the second period this was a very good game from the team!! Hopefully the play continues tonight, should be interesting to see if the team is any different since I expect DP to be in net.
Next Game: Tonight 8:30PM @ Dallas
Friday, December 2, 2011
Pre Game: Isles @ Hawks!!!
Tonight, our Islanders travel to Chicago to take on Patrick Kane and the Blackhawks.
The goal tending matchup will be Al Montoya starting his hometown for the Islanders against Corey Crawford for the Blackhawks.
Michael Haley is scratched once again for the Isles as they go with the same lineup as the other night vs the Sabres when they won 2-1.
Hopefully the Islanders can keep up this play they have exhibited over the last week give it take. If they can, they have as good a shot as any to win the game tonight. It should be a good game!!
The goal tending matchup will be Al Montoya starting his hometown for the Islanders against Corey Crawford for the Blackhawks.
Michael Haley is scratched once again for the Isles as they go with the same lineup as the other night vs the Sabres when they won 2-1.
Hopefully the Islanders can keep up this play they have exhibited over the last week give it take. If they can, they have as good a shot as any to win the game tonight. It should be a good game!!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Post Game: Isles win 2-1!!
Last night, our New York Islanders defeated the Buffalo Sabres by a score of 2-1. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-First time we've won 2 straight since the first week of the season. Wow! Can we not wait that long again to do this?
-First back to back road wins since March, that says a lot!!
-Al Montoya is a beast!! He saved the game at least four times!! He needs to be the number one goalie, I mean all he hasn't done is just go up and score himself!!
-Hamonic & Amac played very well!! Hopefully they've hit their stride and can keep this play up now!
-Congrats to David Ullstrom on his first NHL point!
-Nice tip by Moulson on the first goal!
-Awesome fight by Matt Martin against Zack Kassian after the nice hit by Nino on Gerbe!
The Isles played a solid game last night! Hopefully they can keep it up, because if they can well see a lot brighter things then we have the last month and a half.
Next Game: Friday Night 8:30PM @ Chicago
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Post Game: Isles win 3-2!!
Yes, you are reading that right!! This afternoon, our New York Islanders defeated the New Jersey Devils by a score of 3-2. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Can Al Montoya please be the Islanders number one goalie?? Even with his lack of playing time in the last month guy never misses a beat.
-My godge, some of the saves Marty Brodeur made today!! WOW!!!
-Powerplay is atrocious!!
-I am shocked they called it right with two seconds left waiving off the goal! I honestly thought they would keep it as a goal, thats the typical Islander fan mentality I guess.
-Great play by Grabner to net the shorty!!
-It seems like I say this a lot, but Mike Mottau just isn't good!!
-Great play by Rolston and nice shot by Bailey on his goal
-David Ullstrom continues to not look out of place at the NHL level
It was really nice to finally see a full 60 minute effort from the team!! Hopefully they build on this as they head to Buffalo!
Next Game: Tuesday 11/29 @Buffalo
-Can Al Montoya please be the Islanders number one goalie?? Even with his lack of playing time in the last month guy never misses a beat.
-My godge, some of the saves Marty Brodeur made today!! WOW!!!
-Powerplay is atrocious!!
-I am shocked they called it right with two seconds left waiving off the goal! I honestly thought they would keep it as a goal, thats the typical Islander fan mentality I guess.
-Great play by Grabner to net the shorty!!
-It seems like I say this a lot, but Mike Mottau just isn't good!!
-Great play by Rolston and nice shot by Bailey on his goal
-David Ullstrom continues to not look out of place at the NHL level
It was really nice to finally see a full 60 minute effort from the team!! Hopefully they build on this as they head to Buffalo!
Next Game: Tuesday 11/29 @Buffalo
Friday, November 25, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 1-0!!
This afternoon, our New York Islanders fell 1-0 to the Devils. Here are some of my notes:
-Opposite of the game vs Philly two days ago in that the goalie showed up and the offense didn't.
-Bad defensive breakdown led to the Devils lone goal. How you leave a guy at the hash marks right in the slot open long enough to get a clean shot off is beyond me.
-Powerplay and in general the team looks for the pass WAY to much!! They lose out on some quality scoring chances because they always go for the extra pass instead of the shot and end up turning it over.
-Streit played that last 6 seconds badly, instead of putting it on net he went down the boards with it.
-Powerplay is atrocious! If they get one chance there lucky! That's not the formula to win, need to be a lot better on the powerplay!
-Awesome fight by Haley in the first period with Jansen.
-Mike Mottau simply isn't good!
They have to win a game sooner or later don't they?
Next Game: Tomorrow 1PM @ Devils
-Opposite of the game vs Philly two days ago in that the goalie showed up and the offense didn't.
-Bad defensive breakdown led to the Devils lone goal. How you leave a guy at the hash marks right in the slot open long enough to get a clean shot off is beyond me.
-Powerplay and in general the team looks for the pass WAY to much!! They lose out on some quality scoring chances because they always go for the extra pass instead of the shot and end up turning it over.
-Streit played that last 6 seconds badly, instead of putting it on net he went down the boards with it.
-Powerplay is atrocious! If they get one chance there lucky! That's not the formula to win, need to be a lot better on the powerplay!
-Awesome fight by Haley in the first period with Jansen.
-Mike Mottau simply isn't good!
They have to win a game sooner or later don't they?
Next Game: Tomorrow 1PM @ Devils
Blake Comeau to Calgary!!! Pre Game: Devils @ Islanders!
It was just announced that the Calgary Flames have claimed Blake Comeau on waivers from the Islanders. Comeau was placed on waivers yesterday. He had no points and was a -11 in 17 games this year. I wish Comeau the best of luck in Calgary and thank him for his service with the Islanders.
Now, later this afternoon, the New Jersey Devils travel to the old barn in Hempstead to take on our New York Islanders.
After being taken off IR the other night, I expect Al Montoya to get the start for the Islanders and I had read that Johan Hedberg will be getting the start for the Devils today.
I wonder if Comeau disappearing on waivers will light any further a fire in the stomachs of any of the players. The know now, that if they don't perform they could be just like Comeau.
Seeing another well played game for the second game in a row would be very nice and show they were able to build on solid play from their prior game.
Now, later this afternoon, the New Jersey Devils travel to the old barn in Hempstead to take on our New York Islanders.
After being taken off IR the other night, I expect Al Montoya to get the start for the Islanders and I had read that Johan Hedberg will be getting the start for the Devils today.
I wonder if Comeau disappearing on waivers will light any further a fire in the stomachs of any of the players. The know now, that if they don't perform they could be just like Comeau.
Seeing another well played game for the second game in a row would be very nice and show they were able to build on solid play from their prior game.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Montoya Back!! Comeau on waivers!! Happy Thanksgiving!!
If you missed it, last night goalie Al Montoya was activated off IR and will return to the dressed roster tomorrow. This occurring led to rookie goalie Anders Nilsson being sent back to Bridgeport. Where he belongs in my opinion!! I expect Montoya to start tomorrow vs the Devils after Rick Dipietros sub par performance in the game last night vs the Flyers.
Earlier today, it was announced that the Islanders had put forward Blake Comeau on waivers. Comeau had no points in 17 games thus far this year and is a -11. With the way he has been playing, I would be kinda surprised if a team puts a claim on him. If he clears, there is a chance he could be sent to Bridgeport to sorta find his game so to speak.
Lastly, I wanted to take this time to wish all our loyal readers out there who celebrate, a very Happy Thanksgiving!! Thank you all for your support over the last 7+ months, were very appreciative!!!
Earlier today, it was announced that the Islanders had put forward Blake Comeau on waivers. Comeau had no points in 17 games thus far this year and is a -11. With the way he has been playing, I would be kinda surprised if a team puts a claim on him. If he clears, there is a chance he could be sent to Bridgeport to sorta find his game so to speak.
Lastly, I wanted to take this time to wish all our loyal readers out there who celebrate, a very Happy Thanksgiving!! Thank you all for your support over the last 7+ months, were very appreciative!!!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 4-3 in OT!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders fell 4-3 to the Flyers in OT. Here are some of my notes:
-DP had a bad game!! At least 2 of the Flyers 3 goals shouldve been stopped!! Cant have success with an unreliable goalie at the helm.
-Kyle Okposo had his best game of the season!! It was nice to see him finally wake up!!
-Power play even though we scored one, is pretty bad!! They always look for the pretty play instead of putting it on net and more times then not end up turning it over. Its getting old and the coaches need to do something!!
-Grabner had a nice shot on his goal!!
-Haley didn't play much at all! I am under the impression that Capuano requested for him yesterday in his meeting with Snow. So if he requested for him why wouldn't he play him more then a slightly better goon?
-Once again for his second game in a row David Ullstrom didn't look out of place in the slightest.
-Staios takes to many penalties
-Mottau isn't very good!
Solid effort from the team tonight! Although they had momentary lapses on defense and were let down by the goalie and that was their downfall.
Next Game: Friday @ Home 3PM Vs the Devils
-DP had a bad game!! At least 2 of the Flyers 3 goals shouldve been stopped!! Cant have success with an unreliable goalie at the helm.
-Kyle Okposo had his best game of the season!! It was nice to see him finally wake up!!
-Power play even though we scored one, is pretty bad!! They always look for the pretty play instead of putting it on net and more times then not end up turning it over. Its getting old and the coaches need to do something!!
-Grabner had a nice shot on his goal!!
-Haley didn't play much at all! I am under the impression that Capuano requested for him yesterday in his meeting with Snow. So if he requested for him why wouldn't he play him more then a slightly better goon?
-Once again for his second game in a row David Ullstrom didn't look out of place in the slightest.
-Staios takes to many penalties
-Mottau isn't very good!
Solid effort from the team tonight! Although they had momentary lapses on defense and were let down by the goalie and that was their downfall.
Next Game: Friday @ Home 3PM Vs the Devils
Pre Game: Flyers @ Islanders!!
Tonight, the Flyers travel to the Coliseum to take on Michael Grabner and our fragile New York Islanders.
Tonight, forwards Brian Rolston, Marty Reasoner, and El Nino will be scratched. Michael Haley who was called up from Bridgeport yesterday will be in the starting lineup. At least we know if we get our butt kicked tonight, it will be a bit more exciting with Haley in there.
Rick Dipietro will be starting in net, this is his first appearance since he was taken out after the first period in that pathetic all around team showing last Saturday vs the Bruins. Anders Nilsson will be serving as DP's backup tonight.
Hopefully the Islanders show up tonight, if they don't show up for a third game in a row, I have a feeling Friday afternoon there won't be many people in attendance at all.
Tonight, forwards Brian Rolston, Marty Reasoner, and El Nino will be scratched. Michael Haley who was called up from Bridgeport yesterday will be in the starting lineup. At least we know if we get our butt kicked tonight, it will be a bit more exciting with Haley in there.
Rick Dipietro will be starting in net, this is his first appearance since he was taken out after the first period in that pathetic all around team showing last Saturday vs the Bruins. Anders Nilsson will be serving as DP's backup tonight.
