The Curious Case of Jeff Tambellini

Oh yeah, it's early June and I am struggling to find things to write while I'm starting to prepare for draft day. Okay, I'm not really preparing for draft day because something in the back of my head says he's trading the pick and then I would do a lot of research for nothing. But... we'll see.

So after looking around my office for some inspiration, I found myself staring at my Bridgeport SoundTigers bobblehead.  So I came up with this on Hockeybuzz.com about Jeff Tambellini


Crap this is going to be a long off-season!

End of the Line for Bergie & Tamby?

Today, the Islanders have tendered qualifying offers to Matt Moulson, Rob Schremp, Dustin Kohn, Dylan Reese and Nathan Lawson.

As of Thursday, July 1, those players who have received qualifying offers will have until Thursday, July 15 to accept. The deadline for players to elect to go to salary arbitration is Monday, July 5. If a player rejects the qualifying offer, but does not elect to go to salary arbitration, the Islanders will still retain their rights until and agreement is made or they become eligible for unrestricted free-agency.

That leaves Sean Bergenheim and Jeff Tambellini to become free agents. Is anyone surprised?

Tambellini spent a lot of time out of the line up and being a spectator. When he was inserted into Scott Gordon's line-up, it was out of sheer necessity. But the success never came. Jeff Tambellini, with Dynasty bloodlines, could never recreate the success of his AHL career on the NHL ice.

The 5'11" winger from Calgary has been in the NHL for five seasons. Jeff played 36 games this season and had 7 goals and 7 assists for his $625,000. In the 2008-2009 season he earned 15 points in 65 NHL games and in 2007-2008 he played 31 NHL games and scored once and had three assists. Scott Gordon seemed to have lost all confidence in Jeff. Perhaps a change of scenery will help him.


Sean Bergenheim has always been one of my favorites. He will remain so. However, he has never quite accomplished what everyone expected he should. I saw him as a 20 goal scorer from the first time I saw him in an Islanders sweater when he was only 18.

Bergenhiem was drafted 22nd overall in 2002 and this is also his fifth year in the NHL. In 63 games Sean scored 10 goals and tallied 13 assists. The only time Bergenheim got close to the 20 goals I expected of him was in the 2005-2006 season in Bridgeport when he played 55 games and scored 25 goals and 22 assists.

His biggest drawback is inconsistency. It wasn't long ago that Scott Gordon told reporters in a post-game interview But Scott did continue. "With Bergie it's always consistency. He can skate, he can protect the puck, he can finish hits, he's got a good shot, but if he's not doing those things, he's just an average player. And 'average' isn't good enough for Bergie. Bergie has to excel in the areas that are his strengths and when he does -- that's when he has success."

It was then I knew that his days with the NY Islanders were numbered. And don't think that Garth Snow didn't attempt to get something for the high-energy kid from Finland who never quite received the same 1st round hype as those that came after him. This is the same young man that Scott Bowman praised. Hopefully he'll find a new home where he can feel appreciated.

Hopefully, it's in the NHL. If not -- well, there's always the Swedish Elite League. He had some success there with 33 points and 80 PIMs in 2006, and their season is much shorter.

As sad as I am to see "My Boy Sean" leave the Island, in my heart I know, it will probably be the best thing for him.

With the 2010 Entry Draft done, there are still so many questions leading up to Thursday's Free Agency Frenzy. It may be an exciting time for fans, but it has to be a nerve wracking time for those making the decisions.

Isles Morning Notes: Day Off

No practice today for the boys. Although, I would have liked to see them skating till they puke, but that's not happening.

So here are a few things that I thought of this morning:

1) Please tell me you sent Trevor Gillies on the bus passed the Coliseum and straight back to Bridgeport last night. There is no reason for him to be in the line-up. Call up Matt Martin if you want someone over 6' tall.

2) Looking for information today on the status of Robbie Schremp and his right knee. I'm not sure how it happened, or what happened. But Robbie played a little over 4 minutes before leaving the ice and not returning.

3) With the possibility of Robbie Schremp being out of the line up, did Jeff Tambellini do a happy dance in the press box? That's about the only way he gets back in the line-up.

4) So John Tavares scored a goal. Yeah. No one needed that more than JT. Indeed, no one is harder on himself than John. He did play the rest of the game with far more confidence, but that didn't help the defense any.

5) Bruno Gervais had a pretty good game -- again.

