Suffolk picks $1B Arena idea, Maybe the Isles will

Well Halle-frekin'-lujah.  Over a decade ago I kept asking "Why not build in Suffolk County, Mr. Wang?" Suffolk seemed perfect.  It had many parcels of available property that would have fit the needs of the Lighthouse project.  Transportation, ease of access and a favorable political environment.  But no.   Uniondale was where he wanted to be.

What was to be his legacy for his children is now just a once promising idea.  For Nassau County that is.  But here in Suffolk County the Ronkonkoma Hub project that has already broken ground seems eerily similar to me.  The apartment complexes, the retail space, the restaurant space, the parking garages each brought back memories of that multipage postcard we all got with the concepts of the project.  The only thing missing was that bubble of an arena and the much needed Sports Medical Arts building.  Well, not any more.

Across from that perfectly planned walking community will be exactly what was needed here in Suffolk;  an entertainment and convention venue partnered with a world-class sports medicine facility and jobs.  All within walking distance of a major LIRR station, along a bus route and at three exits of a major roadway.  Give me an adorable trolley as was once proposed by the Islanders organization, and this is Disney-esque to a T!

But the Islanders have NOTHING to do with this project according to Jim Baumbach from Newsday who says he is "in-the-know."  From my past experience with the organization I can say -- they never tell the whole truth because they themselves aren't even sure of the entire truth.  The truth is basically a moving target for them.

So maybe they will have a new home in Suffolk, maybe not.  Who knows.  If they continue to play the way they have been, they can put in an ECHL team and it will be just as successful.  Hell, put the Stony Brook SeaWolves in there.  That's fine.

The Islanders are the classic definition of insanity.  Continue to do the same thing believing there will be a different outcome.  Will John Tavares stay long enough to see ANY new arena built for them, wherever it may be?  Not sure.  But certainly the Islanders have done nothing for him in years other than grant him protection from a Canadian media spotlight and basketball in Charles Wang's driveway.

If John Tavares truly wants to have his name etched on the Stanley Cup, it is time for him to move on.  And speaking of moving on, Garth Snow can't possibly be happy with himself or his organization.  He has nothing to show for his tenure as GM other than mediocrity.  Time to find a new beginning for him as well.  But don't be surprised if things stay the way they are.  This is after all The Islanders.  No matter who "owns" them, they manage to always stay pretty much the same:  A work in progress.  Sort of like the Sistine Chapel.

Do You Feel a "Draft"?

I was sort of reluctant to start talking about this NOW while our dreaded rivals are battling for a chance to win the Stanley Cup; but it's time to start planning for Draft Day. Okay, cue the haters and the nasty comments.

Yeah, yeah. Nothing we haven't heard before. Go ahead, talk about booking "tee times" until September, but what really is filling alot of the summer calendar is promotional events and appearances. So the NHL Draft is Friday, June 22nd at 7 pm and once again the Islanders are opening the Coliseum doors for an evening of fun, games and face time. Tickets are free but they need to be ordered here.

Now, there is a REASON to begin planning for this now and for printing tickets even though this is a free event. If you throw a party, don't you want people to RSVP? You need to know you have enough of everything to go around, right? Well, that's what the Islanders need to do on a much larger scale. Remember what happened when they thought that 2,000 people were showing up for a prospect scrimmage and 5,000 did? Yeah, that. So order your tickets and be there early.

Once again there will be an NHL exhibit, interactive games for the younger set, merchandise blowout for the shoppers in us and most importantly -- Players John Tavares, Matt Moulson, Matt Martin, Nino Niederreiter, Kevin Poulin, Ryan Strome, Casey Cizikas and Calvin de Haan will be in attendance along with select Islanders alumni.

The Draft itself starts at 7 pm and doors will open at 5:30 pm. The Isles are scheduled to draft at 4th but that could change. Anything is possible. I just hope they don't trade down so far that I get home too late. Saturday 6/23 on Long Island is Graduation Day for a lot of high schools... including my daughter's. So if you can't be at the Draft, come hang with the rest of us.

Isles Find 5 Good Minutes Against the Flyers

It was going to be one of those typical NY Islanders games against the Flyers.  It was a given with  Bryzgalov in net for the Flyers that the Isles would have no chance.  Okay, add Jagr's tendency to score effortlessly against the Isles not matter who THEY have in net and -- yeah.  I was expecting the loss.

I was not disappointed.  They fell 3-2, but it could have been 3 - 0 and was up until the stunning last 6:53 minutes.

While Jack Capuano said he thought they played a pretty good first period, PA Parenteau thought they lacked passion and energy and it cost them.  Capuano called the first two goals "gifts."  They were defensive breakdown giveaways that cost them.

The Isles didn't play the way they wanted or needed to, but there were still bright spots along with the mistakes.  However, there was only one player who tried to spur them on and bring them to life; Matt Martin.

When I went into the locker room it was busy and crowded so there was noise.  But it wasn't the noise I usually hear after a win.  This was just that -- noise.  Every player was in the dressing room and Mark Streit was doing interviews in English and something else.  I couldn't tell what it was.  Parenteau had the camera lights glaring on him while everyone else crowded around Stan Fischler and the MSG cameras. 

There was one reporter with John Tavares and one with Andy MacDonald.  I was tripping over hockey bags getting ready for the trip even though they're not leaving until tomorrow after practice.

I bugged my go-to-guy, Matt Moulson and asked him what was different in the last six minutes.  Matt's demeanour has changed.  Losing is really effecting him. 

"We had guys going to the net, getting shots.  I don't know.  We had a lot of zone time during the game, so maybe we finally wore them out."  It's evident, Matt's a little worn out.  The resident Iron Man could really use a break -- or a win.

When I asked him how important it was for them to hear the crowd get into the game, he said "Without Matt Martin -- I mean, he was the only one getting the crowd into the game for awhile.  It would have been nice to get that energy earlier.  Got a goal earlier and got the crowd going, but...yeah, we fed off that for a bit at the end there."  I shut the recorder and left him to the others.

Matt Martin was standing talking to MacDonald and Hamonic.  He had already been int he tunnel signing his green practice jersey for someone.  That was probably why every player was in the room.    I asked Martin about his fight with Simmonds and what prompted it.  I was a little surprised.