Hopefully the Islanders show up tonight, if they don't show up for a third game in a row, I have a feeling Friday afternoon there won't be many people in attendance at all.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 5-0
Last night the "Islanders" lost 5-0 to the Penguins. Here's some of my notes:
-First I have Islanders in quotes because although they wear the Isles sweaters they aren't playing like an NHL team right now so I don't feel they deserve to be acknowledged as one.
-I haven't criticized Cappy much at all through this crap streak we've went through. However that was a poor job by him last night making Nilsson suffer through that game. It showed very poor judgement on his part not pulling him and saving some of Nilssons confidence. Just because the team is bad right now, doesn't mean the coach should lose common sense, and I think that happened to Jack last night by not pulling Nilsson and sticking in Dipietro.
-Well after the Bruins game Saturday I bet we all thought that would be our low point of the season. Little did we know!! I didn't know it was possible to look as bad as we have in the last two games. Something needs to be done!! And I don't mean a callup or something!
-There has been speculation on twitter that because of Mark Eatons injury a defenseman might get called up from the Soundtigers. I hope if we do its a guy with experience and not a prospect who may not be ready yet.
-The only bright side to come out of the game yesterday was David Ullstrom didn't look out of place at all last night. So that is a good sign, and hopefully he puts up some points as he gets more acclimated to the NHL game.
Next Game: Tomorrow @ Home VS Philly
-First I have Islanders in quotes because although they wear the Isles sweaters they aren't playing like an NHL team right now so I don't feel they deserve to be acknowledged as one.
-I haven't criticized Cappy much at all through this crap streak we've went through. However that was a poor job by him last night making Nilsson suffer through that game. It showed very poor judgement on his part not pulling him and saving some of Nilssons confidence. Just because the team is bad right now, doesn't mean the coach should lose common sense, and I think that happened to Jack last night by not pulling Nilsson and sticking in Dipietro.
-Well after the Bruins game Saturday I bet we all thought that would be our low point of the season. Little did we know!! I didn't know it was possible to look as bad as we have in the last two games. Something needs to be done!! And I don't mean a callup or something!
-There has been speculation on twitter that because of Mark Eatons injury a defenseman might get called up from the Soundtigers. I hope if we do its a guy with experience and not a prospect who may not be ready yet.
-The only bright side to come out of the game yesterday was David Ullstrom didn't look out of place at all last night. So that is a good sign, and hopefully he puts up some points as he gets more acclimated to the NHL game.
Next Game: Tomorrow @ Home VS Philly
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Post Game: Bruins win 6-0
Tonight, the Boston Bruins defeated the other team 6-0. The other team was supposed to be the Islanders, however they didn't show up tonight so they don't deserve the acknowledgement! Here are some of my notes from the Bruins free hockey clinic given at the Coliseum tonight:
-2/3 of the Bruins first three goals are on DP!! Hes terrible!!
-Bruins just dominated the entire game basically!! 2 shots in the first period?? Really?? Bruins showed why they are the cup champs and we've been in the lottery the last 4 years.
-Nilsson was the only bright spot of the game in my opinion. Although he gave up three goals I'm hard pressed to say any were his fault, quite the difference from our other goalie.
This was a pathetic "game" and "effort" by the Isles. Hopefully they pick it up because they don't have much time off.
Next Game: Monday @ Pit
-2/3 of the Bruins first three goals are on DP!! Hes terrible!!
-Bruins just dominated the entire game basically!! 2 shots in the first period?? Really?? Bruins showed why they are the cup champs and we've been in the lottery the last 4 years.
-Nilsson was the only bright spot of the game in my opinion. Although he gave up three goals I'm hard pressed to say any were his fault, quite the difference from our other goalie.
This was a pathetic "game" and "effort" by the Isles. Hopefully they pick it up because they don't have much time off.
Next Game: Monday @ Pit
Injury updates and Pre Game: Bruins @ Islanders!
Firstly, if you missed it yesterday, it was announced that goalie Evgeni Nabakov would be out 3-4 week with a groin injury. Also that goalie Al Montoya is day to day with a strained groin. Goalie Anders Nilsson was called up this morning to serve as Rick Dipietros backup for the game tonight. Also, the Tigers signed veteran goalie Steven Valiquette to be the backup for Kevin Poulin until Nilsson is returned.
Now, tonight the Boston Bruins pay a visit to the old barn in Hempstead to take on John Tavares and our Islanders.
After his albatross of a game the other night, Mike Mottau will be sitting in the press box tonight as Mark Eaton returns to action. Also, Kyle Okposo will be scratched once again, for the third game in a row. One has to wonder how long it will be before he sees some playing time.
The Bruins have more then recovered from their bad start so this should be interesting for the Islanders who took advantage of a tired Canadians team the other night on route for only their second victory since 10/15.
Hopefully the Isles are able to build on their solid play from the other night and send the fans home happy on leave for Pit on a good note.
Now, tonight the Boston Bruins pay a visit to the old barn in Hempstead to take on John Tavares and our Islanders.
After his albatross of a game the other night, Mike Mottau will be sitting in the press box tonight as Mark Eaton returns to action. Also, Kyle Okposo will be scratched once again, for the third game in a row. One has to wonder how long it will be before he sees some playing time.
The Bruins have more then recovered from their bad start so this should be interesting for the Islanders who took advantage of a tired Canadians team the other night on route for only their second victory since 10/15.
Hopefully the Isles are able to build on their solid play from the other night and send the fans home happy on leave for Pit on a good note.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Post Game: Isles win 4-3!!
Yes, you are reading that right!! Tonight, our New York Islanders defeated the Montreal Canadiens by a score of 4-3. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Hopefully Nabakov is all good and not seriously hurt!!
-Mottau, DP, and Streit are to blame for the 3 Hab goals. Awful awful turn over by Mottau, DP was caught flopping like a fish on the second goal, and on the third goal the Habs forward beat Streit on the goal.
-Where are the players with stones on this team?? Bailey gets boarded in the first period and no one does anything!!! Then later in the first period Tavares gets cheap shotted away from the play and no one on that shift does anything. Good on Matt Martin for being the guy to show something as on his first shift after the hit on Tavares he put a hit on Weber and then challenged him to a fight.
-Furthering on Matt, I think he is having a pretty good season thus far and you continue to see more progress to his game and him suiting into his enforcer role well as evidence by his thing tonight with Weber. Just one of many examples of that this year!!
-Great to finally get an even strength goal by a defenseman!!
-Great having Pandolfo get on the board!! Congrats to him as that goal was the 100th of his career! Good pass by Bailey on that goal!!
-Bailey had a decent game tonight!! While he had nice plays like the assist, he still had his fair share of bone headed plays.
-John Tavares is a beast!! Simple as that!! It is anyones guess as to exactly how good he will be!!
Overall, tonight was a very solid game by the team, I thought at least!! Much better and COMPLETE game then the game vs the Rangers Tuesday night.
Next Game: Saturday @ Home VS the Bruins
-Hopefully Nabakov is all good and not seriously hurt!!
-Mottau, DP, and Streit are to blame for the 3 Hab goals. Awful awful turn over by Mottau, DP was caught flopping like a fish on the second goal, and on the third goal the Habs forward beat Streit on the goal.
-Where are the players with stones on this team?? Bailey gets boarded in the first period and no one does anything!!! Then later in the first period Tavares gets cheap shotted away from the play and no one on that shift does anything. Good on Matt Martin for being the guy to show something as on his first shift after the hit on Tavares he put a hit on Weber and then challenged him to a fight.
-Furthering on Matt, I think he is having a pretty good season thus far and you continue to see more progress to his game and him suiting into his enforcer role well as evidence by his thing tonight with Weber. Just one of many examples of that this year!!
-Great to finally get an even strength goal by a defenseman!!
-Great having Pandolfo get on the board!! Congrats to him as that goal was the 100th of his career! Good pass by Bailey on that goal!!
-Bailey had a decent game tonight!! While he had nice plays like the assist, he still had his fair share of bone headed plays.
-John Tavares is a beast!! Simple as that!! It is anyones guess as to exactly how good he will be!!
Overall, tonight was a very solid game by the team, I thought at least!! Much better and COMPLETE game then the game vs the Rangers Tuesday night.
Next Game: Saturday @ Home VS the Bruins
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Pre Game: Habs @ Isles
Tonight, the Montreal Canadians travel to the old barn in Hempstead to take on John Tavares and our struggling New York Islanders.
Kyle Okposo will be the healthy scratch again tonight for the second game in a row. This came as a surprise to me when I read it this morning because I thought for sure after that pure laziness play by Bailey that led to the Rangers winning goal the other night that he would be the one to sit. Hopefully he doesn't make the coaching staff regret that decision!!
Evgeni Nabakov will start in net for us tonight, and Rick Dipietro is backing up. Hopefully Nabby can give another solid outing like he did the other night. I have a feeling if we ever win a game again that it will be because the goalie stole the win for us, because the way weve played at times over the last few weeks, we'd have trouble beating our selfs the way out of a paper bag.
The habs played last night, so the Isles need to jump on them early and hope they can grab an early lead and if they can the strap on the defense. If they can't then well its anyones guess!
Kyle Okposo will be the healthy scratch again tonight for the second game in a row. This came as a surprise to me when I read it this morning because I thought for sure after that pure laziness play by Bailey that led to the Rangers winning goal the other night that he would be the one to sit. Hopefully he doesn't make the coaching staff regret that decision!!
Evgeni Nabakov will start in net for us tonight, and Rick Dipietro is backing up. Hopefully Nabby can give another solid outing like he did the other night. I have a feeling if we ever win a game again that it will be because the goalie stole the win for us, because the way weve played at times over the last few weeks, we'd have trouble beating our selfs the way out of a paper bag.
The habs played last night, so the Isles need to jump on them early and hope they can grab an early lead and if they can the strap on the defense. If they can't then well its anyones guess!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose again!! 4-2
Tonight, our Isles fell 4-2 to the Rangers!! Here's my notes:
-Can Bailey be scratched for the next game please?? That was lazy lazy play that led to the Rags winner!!
-I thought the team looked good for the 2nd period and patches in the third. Otherwise I thought they looked bad!!!
-If you cant show up for a Rags game in the midst of this crap streak were in then well you may as well stay home!! Seriously its like borderline embarrassing now!!
-Players need to be held accountable!!
-Doug Weight and co need to work on the pp!! I know we got a goal on the powerplay but the powerplays that preceded it were pretty bad!!!!
-Thought Nino played pretty well and Matt Martin wasn't bad either!
-Nabby and the PK kept us in this game!! Anyone who blames Nabakov for the loss is simply delusional!!
-There were a lot more Rag fans in attendance then Isles fans in the Coliseum tonight by a decent margin, not surprising but kind of depressing!!
-Were the refs good? No they were actually pretty bad!! But that doesn't excuse the Isles lackluster at best play!! They didn't deserve to win, in my opinion at least!!
Next Game: Thursday @ Home VS The Habs
-Can Bailey be scratched for the next game please?? That was lazy lazy play that led to the Rags winner!!
-I thought the team looked good for the 2nd period and patches in the third. Otherwise I thought they looked bad!!!
-If you cant show up for a Rags game in the midst of this crap streak were in then well you may as well stay home!! Seriously its like borderline embarrassing now!!
-Players need to be held accountable!!