6) Was there something wrong with the ice behind Dwayne Roloson's crease last night or is his equilibrium slightly off? He was uncharacteristically flopping around his net last night leaving it wide open.

7) I wonder how many hours Assistant GM Ryan Jankowski is now putting in getting scouting this years draftees. hmmmmmmmm

8) I'm late for work. As usual.

Oh happy day.

Super Bowl Party with the Boys

Today there was an open practice for Season Ticket Holders at the Nassau Coliseum. Between the freezing cold, the losing streak and it being Super Bowl Sunday, it was certainly an INTIMATE gathering of fans.

While the sentiment of the players was to keep things light, you could tell by the faces of some that the extended losing streak is taking a toll.

Marty Biron, the only Islander goalie with a recent win, was back on Long Island and sharing a net with Roloson and DiPietro for a final shoot out drill. On very little sleep today after last night’s dinner-dance, it was all just a blur to me.

I decided to leave the tough questions about the Islanders’ current slump to the Main Stream Media types in attendance. Katie Strang corner Garth Snow in the runway. Brad Kurtzberg grabbed Scott Gordon as soon as he left the ice. I hung back and asked questions about – The Super Bowl!

(Seriously, do you think I’m going to be able to garner valid answers about what’s going wrong and why they can’t score? Hardly.)

So the little survey I did about today’s big “day of stupid American fun”, as I heard it called on the news today, garnered me a few interesting answers.

“Are the Patriots in it? Then I have no interest in it. I’m gonna go see a movie.” That was Massachusetts native Scott Gordon’s response to me about today’s “big game.” That sort of shot me down real quick.

Sean Bergenheim told me that the team would be hanging together to watch the Super Bowl. When I asked him what his favorite football watching munchies is, he hesitated. “Oh, I try not to eat too much junk, but I would say maybe a hot dog.” That would certainly qualify as “junk.”

I wanted to see what everyone thought of the commercials that mean so much to Super Bowl Sunday, so when I asked Sean if there were any Super Bowl commercials that stood out for him over the years, “The commercial with the kid when he’s on the computer and there’s a clown. That one.”

Bruno Gervais, as big of a foodie as he is, favors wings. “Bar-b-cue or mild. That’s a classic. Everything though, hot dog, burgers. If you’re going to do it -- do it right.” He felt there are a lot of good commercials out there and did like all the Budweiser commercials. But wait, last year there was a baby commercial. You know, those Car insurance, the baby – with the clown. Yeah. That was a good one.“ When I asked if he felt that half time and the amount of promo spent on the commercials takes away from the actual game he said “No, the game is fun.”

Rick DiPietro will also be spending tonight with the team “Where ever they go, I go.” (Sorry Cassandra. Not sure if the wives are invited or not.) The man who spent his free time learning to cook said he’d have to go with Buffalo wings as his favorite game time munchie. When it came to commercials, Rick said there was a funny one that he liked, “No, there was one I really liked, but I totally forgot what it is. So obviously it wasn’t that good."

Rick didn’t think the half time show or the commercials are more important than the actual game. While he wasn’t really interested in seeing the Who at half time, he wouldn’t mind seeing Janet Jackson again. (Funny, I got that from a lot of the guys… Gee, I wonder why? Ha!)

Jeff Tambellini’s favorite munchie is Nachos and his favorite commercials were the Budweiser frogs. When I asked if the commercials and halftime spectacles took away from the game, Jeff had a well thought answer off the top of his head. “I think the event, as a whole, is so good, because it’s not just one thing. Instead of flipping the commercials off, you actually get to watch them. I just think it’s so much fun to watch through the whole day.”

We had another vote for Nachos from Jon Sim who ALSO voted for “those little baby commercials. I like the talking babies. They’re hilarious.” I think he was teasing me when he said the half time show and commercials were indeed the best part of the Super Bowl because he ended with “Unless it comes down to the fourth quarter.” Especially when you have money riding on the outcome.

Even the infamous Richard “Shakey” Krause, Islanders Equipment manager voted for Nachos as the favorite Super Bowl snack, but his favorite commercials are the Bud Bowls. He also looks forward to the half time show and commercials. (And also wanted to see Janet Jackson again…)

So what this all boils down to is that – E-TRADE HAS THE BEST COMMERCIALS AND NO BRAND RECOGNITION!!! Hey! Madison Avenue morons, while your commercials are hysterical, you are spending millions and millions of dollars and no one knows what your product is! There is no 100% brand recognition! I had to tell each of them what the product is!

