According to multiple reports, following todays meetings with the NHLPA Gary Bettman confirmed that an agreement on a new CBA needs to happen by January 11th to salvage the season. An agreement by then would result in either a 48 or 52 game season.
The parties are expected to continue negotiating tomorrow after the NHLPA made a counter offer to the leagues most recent offer today in NYC.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Happy Holidays/Happy New Year
We here at savetheisles just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for your amazing support this year, and want to wish you all happy holidays and a happy and healthy new year.
image courtesy of http://calconews.com
image courtesy of http://2.bp.blogspot.com
image courtesy of http://www.iworksmc.org
image courtesy of http://calconews.com
image courtesy of http://2.bp.blogspot.comimage courtesy of http://www.iworksmc.orgSaturday, December 29, 2012
Sound Tiger Notes
According to the Sound Tigers official twitter, rookie center Brock Nelson will be out 2-3 more weeks suffering from a fractured jaw he sustained after taking a puck to the face during the game on December 14th.
Additionally, the AHL announced that Sound Tigers enforcer Brett Gallant would be suspended 3 games for leaving the bench on a legal line change intending to start an altercation on 12/27 vs the Whale. Gallant fought defenseman Dylan Mcilrath who had elbowed teammate Marc Cantin earlier in the game. Mcilrath was suspended 2 games for the hit. A video of the incident can be found below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=E3c93WJjEK8 (:22 for for the hit with the fight right after)
Additionally, the AHL announced that Sound Tigers enforcer Brett Gallant would be suspended 3 games for leaving the bench on a legal line change intending to start an altercation on 12/27 vs the Whale. Gallant fought defenseman Dylan Mcilrath who had elbowed teammate Marc Cantin earlier in the game. Mcilrath was suspended 2 games for the hit. A video of the incident can be found below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=E3c93WJjEK8 (:22 for for the hit with the fight right after)
Friday, December 28, 2012
Bridgeport Sweeps Home & Home From Whale
Coming off the holiday break, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers swept a home and home from the rival CT Whale.
Last night, the Tigers defeated the Whale by a score of 5-2. The Tigers got on the board early with two first period goals from forward Nino Niederriter who brought his point total to 29 on the season placing him at 7th place in the AHL coming into tonight. After his hot start though, Nino got clipped by a high stick in the second period and didn't return to the game. David Ullstrom also contributed 4 assists to the winning effort.
After their win last night, the Tigers looked to continue their momentum and did just that with their 3-0 shutout win over the CT Whale in Hartford tonight. It was only the Tigers third shutout in Hartford in franchise history. (3/19/04 & 2/18/09, h/t to Bridgeport writer Mike Fornabaio) The Tigers got started early once again tonight with two more goals in the first period by Chad Costello (a PTO) and defenseman Matt Donavan. Forward John Persson netted his tenth goal of the season in the second period on a beautiful tic tac toe play to give the Tigers a 3-0 lead. This would be all that Kevin Poulin needed as he shut the Whale out all night on the way to the shutout.
The Tigers return to action Saturday @ Home against the Manchester Monarchs (Last Home Game of 2012)
Last night, the Tigers defeated the Whale by a score of 5-2. The Tigers got on the board early with two first period goals from forward Nino Niederriter who brought his point total to 29 on the season placing him at 7th place in the AHL coming into tonight. After his hot start though, Nino got clipped by a high stick in the second period and didn't return to the game. David Ullstrom also contributed 4 assists to the winning effort.
After their win last night, the Tigers looked to continue their momentum and did just that with their 3-0 shutout win over the CT Whale in Hartford tonight. It was only the Tigers third shutout in Hartford in franchise history. (3/19/04 & 2/18/09, h/t to Bridgeport writer Mike Fornabaio) The Tigers got started early once again tonight with two more goals in the first period by Chad Costello (a PTO) and defenseman Matt Donavan. Forward John Persson netted his tenth goal of the season in the second period on a beautiful tic tac toe play to give the Tigers a 3-0 lead. This would be all that Kevin Poulin needed as he shut the Whale out all night on the way to the shutout.
The Tigers return to action Saturday @ Home against the Manchester Monarchs (Last Home Game of 2012)
Bridgeport Injury Updates
According to Newsdays Arthur Staple, Bridgeport defenseman Travis Hamonic is out with a concussion. No word on a timeline or anything but he has already missed 11 games.
The lack of Hamonics presence on the blueline has been far to evident in recent games with multiple defensive breakdowns including blown coverage. The less then stellar play of the defense has made it tough for goalies Anders Nilsson and Kevin Poulin who have been forced to face a lot of shots. Most recently tonight, Poulin had a 36 save shutout against the Whale in Hartford.
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;JSESSIONID=F9A5F5B04065AC8F2CB2.3266?site=newsday&view=islanders_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=islanders&feed:i=1.4368331&nopaging=1
Forward Kirill Kabanov, who was cut by a skate in just the fourth game of the season said that he is hoping to return in early February. His return would provide the Tigers with a nice boost because of the great skill he brings. Additionally, Kabanov won the Memorial Cup in juniors last year and that experience would be very valuable for a young team like the Tigers coming down the stretch.
The lack of Hamonics presence on the blueline has been far to evident in recent games with multiple defensive breakdowns including blown coverage. The less then stellar play of the defense has made it tough for goalies Anders Nilsson and Kevin Poulin who have been forced to face a lot of shots. Most recently tonight, Poulin had a 36 save shutout against the Whale in Hartford.
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;JSESSIONID=F9A5F5B04065AC8F2CB2.3266?site=newsday&view=islanders_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=islanders&feed:i=1.4368331&nopaging=1
Forward Kirill Kabanov, who was cut by a skate in just the fourth game of the season said that he is hoping to return in early February. His return would provide the Tigers with a nice boost because of the great skill he brings. Additionally, Kabanov won the Memorial Cup in juniors last year and that experience would be very valuable for a young team like the Tigers coming down the stretch.
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Sound Tigers Honoring Sandy Hook Victims
After the events of December 14th in Newtown Connecticut, the Sound Tigers have announced a few things they will be doing in memory of those who passed away far to soon.
For the rest of the season the Sound Tigers will have a green ribbon on their jersey as well as a stamp on the back of their helmets. On top of that, on the ice a message in memory will be posted for the rest of the season. Also, for the next few weeks, on the back of black Sound Tiger player jerseys you wont find their names but names of the people who were killed. January 20th is the last game the team will wear those jerseys and after that the jerseys will be given to each victims family.
They will also be holding an auction from January 7th through January 20th with all the proceeds going to help those who were effected. Lastly, residents of Newtown were able to get into tonights game, this Wednesday against the rival Whale and next Saturdays game free of charge.
http://www.examiner.com/article/sound-tigers-to-honor-sandy-hook-victims
For the rest of the season the Sound Tigers will have a green ribbon on their jersey as well as a stamp on the back of their helmets. On top of that, on the ice a message in memory will be posted for the rest of the season. Also, for the next few weeks, on the back of black Sound Tiger player jerseys you wont find their names but names of the people who were killed. January 20th is the last game the team will wear those jerseys and after that the jerseys will be given to each victims family.
They will also be holding an auction from January 7th through January 20th with all the proceeds going to help those who were effected. Lastly, residents of Newtown were able to get into tonights game, this Wednesday against the rival Whale and next Saturdays game free of charge.
http://www.examiner.com/article/sound-tigers-to-honor-sandy-hook-victims
Friday, December 21, 2012
CBA: NHL Cancels Games Through 1/14/13
Earlier this afternoon, the NHL announced that regular season games through January 14th, 2013 will be cancelled as the NHL & the NHLPA continue to struggle to agree to a new collective bargaining agreement.
With these cancellations the NHL has canceled 625 regular season games as part of the lockout. Some analysts have speculated after this announcement that the next cancellation announced will be the remainder of the season.
image taken from http://cdn.bleacherreport.net
With these cancellations the NHL has canceled 625 regular season games as part of the lockout. Some analysts have speculated after this announcement that the next cancellation announced will be the remainder of the season.
image taken from http://cdn.bleacherreport.net
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Lockout Hurting "Hub" Area Business
According to an article in Newsday, local business owners around the Coliseum say that the current NHL lockout is costing them dearly.
The general manager of the Marriot located next door to the Coliseum says that the lockout is costing the hotel over $100,000 every month. Given the regularity at which Islanders fans can be found in that place, a large number in losses like that isn't surprising.
This article also includes quotes from Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos, and displays how the comptroller has totally blown off the subject citing that the Coliseum was able to draw just fine during the 04/05 lockout. With new venues having opened since then and the departure of the team coming in 2015 (if not sooner) Mr. Maragos has failed to realize that circumstances are quite different now then they were back then, and his approach to this subject is very short sided.
For more on this including more quotes from local business owners check out the link below:
http://www.newsday.com/long-island/nassau/nhl-lockout-hurting-coliseum-area-businesses-1.4337718
The general manager of the Marriot located next door to the Coliseum says that the lockout is costing the hotel over $100,000 every month. Given the regularity at which Islanders fans can be found in that place, a large number in losses like that isn't surprising.
This article also includes quotes from Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos, and displays how the comptroller has totally blown off the subject citing that the Coliseum was able to draw just fine during the 04/05 lockout. With new venues having opened since then and the departure of the team coming in 2015 (if not sooner) Mr. Maragos has failed to realize that circumstances are quite different now then they were back then, and his approach to this subject is very short sided.
For more on this including more quotes from local business owners check out the link below:
http://www.newsday.com/long-island/nassau/nhl-lockout-hurting-coliseum-area-businesses-1.4337718
Friday, December 14, 2012
Charity Hockey Game At MSG For Sandy Victims
Update: According to reports, this game has been postponed. Original tickets should be kept as they will be accepted for admission on the new date.
After the success of the 12/12/12 concert at MSG, they are doing another fundraiser for victims of Hurricane Sandy. All proceeds from the game will benefit the Red Cross and the Stan Lee Foundation.
On December 22nd, alumni from the Islanders and Rangers, as well as members from the NYPD and FDNY will be working together to put on a charity hockey game. Some of the alumni participating include Ron Duguay and Rod Gilbert from the Rangers. From the Islanders, Eric Cairns and Pat Flatley will be among the alumni participating.
With the lockout in full effect this is a great way for NHL fans to get their hockey fix and support a worthy cause while doing so.
Tickets start at $25 and increase from there.
http://islanderspointblank.com/news/isles-and-rangers-alumni-to-team-up-for-charity-game/
After the success of the 12/12/12 concert at MSG, they are doing another fundraiser for victims of Hurricane Sandy. All proceeds from the game will benefit the Red Cross and the Stan Lee Foundation.
On December 22nd, alumni from the Islanders and Rangers, as well as members from the NYPD and FDNY will be working together to put on a charity hockey game. Some of the alumni participating include Ron Duguay and Rod Gilbert from the Rangers. From the Islanders, Eric Cairns and Pat Flatley will be among the alumni participating.
With the lockout in full effect this is a great way for NHL fans to get their hockey fix and support a worthy cause while doing so.
Tickets start at $25 and increase from there.
http://islanderspointblank.com/news/isles-and-rangers-alumni-to-team-up-for-charity-game/
Isles Prospects Selected to Team Canada WJC Team
Earlier tonight, the rosters for the World Junior Championships later this month in Russia were announced.
Islanders fans will find some familiar names on the list for team Canada. Griffin Reinhart & Ryan Strome were both selected to the team.
Strome in particular is having a big year in the OHL this season having scored 62 points in 32 games to start off this season. He was also named the OHL's player of the month in November scoring 35 points in just 13 games.
With the NHL still locked out with no end in sight, this should give Islander fans at least some break from that drama.
You can view the complete roster below:
http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2012/12/13/3764752/world-junior-hockey-2013-canada-roster
Islanders fans will find some familiar names on the list for team Canada. Griffin Reinhart & Ryan Strome were both selected to the team.
Strome in particular is having a big year in the OHL this season having scored 62 points in 32 games to start off this season. He was also named the OHL's player of the month in November scoring 35 points in just 13 games.
With the NHL still locked out with no end in sight, this should give Islander fans at least some break from that drama.
You can view the complete roster below:
http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2012/12/13/3764752/world-junior-hockey-2013-canada-roster
CBA: President Obama Urges NHL & NHLPA To "Do Right By Your Fans"
In a recent interview for WCCO-TV in Minneapolis, President Barack Obama urged the NHL & NHLPA to "do right by your fans" and end the lockout. The President went on, that hes President of the United States and shouldn't have involve himself in a sports lockout. For more from the President check the link below:
http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8745385/barack-obama-urges-sides-resolution-nhl-lockout
The President is right, but he forgot one thing. The NHL/NHLPA don't care about the fans! They just use the fans as pawns to put pressure on one another.
http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8745385/barack-obama-urges-sides-resolution-nhl-lockout
The President is right, but he forgot one thing. The NHL/NHLPA don't care about the fans! They just use the fans as pawns to put pressure on one another.
Monday, December 10, 2012
CBA: NHL Cancels Through 12/30
Earlier today, still mired in CBA negotiations the NHL announced that all regular season games through December 30th will be canceled. Speculation is that the next round of cancellations will be the rest of the season. The parties are said to be planning to meet again sometime this week to continue negotiations but nothing is set in stone yet.
With these cancellations the "just drop it" fan protest will now happen. If you haven't seen the video yet, the idea is for every game after December 21st that the NHL cancels, fans don't go to any games for the same amount of time, or watch games on TV, or buy any NHL merchandise. To learn more on the protest you can find a link to a youtube video explaining everything below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRYvUUV20TU
With these cancellations the "just drop it" fan protest will now happen. If you haven't seen the video yet, the idea is for every game after December 21st that the NHL cancels, fans don't go to any games for the same amount of time, or watch games on TV, or buy any NHL merchandise. To learn more on the protest you can find a link to a youtube video explaining everything below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRYvUUV20TU
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Patrick Kane Apologizes for the Lockout
For the duration of the lockout thus far, Blackhawks star winger Patrick Kane has been playing in Switzerland with Bruins forward Tyler Seguin. Before things went to hell in the CBA negotiations the other day, Patrick was interviewed on the lockout. You can find the interview below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrLSbipWBh4&feature=player_embedded
At around the :55 second mark of the video Kane issues his apology.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrLSbipWBh4&feature=player_embedded
At around the :55 second mark of the video Kane issues his apology.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
What about the Fans?
