According to Newsday, a decision from the Islanders if they will buy out goalie Rick Dipietro is expected within the next 48 hours.
Arthur Staple of Newsday had reported that the Islanders were shopping DP, but with Vancouver trading Cory Schneider today I have a hard time seeing the Islanders find a taker for DP's contract.
I think a buyout will happen, but with the Islanders you never know! Shame on the brain trust of this team if they would rather pay DP than pay someone who could actually help the team.
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Islanders Sign Milner
This morning, the Islanders signed goalie Parker Milner out of Boston College.
Milner led his team to the NCAA title and was MVP.
He is expected to play in Bridgeport this upcoming season.
Milner led his team to the NCAA title and was MVP.
He is expected to play in Bridgeport this upcoming season.
Meet Cal Clutterbuck
This afternoon, the Islanders traded Nino Niederreiter to the Minnesota Wild in exchange for Cal Clutterbuck and a third round pick in todays draft.
Prior to Matt Martin setting the record for hits in a season that record was held by Clutterbuck with 356. Clutterbuck registered 10 points in 42 games last season. The year before that, Clutterbuck registered 27 points and 103 PIMS in 74 games.
Prior to Matt Martin setting the record for hits in a season that record was held by Clutterbuck with 356. Clutterbuck registered 10 points in 42 games last season. The year before that, Clutterbuck registered 27 points and 103 PIMS in 74 games.
Isles Trade Nino To Minnesota
This afternoon, the Islanders traded Nino Niederreiter to the Wild in exchange for Cal Clutterbuck and a 3rd round pick in todays draft.
Niederreiter led Bridegport in goals last season but ruffled a lot of feather when his trade demands came out in January.
Niederreiter led Bridegport in goals last season but ruffled a lot of feather when his trade demands came out in January.
Islanders Top 3 First Round Busts
Now, we will focus on the Islanders top 3 first round busts. For the top 3 first round picks click here.
photo courtesy of http://cdn.nhl.com/
3) Robert Nilsson
In 2003, the Islanders had the 15th overall pick in the draft. When their turn came Zach Parise was still on the board and it was a forgone conclusion to most that he would be the Islanders pick. Well, the only person who didn't know that was the Islanders GM Mike Milbury who passed on the son of the former Islander and instead took Robert Nilsson. Nilsson ended up only playing 53 games for the Islanders registering 20 points. Nilsson was the center piece of the Ryan Smyth trade in 2007.
photo courtesy of http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/
2) Dave Chyzowski
With the second overall pick in 1989 the Islanders selected left wing Dave Chyzowski from the Kamloops Blazers of the WHL. Chyozowski would end up never playing back to back seasons for the Islanders and only played in 126 games in his NHL career. Chyzowski was taken ahead of guys like Bobby Holik and former Islander Bill Guerin.
photo courtesy of http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/
1) Scott Scissons
With the sixth overall pick in the 1990 draft the Islanders selected center Scott Scissons from the Saskatoon Blades of the WHL. While most players selected in the first round of this years draft went on to productive careers, Scissons would end up playing just two regular season games for the Islanders and one playoff game registering zero points. Taken behind him in this draft were players like Darryl Sydor, Brad May, Marty Brodeur, and Keith Tkachuk.
photo courtesy of http://cdn.nhl.com/3) Robert Nilsson
In 2003, the Islanders had the 15th overall pick in the draft. When their turn came Zach Parise was still on the board and it was a forgone conclusion to most that he would be the Islanders pick. Well, the only person who didn't know that was the Islanders GM Mike Milbury who passed on the son of the former Islander and instead took Robert Nilsson. Nilsson ended up only playing 53 games for the Islanders registering 20 points. Nilsson was the center piece of the Ryan Smyth trade in 2007.
photo courtesy of http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/2) Dave Chyzowski
With the second overall pick in 1989 the Islanders selected left wing Dave Chyzowski from the Kamloops Blazers of the WHL. Chyozowski would end up never playing back to back seasons for the Islanders and only played in 126 games in his NHL career. Chyzowski was taken ahead of guys like Bobby Holik and former Islander Bill Guerin.
photo courtesy of http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/1) Scott Scissons
With the sixth overall pick in the 1990 draft the Islanders selected center Scott Scissons from the Saskatoon Blades of the WHL. While most players selected in the first round of this years draft went on to productive careers, Scissons would end up playing just two regular season games for the Islanders and one playoff game registering zero points. Taken behind him in this draft were players like Darryl Sydor, Brad May, Marty Brodeur, and Keith Tkachuk.