Okay, enjoy the game and the commercials. My husband will be screaming “PETE!!!” at the top of his lungs as he is a Who-Head from way back while I will be digging into the --- drum roll please – Nachos, like everyone else!

"Schremp? Schremp? Are you Kidding Me?"

That's what Big Angry Man was yelling at the TV when the shoot out line-up was announced. He had already been yelling at me through most of the third period for various obvious Islander shortcomings. Again, like I can do something about them from my couch or as if I have the power to WILL them a win. (Okay, occasionally I CAN do that.)

With the Isles up by 1 in the first, there was a lot of hope for this last game of the year at the old coliseum. The goal should have been Okposo's, but Bailey was given credit for it. They'll work it out later as to who it really belonged to. But then the Blue Jackets began to seriously out shoot the Isles and Rolie had to work....hard.

As the Jackets doubled up on their shots on goal, (total SOG 42 - 25) that's when the yelling started in my den. Missed power play opportunities, fanned shots, passes that don't connect. Again, I'm starting to really get used to the quiet of the press box.

It was painfully obvious that the Blue Jackets were going to tie it up. You could see it a mile away as Umberger evened the score. And that's where it stayed. Even when the Isles were given a power play with less than 2 minutes of the third. Once again, nothing but missed opportunities for the Isles and breakaways for the opponents. That garnered a LOT of yelling at the TV.

They should have been able to put the game away. But no. Okposo was the only one to get a shot on goal in the penalty time before the period ended. They were heading to over time with a few seconds left of the penalty. They managed five shots on Mason, but nothing was getting by him.

SHOOT OUT! Okay, so I'm sitting here and now I'M yelling at the TV. "Come on Tambellini! Win this game!" The shoot-out specialist had to the be one to win it. The husband had his own idea of shoot-out line-up and was amazingly disappointed when Gordon had a different idea. "Schremp? Not Okposo? What?" When he became increasingly verbal in his discontent, I told him that Schremp was great at stick handling around goalies. He laughed at me. "No, really! That's his forte! I swear."

"If Robbie Schremp wins this one in the shoot-out then I will say Scott Gordon is a genius. If not, he's an idiot!" I just smiled at him.

Much to my surprise, Jeff Tambellini, who lives for this type of pressure missed on his famous wrist shot. The Blue Jackets Husileus was stopped by Roloson. The crowd chanted his name.

Nielsen's backhand shot was also lacking. Blue Jackets Captain Rick Nash was not only stopped by Dwayne Roloson, but I'd love to know what he said when he looked up and yapped at him in his crease.

The moment of truth (or consequences) came as Robbie Schremp, the spare part who spent so much time in the press box, stood center ice preparing his attack. He is a master at the dance. No, really, that's what he does. "I do a lot of country line dancing." He told Deb and Butchie.

"When I go in for a shoot out, I make my move and see how the goalie reacts...I waited him out and froze him."

Yes he did. And as the Islanders were celebrating when Roloson stopped the final Blue Jacket shooter, I looked at my husband and waited HIM out.

"Gordon's a genius." he said begrudgingly.

When Scott Gordon did his post game interview, he was asked about putting Robbie Schremp in the line-up for the shoot-out.

"It was a surprise, that's why I chose him. He's one of our more skilled players. His hands are second to none on our team. Not hard to pick him for the shoot out -- not even close."

However, the power play is still the thorn in every one's side.

"We've got to be patient and make smart plays. We're kinda shooting ourselves in the foot. You mishandle it or make a bad pass. We have to learn to be patient."
We need to pick it up and put pucks in the net. We gotta get on a roll and get going the right way."

Well, Robbie, this was CERTAINLY a step in the right direction. Congratulations on scoring the final goal of the decade in the Nassau Coliseum.

More Good Than Bad - Caps 3 - Isles 2

I'll admit, I was guarded about tonight's game. After all, Alexander Ovechkin is a leader in the league and when you look at the stat sheets between the teams, there's a bunch of pluses on their side of the sheet and only three players on the Isles team without a minus.

But the Islanders managed to play a good game... again for almost 60 minutes. I was hoping that maybe Ovie was a little lazy tonight and truthfully he was held to only two shots on goal (He had 5 blocked shots and 3 missed shots.)

I was actually impressed that the Isles managed to keep the puck in the Caps zone for a good chunk of the first period. Sean Bergenheim had 3 shots on goal, but he also had 3 blocked. I almost screamed at one of them because he came so close to scoring. He's working so hard, but all he came away with was one assist point for the night.