For the last few months in the hockey world, all we've heard is talk of HRR (Hockey Related Revenue), make hole, contract length and things like that. Nobody has really talked about the impact on the fans though.
The fans who in some cases are going through the 3rd work stoppage of their favorite sport in the last 18 years. The fans who given that grew the NHL revenues last year to record numbers over 3 billion dollars. The fact that some fans have stuck around through that is truly a tribute to the incredible loyalty of a die hard hockey fan.
The only context fans are being mentioned in as of late are as a negotiating tool of sorts where the players/owners try to win them over and get them on their side. I'm not sure if the powers at be realize this, but fans are growing tired of the childish bickering between the parties, most recently league officials referring to Donald Fehr as a "suicide bomber" just miles from ground zero. Behavior like that only turns fans away at a quicker rate which as a real niche sport is something the NHL can't afford to have happen. The fans don't care about how revenue is split and other stuff like that, they just want to see the game they love return to action.
Its about time the NHL/NHLPA treat the fans like the respected paying customers that they are, and not a pawn in a pointless chess match that has no end in site.
The fans who in some cases are going through the 3rd work stoppage of their favorite sport in the last 18 years. The fans who given that grew the NHL revenues last year to record numbers over 3 billion dollars. The fact that some fans have stuck around through that is truly a tribute to the incredible loyalty of a die hard hockey fan.
The only context fans are being mentioned in as of late are as a negotiating tool of sorts where the players/owners try to win them over and get them on their side. I'm not sure if the powers at be realize this, but fans are growing tired of the childish bickering between the parties, most recently league officials referring to Donald Fehr as a "suicide bomber" just miles from ground zero. Behavior like that only turns fans away at a quicker rate which as a real niche sport is something the NHL can't afford to have happen. The fans don't care about how revenue is split and other stuff like that, they just want to see the game they love return to action.
Its about time the NHL/NHLPA treat the fans like the respected paying customers that they are, and not a pawn in a pointless chess match that has no end in site.
CBA: Many Steps Back Tonight
The abundant optimism that was present last night with regard to NHL CBA negotiations has quickly dissipated tonight.
After about an hour long meeting earlier this evening between the NHL & NHLPA, NHLPA director Don Fehr took to the podium to give the media an update on where things currently stand and the NHLPAs latest proposal to the NHL. Throughout the news conference Fehr seemed really up beat, optimistic, and confident that something could get done. After about 15 minutes the press conference broke and twitter was abuzz with more optimism, that would quickly disappear though.
Not long after ending the press conference, Don Fehr returned to the stage with news that they had heard from the NHL via voicemail on their latest proposal. Fehr said that the NHL said the players latest offer was "unacceptable" and that either something or everything is off the table. Noted hockey analyst Bob McKenzie of TSN called the league rejection catastrophic.
With no plans to meet in the near future and another round of game cancellations on the horizon, it seems as though things are going to get a lot worse before they get better.
After about an hour long meeting earlier this evening between the NHL & NHLPA, NHLPA director Don Fehr took to the podium to give the media an update on where things currently stand and the NHLPAs latest proposal to the NHL. Throughout the news conference Fehr seemed really up beat, optimistic, and confident that something could get done. After about 15 minutes the press conference broke and twitter was abuzz with more optimism, that would quickly disappear though.
Not long after ending the press conference, Don Fehr returned to the stage with news that they had heard from the NHL via voicemail on their latest proposal. Fehr said that the NHL said the players latest offer was "unacceptable" and that either something or everything is off the table. Noted hockey analyst Bob McKenzie of TSN called the league rejection catastrophic.
With no plans to meet in the near future and another round of game cancellations on the horizon, it seems as though things are going to get a lot worse before they get better.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
CBA: Progress, Finally?
Update 2: Reports suggest that Gary Bettman wants to have a deal done by Friday. If that happens, speculation is that the season could start on December 20th with training camp starting next Friday.
Update: Greg Wyshynski from puckdaddy just tweeted that he is hearing next Friday as a possible start for training camp if a deal can be agreed to this week.
https://mobile.twitter.com/wyshynski/status/276394389348175872?p=v
According to sportsnet's Nick Kypreos, (@RealyKyper) some coaches are calling players informing them to be ready for an imminent return to action. This is coming after last day or so where there has been much optimism regarding the CBA that hasn't existed in a while.
With all the optimism though, no proposals at least publicly have traded hands between the NHL & NHLPA. This has some wondering if progress is finally truly being made. Maybe we will be able to have a season afterall?
Well update as we no more
https://mobile.twitter.com/imacVanSun/status/276392428288741379?p=v
Update: Greg Wyshynski from puckdaddy just tweeted that he is hearing next Friday as a possible start for training camp if a deal can be agreed to this week.
https://mobile.twitter.com/wyshynski/status/276394389348175872?p=v
According to sportsnet's Nick Kypreos, (@RealyKyper) some coaches are calling players informing them to be ready for an imminent return to action. This is coming after last day or so where there has been much optimism regarding the CBA that hasn't existed in a while.
With all the optimism though, no proposals at least publicly have traded hands between the NHL & NHLPA. This has some wondering if progress is finally truly being made. Maybe we will be able to have a season afterall?
Well update as we no more
https://mobile.twitter.com/imacVanSun/status/276392428288741379?p=v
Friday, November 23, 2012
NHL Cancels Through December 14th & ASG
According to various news outlets, earlier today on the 69th day of the NHL lockout, the NHL announced that they would be canceling games through December 14th as well as the All Star Game this year in Columbus.
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/nhl-puts-star-game-misery-cancels-games-december-191023487--nhl.html
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/nhl-puts-star-game-misery-cancels-games-december-191023487--nhl.html
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Islanders Raise $28,071 For Sandy Relief Efforts
Today, the Islanders announced that they raised $28,071 for people effected by Hurricane Sandy. The money raised will go to the American Red Cross fund to help Long Islanders in need.
For more on this check out the link below:
http://islanders.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=646129&cmpid=rss-News
For more on this check out the link below:
http://islanders.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=646129&cmpid=rss-News
CBA News: NHLPA & NHL Get Closer!
Update: According to Larry Brooks of the New York Post, the NHL Board of Governors will be meeting on December 5th. The exact nature of the meeting isnt yet known.
Today, various reports came out that suggest with the NHLPA's latest offer in the CBA negotiations that the NHLPA and the NHL are only 182 million apart over the next five years. That is indisputable now! Previously, the NHLPA thought they were under 200 million apart. Meanwhile, the league thought they were much further then that apart saying even close to one billion dollars.
For more on todays happenings check out the links below:
http://espn.go.com/blog/nhl/post/_/id/20329/complete-nhlpa-offer-to-the-nhl
http://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-nhl-lockout-nhlpa-20121121,0,6592815.story
Today, various reports came out that suggest with the NHLPA's latest offer in the CBA negotiations that the NHLPA and the NHL are only 182 million apart over the next five years. That is indisputable now! Previously, the NHLPA thought they were under 200 million apart. Meanwhile, the league thought they were much further then that apart saying even close to one billion dollars.
For more on todays happenings check out the links below:
http://espn.go.com/blog/nhl/post/_/id/20329/complete-nhlpa-offer-to-the-nhl
http://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-nhl-lockout-nhlpa-20121121,0,6592815.story
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
BREAKING: WE'RE MOVING
Sometime in the near future we here at savetheisles will be moving to a new domain. We will fill you all in on this as we know more.
I hope that all of you continue to support us after our move as great as you all have over the last year and a half. From me and Robbie you have no idea how much we appreciate the support!!
photo courtesy of http://www.singleblackmale.org/
I hope that all of you continue to support us after our move as great as you all have over the last year and a half. From me and Robbie you have no idea how much we appreciate the support!!
photo courtesy of http://www.singleblackmale.org/
REPORT: Donald Monti To Be Awarded Nassau "Hub" Project
According to the LIBN, developer Donald Monti and his firm Renaissance Downtowns were picked by Nassau County to be the master developers of the Nassau "Hub" site which by now we know as the land that the Nassau Coliseum sits on. Ed Mangano is expected to announce this news tomorrow the report says.
If you remember in an interview with islanderspointblank.com Monti was the first of the developers vying for the property to declare that he was intent on keeping the Islanders here in Nassau. This is of course was before the news of the teams relocation to Brooklyn came out.
This isn't the only interesting aspect of this, on top of this Bruce Ratner the owner of the Barclays Center in Brooklyn was selected to provide a report to Nassau County on how to best market the Coliseum. It is interesting as to why Ratner would be interested in doing this for the county.
More to come as news breaks
http://libn.com/2012/11/19/monti-ratner-picked-for-nassau-hub-project/
If you remember in an interview with islanderspointblank.com Monti was the first of the developers vying for the property to declare that he was intent on keeping the Islanders here in Nassau. This is of course was before the news of the teams relocation to Brooklyn came out.
This isn't the only interesting aspect of this, on top of this Bruce Ratner the owner of the Barclays Center in Brooklyn was selected to provide a report to Nassau County on how to best market the Coliseum. It is interesting as to why Ratner would be interested in doing this for the county.
More to come as news breaks
http://libn.com/2012/11/19/monti-ratner-picked-for-nassau-hub-project/
Some Players Shows How They Feel About Gary Bettman
According to puckdaddy, recently some NHL players practicing in Montreal chose to exhibit how they really feel about NHL commissioner Gary Bettman by wearing "Puck Gary" hats. Montreal forward Eric Cole told Dave Stubs of the Montreal Gazette that the hats may at some point become available to the public with proceeds going to charity.
You can see an image of the hats below:
image courtesy of puckdaddy
You can see an image of the hats below:
image courtesy of puckdaddy
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Islanders Auctions For Hurricane Sandy Victims
A bunch of NY Metro area teams have donated various items and on their site the Islanders have listed them with the proceeds being donated to the victims of Hurricane Sandy.
Some of the items include the opportunity for your and 3 guests to watch batting practice on the field before a Mets game next season. Also the opportunity to be the Islanders assistant equipment manager for a game.
To see the other items and bid for a great cause check out the link below:
http://auction.nhl.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/User?id=nyiNHL&wl=12717464&type=L
Some of the items include the opportunity for your and 3 guests to watch batting practice on the field before a Mets game next season. Also the opportunity to be the Islanders assistant equipment manager for a game.
To see the other items and bid for a great cause check out the link below:
http://auction.nhl.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/User?id=nyiNHL&wl=12717464&type=L
Friday, November 16, 2012
CBA News: NHL Calls For 2 Weeks Break In Negotiations
Tonight, various news outlets reported that the NHL requested a 2 week break in labor talks between themselves and the NHLPA.
The NHL lockout is now over 60 days old and sadly for die hard fans it doesn't have an end in sight. In an recent interview, former Maple Leafs captain Wendel Clark when speaking about the CBA nonsense which at this point is what it is coming to said, "...You run the risk of your avid fan that is absolutely at every game and then he finds other things to do. You’re giving people a different choice because there wasn’t hockey around."
Sadly, the NHL doesn't realize it but they are there and the number of people who qualify for that group is going up seemingly by the day. In fact, a neighbor of mine who is an Islander season ticket holder through last season recently told me that if this lockout goes the full season that he is done with the NHL. This really struck me because for as long as I known him the one common interest we've both always had was hockey.
When I asked him why he felt like that, he told me that it wasn't so much that he found other things to do, but that he was just frustrated with everything. On top of that he mentioned that if this happens now, whats to stop it from happening again when this one which hopefully will be agreed to upon soon expires?
Well, all we as fans can hope for is that the NHL & NHLPA are finally able to come together and give us our joy back. Additionally, stopping other people from becoming like my neighbor.
https://mobile.twitter.com/aaronward_nhl/status/269230093673570304?p=v
The NHL lockout is now over 60 days old and sadly for die hard fans it doesn't have an end in sight. In an recent interview, former Maple Leafs captain Wendel Clark when speaking about the CBA nonsense which at this point is what it is coming to said, "...You run the risk of your avid fan that is absolutely at every game and then he finds other things to do. You’re giving people a different choice because there wasn’t hockey around."
Sadly, the NHL doesn't realize it but they are there and the number of people who qualify for that group is going up seemingly by the day. In fact, a neighbor of mine who is an Islander season ticket holder through last season recently told me that if this lockout goes the full season that he is done with the NHL. This really struck me because for as long as I known him the one common interest we've both always had was hockey.
When I asked him why he felt like that, he told me that it wasn't so much that he found other things to do, but that he was just frustrated with everything. On top of that he mentioned that if this happens now, whats to stop it from happening again when this one which hopefully will be agreed to upon soon expires?
Well, all we as fans can hope for is that the NHL & NHLPA are finally able to come together and give us our joy back. Additionally, stopping other people from becoming like my neighbor.
https://mobile.twitter.com/aaronward_nhl/status/269230093673570304?p=v
Monday, November 12, 2012
Hurricane Sandy Fundraiser Tomorrow at the Coliseum
Tomorrow afternoon, from 2:00PM-8:00PM the Islanders will be holding a fundraiser at the Coliseum to benefit those who were effected by Hurricane Sandy.
At the event, there will be an open skate (bring your own skates), also activities set up for kids. Additionally, they will have stations where you can donate food and clothes to victims of this disaster. All proceeds from the event will also go to relief efforts.
At the event, there will be an open skate (bring your own skates), also activities set up for kids. Additionally, they will have stations where you can donate food and clothes to victims of this disaster. All proceeds from the event will also go to relief efforts.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Islanders Perception Changing Already?
In an article for Newsday, Arthur Staple talks about how moving into the new building in the Barclays Center will alter the Islanders perception around the NHL.
