tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63576055572523653462024-03-05T23:33:42.291-05:00savetheislesA great hockey blog covering the New York Islanders. Grab the lastest breaking news or the pre-game coverage, you wont miss out on SaveTheIslesRobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02895324923931611811noreply@blogger.comBlogger1679125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-27022480539964363842016-07-01T11:59:00.000-04:002016-07-01T15:43:23.616-04:00FREE AGENT FRENZYAs we do every year, you can find the latest rumors and moves below for the next few hours. Any credible Islander rooms will be italicized. Meanwhile, Islander signings will be in bold.<br />
<br />
3:35 - Matt Martin signs 4 year deal with Toronto worth 2.5 per season<br />
<br />
2:42 - Colorado signs Fedor Tyutin to a one year deal worth 2 million<br />
<br />
2:33 - Colorado signs Joe Colborne to a 2 year deal worth 2.5 per season<br />
<br />
2:28 - Colorado signs Patrick Wiercioch to a 1 year deal worth 800k<br />
<br />
2:27 - Brett Connolly signs 1 year deal with Washington worth 850k<br />
<br />
2:20 - Lee Stempniak signs a 2 year deal with Carolina worth 2.5 per season<br />
<br />
2:06 - Rangers sign Nathan Gerbe to a 1 year deal worth 600k<br />
<br />
2:03 - Rangers sign Michael Grabner to 2 year deal worth 1.65 per season<br />
<br />
1:46 - Dallas signs Dan Hamhuis to a 2 year deal worth 3.75 per season<br />
<br />
1:45 - Montreal signs Alex Radulov to a 1 year deal worth 5.75 million<br />
<br />
1:37 - Shawn Matthias signs 2 year deal with the Jets worth 2.125 per season<br />
<br />
1:27 - Montreal signs Al Montoya to a 1 year deal worth 950k<br />
<br />
1:16 - Viktor Stalberg signs 1 year deal with Carolina worth 1.5 million<br />
<br />
1:02 - Dale Weise signs 4 year deal with the Flyers worth 2.35 per<br />
<br />
12:56 - David Schlemko signs 4 year deal worth 2.1 per with San Jose<br />
<br />
12:43 - Jamie McGinn signs 3 year deal with Arizona worth 10 million<br />
<br />
12:36 - Ben Lovejoy signs a 3 year deal with the Devils<br />
<br />
12:35 - Calgary signs Chad Johnson to a 1 year deal worth 1.7<br />
<br />
<b>12:29 - Jason Chimera signs a 2 year deal with Islanders worth 2.25 per</b><br />
<br />
12:25 - Minnesota gives Eric Staal 3 years 3.5 per season<br />
<br />
12:22 - Troy Brower signs 4 year deal worth 4.5 per season with the Flames<br />
<br />
12:17 - Kyle Okposo signs 7 year deal with Buffalo worth 6 per<br />
<br />
12:16 - Blackhawks sign Brian Campbell to 1 year deal<br />
<br />
12:14 - Bruins sign David Backes to a 5 year deal worth 6 million per season<br />
<br />
12:10 - Red Wings sign Frans Nielsen to 6 year deal worth 5.25 per season<br />
<br />
12:07 - David Perron signs 2 year deal worth 7.75 total<br />
<br />
12:03 - James Reimer signs 5 year deal with Panthers worth 3.4 per year<br />
<br />
12:02 - Milan Lucic signs with Edmonton<br />
<br />
<b>12:02 - Andrew Ladd signs 7 year deal with Islanders worth 5.5 per season.</b><br />
<br />
12:02 - Loui Eriksson signed a 6 year deal with Vancouver<br />
<br />
<i>11:56 - Alexander Radulov signing with Montreal</i><br />
<br />
<i>11:52 - James Reimer getting 5 years from an Eastern Conference team.</i><br />
<br />
11:50 - Sounds like Frans Nielsen will be the Red Wings replacement for Steven Stamkos<br />
<br />
<i>11:49 - Andrew Ladd reportedly gets 7 years from the Islanders</i><br />
<br />
11:45 - Kyle Okposo is expected to sign with Buffalo rejoining Matt Moulson<br />
<br />
<b>11:00am - Arthur Staple confirming the Islanders and Frans Nielsen are parting way.</b>Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-67830532656322120372016-02-08T16:12:00.000-05:002016-02-08T16:12:20.292-05:00Barclays Center Striking Out Yet Again With Isles FansTo say it hasn't been easy for Barclays Center officials to welcome the Islanders and their fans to Brooklyn would be quite the understatement. Sure, growing pains were expected, but since they had years to prepare for this it seems like a lot of time was wasted. The latest cases came from an interview Brett Yormark gave recently with Sports Illustrated. That was followed up by an exclusive report earlier today from nyislesblog about how Barclays Center pretty much lied to season ticket holders.<br />
<br />
In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, the topic of the obstructed seats at Barclays Center was brought up. In response, Mr. Yormark suggested Islander fans actually stream the game on their phones or simply watch on the big screen. So fans should buy tickets, take the 45 min + train ride to the arena to watch the game on their phones? The amount of sense this lacks is astonishing especially coming from someone in the position of Mr. Yormark. Sell the arena and experience all you want and as you should, but don't insult our intelligence!<br />
<br />
Following that fiasco, came today when nyislesblog dropped their exclusive report that some season ticket holders in the obstructed sections will see a ticket increase of 66% next season. This isn't in the premium seats, these are the obstructed seats where in some spots you can't see as much as half the zone right in front of you. This increase is coming roughly a month after Barclays Center told the same season ticket holders that as a perk for renewing their season tickets they would not pay a price increase for next season. For more details check out the report <a href="http://nyislesblog.com/2016/02/08/exclusive-barclays-center-raising-ticket-prices-66-for-obstructed-view-seats/">here</a>.<br />
<br />
In order for the Islanders to grow in Brooklyn like we all hoped and expected, <a href="http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2016/02/05/brett-yormark-new-york-islanders-barclays-center-daniel-friedman/">Brett Yormark needs leave the Isles</a> to someone who can handle them because although he had gotten better the last month or so he obviously is in over his head..Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-29383992446784192352015-12-16T13:10:00.001-05:002015-12-16T13:10:25.834-05:00Barclays Center VS Islander FansLast night, the Islanders dropped their first game in regulation in almost three weeks by a score of 5-1 to the Florida Panthers.<br />