After the first period, I ran down to gate 12 to see Democrat Candidate for Town of Hempstead Supervisor, Kristen McElroy. She had been there since 6 am meeting the fans and talking about the Lighthouse. Also joining her was Matt Hynes, Democrat candidate for ToH Council District Six.

There was even an impromptu press conference with NY Islanders owner Charles Wang. They were surrounded by fans and media alike. "We're here to show our support for the Lighthouse project and the Islanders as well. We're out here trying to spread the word." Kristen said to the reporters. She also said that her website is getting a lot of support. "People are really supportive of the campaign and of the Lighthouse as well." Kristen has also been hitting a lot of civic group meetings, "There have been a lot of individual issues, but there has also been a lot of support for the Lighthouse. I have to say that 99% of the questions to me as a candidate are about the Lighthouse."

Mr. Wang did not want to talk about anything but hockey, and he didn't. He wasn't there to be anything but supportive of Ms. McElroy. She will be there on Wednesday as well.

So when the second period started I wasn't yet back in the press box. But when I got back there, I got to watch Radek Martinek take down Alexander Ovechkin. I had to make sure I read the number right. But the momentum of that hit didn't last long since Andy Sutton took a hooking penalty.

Thompson laid a hit on Mike Green and the Caps decided to take offense. Nate got to go spend time with Andy in the box. The Islanders were left having to kill off a 5 on 3 against the Washington Caps, and finally a 5 on 4. Roloson came up big and so did the defense. Things were looking good.

When I came back from wandering around meeting up with @dani3boyz and @Katrina_Doell, Jeff Tambellini, (yes, Jeff Tambellini) added to Radek Martinek's earlier goal and it was 2 - 0 Isles.

And then the bottom fell out when Mike Green made it a 2 - 1 game followed pretty quickly by an additional goal by Keith Aucoin that I really didn't think should have counted considering that there was a tussle going on on top of the net. But the refs didn't see it my way and they let the goal stand.

Once again, the Islanders let up a 2 goal lead in the third. Once again the game went to overtime. This time, overtime lasted about 60 seconds before Brooks Laich gave the Capitals their first win of the season over the NY Islanders.

So many good things happened during the game that Scott Gordon was pleasant in the press room. Dwayne Roloson didn't see it that way. He explained it that they want to win so bad that they were just trying too hard. They did play a great game, but didn't come away with the win.

Tomorrow they have to get back on a plane and head back to Montreal. Who came up with this stupid schedule? I think the computer had a few hiccups this year.

More tomorrow.. it's WAAAAAYYY past my bedtime.

The Lust For Last...

is what the fans have. But it is obvious that's not what the players have. What is keeping Islanders Country talking every day as the season winds down is the standings and the team's ability to hold onto that last available spot. We usually are talking about the last PLAY-OFF spot as we head into the Easter holiday. But this year, all we want to hold onto is that 30th spot.

When you hit rock bottom, there is no where to go but UP. We're not angry about it. We're looking to the future with hopeful eyes. But we're not on the ice night after night looking to maintain our confidence and our pride. They are.

These boys will not tank on purpose. They are actually improving. Even tonight's 5 - 2 loss to Ottawa was an improvement. Photos from the gallery are here. Their face off win percentage is up slightly. Josh Bailey added two goals to his stat sheet tonight. And as if by wizardry, Bruno Gervais almost potted his THIRD goal of the season, but he was denied by Elliot. Speaking of confidence, that would have done wonders for his.

Joel Rechlicz played a low 6:27 minutes, but he made his presence known for sure. The fans are noticing him, hopefully Scott Gordon is too.

So here they are, still at the bottom looking up. Looking a little tired too with these back to back games. But the Wild come to town on Wednesday and I'm sure the Isles will not make their time in Uniondale very easy.

No matter how much we lust for that last place, NHL players lust for wins. The Islanders are no different. They will squeeze out a few more wins from this hand full of games that are left before Easter Sunday. Then... we will take things from there.

Isles beat the Pens in a Shoot Out

The post game atmosphere is always so much better when they win. It's also better when there's actually a 60 minute effort. And that's what Scott was most proud of.

The play of the youngsters has been steadily improving. That's not much to get excited over, but when you're the last place team in the league, you'll take whatever shred of optimism you can muster.

But a shoot out win, and Tambellini netting a goal for a change was good to see.