While he is right in saying that, a new building will only do so much. If the Islanders move to a new building but still operate like they do now, their perception will not change at all. The big thing that will change the teams perception around the league is performance on the ice. When the Islanders move, if they still operate on their shoe string budget and serve as the launching pad for AHL coaches to launch their NHL career, the way they are viewed around the league wont change at all any time soon.
Ultimately, it doesn't matter what the building looks like you call home, if you want to be taken seriously and have a positive perception about yourself in the NHL, you have to win!
http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/islanders-perception-now-negative-to-positive-1.4161105?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
While he is right in saying that, a new building will only do so much. If the Islanders move to a new building but still operate like they do now, their perception will not change at all. The big thing that will change the teams perception around the league is performance on the ice. When the Islanders move, if they still operate on their shoe string budget and serve as the launching pad for AHL coaches to launch their NHL career, the way they are viewed around the league wont change at all any time soon.
Ultimately, it doesn't matter what the building looks like you call home, if you want to be taken seriously and have a positive perception about yourself in the NHL, you have to win!
http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/islanders-perception-now-negative-to-positive-1.4161105?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
Friday, October 26, 2012
Former Islander Calls Politicians/NIMBYS Idiots For Arena Debacle
Former Islander forward Dave Scatchard in a tweet earlier today referred to those who thought it was a bad idea to clean up the area around the Coliseum and have a hockey team there as idiots. These are the first comments of I am sure many that will come from former Islander players as it winds down to 2015.
I am sure roughly 90% of the people around here agree with Dave!
If you don't know Dave Scatchard, he played from the Islanders from 1999/2000-2003/2004. His best season was 2000/2001 when he recorded 45 points and a 114 penalty minutes.
I am sure roughly 90% of the people around here agree with Dave!
If you don't know Dave Scatchard, he played from the Islanders from 1999/2000-2003/2004. His best season was 2000/2001 when he recorded 45 points and a 114 penalty minutes.
NHL Cancels Games Through 11/30
According to reports, the NHL will today announce that all games through November 30th will be cancelled as their lockout continues. Those reports suggest the All Star Game was not part of this cut.
And so it goes! Greed of very wealthy people is killing this NHL season which is unfortunate for the fans but even more so the arena employees who are losing their paycheck. Hopefully for them this ends soon, but I wouldn't bet on it.
https://mobile.twitter.com/DFriedmanNHL/status/261850723229241345?p=v
And so it goes! Greed of very wealthy people is killing this NHL season which is unfortunate for the fans but even more so the arena employees who are losing their paycheck. Hopefully for them this ends soon, but I wouldn't bet on it.
https://mobile.twitter.com/DFriedmanNHL/status/261850723229241345?p=v
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Reaction to the Islanders Departing for Brooklyn
A sad day for Nassau County!
This is what was echoed by many as the news today broke that following the expiration of their lease at the Nassau Coliseum, our New York Islanders would be packing their bags and moving to the newly opened Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
For me, it was a bittersweet day. Since the referendum failed last year, this is what I thought would happen. Not what I hoped would happen but after observing the happenings of things around here and such what I expected. The timing though is what really caught me off guard. I thought we had at least a couple months to a year before we heard an announcement like this.
Attending the pre season game between the Knicks and Nets tonight at the Coliseum made the news hit me that much more that in not so long the Islanders a team i've loved for so long would no longer be there in a very short time. Many figures of the dynasty were quoted today with their reactions to this news which were all disappointed but relieved that they were able to at least stay in the area. One of those figures was long time play by play guy Jiggs McDonald who had this to say through his facebook, "What a dark day for Nassau County NY politicians and residents." He finished his facebook post with, "Shame on you!!!!" Jiggs is right on with what he said! People voted against the referendum last year for tax reasons, now I cant wait to see their face when they open their bill when the Coliseum no longer exists.
While I am happy they are still here, little things are what I will miss most about the Coliseum. Things like being able to fly 10 minutes down Hempstead Turnpike and be there. Walking around the Coliseum on gameday and seeing the same people there all the time. On opening night in the parking lot toasting the new season with my dad which is something that had become a yearly tradition for us since we got our season tickets a few years ago.
While the arena wont be our home anymore, it doesn't mean memories like those and many others have to disappear with it. Its up to fans like my dad to pass down the memories of the successful years to give fans like me and my cousin Robbie a taste of what it was like to see the team be successful. While we haven't had really any positive memories over the last decade or so its up to younger fans like myself to preserve them and pass them to the younger generation and now the new generation of fans.
I have seen some that are disappointed the team is moving, to them while I understand your disappointment you have to get past that. Just because the building on the outside wont be the same, doesn't mean your memories will be altered and hopefully this new beautiful state of the art home will give us some memories of the positive kind that have been rare for us over the last decade or two.
People should not think of this as the death of the Islanders. They should think of it as the rebirth of a giant, that some day soon will take NYC by storm!! Watch out Rangers and the rest of the NHL, Fort Neverlose has been relocated to Brooklyn. Good luck, you're going to need it!
This is what was echoed by many as the news today broke that following the expiration of their lease at the Nassau Coliseum, our New York Islanders would be packing their bags and moving to the newly opened Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
For me, it was a bittersweet day. Since the referendum failed last year, this is what I thought would happen. Not what I hoped would happen but after observing the happenings of things around here and such what I expected. The timing though is what really caught me off guard. I thought we had at least a couple months to a year before we heard an announcement like this.
Attending the pre season game between the Knicks and Nets tonight at the Coliseum made the news hit me that much more that in not so long the Islanders a team i've loved for so long would no longer be there in a very short time. Many figures of the dynasty were quoted today with their reactions to this news which were all disappointed but relieved that they were able to at least stay in the area. One of those figures was long time play by play guy Jiggs McDonald who had this to say through his facebook, "What a dark day for Nassau County NY politicians and residents." He finished his facebook post with, "Shame on you!!!!" Jiggs is right on with what he said! People voted against the referendum last year for tax reasons, now I cant wait to see their face when they open their bill when the Coliseum no longer exists.
While I am happy they are still here, little things are what I will miss most about the Coliseum. Things like being able to fly 10 minutes down Hempstead Turnpike and be there. Walking around the Coliseum on gameday and seeing the same people there all the time. On opening night in the parking lot toasting the new season with my dad which is something that had become a yearly tradition for us since we got our season tickets a few years ago.
While the arena wont be our home anymore, it doesn't mean memories like those and many others have to disappear with it. Its up to fans like my dad to pass down the memories of the successful years to give fans like me and my cousin Robbie a taste of what it was like to see the team be successful. While we haven't had really any positive memories over the last decade or so its up to younger fans like myself to preserve them and pass them to the younger generation and now the new generation of fans.
I have seen some that are disappointed the team is moving, to them while I understand your disappointment you have to get past that. Just because the building on the outside wont be the same, doesn't mean your memories will be altered and hopefully this new beautiful state of the art home will give us some memories of the positive kind that have been rare for us over the last decade or two.
People should not think of this as the death of the Islanders. They should think of it as the rebirth of a giant, that some day soon will take NYC by storm!! Watch out Rangers and the rest of the NHL, Fort Neverlose has been relocated to Brooklyn. Good luck, you're going to need it!
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
BREAKING NEWS: Isles Say Goodbye To Nassau County
Update 2: The Islanders name and logo will remain unchanged with this move which is a major plus.
Update: Wang confirms a 25 year lease for the New York Islanders in Brooklyn. Bruce Ratner confirms that Wang had offers to move the team out of state, but refused to do that.
According to newsday and various other news outlets, the Islanders will be saying goodbye to the Nassau Coliseum come July 31st 2015 and be moving to the newly opened Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
This news comes as Ed Mangano was getting ready to announce his plan for jobs at "the hub" and to keep the Islanders. Guess Nassaus waiting finally did them in! Additionally, this is 40 years to the month that the Islanders began playing at the Coliseum.
http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/source-islanders-moving-to-brooklyn-1.4147203
Watch the press conference here
http://video.islanders.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=616&id=188738&lang=en
Update: Wang confirms a 25 year lease for the New York Islanders in Brooklyn. Bruce Ratner confirms that Wang had offers to move the team out of state, but refused to do that.
According to newsday and various other news outlets, the Islanders will be saying goodbye to the Nassau Coliseum come July 31st 2015 and be moving to the newly opened Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
This news comes as Ed Mangano was getting ready to announce his plan for jobs at "the hub" and to keep the Islanders. Guess Nassaus waiting finally did them in! Additionally, this is 40 years to the month that the Islanders began playing at the Coliseum.
http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/source-islanders-moving-to-brooklyn-1.4147203
Watch the press conference here
http://video.islanders.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=616&id=188738&lang=en
CBA Negotiations Reach A Stalemate
According to Darren Dregger of tsn.ca, negotiations for a new CBA between the NHL & NHLPA have once again reached a stalemate with no meetings between the parties currently scheduled. With the deadline to salvage an 82 game season coming on Thursday it seems like its pretty safe to say if we will have a season it will be a condensed one like the NBA had last year.
For more including quotes from Bill Daly and Steve Fehr check out the tsn article below:
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=408009
For more including quotes from Bill Daly and Steve Fehr check out the tsn article below:
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=408009
Monday, October 22, 2012
Son Pleads With NHL To Stop The Lockout
I noticed someone on twitter tweet this video so I thought I would give it a watch.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsReILtMfpI
This guy moved to Australia ten years ago from Canada. When he visits home its sort of a tradition for him and his dad to watch Hockey Night in Canada together. Sadly, his dad was recently diagnosed with terminal throat cancer. So in the video hes essentially begging the NHL to come to an agreement so he can watch one last game with his dad before its to late.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsReILtMfpI
This guy moved to Australia ten years ago from Canada. When he visits home its sort of a tradition for him and his dad to watch Hockey Night in Canada together. Sadly, his dad was recently diagnosed with terminal throat cancer. So in the video hes essentially begging the NHL to come to an agreement so he can watch one last game with his dad before its to late.
BREAKING: Calvin De Haan out for Season with Dislocated Shoulder
According to Mike Fornabaio, the main writer for the Sound Tigers, defenseman Calvin De Haan is out for the season with a dislocated shoulder. The injury is believed to have been suffered in the game this past Saturday night when he blocked a shot. With this injury it is expected that Matt Donovan who had been a healthy scratch at points early this season will now have a regular spot in the lineup.
This is another shoulder injury in a seemingly never ending streak of them for Calvin. Hopefully he is able to kick this soon because Calvin definitely has talent and it would be a shame if he was never able to fully exhibit it because of injuries.
https://twitter.com/fornabaioctp/status/260439309188988928
This is another shoulder injury in a seemingly never ending streak of them for Calvin. Hopefully he is able to kick this soon because Calvin definitely has talent and it would be a shame if he was never able to fully exhibit it because of injuries.
https://twitter.com/fornabaioctp/status/260439309188988928
Finally a Result?
According to Ed Manganos twitter account, he will be holding a press conference in the coming days to announce his plans to generate jobs at "the hub" and keep the Islanders. If you remember about two weeks ago he said a result should be had within ten days so he was pretty close. If you are someone that still has hope the Islanders can call Nassau home after July 31st, 2015 this will be a huge day for you!
https://twitter.com/edmangano/status/260430459421470720
https://twitter.com/edmangano/status/260430459421470720
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
NHLPA To Make a Counter Offer in 24-48 Hours
Earlier this afternoon, the NHL led by commissioner Gary Bettman made another labor proposal to the NHLPA which included a 50/50 split in HRR. (Hockey Related Revenue) Seeing this brought optimism to many in the hockey world who thought it was a long shot at best that we would have a hockey season this year. A condition of this proposal was that everything be ironed out by November 2nd so the season can start then and there could still be a full 82 game season. When asked for comment Don Fehr, who is in charge of the NHLPA said the proposal would be discussed at a 5PM conference call tonight.
According to Darren Dregger of TSN, following the conference call he learned that the NHLPA would be making a counter proposal within the next day or two. The players counter proposal will be telling because if its pie in the sky, you can probably kiss hockey goodbye for the season. However, if its a reasonable offer, that November 2nd date may not be far fetched.
Since it seems like the most highly negotiated thing in HRR has been agreed to, the rest at least on the surface would seem to be mostly cosmetic to the deal. Reports suggest that the CBA would need to be done by October 25th, so there could be a week of training camp prior to the start of the season on November 2nd.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/258339030771568640
According to Darren Dregger of TSN, following the conference call he learned that the NHLPA would be making a counter proposal within the next day or two. The players counter proposal will be telling because if its pie in the sky, you can probably kiss hockey goodbye for the season. However, if its a reasonable offer, that November 2nd date may not be far fetched.
Since it seems like the most highly negotiated thing in HRR has been agreed to, the rest at least on the surface would seem to be mostly cosmetic to the deal. Reports suggest that the CBA would need to be done by October 25th, so there could be a week of training camp prior to the start of the season on November 2nd.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/258339030771568640
Monday, October 15, 2012
Undefeated!!!!
This past weekend, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers opened their season with back to back victories over the rival Whale as well as the Providence Bruins.
Standout performances from guys like Kevin Poulin, Casey Cizikas, Bradon DeFazio, Nino Niederreiter, and Brock Nelson proved key for the Tigers in their opening weekend victories. If you would like to watch highlights of either game you can check them out in the respective videos below:
Friday 10/12/12 VS the Whale
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_Z3iUdR_rk&list=UU_RfS3mXUtYAxzIzEa6FL-g&index=2&feature=plcp
Saturday 10/13/12 VS the Bruins (Home Opener)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWnsAdgqmdw&feature=channel&list=UL
The Sound Tigers return to action next Saturday on the road versus the W-B/ Scranton Penguins. They don't return home again until November 3rd versus the Hershey Bears.