"I know Simmonds a little bit from Junior and we fought before in LA."  I asked Matt if he felt Simmons was expecting it.  "He actually challenged me and at that point, I have a lot of respect for him and I think he has a lot of respect for me.  I played against him in junior and got to know him a little bit on the side so.  There's  no friends on the ice, but there's definitely no beef between us."

The change in momentum was Michael Grabner's goal shutting down  Bryzgalov's shut out streak that had been carrying over for way too long.  Once the first one went by, the second came right on it's heels. 

Matt felt the fans were great in the last few minutes and really helped them get going.

Sadly, they didn't get the final results they wanted.  A win.

Jack Capuano's post game was short.  Very short.  But rather than think that it was Jack who had nothing to say, I'll go with the media has nothing left to ask him.  How many times and how many ways can you ask "what went wrong?" 

I didn't see it but I was told that JT took the marker from Jack during the time out to draw up something on the dry erase board for the last play.  When I came home and asked my family, I was a little surprised at what I heard about that as well. 

While the Big Angry Man said he was yelling and cursing at the TV asking what Jack thought they could do with the few seconds that remained when they couldn't do anything for the first 40 minutes, the Brat Baby said Jack took the board and said "This is a doodle of my cat and John said, it's a very nice cat Jack."

I cried.

They're Here - for 16 Games a Year

We can finally stop guessing and wondering if the drawing found on the net months ago was the actual design of the new third jersey. Now while they are decidedly (and I repeat DECIDEDLY) different from the team's regular jerseys. They will take time to get used to, but they are NOT the Fisherman debacle. Actually, when in full uniform, they look pretty sharp.

They are slated to be used for 16 total games this season. If you don't like them, don't buy one. There are plenty of other home and away jerseys for sale in the team store and on NHL.com.

But the new Winter Wonderland line is terrific. The new apparel items come in many colors and styles and are soft and inviting. As John Tavares and Matt Moulson told me, there is something for everyone in the line.

It's so nice to see women's items that are actually made for women! It's also nice to see great looking Islander hats in other colors and patterns. Now you can wear your support for the Isles and not have to have nothing but blue and orange in your closet (like me).

The event went over very well with the 120 attendees. Space was limited and those who managed to purchase the charity tickets were treated to a buffet of delicious and easy to eat appetizers along with great cookies and cake.

It took me a few minutes, but I found the bar. Hey! I wasn't actually "working." One small glass of Cabernet and I was a happy camper. Although I had already picked up a bottle of water, so I spent a good 40 minutes juggling the camera, the phone, the recorder and two drinks. And I said I wasn't working?

Ed Westfall looked terrific and spent time laughing and talking to anyone who approached. Mike Bossy was there as well doing interviews and even taking young fans around to get autographs. (Bobby interrupted me as I was trying to interview Moulson. I didn't mind a bit.)

I had a chance to speak with John Tavares about the new Winter line. It was interesting speaking with him outside of a game situation. He smiles. He laughs. He is relaxed. I asked him what he thought about the winter line and the variety.

"It's definitely great. Definitely different. There's a great selection so everyone is going to enjoy it. I know there's a few pieces that I'd like to have and family members would like to have."

I always wondered how players felt when they saw fans wearing team apparel on the street outside of the arena.

"You notice the support. It shows that people care about the team and what the team means to people on Long Island. And even when I see them in different cities, knowing that anywhere you can have an Islander fan and they're proud to be one as well."

I asked JT what his favorite item was and he said it was that new black hat he's been sporting.

For Matt he has a favorite too. "My favorite is a simple white, straight brim, with an Islander logo in black and grey hat." He thought for a split second. "That's my favorite thing in the whole store." But he also admitted "I like a lot of the stuff out there."

I asked the same question about fans wearing Islander items on the street. "It's good to see people support the team. Obviously we have a very loyal fan base on Long Island so it's good to see an Islander hat instead of a.... (another team. ;0) )"

Matt said he doesn't see Islander gear outside of NY too often, but he does see them occasionally in his home in CT. He told me it makes him want to talk to them.

Even the Ice Girls had new outfits to match the new jerseys. The players wives and kids were recruited for duty as well and everyone did a great job.

I had a great conversation with Mike Mottau, but it was off the record so .... I had a quick conversation with Garth Snow as well. That too was off the record so -- this is all I've got.

"We Don't Come in here to Lose"

"We don't come in here to lose. We don't like it. We don't accept it." John Tavares told the reporters after the game. It was obvious the morale in the room was low.

"On the power play, we had some chances, they blocked a lot of shots." He kept he head down to shield his eyes from the camera lights.

"What is the mood in the room? Is it anger, frustration, what?" That was the question one reporter kept asking. But the answer was obvious if you just looked at their faces.

"We're trying to get better and find a way to win. For sure it's not easy all the time and you don't enjoy this feeling." No one enjoys the feeling. Not the men who poured their sweat on the ice or those who pour their passion into watching it.

Matt Moulson "To battle like that and not come out on top, it's tough. Definitely think the effort was there, I don't think anyone in here didn't want it tonight or didn't work hard. We have to find a way to win."

A major reason the Isles couldn't find a way to win was finding a way to beat Henrik Lundqvist. "He's a great goaltender, obviously. You get guys around him and get guys to the net and try to make life hard on him. At points in the game we did a good job of that and at others, not so much."

When Matt was asked about the mood, his tone didn't change.

"Obviously, it's angry. Guys want to win. We have to win. We should be a winning team in this league. We have to find ways to get it done. We have to figure it out as a group."

Jack Capuano, while unhappy with the outcome, was happier with the effort of his team.

"It's frustrating. We played some decent hockey. Tonight we played one of our better games of the year and we came up short."

The Isles trailed on the score sheet for all but about a minute. Even the physical efforts of Mike Mottau (who earned his 7th fighting major of his NHL career) and Matt Martin couldn't turn the game around.

"I tried to get the guys into the game a little. We tried to apply a little more pressure....I was happy with the effort, but really I thought we deserved the points, even one point at that."

When I heard Matt Moulson even the score at two, I thought for sure the game would go to overtime and the Isles would get a point out of it. I guess, so did Jack. But the Rangers Brad Richards came back to score a third and Jack pulled Nabokov in the final minutes for the extra attacker and while the effort and the excitement was high, the expected outcome never materialized.