-Doug Weight and co need to work on the pp!! I know we got a goal on the powerplay but the powerplays that preceded it were pretty bad!!!!
-Thought Nino played pretty well and Matt Martin wasn't bad either!
-Nabby and the PK kept us in this game!! Anyone who blames Nabakov for the loss is simply delusional!!
-There were a lot more Rag fans in attendance then Isles fans in the Coliseum tonight by a decent margin, not surprising but kind of depressing!!
-Were the refs good? No they were actually pretty bad!! But that doesn't excuse the Isles lackluster at best play!! They didn't deserve to win, in my opinion at least!!
Next Game: Thursday @ Home VS The Habs
Monday, November 14, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 4-1
Last night, our New York Islanders fell to the Vancouver Canucks by a score of 4-1. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-I know what Cappy tries to accomplish by pulling the goalie so early like he does when the team is down by two. However, it hasn't worked at all in the previous attempts of trying it so why does he keep doing it??
-Team needs to show up for a full 60 minutes. Cant show up just in like spurts because if you do theres no way your going to beat teams like Vancouver.
-Defense needs to play better and not depend on the goalie so much because that will bite them sooner rather then later.
-Offense needs to pot some goals. Seriously! Especially Okposo & Comeau. These were two guys who you expected pretty good production from and the fact that they are both goalless to this point is getting to be worry some.
Postgame Capuano said he may have to switch up the lines again if things don't improve. With Nino coming back for the next game things will already be different. Hopefully he provides a spark of some sort because its much needed.
Next Game: Tomorrow @ Home VS The Rangers
-I know what Cappy tries to accomplish by pulling the goalie so early like he does when the team is down by two. However, it hasn't worked at all in the previous attempts of trying it so why does he keep doing it??
-Team needs to show up for a full 60 minutes. Cant show up just in like spurts because if you do theres no way your going to beat teams like Vancouver.
-Defense needs to play better and not depend on the goalie so much because that will bite them sooner rather then later.
-Offense needs to pot some goals. Seriously! Especially Okposo & Comeau. These were two guys who you expected pretty good production from and the fact that they are both goalless to this point is getting to be worry some.
Postgame Capuano said he may have to switch up the lines again if things don't improve. With Nino coming back for the next game things will already be different. Hopefully he provides a spark of some sort because its much needed.
Next Game: Tomorrow @ Home VS The Rangers
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Pre Game: Isles @ Canucks
Tonight our New York Islanders travel to Vancouver to take on the Sedin twins the Vancouver Canucks.
The goaltending matchup tonight will be Evgeni Nabakov for the Islanders and Roberto Luongo for the Canucks. The Islanders need to come out and play like they did in the first two periods the other night vs Colorado. If we play tonight like we did in the third period the other night then tonight will be a long game.
Note: Tonight is Ninos last game in Bridgeport so he will most likely be in the lineup for the Ranger game at home Tuesday. I wonder if performances tonight will determine who sits for that game.
The goaltending matchup tonight will be Evgeni Nabakov for the Islanders and Roberto Luongo for the Canucks. The Islanders need to come out and play like they did in the first two periods the other night vs Colorado. If we play tonight like we did in the third period the other night then tonight will be a long game.
Note: Tonight is Ninos last game in Bridgeport so he will most likely be in the lineup for the Ranger game at home Tuesday. I wonder if performances tonight will determine who sits for that game.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 4-3 in OT
Tonight, our New York Islanders choked away a three goal lead and lost 4-3 to the Avalanche in OT. Here are some of my notes:
-Did anyone else have DP flashbacks on the third goal?? I am sorry but unless it was deflected which it didn't look like it was, Montoya has to stop that!!
-The team looked really good in the first two periods, I don't know what happened in the third. The team HAS to be able to finish off games. Although I don't know about you but after they tied it I had a bad feeling and after Montoya took the penalty I knew it was coming. Games like this is how you know this team isn't a playoff team yet!!
-Bad job by Montoya letting frustration get the best of him in OT and taking that penalty. I have a feeling he won't be playing Sunday because of that.
-Refs weren't good!! The three things that stuck out for me were, giving Martin the 2,5,10 on his fight after that dude like abused Tavares while David Jones got nothing for fighting Staios with the visor on, the phantom tripping call on Rolston, and the non call on the cross check on Reasoner in the third I believe it was. The refs have to be consistent!! If your not going to be consistent you may as well just not show up!
-Nice tip by Bailey on the first goal, hopefully that gets him going!
-Nice to see Rolston finally get on the board
Not the way you wanted to start the trip, especially with a team like Vancouver next on the schedule. This could easily turn into another losing streak with the Rangers after the Canucks and as much as we hate to admit it, the Rangers have one of the best records in hockey so they will be far from an easy game.
Next Game: Sunday 9PM @Vancouver
False Hope: If you weren't aware, the rumor that Evgeni Nabakov had been traded to the Blue Jackets for Fedor Tyutin is untrue. It was said to be true on twitter, and even on the broadcast, however Bob McKenzie and later others confirmed that the gun was jumped in reporting that and in fact the real deal ended up being the Jackets dealing Kris Russel to the Blues I believe.
So much for the Isles doing something!! I think the only move we might see is a call up or something, id be very surprised if we saw a trade, unless its Nabakov for a pick.
-Did anyone else have DP flashbacks on the third goal?? I am sorry but unless it was deflected which it didn't look like it was, Montoya has to stop that!!
-The team looked really good in the first two periods, I don't know what happened in the third. The team HAS to be able to finish off games. Although I don't know about you but after they tied it I had a bad feeling and after Montoya took the penalty I knew it was coming. Games like this is how you know this team isn't a playoff team yet!!
-Bad job by Montoya letting frustration get the best of him in OT and taking that penalty. I have a feeling he won't be playing Sunday because of that.
-Refs weren't good!! The three things that stuck out for me were, giving Martin the 2,5,10 on his fight after that dude like abused Tavares while David Jones got nothing for fighting Staios with the visor on, the phantom tripping call on Rolston, and the non call on the cross check on Reasoner in the third I believe it was. The refs have to be consistent!! If your not going to be consistent you may as well just not show up!
-Nice tip by Bailey on the first goal, hopefully that gets him going!
-Nice to see Rolston finally get on the board
Not the way you wanted to start the trip, especially with a team like Vancouver next on the schedule. This could easily turn into another losing streak with the Rangers after the Canucks and as much as we hate to admit it, the Rangers have one of the best records in hockey so they will be far from an easy game.
Next Game: Sunday 9PM @Vancouver
False Hope: If you weren't aware, the rumor that Evgeni Nabakov had been traded to the Blue Jackets for Fedor Tyutin is untrue. It was said to be true on twitter, and even on the broadcast, however Bob McKenzie and later others confirmed that the gun was jumped in reporting that and in fact the real deal ended up being the Jackets dealing Kris Russel to the Blues I believe.
So much for the Isles doing something!! I think the only move we might see is a call up or something, id be very surprised if we saw a trade, unless its Nabakov for a pick.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Isles @ Colorado 9:00 PM
Tonight the New York Islanders play the Colorado Avalanche. Colorado who has lost their last two, has struggled at home. With a record of 1-5-0, the Isles need to look to jump early on them.
Isles need to get shots on the net and play simple hockey. No new problems, just play agressive simple hockey and we can leave Colorado with a win. Al Montoya gets the start tonight in goal. His chance to perhaps re-grab the starting role. Also Mottau will get the start replacing Jurcina.
I am sure we both will be on twitter during the game, so don't be afraid to get involved in the discussion. Lets Go Islanders
Isles need to get shots on the net and play simple hockey. No new problems, just play agressive simple hockey and we can leave Colorado with a win. Al Montoya gets the start tonight in goal. His chance to perhaps re-grab the starting role. Also Mottau will get the start replacing Jurcina.
I am sure we both will be on twitter during the game, so don't be afraid to get involved in the discussion. Lets Go Islanders
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
New "Hub" Plan includes transit stop and multiple hotels!!
I noticed upon looking on the Nassau County site at the latest plan for Coliseum redevelopment that it included 4 hotels including the marriot to be on the site, also a transit stop.
Now, I think a transit stop would be a good idea, however everyone and there brother knows this will never fly. Look at how the Garden City EPOA reacted when they though there was a light rail system part of the Lighthouse Project that never was. They went nuts!! So although I think it is a good idea, it will never happen so I don't understand why that was included.
Secondly I noticed 4 hotels were to be included in the plan including the Marriot which is currently there. I don't understand the point of that, why have so many hotels on the single piece of property. To me it appears as they were just trying to fill the land and they decided to just throw another hotel there.
The centerpiece to the plan would be a bio-center/hi tech facility. Recently officials were quoted in Newsday saying they think it would be fit well there because of the Colleges near by and stuff. Personally I think they are nuts, I don't see how that would fit well with Colleges, but its not as if we all didn't know they were nuts already.
Of course, I will support the plan because it would result in a new Coliseum and that is what we all want. However, if County Executive Mangano wants to be taken seriously, and gain support from the masses he needs to put more thought into the plans, and look at what hasn't worked in the past and maybe try to avoid doing it.
http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/jobsnow.htm
Now, I think a transit stop would be a good idea, however everyone and there brother knows this will never fly. Look at how the Garden City EPOA reacted when they though there was a light rail system part of the Lighthouse Project that never was. They went nuts!! So although I think it is a good idea, it will never happen so I don't understand why that was included.
Secondly I noticed 4 hotels were to be included in the plan including the Marriot which is currently there. I don't understand the point of that, why have so many hotels on the single piece of property. To me it appears as they were just trying to fill the land and they decided to just throw another hotel there.
The centerpiece to the plan would be a bio-center/hi tech facility. Recently officials were quoted in Newsday saying they think it would be fit well there because of the Colleges near by and stuff. Personally I think they are nuts, I don't see how that would fit well with Colleges, but its not as if we all didn't know they were nuts already.
Of course, I will support the plan because it would result in a new Coliseum and that is what we all want. However, if County Executive Mangano wants to be taken seriously, and gain support from the masses he needs to put more thought into the plans, and look at what hasn't worked in the past and maybe try to avoid doing it.
http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/jobsnow.htm
Monday, November 7, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 6-2
Tonight, after putting forth a solid 40 minute effort our Islanders fell 6-2 to the defending cup champion Boston Bruins. Here are some of my notes:
-Nabby was a little bit shaky tonight. That first goal he gave up would've been covered in my opinion. Although the last two goals weren't really his fault because of awful defense I think Cappy made the right move pulling him.
-Al Montoya played well tonight and showed why he should be the number one. Sure there were a few goals scored in the third period including one empty net, but the only reason the game was competitive in the third was because of Montoya.
-Defense for some of the first and some of the third was just abysmal at best. Seriously, so much missed coverage and mis communication. Certainly not what I was expecting after Saturdays win.
-Martin picked a good spot to fight in the first period, and it served its purpose. You could see that he worked on his fighting. As he ended up getting the slight victory over McQuaid. Martin refining the aspects of his game.
-Tavares made a really nice pass to Grabner for the 2nd goal of the game and Moulson had a real nice tip for the first goal.
-Can someone please wake up Okposo and remind him the season started??