Standout performances from guys like Kevin Poulin, Casey Cizikas, Bradon DeFazio, Nino Niederreiter, and Brock Nelson proved key for the Tigers in their opening weekend victories. If you would like to watch highlights of either game you can check them out in the respective videos below:
Friday 10/12/12 VS the Whale
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_Z3iUdR_rk&list=UU_RfS3mXUtYAxzIzEa6FL-g&index=2&feature=plcp
Saturday 10/13/12 VS the Bruins (Home Opener)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWnsAdgqmdw&feature=channel&list=UL
The Sound Tigers return to action next Saturday on the road versus the W-B/ Scranton Penguins. They don't return home again until November 3rd versus the Hershey Bears.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
RFQ Winner To Be Announced Within 10 Days
According to Ed Manganos twitter, the winner of the RFQ on the Coliseum site should be announced within the next ten days.
Well, after being told to expect it sometime in August I wouldn't get my hopes up yet. However, hopefully this is actually announced within ten days so they can move onto the next phase of this process.
https://twitter.com/edmangano/status/256094615986401280
Well, after being told to expect it sometime in August I wouldn't get my hopes up yet. However, hopefully this is actually announced within ten days so they can move onto the next phase of this process.
https://twitter.com/edmangano/status/256094615986401280
Best of the Islanders 2011/2012
According to Dee Karl from hockeybuzz, while were in the midst of the lockout MSG+ will be running a series called Best of the Islanders 2011/2012. Each program will have analysts Pat Flatley and Butch Goring as well as Bill Pidto will analyze various Islander games from last season. To me, this seems like a condensed version of the summer ice series MSG+ usually runs through the summer. Check out a list of games that will be shown below:
"Tuesday, October 9 – 10:30pm Islanders vs. Rangers (10/15/2011)
Tuesday, October 16 – 10:30pm Islanders at Stars (12/3/2011)
Tuesday, October 23 – 10:30pm Islanders vs. Red Wings (1/10/2012)
Other games to be aired (should they need to be!) are the following:
Islanders vs. Sabres (1/14/2012)
Islanders at Flyers (2/7/2012)
Islanders vs. Rangers (2/24/2012)
Islanders vs. Devils (3/4/2012)
Islanders vs. Penguins (3/29/2012)"
http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog/Dee-Karl/Goalies-on-the-Go--Isles-on-MSG/129/46964
"Tuesday, October 9 – 10:30pm Islanders vs. Rangers (10/15/2011)
Tuesday, October 16 – 10:30pm Islanders at Stars (12/3/2011)
Tuesday, October 23 – 10:30pm Islanders vs. Red Wings (1/10/2012)
Other games to be aired (should they need to be!) are the following:
Islanders vs. Sabres (1/14/2012)
Islanders at Flyers (2/7/2012)
Islanders vs. Rangers (2/24/2012)
Islanders vs. Devils (3/4/2012)
Islanders vs. Penguins (3/29/2012)"
http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog/Dee-Karl/Goalies-on-the-Go--Isles-on-MSG/129/46964
Monday, October 8, 2012
Bridgeport Concludes Pre-Season 1-1
This past Friday, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers concluded their pre season schedule with a 2-0 loss to the Monarchs. Bridgeport ended their pre season with a 1-1 record having gotten a shutout victory the night before.
Bridgeport opens their season on Friday night October 12th, away vs the Connecticut Whale. (Rangers) Their home schedule begins the following night October 13th, with a 7PM game vs Providence. (Bruins) Prior to the start of this game Bridgeports banner commemorating their division title last season will be raised. With the NHL lockout in full effect and not showing any signs of ending soon; I think Bridgeport and other teams in the AHL will big beneficiaries because of the attention it will draw to games that usually doesn't exist.
Bridgeport opens their season on Friday night October 12th, away vs the Connecticut Whale. (Rangers) Their home schedule begins the following night October 13th, with a 7PM game vs Providence. (Bruins) Prior to the start of this game Bridgeports banner commemorating their division title last season will be raised. With the NHL lockout in full effect and not showing any signs of ending soon; I think Bridgeport and other teams in the AHL will big beneficiaries because of the attention it will draw to games that usually doesn't exist.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
NHL To Use Replacement Players?
Bill Watters, the former GM of the Maple Leafs and NHL agent thinks that Gary Bettman will bring in replacement players in November because he thinks this will crack the players association.
http://kuklaskorner.com/hockey/comments/report-nhl-thinking-replacement-players?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
I really hope they can settle without having to stoop to this because it would be a sad day for hockey if it came to this.
http://kuklaskorner.com/hockey/comments/report-nhl-thinking-replacement-players?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
I really hope they can settle without having to stoop to this because it would be a sad day for hockey if it came to this.
Monday, October 1, 2012
OSHA Fines Coliseum Operators $88,000 For Workplace Violations
According to nbcnewyork.com, the operators of the Nassau Coliseum [SMG] have been fined $88,000 after OSHA's probe into the place for 16 workplace health and safety violations.
OSHA launched an investigation into the Coliseum earlier this year after the asbestos reports surfaced.
SMG said it will contest the citations because according to them, the asbestos issues have been fixed.
For more check out the link below:
http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Nassau-Coliseum-Workplace-Violations-Health-Safety-Standards-172170481.html
OSHA launched an investigation into the Coliseum earlier this year after the asbestos reports surfaced.
SMG said it will contest the citations because according to them, the asbestos issues have been fixed.
For more check out the link below:
http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Nassau-Coliseum-Workplace-Violations-Health-Safety-Standards-172170481.html
NY Post: LaFontaine Asked To Be Part of Group Interested in the Isles
Update: According to Chris Botta, sources close to Pat LaFontaine tell him that Pat isn't involved with anyone in anyway in a bid for the team.
https://twitter.com/ChrisBottaNHL
Although this is kind of a damper, if he truly is involved having his people deny it now makes sense. At an early stage in situations like this very rarely do you know much of anything about the situation going on. Until something is practically finalized the identities of everyone involved would for the most part be a mystery. For an example, look at the sale of the Dodgers earlier this year with NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson as their groups figure head. Not until after the deal was announced were the players of the deal known and the positions they would serve known by the public.
According to the New York Post, a group of European investors has contacted the former Islander great asking him to be part of their group that is interested in buying the team. LaFontaine is said to be intrigued, however may have trouble because of the sky high asking price. That price according to the article is 300 million dollars.
http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/frozen_account_WKFBjMUu87aiMxswHMkaxO (h/t to Roy for the link)
Now, I know there have been some who have completely written this article off as "hot air." However, Larry Brooks was one of the reports who wrote the article so therefore I think there is something here. How much exactly? I am not sure, but a reporter like Brooks wouldn't put his reputation on something without having info to back it up. Perhaps, some of his info was obtained off the record which is why there isn't a lot here. This sure adds another interesting element to the Islanders soap opera.
https://twitter.com/ChrisBottaNHL
Although this is kind of a damper, if he truly is involved having his people deny it now makes sense. At an early stage in situations like this very rarely do you know much of anything about the situation going on. Until something is practically finalized the identities of everyone involved would for the most part be a mystery. For an example, look at the sale of the Dodgers earlier this year with NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson as their groups figure head. Not until after the deal was announced were the players of the deal known and the positions they would serve known by the public.
According to the New York Post, a group of European investors has contacted the former Islander great asking him to be part of their group that is interested in buying the team. LaFontaine is said to be intrigued, however may have trouble because of the sky high asking price. That price according to the article is 300 million dollars.
http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/frozen_account_WKFBjMUu87aiMxswHMkaxO (h/t to Roy for the link)
Now, I know there have been some who have completely written this article off as "hot air." However, Larry Brooks was one of the reports who wrote the article so therefore I think there is something here. How much exactly? I am not sure, but a reporter like Brooks wouldn't put his reputation on something without having info to back it up. Perhaps, some of his info was obtained off the record which is why there isn't a lot here. This sure adds another interesting element to the Islanders soap opera.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
NHL Lockout: Krys Barch Rants on the Lockout
Earlier tonight, NHL veteran enforcer Krys Barch who is currently part of the New Jersey Devils took to his twitter feed [which you can find a link to at the bottom of this entry] to discuss his thoughts on the current state of the NHL.
For me, it was nice to see a player quote like this instead of the typical thing bashing the owners and saying how they think the lockout could last over a full season because although circumstances are very different it sort of humanizes them. At least in Barches case, which is something players have lacked throughout & I think if done right could really help them.
"I sit here from Gand Bend, Ontario putting a pen to my heart and writing on paper what bleeds out. My name is Krys Barch. I have played approximately 5 1/2 years in the NHL and have worked for every second of it. I haven't been a 1st round pick, bonus baby or a son of a hall of famer. I have made it through sweating, bleeding, cut Achilles, broken hands, concussions, broken orbital bones, 8 teeth knocked out, etc, etc, etc.
I sit in front of a fire, 8 OV deep and starting a bottle of Porte that will assist in the translations of my emotions to words! No different than a truck driver, farmer or line worker, I have a shot and a beer. Not to deal with the days ahead but to ease the nerves from what my body has endured the days before.
I sit here with both my boys sleeping and my wife due with our 3rd. My thoughts racing on what I can conquer tomorrow to get our family ahead. Sometimes, wondering if I should have existed when a word and a gun solidified and solved all problems. I feel the Wild West would more simplified than the world we live in now when an employer who makes billions of dollars and a league with record revenues can tell me that I can't do the things that my heart tells my me to do!
All what my heart tells me to do far surpasses what my body has endured. As I write this I dive deeper and deeper into my bottle of Porte giving wider views to the depths of my heart. As my pen warms from the fire, Neil Young and a fall Canadian night, I wonder how this work stoppage effects the owners?
I wonder if the owners of Boston, New York, Washington, etc, etc, have endured any of the injuries that I or any other player in the NHL have endured. Still they probably sit their smoking the same brand of cigar, sipping the same cognac, and going on vacation. To one of five houses they own. While we sit here knowing they want to take 20% of our paychecks. One half to 3/4 of my peers will have to work for the next 50 years of their lives.
Congratulations to the lucky select few that I have played with who have made salaries that they can choose to do whatever they want when they are done. But I have played most who do not!
If the NHL wants to teams in the south or struggling markets than the players along with the financially well to do teams need to start working together. Or they need to start to move teams to the North where they will make money. The system allows the owners to continually take money from the players contract after contract where eventually over 40 some years the owners will have 80% of revenue. The only way to stop the work stoppages long into the future is fix the root cause of the problems.
The lockout is a procedure to take from the players to pay for the NHL mistakes. Let not allow the NHL to make any more mistakes.
Let the league and the players to come together to fix the mistakes that have been made and make sure non are made in the future. Let's get a deal where the owners, players, and fans benefit from. We're we can be sitting around in beautiful Canadian falls around a fire playing and watching the game we love.
Here's to the truth and our next conversation. As always speaking from my heart! Goodnight! Like me or hate me I speak what comes from my heart!"
(H/T) to puckdaddy for the cleaned up version of the quoteAs others including puckdaddy stated, instances like this is what separate this lockout from the last one. Social media is such a big factor now, where as back in 2004 most of the social media outlets now were either in their infancy or not even a thought yet.
For me, it was nice to see a player quote like this instead of the typical thing bashing the owners and saying how they think the lockout could last over a full season because although circumstances are very different it sort of humanizes them. At least in Barches case, which is something players have lacked throughout & I think if done right could really help them.
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/read-krys-barch-epic-nhl-lockout-rant-jerry-041844345--nhl.htmlhttps://twitter.com/krysbarch/
Friday, September 28, 2012
Brooklyn Pre Season Game VS the Devils Cancelled
Earlier this afternoon as I am sure you all have seen, the NHL announced that the remainder of the preseason will not be played because of the lockout which is now going on two weeks old.
For Islander fans this means that their pre season game with the Devils at the newly opened Barclays Center this Tuesday October 2nd will not be played. So if you or someone you know have tickets for that game you should contact ticket master about a refund.
Some thought the loss of this game may lessen our chances of going to Brooklyn because we don't know how it would respond to a game being the biggest reason. I personally don't think it has much of an effect. What do you think? Does the loss of the pre season game help, hurt, or have no effect on the Islanders chance of landing in Brooklyn? Tell us in comments or tweet us @savetheisles
For Islander fans this means that their pre season game with the Devils at the newly opened Barclays Center this Tuesday October 2nd will not be played. So if you or someone you know have tickets for that game you should contact ticket master about a refund.
Some thought the loss of this game may lessen our chances of going to Brooklyn because we don't know how it would respond to a game being the biggest reason. I personally don't think it has much of an effect. What do you think? Does the loss of the pre season game help, hurt, or have no effect on the Islanders chance of landing in Brooklyn? Tell us in comments or tweet us @savetheisles
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Derek Boogards Family Files Lawsuit Against NHLPA
According to TMZ, the family for former NHL enforcer Derek Boogard has filed a 9.8 million dollar lawsuit against the NHLPA claiming they didn't give the family the proper assistance they were supposed to in order for the family to recover the money Derek had left on his deal from the Rangers after his tragic death last May. They are suing for 5 million in punitive damages and 4.8 million for the balance that was left on his contract with the Rangers.
For more, including a quote from the NHLPA click the link below to puckdaddy:
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/derek-boogaard-family-seeks-9-8-million-nhlpa-015727220--nhl.html;_ylt=AiiAnohXahZsQMV9tYO77rmRbcp_;_ylu=X3oDMTFja3NwYTFmBG1pdANCbG9ncyBJbmRleARwb3MDMQRzZWMDTWVkaWFCbG9nSW5kZXhUZW1w;_ylg=X3oDMTFpMm9iMzh1BGludGwDdXMEbGFuZwNlbi11cwRwc3RhaWQDBHBzdGNhdANibG9nBHB0A3NlY3Rpb25z;_ylv=3
For more, including a quote from the NHLPA click the link below to puckdaddy:
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/derek-boogaard-family-seeks-9-8-million-nhlpa-015727220--nhl.html;_ylt=AiiAnohXahZsQMV9tYO77rmRbcp_;_ylu=X3oDMTFja3NwYTFmBG1pdANCbG9ncyBJbmRleARwb3MDMQRzZWMDTWVkaWFCbG9nSW5kZXhUZW1w;_ylg=X3oDMTFpMm9iMzh1BGludGwDdXMEbGFuZwNlbi11cwRwc3RhaWQDBHBzdGNhdANibG9nBHB0A3NlY3Rpb25z;_ylv=3
Friday, September 21, 2012
Oilers & The Flames Trying To Stop the Lockout?