Islanders Top 3 First Round Picks
With the draft set to start in a little less then 12 hours, I figured we would take a look at the Islanders top 3 first round picks in franchise history.
3) John Tavares
photo courtesy of http://a.espncdn.com/
On June 26th, 2009 after months of anticipation the Islanders made John Tavares the number one overall pick in the 2009 NHL entry draft. Upon being drafted comparisons were made to Sidney Crosby how the Penguins drafted him and his play led to them staying in Pittsburgh and maybe Tavares would be able to do the same for the Islanders. While Tavares wasn't quite able to do that, what he has done is give fans a reason to hope again when seemingly all reasons were lost or dissipating. Not to mention, this season leading the team to their first playoff appearance in six seasons. If not for John Tavares, who knows where the Islanders would be right now!
2) Mike Bossy
In 1977 Islanders GM Bill Torrey surprised some by taking offensive minded forward Mike Bossy with the 15th overall pick in the first round. The knock on Bossy was that he lacked defensive play. The Islanders brain trust decided that they were able to teach him defense and his offensive skills were to good to pass up on. Boy, were they right!! Bossy went on to be a main piece in the Islanders dynasty and one of the best pure goal scorers of all time amassing at least 50 goals in each season he played in but one. If not for a bad back, who knows what kind of numbers Bossy would've put up.
1) Denis Potvin
After a bad first season, the Islanders were awarded the number one pick in the 1973 entry draft. With that pick they took defenseman Denis Potvin. They didn't know it then, but that picked changed the history of this team. Potvin turned out to be one of the best defensemen to ever play the sport and one of the real leaders of the dynasty between 1980-1983. He has a big place in the Islander Ranger rivalry to as cat calls for him can still be heard at MSG.
3) John Tavares
photo courtesy of http://a.espncdn.com/On June 26th, 2009 after months of anticipation the Islanders made John Tavares the number one overall pick in the 2009 NHL entry draft. Upon being drafted comparisons were made to Sidney Crosby how the Penguins drafted him and his play led to them staying in Pittsburgh and maybe Tavares would be able to do the same for the Islanders. While Tavares wasn't quite able to do that, what he has done is give fans a reason to hope again when seemingly all reasons were lost or dissipating. Not to mention, this season leading the team to their first playoff appearance in six seasons. If not for John Tavares, who knows where the Islanders would be right now!
2) Mike Bossy
In 1977 Islanders GM Bill Torrey surprised some by taking offensive minded forward Mike Bossy with the 15th overall pick in the first round. The knock on Bossy was that he lacked defensive play. The Islanders brain trust decided that they were able to teach him defense and his offensive skills were to good to pass up on. Boy, were they right!! Bossy went on to be a main piece in the Islanders dynasty and one of the best pure goal scorers of all time amassing at least 50 goals in each season he played in but one. If not for a bad back, who knows what kind of numbers Bossy would've put up.
1) Denis Potvin
After a bad first season, the Islanders were awarded the number one pick in the 1973 entry draft. With that pick they took defenseman Denis Potvin. They didn't know it then, but that picked changed the history of this team. Potvin turned out to be one of the best defensemen to ever play the sport and one of the real leaders of the dynasty between 1980-1983. He has a big place in the Islander Ranger rivalry to as cat calls for him can still be heard at MSG.