Nino Niederreiter playing his fourth game in five nights got a good taste of the Ranger rivalry. Jack was asked about his youngest player.

"When he was out there, he made some good plays with the puck. He showed me he has some poise with the puck. He's going to be a good player in this league."

Yes. He will. El Nino played a little over 11 minutes and had one shot on net.

But he didn't score the goal he wanted and only Frans and Moulson found the back of the net. "If anybody that watched us play tonight they would think the guys played extremely hard. We're not a team that scores a lot of goals. We got one on the Power Play and one 5 on 5. We have to find secondary scoring. We have to find a way to score some goals."

The Isles remain the lowest scoring team in the league. Secondary scoring has been the topic of many conversation over the last few weeks and Jack has attempted to find chemistry by doing minimal shuffling, but to no avail.

The Ranger winning goal was caused by an "egregious" turn over by Josh Bailey. When Jack was asked about it, he didn't throw Josh under a bus. Instead, he explained it from the player's point of view in a high pressure situation.

"When you get the puck you want to make the right play with the puck and it was an unfortunate bounce for us."

When asked if Jack would continue to rearrange lines and sit players, he responded "We always sit down and rate our guys. We have to put the best guys out. We have to try to find a way to get the right mix in there."

There was no mention of call-ups from Bridgeport. I had been begging for two days for one particular call up for last night's game: Michael Haley. Not to say that the outcome would have been much different, but we won't know, now do we.

This is an unusual stretch of losing. The Islanders are not playing horrible hockey. Usually when you go through stretches like this you're playing bad hockey.

"We were dangerous tonight. I like the way we competed." was Jack's consolation for the evening.


In the other locker room, John Tortorella met the media. "I thought we were good at periods of time, I thought we were brutal at periods of time. We found a way to win another hockey game."

He was disappointed his team couldn't find a way to score on the five on three but found it encouraging that they won in the coliseum where they have had trouble before. "To win and win consistently, that's the way we have to be."

That's the way to get into the playoffs. The playoffs that are already getting further in the distance for the New York Islanders.

Leading by Example

While I see you're having a good time discussing the goal song selection, I still need to discuss the other news of the day which was the selection of "A"s and other junk. If you would like to go back to the comments thread on the other post, click here.

But before you do, let's chat.

First, I personally think Belmont in Elmont may as well be Mars for the Islanders. The proposal didn't mention WHO would pay for a new arena because it sure as hell isn't Charles Wang.

Secondly, the Islanders announced their selection of alternate captains today. In a bold move, they named four, two for the road and two for home games. Two veteran players that are new to the dressing room and two youngsters that will be a big part of the Isles organization for a long time.

When interviewed today by ITV Steve Staios and John Tavares both said they would lead by example. All four said it was a great honor, but Staios said he knows it's easy when things are going good, it's the tough days - which all teams go through - which will be the real test.

Brian Rolston knows they' look to him for sage advice, being one of the older guys in the room. But he said while many of the players in the room are young in years, they are mature and know what it takes to play 82 games.

Rolston also said he was "super happy" for ex-NJ Devil Jay Pandolfo getting a chance to extend his career. "He's not just a good hockey player, he's a great human being."

Tavares met the questions with the same quiet poise that he has always had since he arrived on the island. "The trust of the coaches is a huge honor." But he let on that he is far more vocal in the room now than he was his first year.

Kyle Okposo said he'd be watching both games on Versus tonight and trying to quell those jitters that all players have before opening day. Tavares said the home opener is like Christmas for them and Staios said if a player doesn't have a certain amount of jitters, he probably shouldn't be playing.

The choices Jack Capuano made were based on many factors, but none so important as "character."

When it came to giving Brian Rolston the "A", he said "Character means everything and he's going to fit in our room just fine."

Some fans have questioned the choices made, but the truth is as Jack stated "A lot will lead without a letter."

When asked about Pandolfo making the team after being there on a try-out, Capuano reminded the press how smart Jay is and how well he understands his role. Just as the Islanders management has said all along, the players who produce will be the ones who play.

Lines may move around some as the chemistry is tinkered with, but Blake Comeau has been moved to the opposite wing. He played the position in the game in Bridgeport and Jack knows it's a bit of a change for him but "hopefully he can adjust."

uh, oh.

Art Staple of Newsday held a live chat today at 1:30 pm. If you weren't able to catch it live, play the repeat. It was very thorough and I enjoyed it. Mostly I enjoyed it because 96% of his answers are what I would have said should I have been asked.

Leaving me to believe that maybe -- just maybe -- I've learned something in the past five years.

Happy Birthdays Are In Order

Coincidence or by design, the NY Islanders "face of the franchise" turns 21 today. Yes, time is passing and young John Tavares is finally of legal age and can go anywhere without parental supervision or having to ask Doug Weight for permission.

Is it interesting that yesterday was the old "face of the franchise's" birthday? Rick DiPietro turned 30 yesterday without any fanfare and according to Michael Grabner, not much distraction from practice. @Grabs40 announced he had to find out on Twitter that it was 39's birthday.

Seems a bit unusual since years ago, RDP had been photographed getting pied for his birthday during training camp. Where's Shakey?

But things are different for the 30-year-old netminder looking to prove himself at training camp. Listen to the latest video taken on the second day of Jack Capuano's grueling training camp. This is a much more mature Rick DiPietro.

Tavares: Committed to the Organization & the Community

*told ya I hide in the back!

  7:35 am:  Oh look!  Josh Bailey DID sign over night.  Two years is better than a year in the Ukraine, right?

Most of the details had already been posted. The information was published in multiple places, so there was little we didn't know by 1 pm. But the room was filled any way. Yes, signing the NHL 1st over all draft pick was big news in the hockey world. So much so that it was covered by every Canadian sports radio station all morning long and even NBC's veteran sportscaster Bruce Beck (it took me 25 minutes to find his name)made the trek to Uniondale.

After all the speculation, John Tavares made sure it was clear what his intentions for his future are. With a year remaining on his entry-level agreement, John and his agent forged a six year extension that should put all the questions to rest.

Canada's favorite son would continue to skate in an Islanders sweater -- whether Canada liked it or not.