Update: Alright, two updates on this:
1) The hearing for Montreal will be held on October 15th from what I have read.
2) The hearings on the Oilers and Flames were held today, and Katie Strang said a decision is expected early next week.
If the NHL were to lose in Alberta it could drastically change the way they do business as Billy Daly goes into a little bit in the article at the bottom.
According to yahoo.com, lawyers for players on the Oilers and Flames are attempting to have the lockout declared illegal under Alberta law.
Roughly six players attended the hearing including former Islander forward Ryan Smyth.
If you remember Montreal attempted to do something similar but under Quebec law. That however, was denied. Although, they did say more hearings would be needed on this, those hearings have yet to be scheduled.
For more including quotes from players lawyers as well as NHL officials click the link below:
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/oilers-flames-players-lockout-illegal-195651251--nhl.html;_ylt=AqGkkQzOIcESl_FMbfXL9cE5nYcB;_ylu=X3oDMTRsaGo1dWYyBG1pdANMSVNUUyBNaXhlZCBMaXN0IEZQIEhlYWRsaW5lcwRwa2cDZTc1YjdjNzAtYTZhMi0zYWI0LWE5NDMtZjk1ZGM2ZmY4YjJhBHBvcwMxBHNlYwNNZWRpYUJMaXN0TWl4ZWRMUENBVGVtcAR2ZXIDZjQzYjA2NzAtMDQyYi0xMWUyLWFmZmItNTM3OWU3Y2IwZmZh;_ylg=X3oDMTFpNzk0NjhtBGludGwDdXMEbGFuZwNlbi11cwRwc3RhaWQDBHBzdGNhdANob21lBHB0A3NlY3Rpb25z;_ylv=3
Personally, I think this is a noble effort, but one that will be for naught. Although, it would certainly be nice for the city of Alberta to throw a monkey wrench into the greed that is currently encompassing the sport we all love.
1) The hearing for Montreal will be held on October 15th from what I have read.
2) The hearings on the Oilers and Flames were held today, and Katie Strang said a decision is expected early next week.
If the NHL were to lose in Alberta it could drastically change the way they do business as Billy Daly goes into a little bit in the article at the bottom.
According to yahoo.com, lawyers for players on the Oilers and Flames are attempting to have the lockout declared illegal under Alberta law.
Roughly six players attended the hearing including former Islander forward Ryan Smyth.
If you remember Montreal attempted to do something similar but under Quebec law. That however, was denied. Although, they did say more hearings would be needed on this, those hearings have yet to be scheduled.
For more including quotes from players lawyers as well as NHL officials click the link below:
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/oilers-flames-players-lockout-illegal-195651251--nhl.html;_ylt=AqGkkQzOIcESl_FMbfXL9cE5nYcB;_ylu=X3oDMTRsaGo1dWYyBG1pdANMSVNUUyBNaXhlZCBMaXN0IEZQIEhlYWRsaW5lcwRwa2cDZTc1YjdjNzAtYTZhMi0zYWI0LWE5NDMtZjk1ZGM2ZmY4YjJhBHBvcwMxBHNlYwNNZWRpYUJMaXN0TWl4ZWRMUENBVGVtcAR2ZXIDZjQzYjA2NzAtMDQyYi0xMWUyLWFmZmItNTM3OWU3Y2IwZmZh;_ylg=X3oDMTFpNzk0NjhtBGludGwDdXMEbGFuZwNlbi11cwRwc3RhaWQDBHBzdGNhdANob21lBHB0A3NlY3Rpb25z;_ylv=3
Personally, I think this is a noble effort, but one that will be for naught. Although, it would certainly be nice for the city of Alberta to throw a monkey wrench into the greed that is currently encompassing the sport we all love.
Draw Your Own Conclusions: Don Levin Tells Craig Custance "...No chance" The Isles Leave
The first thing I am sure your thinking when seeing that title is who in the world is Don Levin? For the last few months there has been talk of Seattle building an arena that would be able to house a Basketball/Hockey team. So naturally, there has been some speculation connecting our Islanders there given our circumstances. Well Mr. Levin happens to be a perspective owner of a sports team out there.
When asked about the Islanders & possible relocation to Seattle here is Mr Levins full quote:
"The answer to the Islanders moving is never. They're not moving out of that market. No chance that's going to happen." (credit Craig Custance & sbnation.com for the quote)
So for all the negative things that come out, seeing something like this should make the people who still have faith in us staying put take a small breath of reassurance.
For more including a little bit of info on Don Levin check out the link below:
http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2012/9/20/3364286/new-york-islanders-relocation-seattle-brooklyn
When asked about the Islanders & possible relocation to Seattle here is Mr Levins full quote:
"The answer to the Islanders moving is never. They're not moving out of that market. No chance that's going to happen." (credit Craig Custance & sbnation.com for the quote)
So for all the negative things that come out, seeing something like this should make the people who still have faith in us staying put take a small breath of reassurance.
For more including a little bit of info on Don Levin check out the link below:
http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2012/9/20/3364286/new-york-islanders-relocation-seattle-brooklyn
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
RFQ Possibility Blumenfeld Says He Would Include the Islanders
According to Newsday, Syosset developer Ed Blumenfeld who is one of the final three developers in the countys RFQ seeking a master developer for the Nassau "Hub" scored major points with Islanders fans Monday after saying he would plan to keep the Islanders part of his plan for the area should he win.
Plainview developer Donald Monti has been outspoken in his desire to keep the team here, and the final one in the race Baldassano Architecture out of Patchogue has nothing to do with the arena and is just proposing some hotels and convention space.
Blumenfeld told Randi Marshall of Newsday that if hes able to include a minor league ballpark here that he could possibly involve the New York Mets because the Mets owners the Wilpons are personal friends of his. On top of that, when he initially bid for the property in 2005 Wilpons company Sterling Equities was a partner of his. If you remember back when the proposals were first made it was reported that Wilpon was approached to be a partner in one of the proposals but declined. I think we can see which proposal that now was.
To see more including who Blumenfeld brought in to help him with this process, click the link below:
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;jsessionid=98DC78C060E5D8E90E0F.3253?site=newsday&view=longisland_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=longisland&feed:i=1.4010383&nopaging=1
Plainview developer Donald Monti has been outspoken in his desire to keep the team here, and the final one in the race Baldassano Architecture out of Patchogue has nothing to do with the arena and is just proposing some hotels and convention space.
Blumenfeld told Randi Marshall of Newsday that if hes able to include a minor league ballpark here that he could possibly involve the New York Mets because the Mets owners the Wilpons are personal friends of his. On top of that, when he initially bid for the property in 2005 Wilpons company Sterling Equities was a partner of his. If you remember back when the proposals were first made it was reported that Wilpon was approached to be a partner in one of the proposals but declined. I think we can see which proposal that now was.
To see more including who Blumenfeld brought in to help him with this process, click the link below:
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;jsessionid=98DC78C060E5D8E90E0F.3253?site=newsday&view=longisland_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=longisland&feed:i=1.4010383&nopaging=1
Monday, September 17, 2012
Maragos: "It won't be the End of the World if the County Doesn't Have a Hockey Team"
If you don't know George Maragos, he is the Comptroller of Nassau County. Recently when interviewed about the prospective effect of a loss of a hockey season on the LI economy he seemed to shake it off because he said that concerts could still play at the arena and that is evidenced by the last lockout in 04/05.
While to a certain extent Maragos is right, I think he is underestimating having to compete with a semi-redone MSG and the Barclays Center as well as the Prudential Center. Back in 04/05 MSG had no renovation at all and Barclays wasn't even close to being done. Same could be said for the Prudential Center. If he thinks the Coliseum will compete with them for events he going to be eating a piece of humble pie sooner rather later. I think the Coliseum would get a few shows hear and there, however, the bulk of them would go to MSG/Barclays Center/Prudential Center thus leaving the Coliseum out in the cold.
The reason I made note of the quote in the title is one has to wonder if that's how the powers at be in Nassau County really feel. Even with all that Ed Mangano has done over the last few months to try and secure the Islanders future here. Do quotes like the one above truly reflect the feelings of the powers at be in the County? Well, nobody knows! However, it is something to think about.
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;jsessionid=935380A7862A646C69F6.3253?site=newsday&view=sports_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=sports&feed:i=1.4008466
While to a certain extent Maragos is right, I think he is underestimating having to compete with a semi-redone MSG and the Barclays Center as well as the Prudential Center. Back in 04/05 MSG had no renovation at all and Barclays wasn't even close to being done. Same could be said for the Prudential Center. If he thinks the Coliseum will compete with them for events he going to be eating a piece of humble pie sooner rather later. I think the Coliseum would get a few shows hear and there, however, the bulk of them would go to MSG/Barclays Center/Prudential Center thus leaving the Coliseum out in the cold.
The reason I made note of the quote in the title is one has to wonder if that's how the powers at be in Nassau County really feel. Even with all that Ed Mangano has done over the last few months to try and secure the Islanders future here. Do quotes like the one above truly reflect the feelings of the powers at be in the County? Well, nobody knows! However, it is something to think about.
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;jsessionid=935380A7862A646C69F6.3253?site=newsday&view=sports_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=sports&feed:i=1.4008466
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Message from Players to NHL Fans
Below is a video the NHLPA put up on youtube with messages from a few players on the lockout.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCW0VsfR9FM
I personally didn't think it was terrible but the biggest criticism I have is that they echo the fact that fans are the biggest victim. While fans are a victim they aren't the biggest victim of the battle of greed currently encompassing the sport we love.
The biggest victims are the people who work at the arenas around the country, also the small business owners with locations near arenas around the country who will see a decrease in business because of the less activity at the arena. The battle of greed among the millionaires and multi millionaires of our sport is taking money out of their pockets.
I hope for there sake more then anyone else that this is a short lived lockout and not a repeat of 04/05.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCW0VsfR9FM
I personally didn't think it was terrible but the biggest criticism I have is that they echo the fact that fans are the biggest victim. While fans are a victim they aren't the biggest victim of the battle of greed currently encompassing the sport we love.
The biggest victims are the people who work at the arenas around the country, also the small business owners with locations near arenas around the country who will see a decrease in business because of the less activity at the arena. The battle of greed among the millionaires and multi millionaires of our sport is taking money out of their pockets.
I hope for there sake more then anyone else that this is a short lived lockout and not a repeat of 04/05.
BREAKING: Isles sign Matt Martin for 4 years
Just minutes before the NHL lockout, which started roughly 20 minutes ago, the Islanders announced that they had came to terms with forward Matt Martin on a 4 year deal worth 1 million a year.
Matt set the NHL record last season for most hits in a season. On top of that he put up career high numbers on the offensive side of the puck.
Fans had started getting nervous after he rejected his qualifying offer a few months ago with training camp rolling around along with Wangs policy of not being able to play if your not signed by the start of camp.
Although, with the labor dispute camp probably isn't going to being on time, at least fans know whenever things do begin Matt Martin will be wearing an Islanders sweater.
Here's a link to what Martin had to say on the extension via twitter:
https://twitter.com/mattymarts17/status/247179809380257792
Matt set the NHL record last season for most hits in a season. On top of that he put up career high numbers on the offensive side of the puck.
Fans had started getting nervous after he rejected his qualifying offer a few months ago with training camp rolling around along with Wangs policy of not being able to play if your not signed by the start of camp.
Although, with the labor dispute camp probably isn't going to being on time, at least fans know whenever things do begin Matt Martin will be wearing an Islanders sweater.
Here's a link to what Martin had to say on the extension via twitter:
https://twitter.com/mattymarts17/status/247179809380257792
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Lockout is in Effect
Update: According to reports, the NHLPA had wanted to meet with the league prior to tonights deadline. However, the league said that it saw no reason to have a meeting.
https://twitter.com/reporterchris/status/247071643824971776
According to reports, there will be no bargaining today between the NHL and the NHLPA. So that means for the third time in 18 years and third under Gary Bettman the NHL will begin a lockout tonight at midnight.
The question all fans are asking is how long will it last with all of them saying prayers it wont be a repeat of 04/05 when the entire season was lost. Chris Botta seems to think it will be at least a month long saying the prospect of playing games in October is doubtful.
https://twitter.com/ChrisBottaNHL/status/247054046853214208
Today puckdaddy over at yahoo posted an article with many quotes from fans with their thoughts on the lockout, if you would like to see it click the link below:
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/unleash-fury-hockey-fans-sound-off-impending-lockout-163540909--nhl.html
https://twitter.com/reporterchris/status/247071643824971776
According to reports, there will be no bargaining today between the NHL and the NHLPA. So that means for the third time in 18 years and third under Gary Bettman the NHL will begin a lockout tonight at midnight.
The question all fans are asking is how long will it last with all of them saying prayers it wont be a repeat of 04/05 when the entire season was lost. Chris Botta seems to think it will be at least a month long saying the prospect of playing games in October is doubtful.
https://twitter.com/ChrisBottaNHL/status/247054046853214208
Today puckdaddy over at yahoo posted an article with many quotes from fans with their thoughts on the lockout, if you would like to see it click the link below:
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/unleash-fury-hockey-fans-sound-off-impending-lockout-163540909--nhl.html
Friday, September 14, 2012
Islanders Assign 19 Players To Bridgeport
With a lockout all but inevitable, the Islanders announced today that they have assigned 19 players to Bridgeport including Nino Niederreiter and Travis Hamonic. Some other notables on the list include:
Casey Cizikas
David Ullstrom
and Kirill Kabanov
So, if there is no NHL season, the fans of Bridgeport will at least have some excitement.