Danny Briere and The Islanders
photo courtesy of http://blogs.westword.com/Update 3: According to Arthur Staple, the Islanders are out on Danny Briere. The Devils are among the finalists for him.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/352498847525765121
Update 2: According to Pierre Lebrun of ESPN, the Islanders are among 4 teams to show "solid" interest in Danny Briere. The other three teams are the Devils, Montreal, and Nashville.
http://m.espn.go.com/general/blogs/blogpost?blogname=nhl&id=25908&src=desktop&wjb
Update: According to Newsday, the Islanders are in fact in on Danny Briere. Briere is expected to name the finalists for his services this week. Big things for Briere when considering where to go is that he wants a top six forward role and the opportunity to win.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/351823048560738304
According to Chris Botta, the Islanders are likely to be one of the favorites to sign Danny Briere as a free agent when free agency opens this Friday.
Briere who was bought out by the Flyers earlier this month registered 16 points in 34 games this season for the Flyers. In 2011/2012, Briere put 49 points in 70 games.
I am not a huge fan of Briere, but I would certainly be interested in him on a one year maybe two year contract. He would make a solid right winger for Tavares and I think he would put up sixty points in that position assuming he stays healthy. If they deem a kid is ready to take that spot, Briere is also able to play center.
https://twitter.com/ChrisBottaNHL/status/351124627340267520
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Radio Station Changes Coming For Isles?
According to Islanderspointblank, due to poor performance on their current radio station WRHU Hofstra radio there could be changes coming to the Islanders radio situation as soon as next season.
For the past few seasons the Islanders have been broadcast on Hofstra radio with long time play by play man Chris King calling the games aside interns from Hofstra University.
In a tweet to a fan last week, Barclays Center/Nets CEO Brett Yormark told a fan they will try to get the Islanders on a major radio station after the teams move to Brooklyn. The Barclays Center took over business control of the team earlier this month.
https://twitter.com/brettyormark/status/348187215962193920
http://islanderspointblank.com/exclusive/isles-radio-program-gets-league-low-ratings-could-see-change-next-year/
In the past some fans had complained that they couldn't get reception to the station once leaving the Coliseum parking lot so I for one am surprised the changes have taken so long to occur.
For the past few seasons the Islanders have been broadcast on Hofstra radio with long time play by play man Chris King calling the games aside interns from Hofstra University.
In a tweet to a fan last week, Barclays Center/Nets CEO Brett Yormark told a fan they will try to get the Islanders on a major radio station after the teams move to Brooklyn. The Barclays Center took over business control of the team earlier this month.
https://twitter.com/brettyormark/status/348187215962193920
http://islanderspointblank.com/exclusive/isles-radio-program-gets-league-low-ratings-could-see-change-next-year/
In the past some fans had complained that they couldn't get reception to the station once leaving the Coliseum parking lot so I for one am surprised the changes have taken so long to occur.
Friday, June 28, 2013
1st Round Pick Available?
According to Bruce Garrioch, the Islanders have made it known that they would move their first round pick for a player that would help now.
With all the rumors swirling recently, its encouraging to know that our first round pick is in play to get a deal done.
With all the rumors swirling recently, its encouraging to know that our first round pick is in play to get a deal done.
REPORT: Islanders Interested In Swapping DP For Luongo
Update: According to Newsday, the Canucks aren't interested in swapping bad contracts for a small buyout savings. Although, if Luongo is bought out the Islanders will have interest, Arthur Staple reports.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/350698980394536960
According to Newsday, the Islanders are interested in swapping goalie Rick Dipietro in exchange for Roberto Luongo.
Some may ask why the Canucks would do this, the reason being is that the buyout of Rick Dipietro would be shorter and cheaper than a buyout of Roberto Luongo.
I know Luongos contract is unfavorable but this would be a great move for us and an upgrade from Nabokov.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/350683324177580034
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/350698980394536960
According to Newsday, the Islanders are interested in swapping goalie Rick Dipietro in exchange for Roberto Luongo.
Some may ask why the Canucks would do this, the reason being is that the buyout of Rick Dipietro would be shorter and cheaper than a buyout of Roberto Luongo.