When there is a room full of MSM like this, I tend to stay quiet and let those being paid to do their jobs actually do them. I always come armed with what I believe will be a question or two that no one else will ask. Because it takes me so long to develop something out of the ordinary, should someone else come close to it, I'm screwed. However, today I came armed with a doozy.

While I was waiting for soon-to-be-retired editor of IslandersPointBlank to be interviewed on Fan 590 Toronto, I listened as Jeff Blair and his co-host ungraciously condemned the New York Islanders.

In all honesty, my fan heart couldn't take it. I jotted down notes on a paper towel because I couldn't find a note pad. I didn't want to make a mistake as I wanted to repeat the phrases verbatim to John Tavares. They were amazed that JT, a good Canadian boy, would want to sign for such an extended period of time with such an "insignificant" franchise where "no one will ever see" him play and no one will care.

I waited for a good portion of the reporters to walk away from JT, the reporters I didn't know. Then I stood waiting to ask my question as Katie Strang, now representing ESPN, stood next to Art Staple asking a question that was an excellent lead in to mine. "Did it bother you at all that people speculated that you wouldn't stay here?" He answered that he didn't understand it.

I was interrupted once and after JT gave his typically well-thought and thorough answer to the gentleman next to me, I pounced.


"John, this is in line with Katie's last question..." I spoke loud enough so that no one else would step over me. I explained what Jeff Blair and his co-host said and asked what he would answer had he been on the phone.

It was the first time I've ever seen Katie Strang's eyes pop when I spoke and JT's reaction was one of bracing himself to answer as he thought about what a fellow countryman had just said about the place he chose to develop his career.

"That's just very disappointing. I think it's a wrong judgment about our organization. Charles is a great owner, he's great to all of us. Garth has been great to all of us. We are treated with a lot of respect and dignity. They give us an opportunity to play and compete and they want us to win. We're building this the right way. We're taking our time and now it's starting to show. This is a big year for us, obviously. So, I'm sure once we start winning and we're more successful on the ice people will start to notice us a little more and know what we're all about."

What they are all about is commitment. Whether Nassau County is committed to the Islanders doesn't matter right now. As of today, everyone knows that John Tavares is committed to the team that drafted him.

Garth Snow entertained the media in his usual quiet style leaving all reporters struggling to get their recorders and microphones as close to him as possible. Everyone was very respectful of the general manager, but when the camera lights were off, Art Staple and Katie Strang pressured about Josh Bailey's contract status. There were no real answers coming, but they had to ask. It's their job. I didn't dare even look the GM in the eye after that and scurried off so as not to get caught in the cross-fire should the conversation continue.

As of 11 pm, there is no word of Josh Bailey's contract even though all reports were that Bailey's agent and Garth Snow were holding discussions this evening.

Back to my fan heart: Tick-freakin'-tock Josh. You know the deal.

Considering how well this team is shaping up with Okposo, Moulson, Grabner, and Tavares all signed and happy, your window of opportunity is rapidly closing.

And as a side note; I check Ms. Strang's ESPN.com entry and saw that she called me a "reporter." Considering how well she knows me -- I'm honored (and a little shocked.)

JT Signs Long Term Deal

I guess he is just having too much fun here to look for greener pastures. *Thanks to the Isles Flicker account for that great fun photo of JT & Grabs40.

For all those who doubted the young man, he stays right where he belongs -- in an Islanders sweater.  According to @StapeNewsday the deal is 6 years and roughtly $5.5 mil, but the official annoucement will be tomorrow at 1 pm.

Will we be able to hear the Canadian hockey media weeping from the Coliseum?

Maybe.

Final Four: Game 2 Isles @ Bruins

Game Day: After a bumpy ride in turbulent weather yesterday, the Islanders landed safely in Boston. We know that from @MMoulson and @Grabs40's Twitter accounts. I thank them for that. We also know that they had a good dinner, took in a movie and Grabner ate all the chocolate out of his mini-bar. Sugar rush?

Okay then. Here we go.

With the Bruins currently sitting as the third seed in the East, expect the TD Center to be rocking. They are gearing up for playoff hockey and Boston is an awesome hockey town. The Islanders have now lost Milan Jurcina and Frans Nielsen. I'm not even sure if Jack Hillen has made this trip, so the Isles could be seriously depleted. There has been no word as of yet as to any call-ups from Bridgeport, but I would guess there has to be some new name on the bench tonight or Jack will looking at Doug Weight behind the bench and seeing if he's got his skates.

Interesting fact that Art Staple put out yesterday, only six players that started with the Islanders in October are still on the bench. This is certainly a season to remember.

The Bruins will be without Marc Savard due to concussion and Shawn Thorton has 40 fresh stitches that caused him to miss the game against the Rangers. Will he make this one?

What the Isles fans should root for tonight is goals. Goals, goals, goals. John Tavares is two away from 30 and PA Parenteau needs one more for 20. Oh hell, give Matt Martin another too. Or how about Trevor Gillies, who will undoubtedly be in the line-up tonight facing the mountain that is Zedeno Chara.

Rick DiPietro is a Mass native, so perhaps Jack will put him in net tonight and keep him away from the Penguins on Friday, Fan Appreciation Day at the barn.

The fact that Isles hockey will end on Saturday is starting to sink in. I'm starting to feel the dark cloud invade my sunny disposition. Ugh.

Mikko's 1st NHL Shoot Out Win

I never expected it. Actually, I was worried about the game the entire day. But remarkably, as Jack Capuano said in his post game, this team rose to the occasion and managed to regroup after Tuesday's loss at the Coliseum.

Mikko was far better prepared, as was the rest of the team, and it showed. Koskinen, who hasn't had the best season in Bridgeport at only 5 - 15 actually has had success in the shoot out there. Had I known that, maybe I would still have nails.

The Islanders let up the first goal again tonight, but it didn't come until 14:10 of the first by Max Pacioretty from the Right circle. At 16:35 of the first, John Tavares lifted the puck over Auld's shoulder to tie the game. It was his 19th goal of the season, and it was unassisted. It was -- beautiful. The odd thing was there were seven penalties in the first period. It seemed as if they were calling just about everything.

It wasn't long after the second period began that the Habs were once again leading the score on a goal by Benoit Pouliot. They stayed in the lead until almost the end of the second period.