"I thought it was sixty solid minutes. I thought the chances generated were pretty good."

Sean Bergenheim played a very good game, earning two assist points and the coaches confidence by managing to stay out of the penalty box this time. "I think Bergie played well, he finished his checks. Frans (Nielsen) is a play maker and has speed. Hilbert is reliable and can play both sides of the puck." They were a great line.

Okposo made his mark against the face of the NHL. "It's something where we want our young players to play against the best. They're going to be better players for it."

Personally, I didn't think Crosby looked like himself. he was almost invisible. But it was an entertaining game for the crowd of 16,234 (yes, that means sell out). And since it was a wonderful mood in Press Room 6, IslesOfficial Doug even got to ask Scott Gordon a question

after Stan Fischler and Greg Logan were done. When Seth said "One more question." Doug jumped right on it. He asked why some of the players seem to be reluctant to shoot. Check his blog. I'm sure he's going to discuss the answer.

Also check out Gary Harding's blog, View from 317 even though his view today was from 201. And of course, there was Stephen from IslesNation doing his thing going back and forth between his computer and his Blackberry.

When he turned his back, I was going to mess up his blog, but he caught me. But considering I have quite a few pounds on him, I'm sure I could have taken him if I wanted too.

Islesblogger.com Mike was quiet today as he stayed in his seats for all but the last remaining minutes of the game, and Tiger Track Tom Liodice looked quite dashing in his sports coat and tie. Wow! He really IS taking this very seriously. You can check out his work on the Isles main website for many of the game recaps.

Thanks to Doug I ALMOST had a one-on-one interview with Sean Bergenheim in the hallway but for some reason, couldn't come up with anything to ask him. We simply exchanged pleasantries and I told him how happy I was for him for his two point game and star of the night. It must have been that smile and those blue eyes, but I just walked away smiling instead of standing there asking questions and writing.

And finally some additional notes from the locker room (even though I'm not supposed to talk about them). Rick DiPietro looked quite well, almost as good as Hillary Duff.

Comedy Night with Jeff Tambellini

I know I can't disclose all that was said at this evening's NYIBC meeting with special guest Jeff Tambellini, but I will say this -- I'm sorry about every bad thing I ever said about this boy.

Even arriving 15 minutes late, once he began talking, he won the crowd over and kept everyone laughing.

I have never seen such enthusiasm and personality in a man who many could say is struggling every day. You would never know it. He embraced the fans, and they returned the favor. Now I can see how it was reported that Jeff was sent to Bridgeport and never complained. He just worked hard and improved. This is his way of doing things. And this is a side of him I've never seen during the media throng after a horrible loss or even a marginal win.

But then again, if everyone saw this side of Jiffy Jeff, they'd only fall in love with him. Thank you Jeff for a very enjoyable evening.

Well more and more players are healing and being removed from the IR, so we should have a full roster pretty soon. Won't that be nice?

Baseball alert: So Andy Pettitte will remain in Pinstripes. Believe it or not, that was an email I was happy to receive today from the Yankees.

Fanning the Flames in Calgary

Oh boy. I didn't want to say it yesterday because I've said it so many times before. Full Moon + Thursday = Islanders loss. I see the record remains.

But the team looked good, for the most part. They just can't win a game as they drop 16 of the last 18. We're heading for a new record. And truthfully, it isn't even really upsetting me that much.

With another page in the Rick DiPietro Saga occupying the net, I'll just say this..... Holy Crap do I feel bad for Joey MacDonald! This poor guy! An otherwise very good goalie is going to have a year of really horrible stats to show for some really good games. My heart goes out to you boy.

As far as Rick goes, I can totally understand why this "is he playing, isn't he playing" game is of such great concern. He is the face of the franchise, or at least WAS the face of the franchise, and he is ours for probably the rest of MY natural life. But I can understand the Islanders wanting to be cautious with his delicate, reconstructed body. If there is swelling on that rebuilt knee that would get worse if he played, then sure. Make him sit. I don't see why I wouldn't believe there is. I've never had that type of surgery, or anything close, but I've seen firemen be completely fine one second running drills and then watch joints blow up like a grapefruit while they're having a beer 20 minutes later.

"Medically cleared to play." is a statement that was accurate and correct.... before the swelling ensued. Oh, whatever.

Oh, and not for nothing but.... sure, my Rolodex of men who play this game is short, but I did have some conversations over the last few days and heard that it really isn't that uncommon for a goalie to get a starting nod game day or even right after warm ups. But again, whatever.