<br />
However, one day after the game all that is being talked about it what happened in the stands. Last night was parents day at the arena and during intermission a family wanted to get a little closer to get a picture of a tribute they paid for, for a relative who passed away last year. However, when attempting to get closer they were stopped by ushers and the entire situation went downhill from there. According to first hand accounts of people who were present, multiple staff members from Barclays Center were fist fighting with Islander fans. The unfortunate end saw a young female Islander fan get knocked out cold by a female Barclays Center security guard. For videos of the incident click <a href="http://gothamsn.com/watch-fight-breaks-out-at-islanders-game-at-barclays/">here </a>and <a href="http://gothamsn.com/barclays-security-fight/">here</a>. For a more detailed account check out the tweets below.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/IslesBlog">@IslesBlog</a> my friends family went to see a message that was being put on the bird to honor their father who passed away security wouldnt...</div>
— Tom LoFaso (@tomlofaso329) <a href="https://twitter.com/tomlofaso329/status/676949833463238656">December 16, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/IslesBlog">@IslesBlog</a> let them and proceeded in escalating the situation and one f then apparently jumped on my friends sister and knocked her out</div>
— Tom LoFaso (@tomlofaso329) <a href="https://twitter.com/tomlofaso329/status/676950055723638785">December 16, 2015</a></blockquote>
To say this is disturbing is quite the understatement! Staff members are present at sporting events to diffuse situations like this not escalate them which seems to have happened in this instance. Considering the staff at Barclays Center is trained by Disney, according to Bruce Ratner, behavior like this is surprising to say the least. Hopefully, we get a statement today from the Barclays Center and this is dealt with accordingly because stuff like this can't happen, totally unacceptable!<br />
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-76582968653479195392015-10-10T15:28:00.001-04:002015-10-10T15:28:56.556-04:00Do the Islanders and Nets Play in The Same Arena?Last night was not my first time at Barclays Center like it was for some. I have been fortunate to attend both pre season games the Islanders played there against the Devils. Additionally, I have been able to attend two Nets games as well. Each time I went to the arena I never had any major complaints at all and was in fact impressed with a lot of things. That was until last night. Last night I felt as though I was in a different arena that I had been in the previous times I had been there. Here are some of the issues I noticed:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Concession lines upstairs were worse then the Coliseum in both length and length of wait.</li>
<li>The overall size of the concourse is tight when packed as well.</li>
<li>Furthering with the concession stands, they raised the beer prices even more as if they weren't already high enough. The one particular stand I went to would only serve certain draft beer in certain cups which is one of the most ridiculous things I've ever heard. This inconvenience played a major role in the extreme wait I had.</li>
<li>Bathroom lines were also huge compared to the other times I had been there.</li>
<li>Some are being critical of fans who booed Brooklyn related items including but not limited to Brett Yormark being shown on the big screen. Specifically with Yormark, that is something he brought on himself with his ill thought out comments on the Michael Kay Show in the wake of the goal horn saga and it wouldn't surprise me if the boos continue for a while.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Following my issues with the concession stand, I ran into an Islanders employee who while he was nice made some pretty ridiculous and far fetched excuses for the issues I had. One of them was that they had to adjust to the Long Island crowd as if Net fans only come from NYC and NJ and the Islanders had never played pre season games here before. With regard to the bathroom lines, he said they weren't as bad as the Coliseum. Being in a brand new state of the art arena I would hope lines would be better then the 43 year old Coliseum.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So now I ask, was the arena last night the same place the Islanders played two pre season games and I saw two Net games? It surely didn't feel like it was and for the people at be hopefully that changes.</div>
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-87808254540518531062015-10-09T07:21:00.003-04:002015-10-09T07:21:39.023-04:00Projections: GoalieWe conclude by looking in between the pipes at goalie:<br /><br />
<img height="232" src="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nhl/players/full/3116.png&w=350&h=254" width="320" /><br />
photo by <a href="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nhl/players/full/3116.png&w=350&h=254">ESPN</a><br />
<br />
1) Jaroslav Halak<br />
<br />
37 wins<br />
<br />
18 losses<br />
<br />
4 OTL<br />
<br />
While he is a little shaken up to start the season, I think Halak will be just fine and prove to be a steady backstop for the Islanders like he was last season.<br />
<br />
2) Thomas Greiss<br />
<br />
9 wins<br />
<br />
7 losses<br />
<br />
3 OTL<br />
<br />
After having the backups struggle for a majority of last season, I think the Islanders found the right fit with Greiss. He will prove to be the perfect backup for the Islanders and will be able to handle a little extended time should Halak show he isn't 100%.<br />
<br />
3) JF Berube<br />
<br />
2 wins<br />
<br />
2 losses<br />
<br />
1 OTL<br />
<br />
After being one of the better goalies in the AHL in the last few years I think Berube will show the Islanders he was worthy of their waiver claim in a cup of coffee with the team throughout the season.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-72543995331940447722015-10-09T07:11:00.002-04:002015-10-09T07:11:36.294-04:00Projections: DefensemenToday, we will continue by looking at the top 6 defensemen:<br />
<br />