I know Luongos contract is unfavorable but this would be a great move for us and an upgrade from Nabokov.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/350683324177580034
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Nabby To Test Free Agency
photo courtesy of http://sports.cbsimg.net/According to Brett Cyrgalis with the New York Post, talks between the Islanders and goalie Evgeni Nabokov have come to a standstill and Nabby will likely test free agency when it opens next Friday.
https://twitter.com/BrettCyrgalis/status/349995459076567040
After a sub-par start to the season, Nabokovs resurgence down the stretch was arguably the biggest factor in the Islanders making the playoffs for the first time since the 06/07 season.
It will be interesting to see who we pursue to replace him. Hopefully it is a proven starter and not a guy looking for a chance who they can get cheap.
Monday, June 24, 2013
Islanders Working On Extensions For Hamonic/Bailey
According to Newsday, the Islanders are working on long term extensions for forward Josh Bailey and defenseman Travis Hamonic.
The two players are restricted free agents and received a qualifying offer from the Islanders today.
They are also working on shorter term deals for defenseman Thomas Hickey and goalie Kevin Poulin according to Newsday.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/349251213717536768
The two players are restricted free agents and received a qualifying offer from the Islanders today.
They are also working on shorter term deals for defenseman Thomas Hickey and goalie Kevin Poulin according to Newsday.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/349251213717536768
Isles Send Out Qualifying Offers To Restricted Free Agents
According to Newsday, the Islanders have sent out qualifying offers to all their restricted free agents. They include:
Travis Hamonic
Josh Bailey
Kevin Poulin
Thomas Hickey
David Ullstrom
Brett Gallant
Last week, Ullstrom signed in the KHL for a reported 1.4 million dollars and the qualifying offer would allow the Islanders to retain his North American rights.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/349250840428679168
Travis Hamonic
Josh Bailey
Kevin Poulin
Thomas Hickey
David Ullstrom
Brett Gallant
Last week, Ullstrom signed in the KHL for a reported 1.4 million dollars and the qualifying offer would allow the Islanders to retain his North American rights.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/349250840428679168
Barclays Takes Over Business Operations
According to reports, the Barclays Center has officially taken over the business operations of the Islanders.
If you recall, it was reported two weeks ago that the Barclays Center would take over the business operations of the team in July, but it seems like it happened sooner then expected. For those wondering, there is still an Islanders sale staff. They were not replaced with the change.
http://islanderspointblank.com/exclusive/yormark-barclays-officially-takes-over-isles-business-operations/
If you recall, it was reported two weeks ago that the Barclays Center would take over the business operations of the team in July, but it seems like it happened sooner then expected. For those wondering, there is still an Islanders sale staff. They were not replaced with the change.
http://islanderspointblank.com/exclusive/yormark-barclays-officially-takes-over-isles-business-operations/
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Bernier Gets Shipped To Toronto
In a bit of a surprising move, it was announced this afternoon that the Maple Leafs had acquired goalie Jonathan Bernier from the Kings in exchange for forward Matt Frattin, goalie Ben Scrivens, and a conditional second round pick in 2014 or 2015.
Last week it was reported that the Islanders had shown interest in Bernier but it was unknown how far they would to go acquire him. With Bernier now off the board it should be interesting to see where they turn for goalie. Will they retain Nabokov and go with a Poulin/Nabokov tandem? Or look at someone like Roberto Luongo or Jaroslav Halak?
This deal doesn't make much sense for me for the Leafs. James Reimer went out last season and led the team to the playoffs and nearly beat the Bruins who are now competing for the Stanley Cup. So how do they reward him? By putting him back in a platoon situation, quite the slap in the face if you ask me.
Last week it was reported that the Islanders had shown interest in Bernier but it was unknown how far they would to go acquire him. With Bernier now off the board it should be interesting to see where they turn for goalie. Will they retain Nabokov and go with a Poulin/Nabokov tandem? Or look at someone like Roberto Luongo or Jaroslav Halak?
This deal doesn't make much sense for me for the Leafs. James Reimer went out last season and led the team to the playoffs and nearly beat the Bruins who are now competing for the Stanley Cup. So how do they reward him? By putting him back in a platoon situation, quite the slap in the face if you ask me.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Ullstrom Signs In KHL
This morning, it was announced by the Islanders that prospect David Ullstrom signed in the KHL with HC Lokomotiv.