Hopefully this stops here and doesn't come on the road with us because if it does were in trouble.
Next Game: Thursday 9PM @ Colorado
-Nabby was a little bit shaky tonight. That first goal he gave up would've been covered in my opinion. Although the last two goals weren't really his fault because of awful defense I think Cappy made the right move pulling him.
-Al Montoya played well tonight and showed why he should be the number one. Sure there were a few goals scored in the third period including one empty net, but the only reason the game was competitive in the third was because of Montoya.
-Defense for some of the first and some of the third was just abysmal at best. Seriously, so much missed coverage and mis communication. Certainly not what I was expecting after Saturdays win.
-Martin picked a good spot to fight in the first period, and it served its purpose. You could see that he worked on his fighting. As he ended up getting the slight victory over McQuaid. Martin refining the aspects of his game.
-Tavares made a really nice pass to Grabner for the 2nd goal of the game and Moulson had a real nice tip for the first goal.
-Can someone please wake up Okposo and remind him the season started??
Hopefully this stops here and doesn't come on the road with us because if it does were in trouble.
Next Game: Thursday 9PM @ Colorado
Pre Game: Isles @ Bruins
Tonight, our New York Islanders return to the road as they travel to Boston to take on Zdeno Chara and the 2011 Stanley Cup Champion Bruins.
Evgeni Nabakov will get the start tonight, his first since the game in Pitsburgh when he took himself out of the game in the shootout and saw Rick Dipietro get his first action of the year. Al Montoya will be backing up Nabby tonight. I feel for Montoya seeing as how after playing pretty well in his first few starts hes just been basically benched. Hopefully he gets a start or two at minimum while we are on the road.
The Islanders and Bruins are currently tied for last in the eastern conference. So after Saturday nights big victory over the Capitals defeating the defending Stanley Cup Champions would be pretty big for the team, also big to keep us out of last place.
We need to hope that the new lines from Saturday continue to gel tonight, also that Nabakov has no injury rust or anything and is just as sharp as he was before the injury.
Tonight is a very winnable game for our Isles, lets hope they can pull it off!!
Evgeni Nabakov will get the start tonight, his first since the game in Pitsburgh when he took himself out of the game in the shootout and saw Rick Dipietro get his first action of the year. Al Montoya will be backing up Nabby tonight. I feel for Montoya seeing as how after playing pretty well in his first few starts hes just been basically benched. Hopefully he gets a start or two at minimum while we are on the road.
The Islanders and Bruins are currently tied for last in the eastern conference. So after Saturday nights big victory over the Capitals defeating the defending Stanley Cup Champions would be pretty big for the team, also big to keep us out of last place.
We need to hope that the new lines from Saturday continue to gel tonight, also that Nabakov has no injury rust or anything and is just as sharp as he was before the injury.
Tonight is a very winnable game for our Isles, lets hope they can pull it off!!
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Post Game: Isles win 5-3!!
Last night, the Islanders shocked many and defeated the Washington Capitals by a score of 5-3. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-DP played ok, he needs to ween himself from playing the puck as much though & he needs to cover the puck more. There are times when it seems like hes scared to cover the puck or something.
-Great to see Rolston & Bailey finally get on the board!
-It was so nice to finally put some points on the board period!!
-It was big that the defense was able to get so many shots through. That happening led to Matt Martins nice goal!
-The line changes seemed to have worked pretty well, so I was wrong with my speculation yesterday pregame, and I am happy I was.
-Once again Matt Martin had a solid game! Hit like a mad man, and had a very nice goal. He really showed his strength on the puck and his resolve to get the puck off anyway even though he was being knocked over. He is getting better before our eyes and its really cool!
-Nice crowd last night! I had thought that after the way they had been playing that the crowd was going to be on the smaller side but it was actually a pretty big crowd, so good job Islanders Country!!
Hopefully the Isles are able to build on this as they head on the road for the next week and a half.
Next Game: Monday @ Boston
-DP played ok, he needs to ween himself from playing the puck as much though & he needs to cover the puck more. There are times when it seems like hes scared to cover the puck or something.
-Great to see Rolston & Bailey finally get on the board!
-It was so nice to finally put some points on the board period!!
-It was big that the defense was able to get so many shots through. That happening led to Matt Martins nice goal!
-The line changes seemed to have worked pretty well, so I was wrong with my speculation yesterday pregame, and I am happy I was.
-Once again Matt Martin had a solid game! Hit like a mad man, and had a very nice goal. He really showed his strength on the puck and his resolve to get the puck off anyway even though he was being knocked over. He is getting better before our eyes and its really cool!
-Nice crowd last night! I had thought that after the way they had been playing that the crowd was going to be on the smaller side but it was actually a pretty big crowd, so good job Islanders Country!!
Hopefully the Isles are able to build on this as they head on the road for the next week and a half.
Next Game: Monday @ Boston
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Pre Game: Caps @ Islanders!!
Tonight, Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals pay a visit to the old barn in Hempstead to take on John Tavares and our struggling New York Islanders.
Rick Dipietro will once again get the nod in goal for the Islanders tonight. Tonight will mark his third consecutive start in net for us. While hes played pretty well given DP's standards, I wonder what the heck happened to Al Montoya? Guy played pretty well to start the season and since the Tampa game more then two weeks ago now he hasn't seen any action at all. Hopefully he sees some time while were on the road for the next week and a half after tonights game.
As promised there are going to be drastic line changes for the game tonight. They go like this:
Moulson-Tavares-Grabner
Rolston-Nielsen-Parenteau
Comeau-Reasoner-Okposo
Martin-Bailey-Pandolfo
*Bolded people represent where the changes are.*
Two things I don't like about this are:
1) Breaking up the fourth line which has been the only consistent line all season makes little sense to me. If its not broke then why fix it??
2) And putting Bailey on the 4th line makes no sense to me either. How is the guy supposed to break out of his offensive funk when he doesn't have offensive first players on his wings with him?
All in all, hope for the best tonight, and hope they can keep the game reasonably close at least.
Rick Dipietro will once again get the nod in goal for the Islanders tonight. Tonight will mark his third consecutive start in net for us. While hes played pretty well given DP's standards, I wonder what the heck happened to Al Montoya? Guy played pretty well to start the season and since the Tampa game more then two weeks ago now he hasn't seen any action at all. Hopefully he sees some time while were on the road for the next week and a half after tonights game.
As promised there are going to be drastic line changes for the game tonight. They go like this:
Moulson-Tavares-Grabner
Rolston-Nielsen-Parenteau
Comeau-Reasoner-Okposo
Martin-Bailey-Pandolfo
*Bolded people represent where the changes are.*
Two things I don't like about this are:
1) Breaking up the fourth line which has been the only consistent line all season makes little sense to me. If its not broke then why fix it??
2) And putting Bailey on the 4th line makes no sense to me either. How is the guy supposed to break out of his offensive funk when he doesn't have offensive first players on his wings with him?
All in all, hope for the best tonight, and hope they can keep the game reasonably close at least.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 3-0!!
Tonight, in a game that the Isles only showed up for half of, they fell 3-0 to the Jets in the teams return to LI. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-In general DP didn't play terrible, although he needs to ween himself from playing the puck, there were multiple times were that led to turnovers and that helps nobody. Only big criticism I can give him play wise is to COVER THE PUCK!! He doesn't cover the puck nearly enough and often puts the defense in really tough situations. So far it really hasn't come back to bite him, but everyone knows that eventually it will.
-The first period tonight, in the beginning and end I thought they looked ok to pretty good. However in the middle ten minutes they were just putrid!!
-Kyle Okposo is quickly joining the Bailey and Comeau club of lostness! Outside of his pass to Grabner for that one sweet powerplay goal last weekend his contributions in this young season have been minimal at best.
-Once again the fourth line was pretty solid!
-Would like to note Matt Martin though because he was a tank tonight drilling everything in site. He was just on fire and was forechecking like a mad man.
-Baileys line didn't play bad either!!
-When it comes to JT you can see at times that he is pressing. For example tonight in I believe was the third period he tried to go one on three with three Jets players toward the end of a shift nonetheless. I know Tavares is a good players and in the not so distant future will be the best player we've had in some time. However not even the very best of player can get out of situations like that. You have to dump it in there to go off for the change, but his pressing was exposed there.
-The second period in general was pretty solid. They had good pressure and overall as a team looked good.
-So what the hell happened in intermission between the second and third period?? The third period was one of the single worst periods of hockey this team has played all year. Like I described it on twitter, "This period is embarrassing, disgraceful, and pathetic wrapped in one." The fact that the team only had 3 shots in the period and didn't get the first one til there was under 5 minutes left isn't even the biggest issue for me. For me, what the biggest issue was, was the teams difficulty to get out of their zone. I lost count of the times that they got the puck to the redline and turned it over. I am sorry, but your not going to win many games doing that.
-Given that though, Pavlec played a great game in the first two periods for the Jets making some awesome saves. So he really should be given a large amount of responsibility for their teams win tonight. That and the fact that the Islanders just can't finish right now!
-Like I said in the first sentence it was like they only showed up for half a game. I am sorry, but when your in the midst of a 5 game losing streak after the type of streak we went through last year how aren't you going guns a blazing for 60 plus minutes every night? This is especially true for the young guys! When you have guys like Pandolfo going down to block shots in the final minutes of a loss then in the midst of a change he dishes it up to Comeau for example and Comeau misses the pass because he was caught flat footed. That shouldn't happen especially with regard to the younger players but I have seen it more then once this year and the coaches need to slam home that its not acceptable!!
-Furthering on that, the fancy bullcrap this team does very often needs to stop. When your in the midst of a losing streak like they are you don't worry about making the pretty pass, or making the sweet move to set up a shot. You get pucks on net, you charge the net, and you finish your checks. Fancy plays are also higher risk and the people involved look foolish if it doesn't pan out. The coaches should also hammer this home, ENOUGH WITH THE FANCY CRAP!! What I am mainly referring to is the blind passes this team does all the time. Sure when it connects its like wow. But more often then not, it doesn't connect and given the streak this team is currently in you can't play like that. With an already lowered confidence, giving up the first goal would lower it that much more.
Postgame, Cappy said to expect some line changes for the game Saturday because they, "need to score goals." Well they better do something because if they don't, its going to be a very long Saturday night at the Coliseum.
Next Game: Saturday 7PM @Home VS the Caps
-In general DP didn't play terrible, although he needs to ween himself from playing the puck, there were multiple times were that led to turnovers and that helps nobody. Only big criticism I can give him play wise is to COVER THE PUCK!! He doesn't cover the puck nearly enough and often puts the defense in really tough situations. So far it really hasn't come back to bite him, but everyone knows that eventually it will.
-The first period tonight, in the beginning and end I thought they looked ok to pretty good. However in the middle ten minutes they were just putrid!!
-Kyle Okposo is quickly joining the Bailey and Comeau club of lostness! Outside of his pass to Grabner for that one sweet powerplay goal last weekend his contributions in this young season have been minimal at best.
-Once again the fourth line was pretty solid!
-Would like to note Matt Martin though because he was a tank tonight drilling everything in site. He was just on fire and was forechecking like a mad man.