<img height="320" src="http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Johnny+Boychuk+Carolina+Hurricanes+v+New+York+i27l-9Hr-jxl.jpg" width="286" /><br />
photo by <a href="http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Johnny+Boychuk+Carolina+Hurricanes+v+New+York+i27l-9Hr-jxl.jpg">zimbio</a><br />
<br />
1) Johnny Boychuk<br />
<br />
10 goals<br />
<br />
30 assists<br />
<br />
40 points<br />
<br />
If he can stay healthy, these numbers should easily be achievable for Boychuk in his second season with the Islanders.<br />
<br />
2) Nick Leddy<br />
<br />
13 goals<br />
<br />
35 assists<br />
<br />
48 points<br />
<br />
Leddy is an interesting case to watch this season. Where as Boychuk is in his prime already, Leddy is still only 24 so it is a bit of a mystery as to exactly how good he can be. After setting a career high in goals last year, and tying his career high in points I fully expect his game to continue to mature playing alongside Boychuk.<br />
<br />
<img height="232" src="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nhl/players/full/5073.png&w=350&h=254" width="320" /><br />
photo by <a href="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nhl/players/full/5073.png&w=350&h=254">ESPN</a><br />
<br />
3) Travis Hamonic<br />
<br />
5 goals<br />
<br />
30 assists<br />
<br />
35 points<br />
<br />
Last year was a bit of a breakout offensive season for Hamonic setting a career high in goals, assists, and points. While he won't have the offensive production of Leddy, I think he will continue to settle in as a rock on the Islanders blue line that we all hope he will become.<br />
<br />
4) Calvin De Haan<br />
<br />
2 goals<br />
<br />
13 assists<br />
<br />
15 points<br />
<br />
This is a big year for De Haan! After struggling last year, he needs to grow past that or he might find his time in the lineup limited to say the least.<br />
<br />
5) Marek Zidlicky<br />
<br />
6 goals<br />
<br />
25 assists<br />
<br />
31 points<br />
<br />
16 PPP<br />
<br />
Zidlicky wasn't acquired by the Islanders for his stellar play at even strength. Although he is 39 now, Zidlicky is still very valuable on the power play where he put up 20 points last season split between the Devils and the Red Wings. I see no reason why as long as he remains in the lineup he won't put up similar production this year.<br />
<br />
6) Thomas Hickey<br />
<br />
3 goals<br />
<br />
19 assists<br />
<br />
22 points<br />
<br />
I feel like Hickey is in a similar boat to De Haan. While Hickey didn't struggle nearly as much as De Haan did last year, if Hickey can't keep his play at an acceptable rate he might find himself in the press box before long.<br />
<br />
<b>Guys Who Could See Time:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
1) Brian Strait<br />
<br />
0 goals<br />
<br />
4 assists<br />
<br />
4 points<br />
<br />
Much to the chagrin of most Islander fans, Brian Strait is still with the team heading into the season. Due to an injury to Thomas Hickey, he will likely be in the opening night lineup which I am sure will be well received by the faithful at Barclays Center. <br />
<br />
<img height="320" src="http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Ryan+Pulock+NHL+Draft+Portraits+l6TfgEQ_JYil.jpg" width="213" /><br />
photo by <a href="http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Ryan+Pulock+NHL+Draft+Portraits+l6TfgEQ_JYil.jpg">zimbio</a><br />
<br />
2) Ryan Pulock<br />
<br />
4 goals<br />
<br />
3 assists<br />
<br />
7 points<br />
<br />
Pulock is an interesting guy to watch this season. Having broke camp with the team but starting the season as a likely scratch is a little surprising to me. When he is eventually given a chance I fully expect him to run with it and not look back.<br />
<br />
3) Scott Mayfield<br />
<br />
1 goal<br />
<br />
3 assists<br />
<br />
4 points<br />
<br />
After impressing in his brief playoff stint last year, I would suspect that it won't be terribly long before we see Mayfield in some way or another at this level. His edge, combined with offensive ability would be a welcomed addition to the lineup.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-5582257980865017022015-10-02T13:44:00.000-04:002015-10-02T13:44:16.593-04:00Projections: Bottom 6 ForwardsToday, we will continue our pre season projections with the bottom six forwards. (in no particular order)<br />
<br />
1) Frans Nielsen<br />
<br />
15 goals<br />
<br />
35 assists<br />
<br />
50 points<br />
<br />
Going into his contract year, I could see Nielsen putting up solid numbers assuming he is able to stay healthy. It is a wonder if this will be Nielsens final season in the orange and blue.<br />
<br />
2) Mikhail Grabovski<br />
<br />
20 goals<br />
<br />
30 assists<br />
<br />
50 points<br />
<br />
If he is able to stay healthy, these should be very realistic numbers for Grabo who just never was able to consistently stay on the ice last season. If he has another injury plagued season, his rich contract could prove to be a cause of concern for the Islanders.<br />
<br />
3) Nikolay Kulemin<br />
<br />
15 goals<br />
<br />
20 assists<br />
<br />
35 points<br />
<br />
We are now getting to the players who depend more on finesse than skill and Kulemin quickly became a fan favorite in his first year with the Islanders last year in part due to his tenacious work ethic on the ice. I expect more of the same from him this season in the teams first year in Brooklyn.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nhl/players/full/5050.png&w=350&h=254" /><br />
photo by <a href="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nhl/players/full/5050.png&w=350&h=254">ESPN</a><br />
<br />
4) Matt Martin<br />
<br />
9 goals<br />
<br />
6 assists<br />
<br />
15 points<br />
<br />
120 PIMS<br />
<br />
14 points has been a difficult point total for Martin to eclipse to this point in his NHL career. In every season he has played in except one Martin has ended the season with 14 points. While he might not go past the point total with flying colors, I fully expect him to resume his role on the best fourth line in hockey like nothing ever changed.<br />
<br />
5) Casey Cizikas<br />
<br />
10 goals<br />
<br />
10 assists<br />
<br />