Michael Grabner is now tied with JT and Matt Moulson at 19 goals. He scored twice during this game and could have scored a third goal had his first break away attempt not been stopped by Auld. Along with Grabner's blinding speed is his ability to not give up on the play. Grabner's goals tied the Habs in the second period and again early in the third. He was looking for the hat trick but couldn't find it. He had a team high six shots on net. Grabner played on the power play, he played on the penalty kill and he played five on five. According to Jack Capuano, he's exceptionally versatile and sees the game better than most. On Tuesday he also joked that Grabs could probably play goal.

But there were many stand-outs tonight. Jack Hillen again had an excellent game as did Andy MacDonald who seemed to play possessed for a second under 28 minutes. The Islander defense played for Mikko and they played for each other. This is the team Jack Capuano wanted to see.

Koskinen went four for four on the Habs shooters, but so did Auld. It wasn't until Kyle Okposo skated out and brought the game to an end with two points in the Isles pocket.

In the post game, Mikko was quick to praise Okposo. "It was awesome to see that Kyle buried that one." He seemed to still be a little shell-shocked. "I haven't won for a while. It was a great feeling. One of the best of my life. It was unbelievable."

Playing in just his second NHL game, Mikko said he really wasn't nervous before the shoot out. "I know I'm pretty good at the shoot out and they didn't know me. They didn't know how to beat me. It was really fun. I had a lot of fun there."

But a true team player, he made sure to let everyone know "The guys played unbelievable in front of me. Made my job easier tonight." Unlike Tuesday when as Matt Moulson said, Mikko really didn't get much support.

The man who scored the game winner in the shoot out spent a good amount of time in front of the cameras during the post game. Kyle Okposo was his reserved self, but every now and then he would flash that amazing smile of his and the dimples in his cheeks would make their appearance.

"He played unbelievable for us tonight. He made some huge saves and kept us in the game with a couple of them." Now skating with Frans Nielsen, Okposo said he is beginning to find some chemistry after being out of the line up for so long after his shoulder surgery."

Now, I couldn't see the reporter who asked Kyle a question about the mentality of the team. I also couldn't hear the entire question, but I did enjoy Kyle's answer.
"People under estimate us a little bit. We've been playing well since the break and we're getting better every game and we want to continue. Our team played well and we battled for him (Mikko)and for each other."

I take it that was his way of telling everyone the Islander team should not be taken lightly. They may not be going anywhere in the post season this year, but they sure as hell shouldn't be looked at as an easy mark. Not even with an inexperienced goaltender having to protect the net.

After watching Koskinen's performance tonight, I had to figure that Garth Snow was proud of his efforts. He was. Very.

No time to rest and enjoy the two points, the Islanders face the Penguins tomorrow night in what may end up being a grudge match. Hopefully, no one will be looking for a fight.... yeah... right.

Isles vs. Sabres (again) before the JETS game

I almost didn't want to write a post-game. No, I didn't want to write a post-game, but I finally did. I had packed up my computer before the end of the game and didn't write anything until mid-way through the Jets loss.

And if anyone is interested, it can be found here, at Hockeybuzz.com


There will be an extensive post on the Lighthouse Hockey tournament finale that took place this morning. I don't want to bury it right now because it deserves the space.

So for now, the Isles face the Sabres with Rick in net and Kevin Poulin backing him up as Nate Lawson's knee will be re-evaluated later today.

Pretty funny that Evgeni Nabokov is listed as a scratch on the scoresheet along with Trevor Gillies and Nate Lawson. After all, whether he likes it or not, Nabokov right now is Islander property. No word if he actually got on that plane the Islanders booked for him today or not. My thought is "not." Then I guess the man just won't play this year. Dumb move if you ask me.

It will be Ryan Miller in net today for Buffalo and Rick DiPIetro for the Islanders.

Well, it took 15 seconds for the Sabres to score on a puck that wasn't controlled in the paint and it's already 1 - 0 Sabres. The Sabres lost to the Islanders this week and they do not want to lose again. They'll fight for this win.

Islanders with the first power play of the afternoon managed only two shots on Ryan Miller.


And according to ESPN's Pierre LeBrun, Nabokov has decided to stay home rather than report to the Islanders. According to his report, he has no messages from Garth Snow. Perhaps he has an old phone number. Well, whatever the situation really is, the CBA rules are intact and the ball is now in Garth Snow's court. Serve.

With 5:15 left of the first, shots on goal are even at 8


Start of the second period and Niedermayer takes a delay of game penalty. Matt Moulson, parked where he should be, in front of Miller's net, takes a pass from JT behind the net and gets it by Miller's pads. That's another one for #MightyMattMoulson and an even 1-1 for the Islanders

And as soon as I hit Publish Post, the Sabres go up by one on a goal by Ennis. This is going to be a long game.

Josh Bailey had a great chance in front of Miller that could have changed the direction of the game, but was not able to get it by him.

A few clicks later JT made a pass down the wing as PA Parenteau was driving to the net which took Miller out of position and Moulson netted his second of the game and 17th of the season which evened the score at two. SOG are now 25 to 14.

Blood is spilled as Frans Nielsen takes a stick to the face and the Sabres are left with a four minute penalty to kill off.

Rick DiPietro, once again, skates out past the circle to play a puck. Did we not set the bungee cords up for him? Seriously.

The four minute power play is followed by a four minute penalty kill as Josh Bailey is sent to the box for drawing blood as well. The Islanders will have to kill off 2:07 of the penalty on a clean sheet of ice to start the third.

The Islanders are seriously outshooting the Sabres, but Miller is showing why he is who he is.

Meanwhile, the Nabokov saga is getting a lot of airplay on Twitter and it just keeps getting more rediculous. Also announced the crowd is 10,120 and that Nate Lawson will be out 1 - 2 weeks with an MCL strain.

Guess that means Kevin Poulin will be getting comfortable in his Islanders jersey.

Okay, so the PK couldn't kill off the entire 4 minute penalty and Gerbe managed to get a shot close in past RDP. There was a little roughing going on in front of the benches and both JT and Gaustad are sent to the box. Teams will skate 4 on 4 while the Sabres are up 3 - 2 early in the third period

At 3:53 of the third, the Sabres get a lucky break as a play is reviewed and determined the the puck that Rick was covering did cross the line before the whistle blew and the net was back on the moorings to put the Sabres up 4 - 2. This leaves time for the Islanders to come back, but it won't be easy if they can.