-Baileys line didn't play bad either!!
-When it comes to JT you can see at times that he is pressing. For example tonight in I believe was the third period he tried to go one on three with three Jets players toward the end of a shift nonetheless. I know Tavares is a good players and in the not so distant future will be the best player we've had in some time. However not even the very best of player can get out of situations like that. You have to dump it in there to go off for the change, but his pressing was exposed there.
-The second period in general was pretty solid. They had good pressure and overall as a team looked good.
-So what the hell happened in intermission between the second and third period?? The third period was one of the single worst periods of hockey this team has played all year. Like I described it on twitter, "This period is embarrassing, disgraceful, and pathetic wrapped in one." The fact that the team only had 3 shots in the period and didn't get the first one til there was under 5 minutes left isn't even the biggest issue for me. For me, what the biggest issue was, was the teams difficulty to get out of their zone. I lost count of the times that they got the puck to the redline and turned it over. I am sorry, but your not going to win many games doing that.
-Given that though, Pavlec played a great game in the first two periods for the Jets making some awesome saves. So he really should be given a large amount of responsibility for their teams win tonight. That and the fact that the Islanders just can't finish right now!
-Like I said in the first sentence it was like they only showed up for half a game. I am sorry, but when your in the midst of a 5 game losing streak after the type of streak we went through last year how aren't you going guns a blazing for 60 plus minutes every night? This is especially true for the young guys! When you have guys like Pandolfo going down to block shots in the final minutes of a loss then in the midst of a change he dishes it up to Comeau for example and Comeau misses the pass because he was caught flat footed. That shouldn't happen especially with regard to the younger players but I have seen it more then once this year and the coaches need to slam home that its not acceptable!!
-Furthering on that, the fancy bullcrap this team does very often needs to stop. When your in the midst of a losing streak like they are you don't worry about making the pretty pass, or making the sweet move to set up a shot. You get pucks on net, you charge the net, and you finish your checks. Fancy plays are also higher risk and the people involved look foolish if it doesn't pan out. The coaches should also hammer this home, ENOUGH WITH THE FANCY CRAP!! What I am mainly referring to is the blind passes this team does all the time. Sure when it connects its like wow. But more often then not, it doesn't connect and given the streak this team is currently in you can't play like that. With an already lowered confidence, giving up the first goal would lower it that much more.
Postgame, Cappy said to expect some line changes for the game Saturday because they, "need to score goals." Well they better do something because if they don't, its going to be a very long Saturday night at the Coliseum.
Next Game: Saturday 7PM @Home VS the Caps
Post Game: Jets @ Isles
I am unable to give a accurate report and post on a post game as I did not watch the game. Was only able to catch bits and pieces due to a busy schedule. Obvisouly though the Isles fell 3-0 to the Jets tonight. Dipietro seemed to be fine, the real problem is scoring. Last years strength is this years weakness. Who would of known. I am sure Scott will give a more in depth and detailed look on things.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Pre Game: Jets @ Isles
Tonight, the Winnipeg Jets make their first trip to LI in 15 years to take on John Tavares and our Islanders.
Tonight is a really big game for the Islanders. After struggling pretty bad recently tonights game is as close to a must win as one can be early in the season. This is a team you are clearly better then so it would be quite the let down if you failed to secure the two points in regulation.
Rick Dipietro will be starting in net for the Islanders tonight. I mean he did play well last Saturday, however what happened to Al Montoya? After one semi rough outing in Tampa he hasn't played since. Sure Nabakov did run with it for a little bit, but I think its time to get Monty back in there. It would be quite the mistake to stick him back in there Saturday when the Caps come to town. You can't expect the guy to be sharp after not playing for over two weeks and playing the Capitals the only way your going to have a chance is if the goalie steals the game because they are on fire right now.
Tonight, the Isles need to play good old fashioned hockey. Throw pucks on the net and finish their checks and keep their legs moving. None of the fancy careless play crap that they've done far to much of during the early portion of this season. If they do that, then I think they have a good chance to finally pull off a w tonight for the first time in a while.
Tonight is a really big game for the Islanders. After struggling pretty bad recently tonights game is as close to a must win as one can be early in the season. This is a team you are clearly better then so it would be quite the let down if you failed to secure the two points in regulation.
Rick Dipietro will be starting in net for the Islanders tonight. I mean he did play well last Saturday, however what happened to Al Montoya? After one semi rough outing in Tampa he hasn't played since. Sure Nabakov did run with it for a little bit, but I think its time to get Monty back in there. It would be quite the mistake to stick him back in there Saturday when the Caps come to town. You can't expect the guy to be sharp after not playing for over two weeks and playing the Capitals the only way your going to have a chance is if the goalie steals the game because they are on fire right now.
Tonight, the Isles need to play good old fashioned hockey. Throw pucks on the net and finish their checks and keep their legs moving. None of the fancy careless play crap that they've done far to much of during the early portion of this season. If they do that, then I think they have a good chance to finally pull off a w tonight for the first time in a while.
Guest Post: By Kenneth Boudreau
To
Claim or Not to Claim? As well as other thoughts from this week...
Well 12:00 p.m of November 1st
came by which was the deadline for any team to claim Trevor Gillies or Sean
Avery... Sean Avery? Who is he? Oh right he is that guy who tried fighting Travis
Hamonic last year and turned around to Michael Haley’s fist cracking him at
least five times in the season finale of the Islanders onslaught of the Rangers
last season. The same Sean Avery who had some not some kind things to say to
Islanders general manager Garth Snow. Well according to a few sources, as well
as some crazy fans, the Islanders were going to claim Avery. Why??? Do not get
me wrong; when Avery plays his game, he is one of the best agitators in the
sport of hockey. But realistically, with all his publicity stunts and enemies
created on this Islander team, does anyone see a sense in picking this guy up?
If the Rangers think that calling up Avery is going to big such a difference,
well only time will tell. Another reason to like Garth not picking him up is
that his attitude problems are not needed in a locker room full of youth.
Veterans such as Jay Pandolfo, Marty Reasoner amongst others will help support
this team and provide their valuable playing experiences. Well the time has
passed and luckily Garth did not bite on Avery.
Other Thoughts:
- According to the Islanders twitter feed, Nino Niederreiter will be down with Bridgeport on a conditioning stint for a maximum of two weeks
- My opinion: GREAT idea! Get him back into game shape around a youthful bunch that Bridgeport has and then he should be ready by around the 11/15 Ranger game barring a setback.
- A lot of people have been asking about the third jersey: I can confidently say that this will be the next third jersey of the New York Islanders released later this month.
- My opinion: It’s different, and I can say I like it. Although the black is somewhat questionable with the Islanders color schemes, it will be nice to see something unique.
- Lastly a big issue this off-season and even during the current season is the realignment of the whole NHL for the 2012-13 season with Winnipeg getting a hockey team back. Of course nothing is set in stone, but according to CBC Sports, this is what the proposed divisions would look like. Although the Islanders get to keep four of their divisional rivals in this new look realignment plan, they lose a big one in the Penguins who are rumored to not be happy about this plan... Go figure..
- My opinion: I am not 100% sure how the amount of games would break down but from the look of it, I like it! Although I was not alive to see it, I would love to see divisional playoffs. Look for more of division realignment talk to heat up really soon...
KB
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Q&A: With Jess Rubenstein from TheProspectPark
(Q)When did you start following the prospects of the Isles and is there any reasoning behind it?
(A)Why is easier to answer because one should be aware of what your rivals are doing to see if you will have an answer for it. How will the Rangers be able to fend off the Islanders as the 2 teams improve over the next 2-3 years.
As a fan, the NHL needs the Ranger/Islander/Devil rivalry to have meaning for the NHL to grow. You are talking the number 1 TV market in the country and everyone wins if instead of pride the teams are meeting in the playoffs.
(Q)Be honest, who has the stronger minors the Rangers or Isles and why?
(A)That is a dangerous question because in all honesty neither team right now is all that strong with their AHL teams. For both teams their best prospects are playing in the NCAA or Canadian juniors right now. For the Islanders, Lee, Russo, Mayfield, and Strome offer the best potential for the Islanders with some project players like Andrey Pedan who plays for Guelph (OHL) and John Persson who plays for Red Deer (WHL)
(Q)In the early hockey season, which Islander prospect has impressed and stood out the most?
(A)No question Anders Lee (2009 6th) as he leads the NCAA in goals scored with 10 and is 4th overall in points (13). Lee has points in every game he has played in but more importantly is showing a more consistent game this season.
(Q)Islander first round selection Ryan Strome has been going nuts in juniors, what do you seem him being as he grows older and fully develops?
(A)I would like to withhold any kind of judgment on Strome until he gets into the OHL playoffs or plays for Canada in the World Under-20. There is no question he can score at the OHL level but what was a concern for me last year was how he could not address having a full-time shadow on him as Mississauga did during the playoffs. We know Strome has a great package of offensive skills so the biggest question has to be can he beat the defensive game plans drawn up to stop him in the big games.
If Strome can then at worst he will be a 2nd liner with a legit chance to be a 1st liner.
(Q)Do you believe Kabonov can be a legit top 6 forward?
(A)Yes no question about it as Kabanov because of all the other stuff has distracted people's attention from his skill set. Kabanov has everything you want out of a star player, he has the size, the skill, the skating and the IQ. Kabanov is just learning that he can dominate games and it is starting to show in the results. The other strength Kabanov has that most do not realize is an uncanny ability to develop chemistry who ever they send out their to play with him. Kabanov brings out the best in those he plays with and that is something you can not take for granted.
What Kabanov also has that most teams lack is a personality as when people get to see Kabanov off ice then it is so hard not to like him. Kabanov will become the Islander's most popular player for what he does on and off the ice.
(Q)Also to add, do you believe that Kevin Poulin can be a legit number one in the NHL
(A)Yes he can as he has been improving with every year. The Islanders need to get him the lion's share of playing time as the sooner he gets regular PT then the sooner he will claim his spot as the Islander goalie of the future.
_________________________________________
Thank You Jess for giving some great insight and personal opinion. Her blog TheProspectPark is top of the line for Islander prospect coverage. Follow TheProspectPark on Twitter here.
(A)Why is easier to answer because one should be aware of what your rivals are doing to see if you will have an answer for it. How will the Rangers be able to fend off the Islanders as the 2 teams improve over the next 2-3 years.
As a fan, the NHL needs the Ranger/Islander/Devil rivalry to have meaning for the NHL to grow. You are talking the number 1 TV market in the country and everyone wins if instead of pride the teams are meeting in the playoffs.
(Q)Be honest, who has the stronger minors the Rangers or Isles and why?
(A)That is a dangerous question because in all honesty neither team right now is all that strong with their AHL teams. For both teams their best prospects are playing in the NCAA or Canadian juniors right now. For the Islanders, Lee, Russo, Mayfield, and Strome offer the best potential for the Islanders with some project players like Andrey Pedan who plays for Guelph (OHL) and John Persson who plays for Red Deer (WHL)
(Q)In the early hockey season, which Islander prospect has impressed and stood out the most?
(A)No question Anders Lee (2009 6th) as he leads the NCAA in goals scored with 10 and is 4th overall in points (13). Lee has points in every game he has played in but more importantly is showing a more consistent game this season.