20 points'<br />
<br />
After setting a career high in goals last year, I expect more of the same from Cizikas again this year as he matures into a regular NHL player for years to come.<br />
<br />
6) Cal Clutterbuck<br />
<br />
10 goals<br />
<br />
10 assists<br />
<br />
20 points<br />
<br />
While Clutterbuck may not put up the stats that he did in Minnesota it is because his role has changed since being acquired by the Islanders. He has more of a checking role with the Islanders and one that he performs superbly I might add as the third member of the best fourth line in hockey. I expect this line to pick up right where it left off last season.<br />
<br />
<b>Guys who could see time:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
1) Eric Boulton<br />
<br />
While Boulton could end up skating a game or two up here this season it won't be to make a difference on the scoreboard. <br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p7xYfH6o8jY" width="370"></iframe><br />
<br />
2) Steve Bernier<br />
<br />
8 goals<br />
<br />
5 assists<br />
<br />
13 points<br />
<br />
Bernier was an interesting signing for the Islanders late in the off-season after the trade of Michael Grabner to the Leafs. After putting up a career high in goals for the Devils last season, I expect Bernier to see limited time with the Islanders this year because of their extraordinary depth up front. When he does make it in the lineup though I expect him to be productive.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Kirill+Petrov+1ZfZkiKUIiFm.jpg" /><br />
photo by <a href="http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Kirill+Petrov+1ZfZkiKUIiFm.jpg">zimbio</a><br />
<br />
3) Kirill Petrov<br />
<br />
3 goals<br />
<br />
5 assists<br />
<br />
8 points<br />
<br />
One of the more talked about guys of the pre season, I don't expect that talk to stop when the season starts when it comes to Petrov. After 8 years, Petrov has impressed more then a few people in his first Islanders training camp. If he has been impressive enough to make the team out of camp we shall find out soon enough.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-74912277383820595292015-09-26T12:46:00.003-04:002015-09-26T12:46:59.615-04:00Projections: Top 6 ForwardsWith the season right around the corner, we are going to start doing some stat projections for the forwards, defensemen, and goalies we expect to see with the Islanders this season. Today we will start with the top 6 forwards (in no particular order):<br />
<br />
<img height="232" src="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nhl/players/full/5160.png&w=350&h=254" width="320" /><br />
photo by <a href="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nhl/players/full/5160.png&w=350&h=254">ESPN</a><br />
<br />
1) John Tavares<br />
<br />
40 goals<br />
<br />
55 assists<br />
<br />
95 points<br />
<br />
Tavares was so close to winning the scoring title last year and I think he will be in the race once again this season. If early pre season is any indication, having Anders Lee on his left wing for a full season could help boost those assist totals which could prove to be key for the individual achievement.<br />
<br />
2) Kyle Okposo<br />
<br />
35 goals<br />
<br />
45 assists<br />
<br />
80 points<br />
<br />
Okposo might be the most talked about Islander this season behind Tavares of course. Being a UFA after the season, Okposo will want to up his game to try and earn the most money possible. However, he might need to work extra hard as he could be separated from John Tavares giving other players a chance in that spot such as Ryan Strome.<br />
<br />
3) Ryan Strome<br />
<br />
20 goals<br />
<br />
35 assists<br />
<br />
55 points<br />
<br />
I expect Strome to continue his maturation in his second full season in the NHL. Playing with John Tavares at all will definitely help Strome achieve these numbers. Strome will be a player to watch this season.<br />
<br />
<img height="320" src="https://dqrrfibbe8nxs.cloudfront.net/img/assets/players/headshots/360x360/32373.jpg" width="320" /><br />
photo by <a href="https://dqrrfibbe8nxs.cloudfront.net/img/assets/players/headshots/360x360/32373.jpg">NHLPA</a><br />
<br />
4) Anders Lee<br />
<br />
35 goals<br />
<br />
20 assists<br />
<br />
55 points<br />
<br />
Another player to watch is definitely Anders Lee. If the pre season is any indication he will be the first one given a chance on the magical left wing of John Tavares. If he is able to maintain that role he should have little trouble hitting 35 goals after hitting 25 in his rookie season last year.<br />
<br />
5) Brock Nelson<br />
<br />
30 goals<br />
<br />
25 assists<br />
<br />
55 points<br />
<br />
Like Lee, I am expecting big things from Nelson as well. If he hadn't disappeared for many months last season, Nelson would've hit the 30 goal plateau pretty easily. If he is able to stay consistent this season I see no reason why he won't achieve that milestone for the first time in his young career.<br />
<br />
6) Josh Bailey<br />
<br />
20 goals<br />
<br />
30 assists<br />
<br />
50 points<br />
<br />
After setting a career high in goals and points last season, I can see Bailey building on that and setting new career highs again this season. That is of course largely depending on who he plays with for a majority of the season.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-32303520277380354292015-09-19T02:31:00.003-04:002015-09-19T02:31:38.312-04:00Isles Sign ZidlickyEarlier tonight, it was announced that the Islanders had signed vet defensemen Marek Zidlicky to a 1 year deal worth 1.5 million dollars.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a> Transaction: The Islanders have agreed to terms with defenseman Marek Zidlicky on a one-year deal.</div>
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYIslanders/status/645032296999976960">September 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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The Islanders had been linked to Zidlicky on and off for a few weeks now. With Zidlicky having played in Jersey, and the Islanders saying goodbye to Lubomir Visnovky this off-season Zidlicky was a pretty good fit. The salary flexibility created by the Michael Grabner trade earlier this week allowed this move to happen.<br />