With 3:23 left of the third, Jack Hillen scores to get the Isles within one. The Isles have now outshot the Sabres 34 - 21. But the sabres still will win and I have to pack up.

maybe that will mean the Isles will tie the game and go to OT on a Matt Moulson goal. PS, if I have to hear Ken Dick say OH S**T one more time due to football, I will hurt him. I keep thinking something is wrong.

Later

Isles vs. Sabres 1-15-11

Rick DiPietro's first period back from a little trip on the IR went quite well. Rick saw 14 shots and stopped all of them. Michael Grabner had some excellent changes using his speed to amaze the Buffalo defense. But sadly for the Isles, Ryan Miller has also been able to stop each of the 15 shots that have been thrown his way.

John Tavares and PA Parenteau had an amazing give-and-go in on Miller, but Ryan Miller proved why he went to the Olympics and saw every move. JT was visibly dismayed at that as he was sprawled on the ice at the boards.

Everything was pretty good for the Islanders in the first as they had far more jump than the last game, but during the last minute of play, first Jurcina was called for a penalty on Tyler Ennis (the Sabres only ASG rookie rep!) and within a few ticks of the clock, Radek Martinek was called for a penalty.

The Sabres will start the second period on a fresh sheet of ice with a 5 on 3 power play. The Islanders PK is good, but I don't think it is THAT good to get through 1:27 of 5 on 3! But we'll have to see.

Twenty seven seconds into the second period, Thomas Vanek scores on the 5 on 3 to put the Sabres on the board. It would be the only goal they would see in the period.

The Isles PK managed to easily kill of the 5 on 4 Sabres power play. And then at 3:44, Rob Niedermayer took a hooking penalty and the tables were turned. While no goal was scored, at 7:50 John Tavares beat Ryan Miller to tie the game. According to @B6BB7 "It took a perfect shot to beat him."

There was no call when Milan Jurcina went down on the ice bleeding from over his eye. No office saw any infraction and Jurcina headed off to be stitched up.

Howie Rose and Butch Goring kept complimenting the energy level of the crowd of 12,223 which was 2 more than the Islanders first ever game. Niedermayer gave the Isles their 3rd power play of the evening and John Tavares scored his second goal of the game off a Matt Moulson rebound.

At 13:36 of the second, John Tavares scores his second hat trick of the season with Moulson and Parenteau in Ryan Miller's crease looking to knock in the rebound, JT on one knee bats it in behind Miller.

But they weren't done. Blake Comeau scored the fourth goal of the period and Bruno Gervais, who has had an excellent game tonight, gets an assist point on the score sheet.

Five goals scored in one period and the game isn't over yet. The Islanders out shot the Sabres 33 - 28 and Rick DiPietro has made some excellent saves, despite being run into a few times. He will not want to be yanked from the net, so he will take all the abuse the Sabres can dish out.

At 5:55 of the third, Tyler Ennis fires and scores while Rick DiPietro tries to get back to his right side cutting the Islanders lead to 4 - 2. It was Ennis' 1st goal in ten games.

Rick shows that he can makes saves without equipment as a scoops a puck into his armpit robbing the Sabres of another goal. Parenteau was slashed on a play and banged into the boards leaving him limping to the bench. He didn't leave though and in a few minutes, he was back out.

With only 4:41 left of the third, Josh Bailey took a hooking penalty leaving his team short handed. But that didn't seem to matter to Michael Grabner who finally got what he had been looking for every game; his first short handed NHL goal.

While that was beautiful and it brought the Isles to 5 - 2, Jochen Hecht scored on Rick at 1:45 left of the third as there was too much traffic for him to really track the puck.

Moulson almost had a four point night as a Sabres defense protected the empty net as the clocked ticked down to the final buzzer.

A hat trick for JT, a three point night for Moulson, and an assist point for Matt Martin to go with his team leading 5 hits. I knew the Islanders would win this one as soon as I said I wasn't going.

I was right.

Game Day! Thursday in Edmonton

I may have to nap before the game, but I am looking forward to this one. Well, actually it's because I can't stand the three-day layovers that sometimes happens this time of year.

During that time of no Islander hockey we say Dwayne Roloson earn his first shut-out for Tampa Bay, the Russians win the WJC and the final episode of HBO's 24/7. We also saw Dwayne Roloson give up three quick goals, get pulled from the net, get put back in and finally lost 8 - 1. Yep.

Jeff Marek called it the Russian Miracle On Ice and for sure that is what it was. With the Russians trailing 3 - 0 through two periods, I (and everyone else) never expected five unanswered goals in the third to give them a gold medal and an amazing celebration. Just please remember these are teen-agers. Cut them some slack if you were offended with the enthusiasm.

Matt Moulson and Michael Grabner (whom if you are not following on Twitter you are really missing out.) were still making fun of John Tavares and Matt said he sent tissues to his hotel room because Canada's loss (i.e. winning a Silver medal while Team USA came home with Bronze) did him in. JT was a big part of the gold medal winning Canadian team. (Something fellow team mate Josh Bailey wasn't. Wonder how the kid feels about that.) Grabner's hotel desert looked fabulous.

I only managed to watch a few minutes of 24/7 last night but it was the few minutes that included the Penguins game at the Coliseum where they lost to Rick DiPietro and company. It was visually beautiful in the production quality. I'll have to catch the entire thing on demand another time.

As of last night there was no word on Frans Nielsen's ability to play today. I'm assuming we will hear this morning from Ms. Strang. Although, as we know Coach Jack does not believe in mandatory game-day morning skates, not sure how much info will come out.

Still hoping we get to see Kevin Poulin in net today, especially against a sliding Edmonton team. The Islanders have their three game win streak going and would like to extend it. Jack may feel that Nate has more experience to get the job done. His call. We'll see.

More as it arrives on my little Amish phone via Twitter. (What did we do before that? No. Really? Oh... right... waited till game time and for the newspaper to come out. OH the dark days of information delivery.)

Isles 5 - Flames 2

Updated 11:44 pm: I hate these West Coast games. too late to write.