(Q)Islander first round selection Ryan Strome has been going nuts in juniors, what do you seem him being as he grows older and fully develops?
(A)I would like to withhold any kind of judgment on Strome until he gets into the OHL playoffs or plays for Canada in the World Under-20. There is no question he can score at the OHL level but what was a concern for me last year was how he could not address having a full-time shadow on him as Mississauga did during the playoffs. We know Strome has a great package of offensive skills so the biggest question has to be can he beat the defensive game plans drawn up to stop him in the big games.
If Strome can then at worst he will be a 2nd liner with a legit chance to be a 1st liner.
(Q)Do you believe Kabonov can be a legit top 6 forward?
(A)Yes no question about it as Kabanov because of all the other stuff has distracted people's attention from his skill set. Kabanov has everything you want out of a star player, he has the size, the skill, the skating and the IQ. Kabanov is just learning that he can dominate games and it is starting to show in the results. The other strength Kabanov has that most do not realize is an uncanny ability to develop chemistry who ever they send out their to play with him. Kabanov brings out the best in those he plays with and that is something you can not take for granted.
What Kabanov also has that most teams lack is a personality as when people get to see Kabanov off ice then it is so hard not to like him. Kabanov will become the Islander's most popular player for what he does on and off the ice.
(Q)Also to add, do you believe that Kevin Poulin can be a legit number one in the NHL
(A)Yes he can as he has been improving with every year. The Islanders need to get him the lion's share of playing time as the sooner he gets regular PT then the sooner he will claim his spot as the Islander goalie of the future.
_________________________________________
Thank You Jess for giving some great insight and personal opinion. Her blog TheProspectPark is top of the line for Islander prospect coverage. Follow TheProspectPark on Twitter here.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Guest Post:By Kenneth Boudreau
On a nite that was the celebration of the 1992-93 team in front of
a crowd of just under 12,000 the Islanders played their tails off from
start to finish.
My Plus/Minus of the game:
- (-) Bad start after a cross check on Logan Couture by Steve Staios led to a PPG 1-0 sharks lead.
- (+)Despite giving up early goal, Ricky played strong tonight in goal for his first game back.
- (+)The play of the first line still continues to impress with JT getting a goal on PP from his linemates Matt Moulson and P.A. Parenteau
- (+) Isles offense for all four lines were rolling with Isles outshooting the Sharks 37-30 for the game.
- (+)Beauty in the 2nd goal for the Isles on crisp tape to tape passes leading to Islanders lead at 2-1
- (-) Bad bounce for Mark Streit led to a Logan Couture goal after a screen on DP by Staios to tie the game at 2.
- (+)Isles earned a point.
- (-)Horrible call by officiating: Travis Hamonic chipped the puck of out the zone off the glass..The referee overturned the call, gave Hamonic a penalty for delay of game which led to Brett Burns overtime goal on a 4 on 3 powerplay for San Jose.
- Doug Weight was absolutely furious from the bench, something you rarely see from the high class player turned coach.
As
Chris Botta stated on Twitter after the game: "That's as horrific a
piece of officiating by 4 men as you will find at any level of hockey."
Whether the Islanders would've won the game, we will
never know but that was a putrid call and the NHL officials up in
Toronto ruled it a mistake that a penalty was given to Hamonic costing
the game for the Islanders.
On a positive note, Capuano stated in his press
conference that: "This was one of the best game that his team has played
all season". Totally agreed with this statement, DP played
solid despite being out of position for first goal, San Jose was riding a
4 game winning streak. If they play more games like this, they will be competing for a playoff spot because the effort was there. It is a shame that the referee had to literally blow the game for the harder working team.
Sincerely,
Kenny B
Off Topic: Quick Note
Firstly as you noticed, the blog design has drastically changed. Would love to here some feedback here or on twitter. Personally I am very happy with the new look, as I wish you the readers are as well.
Secondly, I would like to say that there will be a guest post tomorrow. We are having a potential writer audition for us tomorrow about the game tonight. We have talked about expansion before but are seriouslly considering it now. If anybody would be interested, please contact us at savetheisles@gmail.com or on twitter.(SaveTheIsles or Scott) Thank You as every candidate would be seriously looked at. Go Isles
Secondly, I would like to say that there will be a guest post tomorrow. We are having a potential writer audition for us tomorrow about the game tonight. We have talked about expansion before but are seriouslly considering it now. If anybody would be interested, please contact us at savetheisles@gmail.com or on twitter.(SaveTheIsles or Scott) Thank You as every candidate would be seriously looked at. Go Isles
Post Game: Isles lose 3-2 in OT!!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders fell 3-2 in overtime to the San Jose Sharks. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Awful, Awful call on Hamonic in OT!! Most everyone at the arena could see the puck hit the glass before going into the crowd so how the refs who were right there couldn't see it is just beyond me!! Good for Jay Pandolfo staying after the game like he did to have a discussion with the refs about it because it was clear as day that it did hit the glass. That is good vet leadership displayed by Pandolfo there.
-DP surprisingly played pretty well!! Off course you had some of those moments like what the heck are you doing? Or stay in the net, but all in all he didn't play bad!!
-Okposo made a heck of a pass to grabs for the 2nd goal but other then that thought he had a pedestrian game.
-4th line played well as usual
-Comeau and Martin both threw some nice hits tonight
-I thought the powerplay got better as the game went on, the two first period powerplays were simply pathetic but as the powerplays accumulated they got better and eventually potted one which was good to see.
Meet and Greet:
Prior to the start of tonights game, the Islanders held a meet greet in the expo hall down stairs at the Coliseum where season ticket holders as well as decade plan holders were able to meet 10 members of the 1993 Islanders team. The Islanders did a good job with this, it was a nice time for all involved. It was personally my first time meeting most of the people from that team so as a fan who was very young at the time of the team it was like a nice history lesson on team history so to speak. Again good on the Islanders for holding this!!! Also the ceremony on the ice pre game was nice!! It was pretty cool to be able to see guys like Turgeon and Kasper and Vukota on the ice sports the Isles sweater again!!
-Awful, Awful call on Hamonic in OT!! Most everyone at the arena could see the puck hit the glass before going into the crowd so how the refs who were right there couldn't see it is just beyond me!! Good for Jay Pandolfo staying after the game like he did to have a discussion with the refs about it because it was clear as day that it did hit the glass. That is good vet leadership displayed by Pandolfo there.
-DP surprisingly played pretty well!! Off course you had some of those moments like what the heck are you doing? Or stay in the net, but all in all he didn't play bad!!
-Okposo made a heck of a pass to grabs for the 2nd goal but other then that thought he had a pedestrian game.
-4th line played well as usual
-Comeau and Martin both threw some nice hits tonight
-I thought the powerplay got better as the game went on, the two first period powerplays were simply pathetic but as the powerplays accumulated they got better and eventually potted one which was good to see.
Meet and Greet:
Prior to the start of tonights game, the Islanders held a meet greet in the expo hall down stairs at the Coliseum where season ticket holders as well as decade plan holders were able to meet 10 members of the 1993 Islanders team. The Islanders did a good job with this, it was a nice time for all involved. It was personally my first time meeting most of the people from that team so as a fan who was very young at the time of the team it was like a nice history lesson on team history so to speak. Again good on the Islanders for holding this!!! Also the ceremony on the ice pre game was nice!! It was pretty cool to be able to see guys like Turgeon and Kasper and Vukota on the ice sports the Isles sweater again!!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Sharks @ Isles 7PM
Tonight the Sharks come rolling into the colisuem to take on our New York Islanders. Isles coming off a hard fought game against the Pens loosing in the shootout will look to get one in the win column tonight. Dipietro is schedule to make his first start of the season. DiPietro who made his debut against the Pens in the shooutout. Maybe DP can be our closer in baseball terms. He played well stopping 2 out of 3, allowing a goal by an incredible move by Malkin. I figured Dipietro would get a start on the road away from the home crowd but my guess seems to be wrong.
Also tonight is part one in decade tonight. The Islanders are celebrating the 90s. Earlier they serviced a meet and greet with fans allowing pictures and autographs. Some fun activity on such a crappy day. My look on tonights game as followed:
Also tonight is part one in decade tonight. The Islanders are celebrating the 90s. Earlier they serviced a meet and greet with fans allowing pictures and autographs. Some fun activity on such a crappy day. My look on tonights game as followed:
- How will DP look
- My bet secondary scoring comes through tonight (Okposo being my guess)
- What an upgrade Jurcina is. Adds such needed size and at time physical force
- Bailey and Comeau need to continue to grow coming off their best game against the Pens
- 4th line keeping up the good work
- Lets Go Islanders
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 3-2 in a shootout!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders actually showed up this time unlike Tuesday, however they fell to the Penguins 3-2 in a shootout. Here are some of my notes:
-To start, the goalie switch for the shootout. I guess I understand why they did it since Nabby wasn't feeling well. However he just played an entire game, he couldn't have lasted 5 more minutes?
-Nabby was really good tonight!! If not for him I don't know if the game would've been as close as it was because he came up huge on multiple occasions, especially in the first two periods.
-Tavares had a pretty good game, it was nice to see he wasn't physically intimidated at all by Orpik because Orpik is a really big strong guy.
-4th line played well again, especially Martin who I thought had a real good game
-Bailey & Comeau probably had their best games respectively of the season thus far. Given how theyve been its not saying much however its nice to see improvement.
-I thought Jurcina made his presence known with his upgrade over Mottau. He controls gaps a lot better then Mottau and throws the body a bit to. He will surely be a welcomed edition
After what I thought had been 3 pretty pathetic games tonights game was pretty good, and hopefully they can build on it for Saturday.
Next Game: Saturday 10/29 @ Home VS the Sharks
Notes:
Starting at 3:30 Saturday the Islanders will be having an exclusive meet & greet for season ticket holders as well as decade plan holders. So if either one of them applies to you, be sure to go as I am sure it will be a lot of fun, and I actually will be attending.
Also prior to the start of the game Saturday the Islanders will be holding a special ceremony to honor the 1992/1993 Isles which were the last team to win a playoff series. That team is best remembered by David Voleks goal in OT vs the Penguins. This ceremony will be a nice little history lesson for some of the younger fans out there including myself.
-To start, the goalie switch for the shootout. I guess I understand why they did it since Nabby wasn't feeling well. However he just played an entire game, he couldn't have lasted 5 more minutes?
-Nabby was really good tonight!! If not for him I don't know if the game would've been as close as it was because he came up huge on multiple occasions, especially in the first two periods.
-Tavares had a pretty good game, it was nice to see he wasn't physically intimidated at all by Orpik because Orpik is a really big strong guy.
-4th line played well again, especially Martin who I thought had a real good game
-Bailey & Comeau probably had their best games respectively of the season thus far. Given how theyve been its not saying much however its nice to see improvement.
-I thought Jurcina made his presence known with his upgrade over Mottau. He controls gaps a lot better then Mottau and throws the body a bit to. He will surely be a welcomed edition
After what I thought had been 3 pretty pathetic games tonights game was pretty good, and hopefully they can build on it for Saturday.