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Bringing in Zidlicky takes some pressure off the likes of Scott Mayfield and Ryan Pulock who had been previously been counted on to have potentially big roles with this team in the upcoming season.<br />
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Adding Zidlicky who got most of his points on the power play last season to a power play that already includes Johnny Boychuk, Nick Leddy, and Travis Hamonic has the makings for something special. Doug Weight should be kept plenty busy creating plays with those guys on the point for his huge book of plays.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-74194635486387673692015-09-17T14:43:00.002-04:002015-09-17T14:43:27.861-04:00Isles Trade Grabner To LeafsEarlier today, it was announced that the Islanders traded forward Michael Grabner to the Maple Leafs for a package of prospects. It had long been expected that the Islanders would trade Grabner, however, it started to look like Grabner would be on the team to start in Brooklyn. In return for Grabner the Islanders acquired Matt Finn, Tom Nilsson, Taylor Beck, Christopher Gibson, and Carter Verhaeghe.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a> announce that they acquired Matt Finn, Tom Nilsson, Taylor Beck, Christopher Gibson and Carter Verhaeghe for Michael Grabner.</div>
— Christian Arnold (@CA_NYHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/CA_NYHockey/status/644549172662812672">September 17, 2015</a></blockquote>
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The most promising players in the deal, according to reports are Matt Finn and Carter Verhaeghe. <br />
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Finn, a 2012 second round pick is still only 20 years of age. He turned pro last season and had struggles expected for a young player especially on defense. <br />
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The other player worth talking about in the deal is Carter Verhaeghe. Verhaeghe already has some familiarity with the Isles organization having played with Josh Ho Sang in juniors. Coming off back to back 82 point seasons in juniors Verhaeghe is set to take his play to Bridgeport this season.<br />
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<i>While the Islanders didn't acquire a start prospect in this deal you shouldn't have expected that in return for Grabner. With the quantity the Islanders got in this deal I feel they did very well given Grabners injury history. Also, they created some flexibility moving out Grabners 3 million cap hit/5 million salary.</i>Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-55949480515069319532015-09-17T14:19:00.002-04:002015-09-17T14:19:30.328-04:00Isles Sign Nelson To 3 Year DealLast night, the Islanders announced that they signed Brock Nelson to a 3 year deal worth 7.5 million dollars. This deal came in just hours before the Islanders self imposed 7am deadline this morning. As has been talked about over and over again the Islanders have a team policy if you are not signed by training camp then you have to sit out the season.<br />
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The breakdown of Nelsons contract is like this, he will make 1.5 million this season, 2.5 million next season, then 3.5 million the year after that.<br />
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If Nelson is able to build on his first half from last year and put it together this will end up being another steal of a contract for the Islanders.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-79467643166306339162015-09-15T15:22:00.000-04:002015-09-15T15:22:48.823-04:00Isles, Nelson Haven't Talked in 6 Weeks<br />
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With training camp right around the corner, everyone is excited for the season to get up and running again. The one anxiety among Islander fans though is the uncertain fate of young forward Brock Nelson who is still unsigned. <br />
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Nelson who is a restricted free agent rejected the Islanders qualifying offer months ago and still has yet to come to an agreement with the team on a new contract. The reason this is causing anxiety is because Islanders owner Charles Wang has a policy that if you are not signed by the start of training camp that you can't play the season for the Islanders. This happened to Sean Bergenheim a long time ago and he ended up having to spend the season over seas.<br />
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With camp being so close, you would think the Islanders and Brock Nelsons camp would be in constant communication with each other to make sure Nelson doesn't have to sit out the season. Well, you would be incorrect with that, <a href="http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/brock-nelson-s-agent-says-he-hasn-t-heard-from-islanders-in-six-weeks-1.10845229">according to Newsday</a>. Brock Nelsons agent told Newsday that they haven't spoken with the team in 6 weeks. He said that they made Nelson a two year contract offer six weeks ago that Nelsons camp felt was unacceptable and there has been no dialogue since.<br />
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<i>While I understand Nelsons camp case here, they don't really have much leverage. They should take a page from Anders Lees book and take a one year deal and then look for the well paid long term deal next summer. The strategy paid off for Lee, so it could easily pay off for his on and off again linemate as well.</i>Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-63103731538660255462015-08-24T17:54:00.001-04:002015-08-24T17:54:06.705-04:00Isles Give Boulton A TryoutAfter serving as the Islanders resident tough guy the last few seasons, Eric Boulton is in for a new role. With his contract having expired following last season, the Islanders didn't renew it making Boulton an unrestricted free agent.<br />
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Up until now Boulton had remained unsigned, but he is taking a route that many veterans take to show they have a little left in the tank by accepting a try out, according to Newsday.