They also assigned two players to junior league teams. They assigned first round pick Griffin Reinhart to the Edmonton Oil Kings of the WHL. They also assigned Ryan Strome to the Niagra Ice Dogs of the OHL.
http://islanders.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=641371
Casey Cizikas
David Ullstrom
and Kirill Kabanov
So, if there is no NHL season, the fans of Bridgeport will at least have some excitement.
They also assigned two players to junior league teams. They assigned first round pick Griffin Reinhart to the Edmonton Oil Kings of the WHL. They also assigned Ryan Strome to the Niagra Ice Dogs of the OHL.
http://islanders.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=641371
Fan Protest This Saturday At NHL Offices
I am sure most of you have heard by now the outcome of the press conference earlier today with Donald Fehr and Gary Bettman. Additionally, how the mood now is that a lockout is inevitable, how long it'll be is the bigger question.
Well, nohockeylockout.com has organized a fan protest at the NHL offices in NYC this Saturday. If you would like to learn more check out their twitter below. Earlier today I read that they have 100+ people confirmed to attend the event. So, if you have nothing to do this Saturday, pop over and join hundreds of your closest friends in letting the NHL know were upset and that maybe were not as forgiving as Gary Bettman thinks.
https://twitter.com/NoHockeyLockout
Well, nohockeylockout.com has organized a fan protest at the NHL offices in NYC this Saturday. If you would like to learn more check out their twitter below. Earlier today I read that they have 100+ people confirmed to attend the event. So, if you have nothing to do this Saturday, pop over and join hundreds of your closest friends in letting the NHL know were upset and that maybe were not as forgiving as Gary Bettman thinks.
https://twitter.com/NoHockeyLockout
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Team to Decide Soon on Their Future at the Coliseum
According to the LI Press, on Monday before the Nassau County Rules Committee deputy CE Rob Walker told them that the Islanders will be make their decision weather or not they are leaving "very soon."
Now, if you believe Walker then that means we should hopefully sooner rather then later have an end game with this seemingly never ending soap opera. Although, there is the chance Walker was just saying that in order to get the rules committee to side with him.
However, with the all the Brooklyn news of the last few months including Wang paying the arena a visit just a few days ago, the fact that the real info is coming from there and just a hole lot of nothing is coming from Nassau could be telling.
http://www.netsdaily.com/2012/9/8/3303407/oculus-ice-rink-tested-at-barclays
http://www.longislandpress.com/2012/09/11/pol-islanders-to-decide-on-future-at-coliseum-soon/
Now, if you believe Walker then that means we should hopefully sooner rather then later have an end game with this seemingly never ending soap opera. Although, there is the chance Walker was just saying that in order to get the rules committee to side with him.
However, with the all the Brooklyn news of the last few months including Wang paying the arena a visit just a few days ago, the fact that the real info is coming from there and just a hole lot of nothing is coming from Nassau could be telling.
http://www.netsdaily.com/2012/9/8/3303407/oculus-ice-rink-tested-at-barclays
http://www.longislandpress.com/2012/09/11/pol-islanders-to-decide-on-future-at-coliseum-soon/
BREAKING: Visnovsky Trade To Isles Held Up By Arbitrator
Within the last hour, the Islanders announced their acquisition of defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky was upheld by an arbitrator so the defenseman will be suiting up with the Islanders this season. (Assuming there is one)
Visnovsky was acquired the night of the NHL amateur draft back in June. However, roughly a month after the trade he filed a grievance with the NHLPA to block the trade saying that he still had a NTC and thus should've been consulted before the move was made.
This type of acquisition is one fans have been screaming for, for the last few seasons. Although it will certainly help the team in multiple facets of the game, I do not believe they are a playoff team yet, but hey maybe they will surprise me.
http://islanders.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=641297&navid=DL|NYI|home
Visnovsky was acquired the night of the NHL amateur draft back in June. However, roughly a month after the trade he filed a grievance with the NHLPA to block the trade saying that he still had a NTC and thus should've been consulted before the move was made.
This type of acquisition is one fans have been screaming for, for the last few seasons. Although it will certainly help the team in multiple facets of the game, I do not believe they are a playoff team yet, but hey maybe they will surprise me.
http://islanders.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=641297&navid=DL|NYI|home
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Another Small Sign of a Brooklyn Play for the Islanders
Atlanticyardsreport.blogspot.com is reporting that recently $155,652 was spent on revised dasherboards to meet NHL regulations. Although I am sure most are familiar with the term, for those that aren't that is the technical term for the boards that surround the ice.
Now, is this a sign that they [Barclays] are attempting to make the arena more suitable for the Islanders? Or just a sign that they only want the best for the Islanders Devils game there that's supposed to take place in just a few short weeks. You can be the judge of that, but as we've said in the past where there is smoke there is probably some sorta fire.
H/T to Roy for the link
http://atlanticyardsreport.blogspot.com/2012/09/consultant-arena-schedule-extremely.html
Now, is this a sign that they [Barclays] are attempting to make the arena more suitable for the Islanders? Or just a sign that they only want the best for the Islanders Devils game there that's supposed to take place in just a few short weeks. You can be the judge of that, but as we've said in the past where there is smoke there is probably some sorta fire.
H/T to Roy for the link
http://atlanticyardsreport.blogspot.com/2012/09/consultant-arena-schedule-extremely.html
9/11: 11 Years Later
If you can believe it, today marks the 11 year anniversary of the terrorist attacks that took place on 9/11/01.
May all those that lost their lives on that faithful Tuesday Morning RIP. Additionally I would like to extend my thoughts to the people who were effected by this as they go through what I am sure is a very difficult day.
photo courtesy of http://sheikyermami.com/
May all those that lost their lives on that faithful Tuesday Morning RIP. Additionally I would like to extend my thoughts to the people who were effected by this as they go through what I am sure is a very difficult day.
photo courtesy of http://sheikyermami.com/
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And So It Goes: Nassau Hires Law Firm for Coliseum
Even with all the recent speculation connecting the Islanders to Brooklyn, politicians in Nassau County are keeping hope. Newsday reports that the County has hired a law firm to handle the talks regarding the site.
Newsday reports that the firm Pannone Lopes Devereaux & West, LLC, was hired by the county this past spring for $25,000 to get the countys application for state funding ready. Additionally, they were also to prepare the countys RFQ for a master developer for "the hub" site. To officially hire them in this expanded capacity, the Mangano administration sought an extra $200,000 from the rules committee of the county legislature and it was approved unanimously.
For more including quotes from Deputy CE Rob Walker and a little background on the firm click the link below:
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;jsessionid=4D96F164A21FB3B574FC.3253?site=newsday&view=top_stories_item&feed:a=newsday_1min&feed:c=topstories&feed:i=1.3989367
Newsday reports that the firm Pannone Lopes Devereaux & West, LLC, was hired by the county this past spring for $25,000 to get the countys application for state funding ready. Additionally, they were also to prepare the countys RFQ for a master developer for "the hub" site. To officially hire them in this expanded capacity, the Mangano administration sought an extra $200,000 from the rules committee of the county legislature and it was approved unanimously.
For more including quotes from Deputy CE Rob Walker and a little background on the firm click the link below:
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;jsessionid=4D96F164A21FB3B574FC.3253?site=newsday&view=top_stories_item&feed:a=newsday_1min&feed:c=topstories&feed:i=1.3989367
Friday, September 7, 2012
Lokomotiv Tragedy One Year Later
Believe it or not, its been one full year since that faithful September morning when the Lokomotiv KHL team was killed in a plane crash last year.
May all those that lost their lives rest in peace, and nothing but prayers and well wishes to those families who were affected by this terrible tragedy. Islanders prospect Kirill Kabanov dedicated his memorial cup win this year to those who were affected by this tragedy.
photo courtesy of http://static.hockeyfights.com/
May all those that lost their lives rest in peace, and nothing but prayers and well wishes to those families who were affected by this terrible tragedy. Islanders prospect Kirill Kabanov dedicated his memorial cup win this year to those who were affected by this tragedy.
Below you can find an image of 8 victims. May they all RIP
photo courtesy of http://static.hockeyfights.com/Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Another NHL Lockout Expected
According to Tim Panaccio of csnphilly.com, Gary Bettman is going to address the NHL board of governors on September 13th. Reportedly, the main reason for his visit asking weather or not they support his strategy to lock the players out on September 15th if there is no agreement on a long term CBA in place. CSN also reports that two agents who represent the pulse of many players in the NHL said that the two sides are preparing for a lockout and have been for a long time.
If the NHL has another lockout this season it will be their third under the tenure of Gary Bettman. Specifically it will be the NHL's third lockout since 1994. That would amount to a lockout every six years, that's kind of pathetic if you ask me. For more check out the article from csnphilly below:
http://www.csnphilly.com/hockey-philadelphia-flyers/flyers-talk/Bettman-to-address-Board-take-vote-on-lo?blockID=767985&feedID=695
To view a great video thats been making the rounds amongst hockey fans everywhere recently through various social media outlets, click the link below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWQs3O_IDas
If the NHL has another lockout this season it will be their third under the tenure of Gary Bettman. Specifically it will be the NHL's third lockout since 1994. That would amount to a lockout every six years, that's kind of pathetic if you ask me. For more check out the article from csnphilly below:
http://www.csnphilly.com/hockey-philadelphia-flyers/flyers-talk/Bettman-to-address-Board-take-vote-on-lo?blockID=767985&feedID=695
To view a great video thats been making the rounds amongst hockey fans everywhere recently through various social media outlets, click the link below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWQs3O_IDas
Friday, August 31, 2012
Bill Daly: Isles Move To Brooklyn is an "Intriguing Possibility..."
In a recent article for Newsday, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly was quoted as saying that the idea of the Islanders moving to Atlantic Avenue [The Barclays Center] after July 31st, 2015 was, "an intriguing possibility but there's a lot of road between here and there." Its certainly encouraging that the league has seemed to change its stance on this. If you remember months ago when this idea was bought up to Gary Bettman on his radio show I believe, he kinda dismissed it because of the further proximity for Suffolk fans and Long Islanders tendency in general to want to use their cars to go everywhere.
Also in the article its been reported that more then 7000 tickets have been sold for the pre-season game in Brooklyn on October 2nd vs the Devils. That is about half the Barclays current capacity for hockey. Barclays executive Brett Yormark said that right now there more focused on getting events for the building. However, as the game draws closer they will have a lot more promotion for it.
For more including quotes from Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano click the link below:
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;jsessionid=50A3847CABF16C463C32.3253?site=newsday&view=sports_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=sports&feed:i=1.3940131
Also in the article its been reported that more then 7000 tickets have been sold for the pre-season game in Brooklyn on October 2nd vs the Devils. That is about half the Barclays current capacity for hockey. Barclays executive Brett Yormark said that right now there more focused on getting events for the building. However, as the game draws closer they will have a lot more promotion for it.
For more including quotes from Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano click the link below:
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;jsessionid=50A3847CABF16C463C32.3253?site=newsday&view=sports_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=sports&feed:i=1.3940131
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Isles Camp To Open 9/22
Well, depending on what goes on with the CBA, Islanders training camp is expected to open on September 22nd, Arthur Staple reports.
According to Staple, a few Islanders including Rick Dipietro and Michael Grabner have already been sighted at Iceworks recently skating.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday
According to Staple, a few Islanders including Rick Dipietro and Michael Grabner have already been sighted at Iceworks recently skating.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday
NHL News: Malkin Agrees To Play in The KHL If theres a Lockout
According to yahoo, Penguins star forward and reigning NHL MVP Evgeni Malkin has reportedly agreed to play in the KHL should there be a work stoppage related to the CBA in the NHL this season.
Malkin had 50 goals and 59 assists last season on his way to the MVP. For more go to the link below:
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/evgeni-malkin-agrees-play-khl-023029922.html
Malkin had 50 goals and 59 assists last season on his way to the MVP. For more go to the link below:
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/evgeni-malkin-agrees-play-khl-023029922.html
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Visnovsky Arbitration Hearing Scheduled for 9/4
According to Larry Brooks of the New York Post, the arbitration hearing for Lubomir Visnovsky will be September 4th.
On draft day a few months ago the Islanders acquired Visnovsky from the Ducks for a second round pick in next years draft. However, a month later Visnovsky filed a grievance to block his trade here. Hes attempting to block it on the grounds that a NTC he had part of the contract before he was traded to the Ducks is still valid and he shouldve been consulted before being traded to the Island.
If Visnovsky wins the hearing then he will remain Ducks property and the trade will be voided. However, if the Ducks win then the trade will go through and he will be an Islander.
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/more_sports/can_bett_on_honesty_yaa66RE2fS7XMofEFXE2NO
On draft day a few months ago the Islanders acquired Visnovsky from the Ducks for a second round pick in next years draft. However, a month later Visnovsky filed a grievance to block his trade here. Hes attempting to block it on the grounds that a NTC he had part of the contract before he was traded to the Ducks is still valid and he shouldve been consulted before being traded to the Island.
If Visnovsky wins the hearing then he will remain Ducks property and the trade will be voided. However, if the Ducks win then the trade will go through and he will be an Islander.
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/more_sports/can_bett_on_honesty_yaa66RE2fS7XMofEFXE2NO
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Visnovsky in a Car Accident in Slovakia
According to Islanderspointblank.com Lubomir Visnovsky was in a car accident on a race track in Slovakia. Fortunate for him he wasn't injured. According to puckdaddy he had the Islanders permission to participate.
For more check out the link to pointblank below
http://islanderspointblank.com/news/lubomir-visnovsky-crashes-his-ferrari-on-slovakian-race-track-no-serious-injuries/
For more check out the link to pointblank below
http://islanderspointblank.com/news/lubomir-visnovsky-crashes-his-ferrari-on-slovakian-race-track-no-serious-injuries/
Monday, August 13, 2012
Meet Your 2012/2013 New York Islanders Ice Girls
Below you can see an image of the 2012/2013 Islanders Ice Girl squad. The Islanders held the auditions for the squad earlier today.
photo courtesy of http://inagist.com/
photo courtesy of http://inagist.com/
Friday, August 10, 2012
Possible RFQ Winner Speaks to Pointblank
Earlier today, Donald Monti CEO of Renaissance Downtowns talked to Kevin Schultz from pointblank about his RFQ, his desires, and his other projects in the area.