In a Swedish interview, Ullstrom said that he wanted a one way deal to remain with the team and they wouldn't commit to that and he hopes going to the KHL is the right thing for his development.
Ullstrom registered 5 points in 20 games this season and one assist in three games in the playoffs.
http://islanderspointblank.com/prospects/david-ullstrom-signs-in-khl/
In a Swedish interview, Ullstrom said that he wanted a one way deal to remain with the team and they wouldn't commit to that and he hopes going to the KHL is the right thing for his development.
Ullstrom registered 5 points in 20 games this season and one assist in three games in the playoffs.
http://islanderspointblank.com/prospects/david-ullstrom-signs-in-khl/
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Islanders In On Bernier?
Update: According to Newsday, after the recent news of the Flyers keeping Ilya Bryzgalov for next season that likely takes them out of the running for Bernier. Speculation then followed by Newsday that with the exit of the Flyers it would leave the Islanders and Leafs as the front runners for the young goalie.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/347154065387577345
According to Newsday, the Islanders are one of the up to 10 teams in on Kings backup goalie and RFA Jonathan Bernier.
In 14 games last season Bernier was 9-3 with a 1.88 GAA and .922 save percentage.
For more including possible packages we could offer, check out the link below:
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/346989399394877443
While I think an upgrade in goal is needed, I wouldn't be so fast to overpay for Bernier because he has never been a starting goalie before. While he has all the potential in the world, giving up a package of say Nino and a first round pick would be a large price to pay for potential.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/347154065387577345
According to Newsday, the Islanders are one of the up to 10 teams in on Kings backup goalie and RFA Jonathan Bernier.
In 14 games last season Bernier was 9-3 with a 1.88 GAA and .922 save percentage.
For more including possible packages we could offer, check out the link below:
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/346989399394877443
While I think an upgrade in goal is needed, I wouldn't be so fast to overpay for Bernier because he has never been a starting goalie before. While he has all the potential in the world, giving up a package of say Nino and a first round pick would be a large price to pay for potential.
Monday, June 17, 2013
Flyers Sign Streit To 4 Year Deal
According to TSN, the Flyers have signed defenseman Mark Streit to a 4 year contract worth 21 million dollars.
Streit was set to become a UFA on July 5th. The Flyers acquired his rights last week in a deal with the Islanders.
This deal more than likely signals the end of Ilya Bryzgalov and Danny Briere in Philadelphia.
Being an over 35 contract, I think the Flyers will regret this deal at some point within the next two or so years.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/346745656054001666
Streit was set to become a UFA on July 5th. The Flyers acquired his rights last week in a deal with the Islanders.
This deal more than likely signals the end of Ilya Bryzgalov and Danny Briere in Philadelphia.
Being an over 35 contract, I think the Flyers will regret this deal at some point within the next two or so years.
https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/346745656054001666
Isles Guaranteeing Petrov A Roster Spot?
According to a report out of Russia, the Islanders are attempting to lure Kirill Petrov to North America after his contract ends in the KHL by guaranteeing him a spot on the 2014/2015 squad.
Petrovs agent had this to say in the Russian report:
"We are in close contact with them and they are expecting Petrov,” Tyzhnykh said of the Islanders. “And they are not just expecting him, but they are ready to guarantee him a place in the roster now...His contract with Ak Bars is valid for one more year and he has to work it out,” said the agent. “We’ll see what will happen afterwards. Petrov is turning into a leader of the Kazan team, so let’s not jump too far ahead.”
For more check out the link below:
http://en.rsport.ru/hockey/20130616/668143203.html
Personally, after what Snow said at the booster club meeting last week, I think this is more work of Petrovs agent trying to get him a bigger contract extension next off season in the KHL rather than believe that we may see him here in two seasons.
If you are unaware, Garth Snow addressed this at the booster club meeting last week and in lamens terms said that he doesn't believe Petrov would ever be apart of this team
Petrovs agent had this to say in the Russian report:
"We are in close contact with them and they are expecting Petrov,” Tyzhnykh said of the Islanders. “And they are not just expecting him, but they are ready to guarantee him a place in the roster now...His contract with Ak Bars is valid for one more year and he has to work it out,” said the agent. “We’ll see what will happen afterwards. Petrov is turning into a leader of the Kazan team, so let’s not jump too far ahead.”