Next Game: Saturday 10/29 @ Home VS the Sharks
Notes:
Starting at 3:30 Saturday the Islanders will be having an exclusive meet & greet for season ticket holders as well as decade plan holders. So if either one of them applies to you, be sure to go as I am sure it will be a lot of fun, and I actually will be attending.
Also prior to the start of the game Saturday the Islanders will be holding a special ceremony to honor the 1992/1993 Isles which were the last team to win a playoff series. That team is best remembered by David Voleks goal in OT vs the Penguins. This ceremony will be a nice little history lesson for some of the younger fans out there including myself.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Post Game: Pee-wee Isles lose 3-0!!!
Tonight a team wearing the Islander jerseys took the ice at the Coliseum and fell 3-0 to the Penguins. What team it was I have no idea, but I know for sure it definitely wasn't the NHL team the New York Islanders. Here are some of my notes from the game:
First of all, was that really an NHL team out there tonight?? Because it sure didn't seem like it!!! This game was an embarrassment simple as that!! This game would've caused people with sleep apnea to fall asleep. Sad but true!!!
The team had 33 shots tonight but I think 32 of them went into Fleurys crest which isn't good because you won't score that way. Also, would it kill them to shoot some pucks in the air. I can't tell you how many times in the last two games they had chances that were lost because they couldn't raise the puck off the ice.
While it was nice that they finally put shots on net, they couldn't do anything else tonight!! So many passes either into skates, to far from the target, or just into areas where nobody was or even on their way to. I sure don't know what the heck happened to this team because right now their play is a joke!!
Nabby was the only decent player on the ice tonight & there was some instances were even he made me think what the hell are you doing?? One time on the powerplay he played the puck and just sat there with it. Streit was coming back and put out his arms signaling like are you going to do something or what?? He ended up leaving it there. I remember another time in the third period where when the Pens were putting pressure on he like jumped out to cover the puck and he missed it and he just laid there for a few seconds like he was a kid with a stomach ache. He was sort of the best of the worst for the team tonight in my opinion!
Josh Bailey & Blake Comeau looked LOST!!! There poor play continues!! I can't believe that a large number of people thought that him being sat out for two games was a trade indication. In all honesty based off his recent play if I am a GM id be hesitant to give up much of anything for Comeau. The same goes for Bailey, who just about as bad as Comeau looked lost tonight and has for the better part of the young season thus far. I don't know what is wrong with these guys but someone needs to kick them in the ass and wake them up!!
Defense let us down on the two goals tonight!! Well the first goal was a break in coverage or something because you could see from a mile away that Dupis was open and primed for a breakaway, so how didn't they or someone make them aware of that? Then the second goal was started by a bad turnover, and then you had Streit and Staios instead of pressuring the puck carrier just went down to block the shot. So being smart Park just carried the puck until they were no longer in front of him and he shot it past Nabby. To me that is poor defense, pressure the puck carrier to make him act quick, by going down so soon you give yourself up way to easy.
Hopefully they turn it around and quick because if they don't they will be in a lot of trouble!!
Next Game: Thursday @ PIT
Pre Game: Pens @ Isles
Things to look foward tonight:
- WINNING: 2 points is worth more then beating them in PIM
- Lets shoot the puck boys
- WIll Nabby continue the strong play
- Big test for defense tonight
- Continue the strong play at home, need to make the best out of this longstreak of home games
- Sorry for the short post, am running late and need to go to school
- Lets Go Islanders
2 MIN A GAME TREVOR
Some fans may like Trevor Gillies, some others may hate the man. I fall under the group who strongly dislikes the Islander enforcer. I firstly do not see a reason to have a player in the starting lineup who will play roughly 2 minutes a game. To me, it is a complete waste.
Recently Comeau was scratched while Gillies got the nod. For what? For Trevor to stand up and go after Victor Hedman who previously hit Tavares a week before. Is that a good explanation to sit a young forward who scores 20+ goals a season? Not a valid reason to me. It should be interesting to see who plays when Rolston comes back. If Comeau sits once again, we got a problem folks. A problem and a huge question mark, which needs to be answered. I say shave the mustache and shave Gillies for good.
Recently Comeau was scratched while Gillies got the nod. For what? For Trevor to stand up and go after Victor Hedman who previously hit Tavares a week before. Is that a good explanation to sit a young forward who scores 20+ goals a season? Not a valid reason to me. It should be interesting to see who plays when Rolston comes back. If Comeau sits once again, we got a problem folks. A problem and a huge question mark, which needs to be answered. I say shave the mustache and shave Gillies for good.
Thoughts & Opinions
Just want to give some quick thoughts and opinions about the team and anything else. Some of these points, very well may be future posts. I know its still early, but these concerns aren't.
Feel free to comment and answer some of these questions:
Feel free to comment and answer some of these questions:
- When Will Rick DiPietro get a start? When will he start to cry?
- Which lines will get mixed up?
- Does Okposo have a identity?
- Gillies why are you still here?
- Nabby has been solid, should we be suprised?
- The problems with Comeau and Bailey have never left
- You wont score if you do not shoot the puck
- Why are we having problems controlling the puck?
- Reasoner has not impressed me yet
- Will the defense hold up?
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Canucks & Panthers agree to big trade!!!
Prior to the Isles Panther game tonight the Panthers agreed to a blockbuster trade with the Canucks which sent fan favorite David Booth to the Canucks. The exacts of the deal can be seen below:
Vancouver Gets:
David Booth
Steve Reinprecht
2012 3rd round pick (This pick was orginally acquired by the Panthers from the Canucks in exchange for Chris Higgins)
Florida Gets:
Mikael Samuelson
Marco Sturm
On the surface this seems to be a pretty darn good trade for the Canucks because it makes their top six all the more dangerous. Only thing they need to watch out for is Booths health. After that incident with Mike Richards he has a history now so that's always risky. Right now its a good trade for the Canucks but if he can stay healthy it will be a great trade for them!!
Vancouver Gets:
David Booth
Steve Reinprecht
2012 3rd round pick (This pick was orginally acquired by the Panthers from the Canucks in exchange for Chris Higgins)
Florida Gets:
Mikael Samuelson
Marco Sturm
On the surface this seems to be a pretty darn good trade for the Canucks because it makes their top six all the more dangerous. Only thing they need to watch out for is Booths health. After that incident with Mike Richards he has a history now so that's always risky. Right now its a good trade for the Canucks but if he can stay healthy it will be a great trade for them!!
Post Game: Isles lose 4-2
Tonight our New York Islanders continued their Florida road trip by traveling to Sunrise to take on the Panthers, and were downed by them 4-2. Here are some of my notes:
-This road trip has been an embarrassment!! Save the third period tonight the team has been just pitiful and embarrassing on this trip!!
-10 shots through 2 period tonight is just unacceptable and needs to change NOW!! Its become like a growing occurrence with this team save the Lightning game & the Ranger game at home. I am sorry but your not going to do much if you dont put the puck on net.
-If not for Mark Streit and Nabakov this team wouldve been shut out!! You can't blame this on Nabby because he really didnt have much of a team show up in front of him for a majority of the game.
-It was nice to see them finally wake up after the Panthers second goal however through the first two periods it was like the only offensive chances we were getting were on the powerplay. While its good that they got chances on the powerplay you need to get chances at even strength to otherwise you will not have very good odds of winning.
-Nabby has been sharp in his two starts this year which has surprised me. Coming in I was very nervous about him, but I am happy he has caused me to eat some crow so to speak.
Lets hope they leave this crappy play on the road with them has they come home this Tuesday.
Next Game: Tuesday 10/25 @ Home VS the Penguins
-This road trip has been an embarrassment!! Save the third period tonight the team has been just pitiful and embarrassing on this trip!!
-10 shots through 2 period tonight is just unacceptable and needs to change NOW!! Its become like a growing occurrence with this team save the Lightning game & the Ranger game at home. I am sorry but your not going to do much if you dont put the puck on net.
-If not for Mark Streit and Nabakov this team wouldve been shut out!! You can't blame this on Nabby because he really didnt have much of a team show up in front of him for a majority of the game.
-It was nice to see them finally wake up after the Panthers second goal however through the first two periods it was like the only offensive chances we were getting were on the powerplay. While its good that they got chances on the powerplay you need to get chances at even strength to otherwise you will not have very good odds of winning.
-Nabby has been sharp in his two starts this year which has surprised me. Coming in I was very nervous about him, but I am happy he has caused me to eat some crow so to speak.
Lets hope they leave this crappy play on the road with them has they come home this Tuesday.
Next Game: Tuesday 10/25 @ Home VS the Penguins
Pre Game: Isles @ Panthers!!!
Tonight our New York Islanders continue their road trip to Florida to take on David Booth and the Florida Panthers.
Lets hope tonights game is better then Thursdays. Thursdays game was basically an utter embarrassment when compared to the two games before it. Lets hope the team shows some life and is actually able to do something and is maybe able to get some revenge on them for the home opener.
Evgeni Nabakov will start for the Isles tonight against Jose Theodore. Blake Comeau will be returning to the lineup tonight. This was long overdue and didn't see the point to scratching him the way they have. Sean Bergenheim is injured for Florida so he will not be playing today.
Last note, Brian Rolston will not be playing tonight because his wife is giving birth to their child. So I would expect Martin to remain on the 3rd line and for Comeau to take Rolstons spot & for Gillies to stay on line four.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Post Game: Isles lose 4-1!!
Tonight our New York Islanders fell to the Lightning by a score of 4-1. Here are some of my notes from the game:
-Tonight was the worst game of the year since the home opener
-10 shots through 2 periods and 13 in a game is unacceptable!!
-I can't really say that many people if any had good games, Tavares, Hamonic, MacDonald, & Monty were decent but nobody was really good.
-After the five day layoff the team looked very sloppy and off!!! Hopefully they come out better Saturday or we'll be in trouble
Next Game: Saturday @ Panthers
-Tonight was the worst game of the year since the home opener
-10 shots through 2 periods and 13 in a game is unacceptable!!
-I can't really say that many people if any had good games, Tavares, Hamonic, MacDonald, & Monty were decent but nobody was really good.
-After the five day layoff the team looked very sloppy and off!!! Hopefully they come out better Saturday or we'll be in trouble
Next Game: Saturday @ Panthers
Pre Game: Isles @ Lightning!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders begin their first road trip of the year as they travel to Tampa Bay to take on Steve Stamkos & the Tampa Bay Lightning. If you remember last week the Lightning came to the Coliseum & the Islanders chased Dwayne Roloson in that game on the way to a 5-1 win.
Tonight the goalies will be Al Montoya for the Islanders & Matheiu Garon for the Lightning. Dwayne Roloson because of his recent struggles will be backing up tonight. Also there were some reports that said goalie Rick Dipietro who suffered a concussion last week as well as defenseman Milan Jurcina both traveled to Florida with the team.
Trevor Gillies will once again be in the lineup tonight in the place of Blake Comeau. I wonder what in the world happened to this guy. To play Trevor Gillies against this team that has no goon makes no sense in the world to me. No offense to Gillies who is one of the nicest guys on the team, but to me and most others Comeau by far makes a bigger impact on the game then Gillies does. I would have to hope that a trade of some sort is imminent with him, because if its not then what they are doing makes no sense at all. Hopefully we get some sorta comments soon.