Some quotes of interest include:
Monti told Kevin, "...I'm saying it because there's nobody that cares about the Islanders staying that's responded..." Statements like this go along with what hes told Randi Marshall in the past, so it seems like it should be the Islanders fan hope that Nassau County chooses them to win the RFQ which we should find out sometime this month.
Monti also told Kevin, "...If Charles wants to stay here, I think we can help make it happen.” That is certainly encouraging, however, actions speak louder then words. So hopefully Nassau County gives him a chance to back this up.
Infamous Islander Country "rabble rouser" Joe Conte shared similar thoughts to that with Randi Marshall of Newsday after he found out about Renaissance interest in the property. If you don't know Joe, back in 2008, during Kate Murrays campaign at one press conference she held, GOP pit boss Joe Mondello told him to "Blow it out his duffle bag" after being mildly heckled. He also ran the campaign for Kate Murrays opponent Kristen McElroy that year.
If you would like to see more from the interview including how Monti hopes to link the Coliseum development to the Hempstead Downtown development hes currently the master developer of, click the link below:
http://islanderspointblank.com/news/exclusive-renaissance-downtowns-ceo-donald-monti-if-charles-wants-to-stay-here-i-think-we-can-help-make-it-happen/#more-37093
With all the talk of Brooklyn, I hope that Nassau County picks Renaissance as the RFQ winner to give us Islander fans one last hope at keeping Uniondale home.
Some quotes of interest include:
Monti told Kevin, "...I'm saying it because there's nobody that cares about the Islanders staying that's responded..." Statements like this go along with what hes told Randi Marshall in the past, so it seems like it should be the Islanders fan hope that Nassau County chooses them to win the RFQ which we should find out sometime this month.
Monti also told Kevin, "...If Charles wants to stay here, I think we can help make it happen.” That is certainly encouraging, however, actions speak louder then words. So hopefully Nassau County gives him a chance to back this up.
Infamous Islander Country "rabble rouser" Joe Conte shared similar thoughts to that with Randi Marshall of Newsday after he found out about Renaissance interest in the property. If you don't know Joe, back in 2008, during Kate Murrays campaign at one press conference she held, GOP pit boss Joe Mondello told him to "Blow it out his duffle bag" after being mildly heckled. He also ran the campaign for Kate Murrays opponent Kristen McElroy that year.
If you would like to see more from the interview including how Monti hopes to link the Coliseum development to the Hempstead Downtown development hes currently the master developer of, click the link below:
http://islanderspointblank.com/news/exclusive-renaissance-downtowns-ceo-donald-monti-if-charles-wants-to-stay-here-i-think-we-can-help-make-it-happen/#more-37093
With all the talk of Brooklyn, I hope that Nassau County picks Renaissance as the RFQ winner to give us Islander fans one last hope at keeping Uniondale home.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
BREAKING: Isles, Nets, NHL Have Meetings in The City
According to CBS, the Islanders, the NHL, and the Brooklyn Nets have had meetings in NYC recently.
The exact purpose of the meetings is anyones guess. It could range from talking about having more games at the Barclays Center, to them talking about a possible sale.
It should be interesting to see if anything more comes of this and how soon, especially with an RFQ winner expected this month. For more from CBS check out the link below:
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2012/08/02/barclays-center-ceo-reiterates-desire-to-have-islanders-move-to-brooklyn/
The exact purpose of the meetings is anyones guess. It could range from talking about having more games at the Barclays Center, to them talking about a possible sale.
It should be interesting to see if anything more comes of this and how soon, especially with an RFQ winner expected this month. For more from CBS check out the link below:
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2012/08/02/barclays-center-ceo-reiterates-desire-to-have-islanders-move-to-brooklyn/
Thursday, August 2, 2012
RFQ Winner To Be Picked This Month?
According to the LIBN, County spokesman Brian Nevin expects a winner of the RFQ for the "Hub" property including the Nassau Coliseum to be chosen this month.
Two weeks ago County Executive Ed Mangano announced an RFQ for a master developer of the Coliseum site and the winner would have to right away start negotiating with Charles Wang and SMG. The deadline for this was this past Monday and yesterday, it was reported by Randi Marshall of Newsday that 4 developers had submitted RFQ's and the County would now have to choose.
The four developers are Blumenfeld Associates out of Syosset, Donald Monti out of Plainview, Baldassano Architecture in Patchogue, and Breslin Realty in Garden City.
Nevin says that a review committee made from officials from various departments including; department of public works, the county executives office, and planning and economic development will make a recommendation to select one of the four developers to be the master developer for the site.
http://libn.com/2012/08/01/4-developers-vie-to-redevelop-nassau-hub/
Two weeks ago County Executive Ed Mangano announced an RFQ for a master developer of the Coliseum site and the winner would have to right away start negotiating with Charles Wang and SMG. The deadline for this was this past Monday and yesterday, it was reported by Randi Marshall of Newsday that 4 developers had submitted RFQ's and the County would now have to choose.
The four developers are Blumenfeld Associates out of Syosset, Donald Monti out of Plainview, Baldassano Architecture in Patchogue, and Breslin Realty in Garden City.
Nevin says that a review committee made from officials from various departments including; department of public works, the county executives office, and planning and economic development will make a recommendation to select one of the four developers to be the master developer for the site.
http://libn.com/2012/08/01/4-developers-vie-to-redevelop-nassau-hub/
Ratner: Trying Like Hell To Get the Islanders To Brooklyn
With all the talk of RFQ's and stuff in Nassau, Brooklyn Nets minority owner and majority owner of the Barclays Development in Brooklyn Bruce Ratner had an interesting quote in a daily news article.
He told the Daily News, "...I am trying like hell to get the Islanders to make Barclays Center their new hockey home."
The group Nassau picks for the RFQ and how things progress immediately after will be pretty telling I think. With things like this, it wouldn't surprise me if things don't go well early on in the negotiations in Nassau if more steam gains from Brooklyn and more serious then we've gotten in the past. Again that's speculation on my part and I have nothing beside intuition to back that up.
http://www.nydailynews.com/a-new-arena-article-1.1126292
He told the Daily News, "...I am trying like hell to get the Islanders to make Barclays Center their new hockey home."
The group Nassau picks for the RFQ and how things progress immediately after will be pretty telling I think. With things like this, it wouldn't surprise me if things don't go well early on in the negotiations in Nassau if more steam gains from Brooklyn and more serious then we've gotten in the past. Again that's speculation on my part and I have nothing beside intuition to back that up.
http://www.nydailynews.com/a-new-arena-article-1.1126292
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
4 Developers File RFQ's For The Coliseum Property
According to Randi Marshall of Newsday, 4 developers filed RFQ's for the Nassau Coliseum property by yesterdays deadline.
The four developers are:
Patchogue based Baldassano architecture
Garden City developer Breslin Realty
Plainview developer Donald Monti
And Syosset developer Ed Bluemenfeld
According to the article, Baldassano architecture partnered with develpment consultant Walter Paulick. They reportedly dont intend to include the arena in their plans. In fact, according to the article, they only wish to develop about 30 acres of the more then 70 acres on the site.
For more on this check out Randi Marshalls article at the link below:
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;JSESSIONID=D905051D270C2210ADAA.3247?site=newsday&view=top_stories_item&feed:a=newsday_1min&feed:c=topstories&feed:i=1.3873984&part=0
The four developers are:
Patchogue based Baldassano architecture
Garden City developer Breslin Realty
Plainview developer Donald Monti
And Syosset developer Ed Bluemenfeld
According to the article, Baldassano architecture partnered with develpment consultant Walter Paulick. They reportedly dont intend to include the arena in their plans. In fact, according to the article, they only wish to develop about 30 acres of the more then 70 acres on the site.
For more on this check out Randi Marshalls article at the link below:
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;JSESSIONID=D905051D270C2210ADAA.3247?site=newsday&view=top_stories_item&feed:a=newsday_1min&feed:c=topstories&feed:i=1.3873984&part=0
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Finally A Developer Who Wants to Keep The Isles In Nassau
Update: Randi Marshall confirmed that Donald Monti and Ed Blumenfeld both submitted RFQ's by todays deadline. She wasnt sure if there was anyone else who filed or not, she said she hoped to have more by tomorrow.
If they were the only ones that would certainly benefit us because as you can see below Monti is pretty committed to having the Islanders stay at the property.
https://twitter.com/randimarshall
According to Randi Marshall of Newsday, developer Donald Monti who is partnered with people in projects in Glen Cove and Hempstead plans to submit an RFQ for the Coliseum by the Monday deadline and if hes chosen he plans to include the arena in his proposal and keep the team here.
Marshall has a quote from Monti which in short says, "...People don’t realize the importance of a major league franchise...To lose them...would be a travesty." That is 100% correct and I have been echoing that sentiment for a while now as it has seemed to have fallen on deaf ears when it comes to the powers at be in Nassau.
Monti also tells Marshall that he has a relationship with Wang and so if he wins the RFQ he could make contact with him. Randi speculates that we could know the winner of the RFQ sometime next month.
"Piece of interest: Monti's partner in Glen Isle project is Scott Rechler, Wang's former partner in Lighthouse.#isles"
https://twitter.com/randimarshall#
If they were the only ones that would certainly benefit us because as you can see below Monti is pretty committed to having the Islanders stay at the property.
https://twitter.com/randimarshall
According to Randi Marshall of Newsday, developer Donald Monti who is partnered with people in projects in Glen Cove and Hempstead plans to submit an RFQ for the Coliseum by the Monday deadline and if hes chosen he plans to include the arena in his proposal and keep the team here.
Marshall has a quote from Monti which in short says, "...People don’t realize the importance of a major league franchise...To lose them...would be a travesty." That is 100% correct and I have been echoing that sentiment for a while now as it has seemed to have fallen on deaf ears when it comes to the powers at be in Nassau.
Monti also tells Marshall that he has a relationship with Wang and so if he wins the RFQ he could make contact with him. Randi speculates that we could know the winner of the RFQ sometime next month.
Here are a few quotes from Monti directly from Randis twitter:
Developer Donald Monti, who is working in village of Hempstead and city of Glen Cove, plans to submit to#isles RFQ and wants to keep arena
Monti says: "If I’m going to be involved it will be with the Islanders staying.”#isles
"Piece of interest: Monti's partner in Glen Isle project is Scott Rechler, Wang's former partner in Lighthouse.
https://twitter.com/randimarshall#
Friday, July 27, 2012
Wilpons Approached To Be Part of "Hub" Development
According to Jim Baumbach from Newsday, a developer approached the Wilpons about teaming up on a "hub" development. However, the Wilpons decided to sit out.
Although, according to both Baumbach and Randi Marshall even if they aren't part of the RFQ they are still able to be involved in plans later. Baumbach notes that they were very interested in 2006 when the Lighthouse was selected, their plan finished second behind the Lighthouse.
The deadline for RFQ is on Monday.
https://twitter.com/jimbaumbach
Although, according to both Baumbach and Randi Marshall even if they aren't part of the RFQ they are still able to be involved in plans later. Baumbach notes that they were very interested in 2006 when the Lighthouse was selected, their plan finished second behind the Lighthouse.
The deadline for RFQ is on Monday.
https://twitter.com/jimbaumbach
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Steve Staios Retires
Well, as we all already knew, Steve Staios officially retired from the NHL today. His sixteen year NHL career ended last season here on Long Island where on April 5th, 2012 he played his 1000th NHL game.
Today, Staios was hired by the Leafs as a player development advisor. We would like to wish Steve the best of luck.
photo courtesy of http://a.espncdn.com
Today, Staios was hired by the Leafs as a player development advisor. We would like to wish Steve the best of luck.
photo courtesy of http://a.espncdn.com
Monday, July 23, 2012
BREAKING: Ranger Acquire Rick Nash From Jackets
According to TSN, the Rangers have acquired Bluejackets captain Rick Nash. In exchange for Nash they gave up forward Brandon Duinsky, defenseman Tim Erixon, a 1st round pick and Artem Anisimov.
Well, we knew this would happen sooner or later. I don't know if it was the haul the Jackets were initially looking for but I don't think they did bad at all.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/227475179461304320
Well, we knew this would happen sooner or later. I don't know if it was the haul the Jackets were initially looking for but I don't think they did bad at all.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/227475179461304320
Visnovsky Files A Grievance With NHLPA To Block Trade To The Isles
Update: According to Chris Botta, the Islanders knew of the grievance on June 30th as that is when it was filed. However, they just told Newsday about it today.
According to Arthur Staple of Newsday, defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky has filed a grievance with the NHLPA to block his trade to the Islanders. If you remember the Islanders acquired Visnovsky from the Ducks at the draft in exchange for a second round pick next year.
Staple is reporting that Visnovsky is claiming that he still has a NTC part of his contract. The Ducks are going to oppose him in arbitration and if he wins then he will be a Duck but if the Ducks win the trade is valid.
Staple has quotes from Visnovskys agent Neil Sheehy claiming that its not about Lubo not wanting to be here, its about establishing whats right.
Personally, I don't believe that. I think that's a nice way to say he doesn't want to come here and trying to find a loophole to avoid doing so.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday
According to Arthur Staple of Newsday, defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky has filed a grievance with the NHLPA to block his trade to the Islanders. If you remember the Islanders acquired Visnovsky from the Ducks at the draft in exchange for a second round pick next year.
Staple is reporting that Visnovsky is claiming that he still has a NTC part of his contract. The Ducks are going to oppose him in arbitration and if he wins then he will be a Duck but if the Ducks win the trade is valid.
Staple has quotes from Visnovskys agent Neil Sheehy claiming that its not about Lubo not wanting to be here, its about establishing whats right.