For more check out the link below:
http://en.rsport.ru/hockey/20130616/668143203.html
Personally, after what Snow said at the booster club meeting last week, I think this is more work of Petrovs agent trying to get him a bigger contract extension next off season in the KHL rather than believe that we may see him here in two seasons.
If you are unaware, Garth Snow addressed this at the booster club meeting last week and in lamens terms said that he doesn't believe Petrov would ever be apart of this team
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Nystrom Backs Blumenfeld
According to Newsday, Bob Nystrom is backing Ed Blumenfelds bid to redevelop the Nassau Coliseum.
Bluemenfelds proposal is one of four proposals put fourth to redevelop the arena and surrounding area. The other three come from MSG, Forest City Ratner, and New York Sports LLC based out of Bayville.
The winner is expected to be chosen by Ed Mangano by the middle of next month.
http://www.newsday.com/long-island/politics/spin-cycle-1.812042/mr-islander-backs-blumenfeld-s-coliseum-plan-1.5455975 (subscription required)
Bluemenfelds proposal is one of four proposals put fourth to redevelop the arena and surrounding area. The other three come from MSG, Forest City Ratner, and New York Sports LLC based out of Bayville.
The winner is expected to be chosen by Ed Mangano by the middle of next month.
http://www.newsday.com/long-island/politics/spin-cycle-1.812042/mr-islander-backs-blumenfeld-s-coliseum-plan-1.5455975 (subscription required)
Meet Shane Harper
photo courtesy of http://a.espncdn.com/This season for the Phantoms in the AHL, Harper was able to put up 5 goals and 5 assists in 48 games. Also, in 15 games with the Titans of the ECHL, Harper was able to put up 14 goals and 13 assists.
This season was the final season of Harpers entry level contract so the Islanders will need to give him a qualifying offer if they hope to retain him going into next season.
Based off what I have seen, assuming he is retained Harper seems like he is a depth guy for Bridgeport likely to never see time with the big club.
Isles Send Streit To Flyers For Pick And Prospect
photo courtesy of http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/This afternoon, it was announced that the Islanders have traded the negotiating rights to captain Mark Streit to the division rival Flyers in exchange for forward Shane Harper and a 4th round pick in the 2014 draft.
Last week, it was reported by Newsday that Streit would likely not be returning to the team next year after being with the team for the last five seasons and serving as team captain since 2011.
Good on Snow for getting something out of Streit instead of letting him walk. After Ottawa only got a 6th round pick from Dallas for Gonchar, I am a bit surprised that Snow was able to get so much for Streit.
Monday, June 10, 2013
Barclays Center Taking Over Isles Business Operations In July?
According to islanderspointblank.com, the Barclays Center will take over business operations of the Islanders starting next month.
Back in April, in an interview with Chris Botta and Charles Wang, that piece of news came out but it was unclear when the transition would take place.
http://islanderspointblank.com/islanders/source-barclays-center-to-take-over-isles-business-operations-in-july/
As I said back in April, hopefully this is a sign of Wang slowly letting go control of the team before an eventual sale. As the move draws closer, this should be an interesting thing to keep an eye on.
Back in April, in an interview with Chris Botta and Charles Wang, that piece of news came out but it was unclear when the transition would take place.
http://islanderspointblank.com/islanders/source-barclays-center-to-take-over-isles-business-operations-in-july/
As I said back in April, hopefully this is a sign of Wang slowly letting go control of the team before an eventual sale. As the move draws closer, this should be an interesting thing to keep an eye on.
Yormark: "Islanders Fans Will Be Happy"
Recently, more speculation has grown around the idea of the Nets/Barclays Center people having a desire to re brand the Islanders upon the teams move to Barclays Center like they did to the Nets before the start of this NBA season.
Such speculation has caused great angst in Islander land with one fan actually starting an online petition against the idea and amassing over 1,000 signatures. (You can find a link to the petition below.)