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Eric Boulton agrees to tryout with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a>. Between him and Matt Carkner, BPT could be an interesting place this season.</div>
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) <a href="https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/635891544000720896">August 24, 2015</a></blockquote>
If he fails to make the roster he could use his many career experiences to help mentor as well as protect the kids in Bridgeport. If you are not familiar with the AHL game, it is a much more physical brand of hockey compared to what we see in the NHL. While his game may not translate up here like it used to, it is still a very much needed part of the game in the AHL.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-65585989955912630112015-08-11T16:52:00.001-04:002015-08-11T16:52:53.813-04:00Isles News Items of the DayIf you have been away from your phone/computer today you have missed some Islanders news stories.<br />
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<b>Isles Sign Poulin</b><br />
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The Islanders signed goalie Kevin Poulin to a 1 year two way contract. Poulin will make 275K in the AHL and 600K if he is on the NHL roster. After an excellent start to last season where Poulin had essentially put the Sound Tigers on his back, his play really came back to earth as the season wore on and he finished with a 2.87 GAA and a .912 save percentage. This was Poulins best season as starter since 2011/2012. At 25, Poulins time could be running out and this year he figures on competing for time with rookie Stephen Williams who is expected to be with Bridgeport next season.<br />
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<b>Carkner Signs AHL Contract</b><br />
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After missing all of last season, and with his contract expiring Matt Carkner signed a 2 year AHL contract with the Islanders AHL affiliate in Bridgeport today. According to Arthur Staple, Carkner will serve as a player and coach. <br />
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Believe it will be a player/coach role for <a href="https://twitter.com/CarknerMatt">@CarknerMatt</a> to stay in organization. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a> <a href="https://t.co/i4Z4760pBD">https://t.co/i4Z4760pBD</a></div>
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) <a href="https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/631177198372814848">August 11, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<i>Carkners style of play will translate well down there I think and his attitude will do wonders for the young players especially Scott Mayfield.</i><br />
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<b>New Third Jersey Coming Next Month</b><br />
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The long awaited Brooklyn third jersey is expected to be released next month, according to multiple reports. There is no new information yet regarding potential look or design of the jersey.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-77656813370378737012015-08-03T11:57:00.000-04:002015-08-03T11:57:22.881-04:00New Coliseum Name Within 30 Days?<a href="https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2015/08/03/Facilities/Nassau-Events-Center.aspx">According to the Sports Business Daily Journal</a>, the refurbished Coliseum could have a corporate name within 30 days. When news broke last year that they would seek a naming rights deal for the arena I tried to think of who it could be but nothing really fit for me so I am curious to see who ends up getting the deal. Additionally, like was alluded to in a Newsday article last year, I hope they follow through with having the Veterans Memorial name still serve a presence on the grounds, it would be a real shame if they failed to do that.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-35997693973600992492015-07-01T12:19:00.000-04:002015-07-01T14:29:13.117-04:00Free Agent FrenzyWith today being the start of NHL free agency, we will do our best to keep track of each signing here.<br />
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2:05 Buffalo signs Matt Donovan<br />
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1:55 Cody Hodgson signs 1 year deal worth 1 million dollars with Nashville<br />
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1:55 Bruins trade Zack Kassian to Montreal in exchange for Brandon Prust and a 5th round pick<br />
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1:51 Penguins sign Kael Mouillierat to a two way contract<br />
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1:51 Lightning sign Erik Condra to a 3 year deal worth 1.25 million per season<br />
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1:39 Leafs sign Pa Parenteau<br />
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1:31 Jets sign Alexander Burmistrov to a two year contract<br />
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1:31 Kings sign Jhonas Enroth to 1 year contract worth 1,250,000<br />
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1:24 Coyotes sign Zybnek Michalek to a 2 year deal worth 3.2 million per season<br />
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1:03 Calgary signs Michael Frolik to a 5 year contract worth 4.3 million per season<br />
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12:54 Phil Kessel traded to the Penguins<br />
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12:48 Oilers sign Mark Letestu to 3 year contract worth 1.8 per season<br />
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12:48 Flyers sign Micheal Neuvirth to a 2 year deal worth 3.25 million<br />
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12:45 Avalanche sign Blake Comeau to 3 year contract worth 2.4 million per<br />
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12:44 Andrej Sekera signs a 6 year contract worth 5.5 per with the Oilers<br />
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12:39 Sharks sign Paul Martin to 4 year contract worth 4.85 million per season<br />
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12:20 Francois Beauchemin signs a 3 year deal worth 4.5 per season with Colorado<br />
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<b>12:14 Islanders re-sign Thomas Hickey to 3 year contract worth 2.2 per season</b><br />
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<b>12:12 Islanders sign Thomas Greiss to a 2 year deal worth 3 million</b><br />
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12:10 Leafs sign Matt Hunwick to a 2 year contract worth 1.2 per season<br />
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12:04 Predators re-sign Mike Ribeiro for 2 years 3.5 million per season<br />
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12:00 Yannick Weber re-signs in Vancouver for 1 year 1,5 millionScotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-22761259653546584862015-06-30T16:46:00.001-04:002015-06-30T16:46:36.954-04:00Isles Sign Lee To 4 Year Extension<div style="text-align: center;">
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Photo by <a href="http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Anders+Lee+Winnipeg+Jets+v+New+York+Islanders+mnah2-52SJrl.jpg">Zimbio</a></div>
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According to Arthur Staple, the Islanders have signed Anders Lee to a 4 year extension worth 3.75 million per season.</div>