Congratulations to Trevor Smith on his first NHL goal. This was the same kid that made us sit up and take notice during the preseason. It was great to see him produce.

Also, I guess Jeff Tambellini only really, really plays well when Daddy is in the building. I know Steve Tambellini has that GM gig, but do we think he can follow his son around to all our Islanders games so that he can score the way he did last night? He was probably calling his wife when the camera closed in on him in the owners box.

"Honey, guess what? Yeah! He scored! I know. Everyone was surprised. Of course. I'll tell him Mom says 'I Love You.'" It was a classic parent moment.

I had a hard time staying awake during the third period, so truth be told I blinked and it went from 3 - 2 to a 5 - 2 final. Has Scotty taken up drinking yet?

Okay, they're home now. Maybe that will make a difference. Maybe not. Rangers on Tuesday. Ice up the knee DiPi. We know how you LOVE to stare down King Henrik.

More Christmas Presents

"Dear Santa:

All I want for Christmas is a Game Winning goal. If that's a little too much to ask for, can I at least have a game TYING game with like, let's say 2 seconds left in the 3rd?

Your Pal, Chris Campoli."

So sayeth Big Angry Man Saturday night after the game.

And the Christmas Magic continues as the Islanders manage to steal a point from Lindy Ruff's Sabres. Even more "magical" was a long waited for goal by Jeff Tambelllini. We can finally take the Jeff Tambellini Goal Watch clock down off of our NYIC message board. And of course, Webby is quick, it's already down. Now, let's not have to wait 42 games for another one Jiffy Jeff.

"Pain and Progress are inseperable." So sayeth the Maven. And that is what we got out of the shoot out Saturday. Although MacDonald did an excellent job through 3 periods and one overtime, he was no match during the shoot out.

I wonder if Scott Gordon will lock Sean Bergenheim in a room with three hours worth of video tapes. Deserved or not, that penalty Sean was called for during overtime was killer, and not the frst time he's done that. Wonder what Bergie's video file looks like now. I'm sure it isn't pretty.

Note to Sean from Mom:

Sean, you have to do better. You're smarter than this. Please show it or you will end up in the press box or worse.

Now, can someone tell me why the team plays so diffierently with the man in the Golden Mask in the net. Does Ricky actually give them so much confidence that they can play BETTER? They don't give Joey too many opportunities to win.

But I will say that Rick did play far more disciplined Friday night. His saves were not as dramatic, he didn't flop around. Now, the interesting item is that Islesblogger.com noticed that Rick didn't land comfortably during the obligatory celebration chest bump between the Man in the Golden Mask and our 2 second boy, Chris Campoli. Check it out.

Tomorrow they face the Rangers and the big question will once again be who will be in net. If the injury status was just a clever ruse to get Yann Denis up from Bridgeport, then it will be The Rick. If Joey is firmly planted in net come the first puck drop.... then we'll REALLY have something to talk about!!!

Back on the Ferry Jeff!

So after Christmas shopping (if that's what you can call it) for hours, I return home to take a quick peek at what's going on and see that my two closest buddies just did an ITV interview with non other than Josh Bailey. This is becoming a habit for Islesblogger.com Mike and Tiger Track Tom as they were one of the first to interview him in Ottawa at the draft. Good work guys! Invite the boy to a diner party. And don't forget to invite me too!!!

Yes, yes. The time has come for Jeff Tambellini to get back on the Ferry to Bridgeport where he knows the ropes and the back of the net. The press released said he has "agreed" to a conditioning stint. His "condition" was fine. I hope his head will be "conditioned."

But I'll just say, if GM Garth Snow had anything to do with Jeff "agreeing" to seeing his old Sound Tiger buddies, I can understand his acceptance. Garth can be VERY persuasive, especially when he isn't happy. And considering the numbers that Jeff has, (I know, "What numbers?") I can't imagine he's happy one bit.

So keep your head in the game Jeff. Find the net once again. Regain your form, and we'll see you soon.

Crossing over the LI Sound in the other direction is #57, Blake Comeau. He seemed to have been unceremoniously shipped off weeks ago. I'm sure he'll be looking to make a case for himself to stay in Uniondale.

Question: Do they swap apartments then, or does everyone in transit just live at the Mariott?

Hmmmmm.... I wonder. Well, good luck to both.