Personally, I don't believe that. I think that's a nice way to say he doesn't want to come here and trying to find a loophole to avoid doing so.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday
Friday, July 20, 2012
Colorado Tragedy Claims Life of Hockey Blogger Jessica Redfield
Update: Here is a blog from Jessicas brother:
http://www.jordanghawi.com/denver-theatre-shooting-jessica-ghawi/
As I am sure most of you are aware, this morning, in a movie theater in Aurora Colorado during the premiere of the new Batman movie there was a shooting in which 12 people were killed and 38 more were wounded.
One of the people who sadly lost their life was Jessica Redfield. Jessica was an aspiring hockey journalist, as aspiring hockey journalists ourselves this hit home for us.
Jessica was an intern with the you can play team, if you would like to donate visit the link below:
https://donate.youcanplayproject.org/page/contribute/donate-now
If you would like to learn more about Jessica you can view the pieces below from her friends Jesse Spector from aol.sportingnews.com and Adrian Dater from the Denver Post.
http://blogs.denverpost.com/avs/2012/07/20/friend-jessica/11158/
http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2012-07-20/colorado-shooting-dark-knight-rises-jessica-redfield-ghawi-jesse-spector
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those affected by this.
photo courtesy of http://www.quotesbuddy.com
http://www.jordanghawi.com/denver-theatre-shooting-jessica-ghawi/
As I am sure most of you are aware, this morning, in a movie theater in Aurora Colorado during the premiere of the new Batman movie there was a shooting in which 12 people were killed and 38 more were wounded.
One of the people who sadly lost their life was Jessica Redfield. Jessica was an aspiring hockey journalist, as aspiring hockey journalists ourselves this hit home for us.
Jessica was an intern with the you can play team, if you would like to donate visit the link below:
https://donate.youcanplayproject.org/page/contribute/donate-now
If you would like to learn more about Jessica you can view the pieces below from her friends Jesse Spector from aol.sportingnews.com and Adrian Dater from the Denver Post.
http://blogs.denverpost.com/avs/2012/07/20/friend-jessica/11158/
http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2012-07-20/colorado-shooting-dark-knight-rises-jessica-redfield-ghawi-jesse-spector
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those affected by this.
photo courtesy of http://www.quotesbuddy.com
Thursday, July 19, 2012
BREAKING: Shea Weber Signs Massive Offer Sheet With the Flyers
Update 4: As I am sure all of you know, this afternoon it was announced that the Predators decided to match the Flyers offer sheet of 14 years and 110 million to Weber and will retain his rights. It should be interesting to see how this deal effects the Predators financially over the next few years.
Update 3: On 97.3 ESPN radio earlier today, Darren Dreger said that Shea Weber doesn't want to play for the Predators anymore. Additionally the salary breakdown of the offer sheet is the following:
14 million in the first four years, followed by 12 million in the next two, 6 million in the following four, 3 million, and one million in the final four years.
https://twitter.com/D_LEED (scroll down a bit and you will see the tweet about him not wanting to play there anymore)
Update 2: Dreger now reports that hes hearing that in one calender year Weber could make 26 million dollars. If that is true, I believe that would really hamper the Predators chances of matching the offer because I don't believe they have that kind of money.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/225827930117382144
Update: Depending on the salary, compensation will either be 2 first rounders, a second, and third or the four firsts as I stated initially.
http://thehockeywriters.com/2011-12-nhl-rfa-compensation-rules/
According to Darren Dregger of TSN, Predators defenseman Shea Weber has signed an offer sheet with the Flyers.
Dreger reports that the offer from Philly is 14 years and upwards of 100 million dollars. The Predators have one week to either match or decline the offer and take draft pick compensation from Philly. If they decline to match the offer then they will receive four first round picks in return.
I would have to think that Nashville with match this. With a quick look at capgeek the Predators have a ton of cap space right now, and after losing Suter they cant afford to lose Weber to. Although, they may decide the four first round picks they would receive would be more appealing. Nashville has a HUGE decision to make.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/225814498567663616
Update 3: On 97.3 ESPN radio earlier today, Darren Dreger said that Shea Weber doesn't want to play for the Predators anymore. Additionally the salary breakdown of the offer sheet is the following:
14 million in the first four years, followed by 12 million in the next two, 6 million in the following four, 3 million, and one million in the final four years.
https://twitter.com/D_LEED (scroll down a bit and you will see the tweet about him not wanting to play there anymore)
Update 2: Dreger now reports that hes hearing that in one calender year Weber could make 26 million dollars. If that is true, I believe that would really hamper the Predators chances of matching the offer because I don't believe they have that kind of money.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/225827930117382144
Update: Depending on the salary, compensation will either be 2 first rounders, a second, and third or the four firsts as I stated initially.
http://thehockeywriters.com/2011-12-nhl-rfa-compensation-rules/
According to Darren Dregger of TSN, Predators defenseman Shea Weber has signed an offer sheet with the Flyers.
Dreger reports that the offer from Philly is 14 years and upwards of 100 million dollars. The Predators have one week to either match or decline the offer and take draft pick compensation from Philly. If they decline to match the offer then they will receive four first round picks in return.
I would have to think that Nashville with match this. With a quick look at capgeek the Predators have a ton of cap space right now, and after losing Suter they cant afford to lose Weber to. Although, they may decide the four first round picks they would receive would be more appealing. Nashville has a HUGE decision to make.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/225814498567663616
Monday, July 16, 2012
Minor News of The Day
Lost in the shuffle with all the arena news today was that Islanders top prospect Kirill Kabanov is celebrating his 20th birthday today. Kirill is expected to spend this season in Bridgeport as he continues to mature and develop into a potential top six forward for the Islanders.
Additionally it was announced that the Islanders had resigned forward Sean Backman to a one year two way deal. Backman who is a relative of Matt Moulson will provide Bridgeport with depth as he did last season on their quest to their first division title in a decade.
photo courtesy of http://cdn1-www.hockeysfuture.com
Additionally it was announced that the Islanders had resigned forward Sean Backman to a one year two way deal. Backman who is a relative of Matt Moulson will provide Bridgeport with depth as he did last season on their quest to their first division title in a decade.
photo courtesy of http://cdn1-www.hockeysfuture.com
Brooklyn Once Again Gaining Steam
Recent reports from Chris Botta suggest Brooklyn is once again gaining steam as a potential landing spot for the Islanders come July 2015 when their lease expires in Nassau County.
Today in a piece for aolsportingnews.com Botta has quotes from Gary Bettman who had previously been against Brooklyn as a home for the Islanders with a bit of a change of tune on the matter. With regard to the possibility Gary says, "its something wed have to look at." Bettman had previously been against the idea because he felt he would hinder a lot of current fans from attending games.
I'm pretty sure that if it came down to it fans would prefer a move to Brooklyn because while not ideal, at least the'yd still have the opportunity to attend games.
Botta also says that if Wang decides he has no alternatives in NY beside Uniondale, Ontario, Quebec City, and Seattle will be waiting for him. However, according to puckdaddy, the NHL wants expansion money out of Quebec City and Ontario. That fact could hinder the possibility of them as a spot. Seattle would be most likely to receive a team through relocation, he says.
Although Barclays as currently constituted isn't favorable for hockey, Nets and Barclays CEO said that could change. He told Chris Botta, "... We feel very strongly about Brooklyn as a hockey market and know we can accommodate it from a building perspective."
I have thought all along with regard to Brooklyn that if the team gave them a long term commitment that they would be able to alter things to help out things like site lines.
For more, check out Bottas article below as well as puckdaddys.
http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2012-07-16/new-york-islanders-brooklyn-nassau-coliseum-charles-wang-barclays-center
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/brooklyn-islanders-arena-says-ready-nhl-tenant-164844886--nhl.html
Today in a piece for aolsportingnews.com Botta has quotes from Gary Bettman who had previously been against Brooklyn as a home for the Islanders with a bit of a change of tune on the matter. With regard to the possibility Gary says, "its something wed have to look at." Bettman had previously been against the idea because he felt he would hinder a lot of current fans from attending games.
I'm pretty sure that if it came down to it fans would prefer a move to Brooklyn because while not ideal, at least the'yd still have the opportunity to attend games.
Botta also says that if Wang decides he has no alternatives in NY beside Uniondale, Ontario, Quebec City, and Seattle will be waiting for him. However, according to puckdaddy, the NHL wants expansion money out of Quebec City and Ontario. That fact could hinder the possibility of them as a spot. Seattle would be most likely to receive a team through relocation, he says.
Although Barclays as currently constituted isn't favorable for hockey, Nets and Barclays CEO said that could change. He told Chris Botta, "... We feel very strongly about Brooklyn as a hockey market and know we can accommodate it from a building perspective."
I have thought all along with regard to Brooklyn that if the team gave them a long term commitment that they would be able to alter things to help out things like site lines.
For more, check out Bottas article below as well as puckdaddys.
http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2012-07-16/new-york-islanders-brooklyn-nassau-coliseum-charles-wang-barclays-center
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/brooklyn-islanders-arena-says-ready-nhl-tenant-164844886--nhl.html
Isles Dont Take Lastest Arena Attempt Seriously!
According to Chris Botta, his sources tell him that people connected with the Islanders view Ed Manganos recent RFQ as a, "transparent attempt to save face." Also that, "its a nonstarter" because as a tenant Wang wouldn't have enough revenue streams to make the Islanders profitable.
This isn't a good sign because it means people with the Islanders are also starting to sour on Nassau as a location for this team.
The politicians in Nassau County better get to perfecting their blame game routine because the way things are going now, come 2015 they will be getting what they have wanted all along and we maybe calling the Islanders the Brooklyn Islanders, or something else.
https://twitter.com/ChrisBottaNHL
http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2012-07-16/new-york-islanders-brooklyn-nassau-coliseum-charles-wang-barclays-center
This isn't a good sign because it means people with the Islanders are also starting to sour on Nassau as a location for this team.
The politicians in Nassau County better get to perfecting their blame game routine because the way things are going now, come 2015 they will be getting what they have wanted all along and we maybe calling the Islanders the Brooklyn Islanders, or something else.
https://twitter.com/ChrisBottaNHL
http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2012-07-16/new-york-islanders-brooklyn-nassau-coliseum-charles-wang-barclays-center
Matt Martin & Ty Wishart Reject Qualifying Offers
According to various reports, Islanders RFA's Matt Martin and Ty Wishart have rejected their qualifying offers. No need to get nervous now though. Kevin Schultz from pointblank says this is basically a formality and it just means that they are looking for a larger raise then the qualifying offer gives them.
http://www.islanderspointblank.com/2012/07/matt-martin-ty-wishart-turn-down-isles-qualifying-offers/
http://www.islanderspointblank.com/2012/07/matt-martin-ty-wishart-turn-down-isles-qualifying-offers/
RUMOR: NIFA Wouldve Killed Last Years Referendum Anyway
Last Summer led by Nassau County Exec Ed Mangano, and of course Charles Wang there was a referendum vote which sought Nassau County residents approval to borrow 400 million dollars in order to construct a new Nassau Coliseum, a minor league ball park and an in door track and field facility at Mitchell Field. Should this have passed then NIFA (Nassau Intern Finance Authority) would've had to pass it before it was enacted because of Nassaus terrible financial situation.
Unfortunately the referendum was voted down, so it was never found out if NIFA would've passed it or not. There has been some recent chatter however, that NIFA would not have passed the vote had it ultimately been given a green light by Nassau voters.
If NIFA truly has this stance, then given there position being in charge of the finances for the County for the time being at least, it makes the Islanders picture in Nassau which is already bleak, that much bleaker.
Unfortunately the referendum was voted down, so it was never found out if NIFA would've passed it or not. There has been some recent chatter however, that NIFA would not have passed the vote had it ultimately been given a green light by Nassau voters.
If NIFA truly has this stance, then given there position being in charge of the finances for the County for the time being at least, it makes the Islanders picture in Nassau which is already bleak, that much bleaker.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Owners Asking For A Lot To Start CBA Negotiations
According to reports, the owners have made their first proposal to the players part of the CBA negotiations.
They are said to be asking the players to reduce their revenues from 57% to 46%. On top of that, 10 seasons would be needed to reach UFA, no contracts over 5 years long, no more salary arbitration, and 5 year entry level deals instead of 3.
Most seem to think this was more of a case of the owners reaching in their first proposal rather then the owners actually expecting to get that. More then likely it will end up being a compromised version of that.
http://www.wingingitinmotown.com/2012/7/13/3158392/nhl-cba-negotiations-starting-point-shots-fired
They are said to be asking the players to reduce their revenues from 57% to 46%. On top of that, 10 seasons would be needed to reach UFA, no contracts over 5 years long, no more salary arbitration, and 5 year entry level deals instead of 3.
Most seem to think this was more of a case of the owners reaching in their first proposal rather then the owners actually expecting to get that. More then likely it will end up being a compromised version of that.
http://www.wingingitinmotown.com/2012/7/13/3158392/nhl-cba-negotiations-starting-point-shots-fired
REPORT: Shane Doan Offered 4 years 30 Million
According to reports, Coyotes captain Shane Doan has been offered a contract of 4 years 30 million by an Eastern Conference team. The thing is, nobody knows which team this is yet. The report has been sending shock-waves around today as people scramble to wonder who the mystery team could be.
https://twitter.com/Gambo620/status/223841139659259905
Some fans have wondered if the Islanders could be that mysterious team because of our large amount of cap space and our need for a top 6 forward after loosing Pa Parenteau earlier this month. I personally don't see it, because although Doan is a solid player, we've never been one to spend like that and Doan is nearing the end of his career so that's not someone you would invest in. Although the Islanders have blown your mind before when it comes to common sense so I wouldn't put anything past them.
https://twitter.com/Gambo620/status/223841139659259905
Some fans have wondered if the Islanders could be that mysterious team because of our large amount of cap space and our need for a top 6 forward after loosing Pa Parenteau earlier this month. I personally don't see it, because although Doan is a solid player, we've never been one to spend like that and Doan is nearing the end of his career so that's not someone you would invest in. Although the Islanders have blown your mind before when it comes to common sense so I wouldn't put anything past them.
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