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Anders Lee has signed a four-year deal, $3.75 million per year.</div>
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) <a href="https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/615978365913309185">June 30, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Lee had a breakout season last year scoring 25 goals and 41 points in 76 games. He also had 1 point in 5 playoff games. Throughout the season, Lee made the front of the net home and he was rewarded handsomely for it. Late in the season, an article came out how Lee was offered a multi year extension last summer but instead of taking it took a one year contract betting on himself that he could earn more and it paid off. Qualities of confidence and determination like that to me are things you look for in guys who wear letters on their uniform.</div>
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<i>While the number is a bit higher then I anticipated this is an example of the Islanders betting on Lees goal scoring potential and that he will continue to mature. With the Islanders lack of size and skill that Lee posses it is great that they were able to get a long term deal done rather than just another short term deal.</i><br />
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Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-24868214031223289242015-06-30T15:32:00.000-04:002015-06-30T15:32:06.408-04:00Isles Closing In On Deals For Hickey, Lee<a href="http://www.thescore.com/nhl/news/788298">According to The Score</a>, the Islanders are closing in on a 3 year 6.5 million dollar contract extension for defenseman Thomas Hickey.<br />
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Hickey, who the Islanders claimed on waivers before the lockout shortened 2012/2013 season has had an up and down time with the Islanders. At times you see what made Hickey worthy of the 4th overall pick in 2007 by the Kings. However, at times you also see why Hickey was never given a chance in their organization other then their great depth.<br />
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<i>I personally don't love this number for Hickey, however it isn't as bad as it could be.</i><br />
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Yesterday, Arthur Staple from Newsday reported that the Islanders were also closing in on an extension with restricted free agent forward Anders Lee. <br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a> and Anders Lee in deep talks on a new deal as well, getting closer. Brock Nelson (no arb rights) likely addressed later in offseason.</div>
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) <a href="https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/615522554015563776">June 29, 2015</a></blockquote>
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After not making the team out of camp last year, Lee quickly showed them why that was a mistake as he ended up with 25 goals in his first full NHL season. Those 25 goals left Lee at 9th in the rookie of the year voting at the NHL awards last week.<br />
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<i>I am curious what the salary number will look like for Lee. I would expect at least 2 million per season after seeing what other players have gotten in similar bridge contracts. As far as next season for Lee, with the left wing spot open on John Tavares line the sky is the limit for him.</i>Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-82506641033320707352015-06-27T16:32:00.001-04:002015-06-27T16:32:07.526-04:00Meet Mathew Barzal<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://cdn.agilitycms.com/hockey-now/Images/Articles/Barzal.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></div>
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Last night, <a href="http://savetheisles.blogspot.com/2015/06/breaking-isles-trade-reinhart-to-oilers.html">the Islanders traded Griffin Reinhart to the Oilers</a> for a first and second round pick in the draft.</div>
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With the first round pick, they selected center Mathew Barzal from the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL. In 44 games last season, Barzal had 57 points including 45 assists. </div>
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The pick was praised among pretty much all fans and most analysts as well. Prior to the start of the season, Barzal was thought to be a top 5 talent in this draft class. The main reason he slipped so low was due to a knee injury that kept him out for part of the season of the season. According to Arthur Staple, Barzals presence at 16 was the only reason the Islanders made the deal with the Oilers. </div>
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Source says <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a> only made this deal when Barzal fell to 16. No chance they make it otherwise.</div>
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) <a href="https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/614606741846802432">June 27, 2015</a></blockquote>
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The main strength of Barzals game is his play making ability as evidenced by his high assist total this season. He is also an above average skater, <a href="http://www.hockeysfuture.com/prospects/mathew-barzal/">according to hockey's future</a>.</div>
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<i>I hadn't thought about it til now but does his selection signal that Frans Nielsen time with the team could be winding down? Interesting to think about in the coming season as Nielsen is in the final year of a 4 year contract</i><br />
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Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-33385302560578473082015-06-26T23:04:00.003-04:002015-06-26T23:04:55.307-04:00Isles Trade Back Into Round 1After dealing Griffin Reinhart tonight, you probably thought the night was over for the Islanders. However, you would've been incorrect as for the second consecutive year the Islanders traded back into late in the first round. They acquired the Lightnings 28th overall pick in exchange for the second round pick acquired from the Oilers in the Reinhart deal and a third round pick.<br />
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With the pick, the Islanders selected left wing Anthony Beauvillier. Beauvillier had 94 points for Shawinigan in the QMJHL last season.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-13617955289589781442015-06-26T22:57:00.001-04:002015-06-27T02:07:33.387-04:00BREAKING: ISLES Trade Reinhart To Oilers For Picks<div style="text-align: center;">
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After years of speculation, it finally happened. Tonight, the Islanders traded former number 4 overall pick Griffin Reinhart to the Edmonton Oilers for a first and second round pick in the draft. The Islanders had been without first and second round picks due to the Thomas Vanek trade and the Johnny Boychuk trade respectively. </div>
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It had been rumored on and off for years that the Oilers were interested in Reinhart so them as his destination shouldn't come as a surprise.</div>
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I know on the surface it doesn't look like a sexy return for a former top 5 pick just three years ago. However, this was on a similar level to what the Bruins got for Dougie Hamilton. All be it very different situations, however, even so, when thinking of it like that Garth Snow should be applauded.</div>