Yesterday, Nets/Barclays Center CEO Brett Yormark spoke out on this topic in response to a couple Islander fans and had this to say, "I promise you we will do the right thing. Islanders fans will be happy. I am listening."
If you are unaware, there has been reported desire that Barclays/Nets people want to incorporate black and white into the Islanders color scheme like they did for the Nets.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/sticktoyourroots/
https://twitter.com/brettyormark/status/343420717666295810
Such speculation has caused great angst in Islander land with one fan actually starting an online petition against the idea and amassing over 1,000 signatures. (You can find a link to the petition below.)
Yesterday, Nets/Barclays Center CEO Brett Yormark spoke out on this topic in response to a couple Islander fans and had this to say, "I promise you we will do the right thing. Islanders fans will be happy. I am listening."
If you are unaware, there has been reported desire that Barclays/Nets people want to incorporate black and white into the Islanders color scheme like they did for the Nets.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/sticktoyourroots/
https://twitter.com/brettyormark/status/343420717666295810
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Draft Party Set For June 30
According to Newsday, the Islanders will hold their annual draft party on June 30th at the Coliseum. Free tickets will be available on the teams site to reserve soon and Matt Martin as well as Matt Carkner will be in attendance.
Being that the draft is all one day this year rather than split, I am unaware if this will impact how things work with the draft party. Once we have more details we will be sure to fill you all in.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/342010861705129986
Being that the draft is all one day this year rather than split, I am unaware if this will impact how things work with the draft party. Once we have more details we will be sure to fill you all in.
https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/342010861705129986
Isles Likely To Stand Pat This Summer?
With all the talk recently of the Islanders making a play for Roberto Luongo Arthur Staple of Newsday has said that is all it is, talk. With the contract Luongo has he doesn't think the Islanders would give up assets for him.
He believes that the Islanders will go into next season with Nabokov/Poulin/Nilsson as the teams goalies and Matt Donovan being the likely defenseman to take Mark Streits spot on the blue line.
While anything is possible which Garth showed as recently as last season with the acquisition of Lubomir Visnovsky at the draft, this scenario Staple points out wouldn't surprise me to much. Now that we have a team that has attracted positive attention around the league and is seen as a team to look out for and have the building all ironed out, people will be able to see the real excuses for having trouble attracting talent and in my opinion it starts at the top. I hope they are able to surprise me, but I won't get my hopes up.
He believes that the Islanders will go into next season with Nabokov/Poulin/Nilsson as the teams goalies and Matt Donovan being the likely defenseman to take Mark Streits spot on the blue line.
Updates On Boyes/Nabokov
According to Arthur Staple, forward Brad Boyes will likely not be back next season.
Talks are reportedly still ongoing but Boyes is looking for a more longer term deal than the 1 year 1 million dollar contract he signed last summer so he will likely hit the market.
Meanwhile, goalie Evgeni Nabokov will likely be back next season. It is reported that both he and the team are willing to sign a one year contract and money isn't an issue so look for an announcement sometime before the start of free agency on July 5th.
Mark Streit Will Not Return
According to Newsday, Islanders captain Mark Streit will not return to the team next season.
Streit who is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 5th has turned down the Islanders best contract offer believed to be 3 years at 4.75 million per season. If you remember back around the trade deadline TSN reported that Streit was looking for anywhere between 5.5-6 million per season on a three year contract.
It is being speculated that John Tavares will likely be named the team captain replacing Streit with Visnovsky, Hamonic, or Frans Nielsen taking the vacant assistant captain role.
http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/mark-streit-won-t-return-to-islanders-1.5405742?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
Streit who is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 5th has turned down the Islanders best contract offer believed to be 3 years at 4.75 million per season. If you remember back around the trade deadline TSN reported that Streit was looking for anywhere between 5.5-6 million per season on a three year contract.
It is being speculated that John Tavares will likely be named the team captain replacing Streit with Visnovsky, Hamonic, or Frans Nielsen taking the vacant assistant captain role.
http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/mark-streit-won-t-return-to-islanders-1.5405742?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
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