Isles win with Nate Lawson turning away 28 of 29 shots in his time in net. Nice to hear that Rick told him he'd be able to do it before he was taken to the room in agony with an adductor strain. Thanks to JustJoshR who let us know that Luongo went down with that sort of injury on November 8th and didn't return until January. Greeaaattt...
Anyone pick up Michael Leighton yet off waivers? Hello? Anyone?

Frans Nielsen was clipped in the face, most presumably the nose, tried to come back to the bench but left again. No word

Congrats to: Jt, Matt Moulson, Andy MacDonald and Nate Lawson.

Congrats to Michael Grabner for a beautiful empty net goal to give the Isles their final score of 5 - 2.


More tomorrow. It's just too damn late for me. Maybe by the time I wake up, Garth Snow will have made some additional moves since Jack said he'd have to speak with him to figure out what they are doing.

JT a Happy Islander

Found this on my Google alerts today. Too bad, for me, it's old news.

Yes, John Tavares, the first overall pick of 2009, is happy to be an Islander. He has no intentions of begging his agent to get him out of what so many MSM types have called the "dysfunctional" Islanders.

But I could have told you that weeks ago. But for sure, from me, no one would have believed it.

So... suck it MSM. :o)

(Not So) Happy New Year In Detroit

I'm sure they didn't expect it. The hapless Islanders and their lack of points came into the Joe and spoiled the party -- again. It seems that no matter what the standings, the Islanders seem to play well against the Detroit Red Wings.

They weren't taken lightly, as evidenced by the first period. The Red Wings notched 12 shots on Dwayne Roloson. Granted, the Islanders had to kill off two penalties early in the first period. But it seemed for sure, this would be an ugly game. Especially when Franzen made it 1 - 0 at 11:52 of the first. That's when big angry man turned to me and said "This is going to be a 7 - 0 game."

"No." I assured him. "Not if the same team that showed up on Wednesday shows up tonight."

And oddly, and almost unexpectedly, that's exactly what happened. Out shot and out skated, the Islanders managed to find a way to win. Just like good teams do.

Now, I had prayed as much as I could and offered up a sacrifice (of four lobsters) to the hockey Gods to get Matt Moulson a goal to end his drought. I watched him intently cheering him in. Then something strange happened. A Red Wing clipped the puck after a MacDonald shot was redirected by Matt Moulson. At first it was credited to John Tavares who was parked by the net. However, review after review showed a redirect by Moulson and then a tip in by a Redwin stick. Tough break for the Red Wings, lucky break for Matt Moulson who had been goal-less since December 16th.

John Tavares, who probably knew he didn't actually touch that puck into the net decided to make sure he had one of his own and scored at 19:57 of the first. That really didn't sit well with the Red Wings.

They thought they would score and even things up when Jon Sin was sent to the box for goaltender interference. They didn't expect Scott Allen's PK unit to be able to hold them off, but they did.

It wasn't until 15:13 of the second that Bridgeport call-up Jesse Joensuu made it 3 - 1 and it became evident that the same Islanders that had defeated the Penguins were actually back on the ice. All of a sudden it didn't matter that Radek Martinek was on the IR (retroactive to 12/22) or that Jack Hillen was home with his new born baby. Once again the Islanders defenders came up big. So much bigger than you would have expected. It was another game where Travis Hamonic was proving he belongs and that Andy MacDonald showed why he was missed do desperately when he was out.

The Dynasty era die-hard Islander fan in my house mumbled, "Don't get too excited. The Red Wings will tie it up." Tsk Tsk oh ye of little faith, but at 19:51 of the second Filppula brought it within one.

The Islanders lead was quickly fading and my husband's prediction was getting closer. Meanwhile, I have to say that Dwayne Roloson was having fits with the referees who failed to call interference penalties on Red Wings who were in his net and keeping him from doing what he was there to do - stop the puck. While Roli was trying to make his case, the officials wanted no part of it.

It was pretty obvious if the Islanders wanted to win this game, they would have to do it without relying on the benefit of the doubt from the officials. The Islanders were called for five penalties. All of which they managed to kill off. But mid way through the third, a call up tied the game for Detroit on a goal he will never forget. Yep, some fresh faced kid named Tatar made it 3 - 3 and the Islanders had to work hard as hell just to keep the Wings from scoring and taking two points.

The game became nerve wracking and even Roloson, usually solid as a rock, bobbled the puck in his crease. Every moment counted. And then the buzzer sounded and the Islanders were assured at least a single point.

During overtime, it was pretty obvious that the officials were not watching the game the same way everyone else was. Blake Comeau was called for the slightest of an infraction and the Islanders were down a man in overtime.

Once again, the PK came up beyond huge. And then the hockey Gods smiled on the NY Islanders and the Red Wings were actually called for a penalty. There was a little wasting time with the puck to wind down the clock to get the Isles on a man advantage, basically being SMART with the puck, and then John Tavares batted the puck out of the air to control it, looked for an opportunity and found PA Parenteau who shot from one knee and ended the game.

It was a 4 - 3 Over time win for those hapless Islanders. The same team that has given Red Wings fits over and over again. Tonight, it was a repeat performance capped off by an ex-NY Ranger.

For that I'd like to say this: Hey Glen Sather, thanks for giving up on PA. I think he's found a niche here.

And to Matt Moulson; Hey, I told you you'd score tonight. I didn't say it would be fair or pretty but you're on the score sheet. Next one is all you!

Isles Roll Over Devils 5 - 1

Good to see another game end with two points in the Islanders pocket. Bad to see Matt Moulson leave the game after the first period and a high hit to the head.

Game report at HockeyBuzz.com as I really have to get my butt in gear for tomorrow as I am the one hosting.

Congratulations to Josh Bailey on his two goal game and another goal for JT.

The Isles now have 22 points while philly has 49. That's a big gap, but any movement up, is movement in the right direction.

The Prodigal Son Returns

Post Game:
PA Parenteau sat in his stall and waited for the reporters who were busy crowded around John Tavares and then Josh Bailey. He sat shaking the sweat off his head that wicked through his long hair.

With points in three straight games he said it feels great. (That seemed to be the general feeling in the room.) "I think we're playing some better hockey. We have some injured players back (um, Eaton?). And you can tell we're playing with a lot more confidence and are a lot more stable back there."

They weren't very stable in the first period as the Bolts out shot them by a wide margin and they spent a good amount of time on the Penalty Kill. Jack Capuano admitted they didn't play well at all in the first and were lucky to get out of there with just one goal given up.