To start tonight, the Islanders need to come out strong because I think the Lightning will come out flying looking to make up for the very poor showing at the Coliseum last week. If they are able to withstand the early flurry I think that they will have a pretty good chance to continue there hot play with another win.
The City has serious interest in the Isles??
According to a tweet a few minutes ago from the people at netsdaily.com, New York City has serious interest in bringing the Isles to NYC from Long Island.
https://twitter.com/#!/NetsDaily/status/127019149116440576
This is nice to hear, to me at least!! It also confirms what has gone on with the interest from Brooklyn. That they are really interested & aren't just showing interest to make life more difficult for Nassau so to speak.
https://twitter.com/#!/NetsDaily/status/127019149116440576
This is nice to hear, to me at least!! It also confirms what has gone on with the interest from Brooklyn. That they are really interested & aren't just showing interest to make life more difficult for Nassau so to speak.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Great Read on Kirill Kabanov!!
A friend of mine shared this article with me about Kirill Kabanov earlier today, and I thought I would share it with all of you.
http://puckingpattyb.blogspot.com/2011/10/real-kirill-kabanov.html
I thought it was well done & really showed what an excellent person Kirill is. If you like the article as well post a comment on the link above.
Enjoy & only two more days til our Islanders are in action again!!
http://puckingpattyb.blogspot.com/2011/10/real-kirill-kabanov.html
I thought it was well done & really showed what an excellent person Kirill is. If you like the article as well post a comment on the link above.
Enjoy & only two more days til our Islanders are in action again!!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Post Game: Isles beat Rangers 4-2!!!!!
Tonight, before a jam packed crowd our New York Islanders defeated the Rangers by a score of 4-2!! Here are some of my notes from the game:
-John Tavares!! Enough said, guy is coming into his own, 8 points in two games, man oh man he is going to be special!!!
-Nabakov shocked me tonight!! I was very nervous from the time I saw Nabakov starting that it was the wrong move, however Nabakov played really well!!
-Great crowd tonight!!! Even though I think there were more Ranger fans there, the Islander fans were loud & proud almost from the outset so good job Islanders Country!!
-Hamonic & MacDonald made the Brad Richards line basically invisible when they were out against them. I didn't notice Richards til the second period. That is going to be quite the pairing for years to come for us.
-One flaw I saw tonight, on the Rangers second goal, both Nielsen & Eaton got caught flat footed looking at the Ranger player instead of playing him away.
-Scratching Comeau for Gillies really made me scratch my head!! I mean Gillies didn't look lost on the ice at all, however why Comeau?? This happening has set off a lot of trade speculation on message boards and twitter that Blake Comeau maybe in his last days with the Islanders. If I hear anything on this ill be sure to post.
-Another flaw tonight was no Chicken Dance!! I was kinda disappointed they didn't play it in the last minute during one of the breaks in play they had.
Overall tonights game was a really solid game by the boys from Long Island. It was really nice to see against the Rangers & a great way to end the homestand. Now they get some time off to recuperate before they play again. Hopefully they can keep it up!!
Next Game: Thursday 10/20 @ Tampa Bay starting at 7:30 PM
-John Tavares!! Enough said, guy is coming into his own, 8 points in two games, man oh man he is going to be special!!!
-Nabakov shocked me tonight!! I was very nervous from the time I saw Nabakov starting that it was the wrong move, however Nabakov played really well!!
-Great crowd tonight!!! Even though I think there were more Ranger fans there, the Islander fans were loud & proud almost from the outset so good job Islanders Country!!
-Hamonic & MacDonald made the Brad Richards line basically invisible when they were out against them. I didn't notice Richards til the second period. That is going to be quite the pairing for years to come for us.
-One flaw I saw tonight, on the Rangers second goal, both Nielsen & Eaton got caught flat footed looking at the Ranger player instead of playing him away.
-Scratching Comeau for Gillies really made me scratch my head!! I mean Gillies didn't look lost on the ice at all, however why Comeau?? This happening has set off a lot of trade speculation on message boards and twitter that Blake Comeau maybe in his last days with the Islanders. If I hear anything on this ill be sure to post.
-Another flaw tonight was no Chicken Dance!! I was kinda disappointed they didn't play it in the last minute during one of the breaks in play they had.
Overall tonights game was a really solid game by the boys from Long Island. It was really nice to see against the Rangers & a great way to end the homestand. Now they get some time off to recuperate before they play again. Hopefully they can keep it up!!
Next Game: Thursday 10/20 @ Tampa Bay starting at 7:30 PM
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Pre Game: First Rangers @Islanders game of the year!!
Tonight the Broadway blue shirts from NYC pay a visit to the Nassau Coliseum to take on John Tavares and our New York Islanders.
It was announced this morning that Evgeni Nabakov would start in net for the isles tonight. Also today the Islanders officially took Trevor Gillies off IR so it should be interest as to weather or not he will crack the lineup tonight or be scratched. With started Nabakov over Montoya, I hope this is another Cappy gut feeling because I would've started Montoya the way he has been playing & its really risky starting Nabakov especially in a game like this.
The Rangers are playing their first game in a week so if the Islanders can jump on them early it could set them up great for the rest of the game. Rangers I think are going to be flat early on because they will be getting their legs under them so the Islanders need to capitalize on that.
If your going to the game have fun & be safe and hopefully we see an Islander win to close out this home stand & keep the Rangers win less!!
It was announced this morning that Evgeni Nabakov would start in net for the isles tonight. Also today the Islanders officially took Trevor Gillies off IR so it should be interest as to weather or not he will crack the lineup tonight or be scratched. With started Nabakov over Montoya, I hope this is another Cappy gut feeling because I would've started Montoya the way he has been playing & its really risky starting Nabakov especially in a game like this.
The Rangers are playing their first game in a week so if the Islanders can jump on them early it could set them up great for the rest of the game. Rangers I think are going to be flat early on because they will be getting their legs under them so the Islanders need to capitalize on that.
If your going to the game have fun & be safe and hopefully we see an Islander win to close out this home stand & keep the Rangers win less!!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Rick DiPietro Out
It was announced today that Islanders goaltender Rick DiPietro is out indefinably with a concussion. DP was hit in the head while participating in practice the other day. Man what bad luck this guy has. Something freak like this now, its hard not to feel bad for him. Now only Montoya and Nabakov are left, making head coach Capuano job a little easier for the time being. Look for Montoya to obviously get the start tomorrow night against the New York Rangers.
Post Game: Isles win 5-1!!!
Tonight, our New York Islanders played their best game of the short season defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning by a score of 5-1. Here's some notes from the game:
-Montoya showed up again and was fantastic yet again!! I think its safe to officially call Montoya the teams number one goalie and I am happy to be writing this!!
-Tavares line was fantastic tonight!!!
-Hamonic & MacDOnald have officially arrived & shaken off their early season rust which was evident in the first two games.
-4th line was also very good!!!
-Only bust was the small crowd!! Was lucky to have hit 50% capacity tonight which isn't good!! Come out Saturday and support as the Rangers & their fans come to visit.
Thoughts from Rob:
-Figured I join the post game tonight at 1:53AM, why not right.
-Isles were on MSG tonight = wow
-NHL On The Fly had a nice long segment on the Isles including a Grabner interview.
-Montoya Montoya Montoya. Cannot say enough, keep the man playing
-Great win against a tough team
-We need to build off of this and come out hot against the Rangers Sat.
Next Game: Saturday @ Home VS The Rangers at 7PM
-Montoya showed up again and was fantastic yet again!! I think its safe to officially call Montoya the teams number one goalie and I am happy to be writing this!!
-Tavares line was fantastic tonight!!!
-Hamonic & MacDOnald have officially arrived & shaken off their early season rust which was evident in the first two games.
-4th line was also very good!!!
-Only bust was the small crowd!! Was lucky to have hit 50% capacity tonight which isn't good!! Come out Saturday and support as the Rangers & their fans come to visit.
Thoughts from Rob:
-Figured I join the post game tonight at 1:53AM, why not right.
-Isles were on MSG tonight = wow
-NHL On The Fly had a nice long segment on the Isles including a Grabner interview.
-Montoya Montoya Montoya. Cannot say enough, keep the man playing
-Great win against a tough team
-We need to build off of this and come out hot against the Rangers Sat.
Next Game: Saturday @ Home VS The Rangers at 7PM
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Pre Game: Lightning @ Islanders!!
Tonight, Steven Stamkos & the Tampa Bay Lightning pay a visit to the Nassau Coliseum to play against John Tavares & the rest of our New York Islanders.
After a semi bounce back game the other day from the game last Saturday, the Islanders look to build on that as they finish up this home stand with a game tonight against the Lightning then Saturday against the Rangers. If they want to have a shot tonight they need to do two things a lot better then they did this past Monday, they are:
1) Be more disciplined!! If you take 7 penalties against the Lightning, Stamoks, St Louis, & Lecavalier among others will surely make you pay for that.
2) On Monday, the Islanders amassed a whopping total of 5 shots in the final two periods of play. That needs to change, and NOW!!! They need to stop trying to be pretty & make the pretty play and they just need to play hockey get pucks to the net & bury them!! If they continue to try & be pretty turnovers will happen & unless Montoya stands on his head again which is possible it won't turn out favorably for us.
It was announced this morning that Al "The Big Cubano" Montoya would be getting his third consecutive start tonight, after a great performance the other day this isn't very surprising at all. Evgeni Nabakov will dress as his backup. My guess is Capuano will continue to go with the hot hand until he doesn't perform up to par and then one of the other goalie will get the chance.
Note: Goalie Rick Dipietro left practice early yesterday after being struck in the mask by a Brian Rolston slap shot. It is said that DP could have a concussion, he was being re-evaluated today. Keep an eye on the Islanders website for updates on that, and if we hear anything we'll be sure to post.
After a semi bounce back game the other day from the game last Saturday, the Islanders look to build on that as they finish up this home stand with a game tonight against the Lightning then Saturday against the Rangers. If they want to have a shot tonight they need to do two things a lot better then they did this past Monday, they are:
1) Be more disciplined!! If you take 7 penalties against the Lightning, Stamoks, St Louis, & Lecavalier among others will surely make you pay for that.
2) On Monday, the Islanders amassed a whopping total of 5 shots in the final two periods of play. That needs to change, and NOW!!! They need to stop trying to be pretty & make the pretty play and they just need to play hockey get pucks to the net & bury them!! If they continue to try & be pretty turnovers will happen & unless Montoya stands on his head again which is possible it won't turn out favorably for us.
It was announced this morning that Al "The Big Cubano" Montoya would be getting his third consecutive start tonight, after a great performance the other day this isn't very surprising at all. Evgeni Nabakov will dress as his backup. My guess is Capuano will continue to go with the hot hand until he doesn't perform up to par and then one of the other goalie will get the chance.
Note: Goalie Rick Dipietro left practice early yesterday after being struck in the mask by a Brian Rolston slap shot. It is said that DP could have a concussion, he was being re-evaluated today. Keep an eye on the Islanders website for updates on that, and if we hear anything we'll be sure to post.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)