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<i>Some may that the Islanders didn't give Reinhart a chance to develop as defensemen traditionally take longer to develop then forwards. However, it was pretty evident to anyone that saw Reinhart this year that he was very slow on his skates and without tremendous improvement in that area he would never really fit in the up tempo system the Islanders play. </i></div>
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-47293828790201420992015-06-25T00:12:00.001-04:002015-06-25T00:12:09.572-04:00Tavares Comes Up Short For Hart<div style="text-align: center;">
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Tonight, the NHL held the NHL award ceremony at the MGM in Las Vegas. For the second time in 3 seasons, Islanders captain John Tavares was nominated for the leagues MVP award.</div>
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In the 2012/2013 season Tavares was nominated alongside Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin but unfortunately came up short. This season he was once again nominated alongside Ovechkin but the third nominee was Carey Price of Montreal. Like two years ago, Tavares once again unfortunately came up short as Price finished what was a spectacular night for him winning his 4th award.</div>
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Although Tavares once again didn't win it, it is just a matter of time before he does. He is THAT good and has yet to even enter the prime of his career yet.</div>
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-79938745726852296382015-06-25T00:07:00.001-04:002015-06-25T00:12:53.321-04:00Isles Set To Kick Off Barclays Center Hockey On October 9Earlier today, it was announced that the Islanders would kick off the Islanders/Barclays era on October 9th against the defending Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks. The game will have a 7:30 start, not 7:00.<br />
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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash">#Isles</a> will play the first regular-season <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NHL?src=hash">#NHL</a> game in Brooklyn on Fri. Oct. 9 against the Chicago Blackhawks. <a href="http://t.co/amYMlhbdYh">pic.twitter.com/amYMlhbdYh</a></div>
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYIslanders/status/613741149833031680">June 24, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-62716618383403629462015-06-25T00:00:00.001-04:002015-06-25T00:00:13.177-04:00More Details On Okposo.Grabner a Goner?Yesterday, more details came to light on the bombshell report that the Islanders could in fact be shopping star winger and John Tavares linemate Kyle Okposo.<br />
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<a href="http://islanderspointblank.com/islanders/pierre-mcguire-isles-were-frustrated-with-okposos-playoff-performance/">Pierre McGuire reported that the Islanders were frustrated with Okposo's playoff performance</a>. Okposo had 3 points in the Islanders 7 game defeat against the Capitals. McGuire describes Okposo as, "...I think that it's one of those where if they were able to hit the motherload..."<br />
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<i>I'm not sure I buy this as it reeks of an easy excuse rather than the truth. </i><br />
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Meanwhile, <a href="http://islanderspointblank.com/islanders/dreger-okposo-available-but-isles-would-need-big-return-in-trade/">Darren Dreger confirmed that Okposo is indeed available</a> but that the Islanders would need a substantial return to move the winger.<br />
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<i>I am torn on this pretty badly. While I of course want to keep Okposo for the long haul, if he is in fact looking for a deal in the neighborhood of what the Islanders offered Thomas Vanek, I don't believe that is something they can hand out at this time. I am also curious how other teams value Okposo given the serious nature of his eye injury last season. This will definitely be interesting to follow as we get deeper in the summer toward training camp.</i><br />
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<b>Grabner on the Move?</b><br />
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If it feels like we have talked about this repeatedly over the last few months it is because we have. In a recent twitter Q&A with fans, Arthur Staple from Newsday once again reported that Grabner is in fact on the trade block. This time he went a step further as he assessed his value at a mid round draft pick or another teams unwanted contract.
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<i>It would not surprise me at all if Grabner finds himself in another sweater before the start of next season. With his health issues and the Islanders increased depth up front Grabner has lost his spot in the lineup.</i><br />
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Grabs is worth a pick or unwanted contract at this point. Okposo won't be dealt for picks. They'll need players back <a href="https://t.co/3CyebNiDgU">https://t.co/3CyebNiDgU</a></div>
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) <a href="https://twitter.com/StapeNewsday/status/613097695150936065">June 22, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6357605557252365346.post-11050670111232942042015-06-21T01:15:00.002-04:002015-06-21T01:18:15.074-04:00Kyle Okposo Available?<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Kyle+Okposo+New+Jersey+Devils+v+New+York+Islanders+4rOO7LO8ouNl.jpg" width="256" /></div>
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photo by <a href="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Kyle+Okposo+New+Jersey+Devils+v+New+York+Islanders+4rOO7LO8ouNl.jpg">zimbio</a></div>
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Islander fans were sent abuzz earlier tonight <a href="http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/without-no-1-pick-islanders-will-look-for-value-deals-1.10564342">after it was reported by Arthur Staple that Kyle Okposo could be in play in trade talks</a> heading into this draft weekend.<br />
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Okposo, the Islanders first round pick way back in 2006 has become a fan favorite among fans over the last few years. It is no coincidence that in that time Okposo has began to become the player all fans hoped he would be when he was selected by Neil Smith in 2006.<br />
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While everyone loves Okposo, this is where the business side of the game comes in and the fact is that Okposo is in the final year of his contract. With Okposos production and chemistry with John Tavares, Staple speculates that Okposo could want as much as 7 million per season on a multi year contract. After handing out very big deals to Johnny Boychuk and Nick Leddy, can the Islanders afford to hand a bigger deal to Okposo? While you want to pay for loyalty and take care of Okposo after being here for so long, this is also a cap world and you don't want to hurt your chances of making moves in the future.<br />
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While everyone would hate to see Okposo go, maybe it isn't a horrible idea if they find out what he is worth on the open market.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436819220171610240noreply@blogger.com0