As it is the Holiday season (shoot me) I'll be whining (yes, that kind of whining), dining and dancing this evening instead of yelling, cheering and blogging with my Blog Box buddies. But, I'll still be wearing my colors! (I think! IF I can pull it off and still look 'festive'!)

Have a great night all!

Oh! PS, out of sheer 'wtf'.... I signed up for Twitter. So if anyone has a clue about it... let me know!

The Color Of Commitment 10-8-08

I think you have seen the new full page, full color Islanders ads in Newsday. Graphically, they are all striking and editorially all poignant.

One of the first was the one on the back of the Shea Stadium pull out section called "The Color Of Commitment."


"There’s nothing quite like being a sports fan on Long Island. In particular, the winning combination of the Mets and Islanders has created a sense of pride in our culture and a passion in our hearts.
It’s a tradition that has embraced six championship titles, and decade after decade of unforgettable moments and record-breaking success. For these steadfast teams and their faithful followers, the future is as bright as orange and blue." *

I'm bringing this ad up for a reason (even though I'm a Yankees fan). It's that "commitment" statement.

Yesterday I had the pleasure of lunching with Katrina Doell, the Public Relations director from the Lighthouse Project and author of The Lighthouse blog. Commitment would be a perfect word to describe what we discussed over lunch. A commitment to Long Island and a commitment to this team.

I know that as fans we are constantly bombarded with talk of moving our team to far away places starving for NHL hockey. They throw daggers at us when they say "The Lighthouse will NEVER be built."

I think it's time we start throwing some back. We need to supply all the support we can for this project to push past the political red-tape of Nassau County. Check Katrina's blog often as she will have information on the pending town hall meetings. (Those in of themselves are interesting as hell if you've never seen your local government work!) Use the letter forms on their website which we have linked to the NYIC message board.

And by all means, stop by the Lighthouse table on the concourse during games and say hello.

I told her all the talking we did at lunch was off-the-record with the exception of one really exceptional quote that I couldn't help but write down.

When I told her that I'm criticized often for being a cheer-leader and wearing orange colored glasses and just trying to "see the light at the end of the tunnel" she sighed and looked me in the eye and said "Dee, if there's NO light at the end of the tunnel, then it's just a hole."

And the only "hole" we're looking for is the one they're going to dig in the parking lot of the NVMC to build our new home.

Sidenote: Tambellini on facebook chat at 12:30 pm. Anyone want to bet we crash the website by 12:36?

*Kudos to Tom Chiesa from The Wilen Group for great copy!

That's All Folks...

The deadline came and went, and I spent a lot of time being an owl, "Who? Who?" Only 24 deals total this deadline and nothing as earth shattering as last year. Which is a good thing I suppose. Unless of course, Marian Hossa will be the one that hosts the tearful airport press conference of '08.

I arrived at the Coliseum later than everyone else because I didn't have the best excuse to get out of work. "But it's Trade Day! I have to leave early!" wasn't going to cut it at 11 am. But by 2:45 pm, I just said "Gotta go!" and bolted out the door not stopping to say anything else to anyone.

I heard about the Hossa to Pittsburgh deal in the car on XM. Pittsburgh is going to be very scarey for sure. But the shock came as I walked into the arena and stepped up to the blog box table and OkposoNet Ken said "They traded Simon."

"What?" I thought they were just kidding me, they've pulled these stunts before. "No, no joke. He's traded to the Wild for a draft pick." Tiger Track Tom confirmed what the others were saying. I was just stunned. I would have never expected it. But I didn't even have time for it to sink in before the word came that Bergeron was gone as well. I stopped putting my computer together in order to text Dan about the trade as he really liked MAB and feel that he will continue to get better. He wasn't exactly happy, and he let me know it.

Again, I didn't have time to get my act together up here before we were all called into the press room to wait for Garth's official press conference. We waitd in room 6 with everyone else while we watched the TSN coverage continue on a big screen TV they had set up for the "real media." We listened to TSN announce that the Islanders were done for the day even before anyone here alerted us. We also found out that some of the trades weren't announced here in order for the players to be told first, but that the Canadian media had beat them to the punch, as usual. I'm certain it's a devasting thing to find out you have a new job by the likes of Mike Milbury sitting on camera with Darren Pang.

Garth entered the room in jeans and a polo shirt. "I dressed down for you guys. It's only been two days in these clothes." It could have just been a joke, but it didn't look that way. He seemed a little weary with a 5 o'clock shadow, but he smiled non-the-less as he addressed everyone crowded around him. Everyone stands close because once again, WE CAN'T HEAR HIM! To make matters worse, the air conditioner decided to start running full blast overhead. As Josh said, "The most soft spoken man in the world, in the noisiest room in the world." The camera crews drew closer to him. I stayed in the back as usual and just read his lips.