I asked PA if Jack had said anything on the bench after he seemed to be exceptionally upset with Milan Jurcina's untimely interference penalty. "No. He didn't say anything. Any time someone takes a penalty like that that, you have to have your team mate's back. You know, that's what you do and that's what we did tonight."

After that I expected PA to ride the bench for a good portion of the game, but he didn't. He actually played a total of 19:11 while Trevor Gillies, who usually plays about 3:30 per game played only 1:57 and sat in the box for only 4 minutes.

This was not a hard hitting game in some ways. While you would have expected Zenon Konopka to dance with someone from his old team, he didn't. Neither did Gillies. Perhaps that was because Steve Downie was not in the line-up or Jack felt it unnecessary to send that message he had in the previous game. The Islanders doubled the Bolts hit total, 26 - 13 while the Bolts came very close to doubling the Isles shot total, 35-28. Most of those Tampa shots were in the first period. Thanks to Dwayne Roloson, only one of those 35 shots went in.

PA may have scored the game tying goal, but it was John Tavares that netted the game winner. When I asked PA about John, his answer was simple. "He played a great game, he's John Tavares. He's got a lot of skills."

On a team that is struggling, those skills need to shine more often.

The Isles will take those two points and this added shot of confidence to New Jersey tomorrow where they face the struggling even more Devils. Maybe Lou is really looking for that number one draft pick for 2011.



The sign at the glass reads Welcome Home Josh Bailey. He skated out onto the ice to Cinderella Man. Eaton is also playing tonight. Matt Martin sits out serving his suspension and Bruno is a healthy scratch along with Jack Hillen.

But Josh's homecoming party is being crashed by the Bolts. Three power plays in the first period put the Lightning ahead 1-0 on a goal by returning Ryan Malone. The shots on goal are an uneven 3 - 15 and the turnovers and errors have Jack Capuano reeling on the bench. The camera caught him yelling a few expletives when Jucina took a foolish penalty by pushing a bolt into Roloson and his net. He was called for interference. Luckily there was no goal on that power play or Milan might not see the ice again tonight.


Start of the second and with Nate Thompson in the box for hooking the Islanders doubled their shot total to -- six. Jon Sim had a great shift but still nothing went in the net. The Isles put the puck on net, but there are no #DanEllisProblems so far tonight keeping it out.

Matt Moulson took a puck to the foot in front of

Josh Bailey had his best effort of the night skating down the ice alone towards Ellis. some pretty moves but Victor Hedman, the the draft pick I really wanted is called for hooking Josh as he got to the net. Isles on a power play with their shot totals now at 9 to the Bolts 21. It would have been great to see Josh get a goal in this game, his first back.

With 24 seconds left on Hedman's penalty, JT takes a hooking penalty to put the teams at even strength for just a few seconds. St. Louis skates around with the puck while his team sets up taking time off their man advantage. They don't seem to care.

Stamkos easily skates up the side boards, but the puck comes back toward Ellis. And once again, Scott Allen's PK works. Things would have been GREAT had it not been for JT taking a penalty for high sticking. Have a seat in the box AGAIN JT.


Islanders back on the penalty kill and probably tired with only 7:36 left of the second and shots at 9 - 21.
Both #91s stand in the face off circle, but one is sent out only to be replaced by -- Josh Bailey.


By the time there was less than a minute left of the 2nd period, JT does what he does best: make passes from behind the net. One went right to PA Parentau who managed to get it behind Dan Ellis at an angle.

The two teams head to the dressing room tied at 1 which is amazing since the shots on goal are so uneven.

With the start of the third, Matt Moulson gets an excellent chance on a breakaway but can't get it past Ellis. There is a scuffle in the crease and they head to the overhead as the call is no goal.


Trevor Gillies takes a roughing call that puts the Isles back on the PK. Amazingly the Isles get two short handed chances and just as the penalty expires Nielsen gets a shot off a PA pass coming down the far boards, but Ellis stops them again. He's been in position all night

JT plays human puck as he has a hard time stopping himself from entering Ellis' crease and is forced even further in by Moore. If he was a puck that would have been their second goal. He wasn't.

My friend in Tampa, Dr. David Lubin, emails me that he's never seen Ellis make these types of stops. I wish he wasn't. It's frustrating to watch the Isles get so many chances and be robbed by Ellis.

On the other end of the ice, our 41-yr old goalie robbed Moore with a glove save.

Rob Schremp dippsey doodles with the puck but then loses it in the pass. Luckily, he regained it.

Andy MacDonald has shown off his best assets by being able to keep the puck in the Bolts zone and breaking up plays in front of Rolie. Nice work.

Grabner again was close to scoring but he was robbed by Ellis -- again. Who IS this guy?

Both goalies playing well, there is now 1:15 left and still tied at one. I would so like to see Josh Bailey score the winning goal the way he has recently in Bridgeport. The Isles continue to turn over the puck in their own zone. and the clock ticks down to zero and the teams go to overtime and the Isles get a point.

Points in three straight games is more than they have in a long time.

Wiz from a great pass shoots from his knees at a tough angle and misses the net by five feet. The puck ends up on the side of Roli's net and amazingly does not go in. 3:01 left of OT and this is nerve wracking.

Grabner with some fancy skating fans on the shot by Ellis' crease. 2:04 left. And Joht Tavares sneaks the puck passed Ellis' with Moulson in front of the net who did not get an assist.

Isles win.
All is right with the world.

Isles In Boston - Let's Make a Difference

Some thoughts on tonight's impending game here at HockeyBuzz.com

But I'm wondering if we can get some Christmas Magic going for this team that stands at a total of 15 points and five wins. Suppose everyone simultaneously did something at the same time tonight in honor of the team, maybe we can cause a rift in the atmosphere of losing.

How about at 6:30 pm tonight, as Rob Carlin's pregame show begins, we all say "Isles Win!" three times? Pretty easy to do, less messy than sacrificing a chicken (even if it is a Boston Market one), and maybe -- Just MAYBE -- we can make a difference.

Calling for goals from JT and #MightyMattMoulson tonight as well as Frans Nielsen. Calling for a win in regulation. Calling for Trevor Gillies to intimidate anyone and everyone. Calling for two points. And that's the most important call of all.