I did a terrible job of it. So, all I know is he wasn't unhappy, he answered the questions with a smile and didn't answer the ones he didn't want to. I did hear him say that moving Simon was to the benefit of Jeff Tambellini as it opened up a spot for him. He was happy to reunite the "kid" line.

Once Garth was done with the media, he was gracious enough to meet exclusively with the Blog Box crew on the other side of the room. I was busy on the other side of the room and had to be summoned to join them. The crew had a chance to ask their own questions which you can find on all their Blogs. Check out OkposoNet, Islesblogger.com (with photos) and Tiger Track for his always amusing play by play, and B.D.s' Bouncing Puck on Hockeybuzz. Again, I just listened. Garth asked me where my recorder was, I told him I didn't need one. But I'll remind him that when he discussed the up-and-coming "kids" that would be benefiting the line-up he didn't mention..... BERGENHEIM. I don't forget these things Mr. Snow.

I'm sure he's glad this is over and they can concentrate on making the team better in order to make the playoffs. He reiterated that their main goal is always keeping their eye on vying for the Stanley Cup. Some day, maybe they'll actually get close enough to it. Considering tight standings this year and the parity of the league, '08 is NOT the year for the Islanders.

At 5 pm Ted did his pre-game press conference in the corridor outside his office. We were late, but it wasn't my fault. We came in on the tail end of it, but I can tell you, he seemed fine. I was curious, just as everyone else was, 'How is Ted going to handle the Simon trade?' Easy. Like the consumate professional he is and with that warm, loving smile that he always shows when he speaks of things that are close to him.

Now everyone to work! No more worrying about getting up today and finding out you need your butt on a plane halfway across the country. Everyone relax, hit the ice, and please ..... Start a new winning streak. WE need the points!

2 Points, a New Tie & a few Bones to Pick!

Good Morning World! Wow! 3-1 last night? Who'da thought that would be possible when the Islanders were LEAVING for that road trip? But that's why they play the game -- you never know what will happen. Okay, so they ended up beating the Senators "light", but still, 2 points is 2 points and they'll take them. Hopefully his efforts last night will keep Bergeron out of Ted's Dog House for a few games, and Mike Comrie will continue to remember what he's here for.

Ted's Blue & Green stripe tie was NOT part of my statistical analysis in yesterday's post. It will have to be added in the "W" column.

Now the bones to pick.

I've never been one to question Ted's decisions. I have full confidence in him and respect him enough to come to his defence against any and all detractors. But that is for his hockey decisions. But my mother's heart is a little disappointed with him right now. Tamby: the young man who is currently playing yo-yo between Bridgeport and the big club. A young man who NEEDS to prove himself, but can't unless he is given the opportunity.

Yesterday the entire fan base was abuzz when we heard he had been recalled and had travelled to Ottawa. "Jeff gets another shot!" It was good news to supplant the bad news of the injuries that had occurred. But my heart broke for the boy when they announced he participated in the morning skate but wouldn't be in the game. "Thanks, but no thanks." and "Back on the bus, Jeff." I couldn't help but think how he must feel. Certainly, Logan's article showed him being a "good soldier" and taking the decision with grace, but this mother is saying "HEY! You could have given the boy a shot!" Would it really have hurt to let Miro rest one more day? Would it not have been in the kid's best interest MENTALLY to let him play last night? He must have agonized over it the entire flight to Ottawa. Don't break the kid's spirit Ted.

OK, next bone to pick: The weathermen. Can someone please tell me why the Long Island weathermen have to try to scare the living daylights out of us with weather reports of impending doom that they are not 100% sure of??? Yep, I know why. RATINGS! Fear equates to ratings and longer lines at the Supermarket. You would have thought we were headed for a blizzard yesterday the way they reported "Storm Watch!" every hour. There were lines down the aisles in every supermarket as basic needs became scarce. But as I awoke this morning at 6 am, what was I greeted with? A silent blanket of snow? A wind-blown blizzard? No, a wet newspaper, some drizzle and a disappointed 13 year-old pouting "What do you MEAN School's open????"

But to the North there is Snow, where it should be. And according to Logan, the weather DID delay the Islanders flight home. But I'll be getting to work on time..... if I stop writing.