Islanders Mid-Term Grades: Forwards
by Dominik on Jan 31, 2011 6:15 AM EST
in New York Islanders Report Cards
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This comes a bit late -- and to make it more of a true "mid-term" report, the stats used below cut off after Game 44 (the 5-2 loss to the Devils). But it's time to have some mid-term discussions before games pick up again after the All-Star Break. What follows are our report cards for the forwards (if you missed them, here are grades for the defensemen and goalies).
"Grades" though is a bit presumptuous. Call them "discussion starters," as I won't pretend to have the authority that other writers claim via the certainty of the declarative voice.
In short: The Islanders have a bunch of forwards, some of whom will prove part of the future, and some of whom will fall short. We discuss several of them here. For many, the window is still open but it's starting to close. There are a number of forwards in juniors and NCAA who will be knocking on the door in a year or three. Consider this a look at how the current crop is faring based on age and expectation.
Explanatory Note: Didn't have time to do this post then, but I pulled all of these stats after Game 44. I figured better to pull data then, than after game 49. The time-consumption by the SBN stat feed complicates things.
John Tavares
Again, these are stats after Game 44 -- so Tavares has actually added zero goals and three assists since then.
Tavares probably isn't putting up quite the production some hoped, and despite Matt Moulson and P.A. Parenteau's quality all-around play, he probably doesn't have the sexy linemates many would like either. Tavares has two hat tricks, his all-around game looks generally more assertive than last year, and his defensive side is improving but still needs work. About 40% of his points come from the powerplay.
Positive peripheral signs: His faceoff work has improved quite a bit in his sophomore year, and his penalty rates have decreased..
He gets ample powerplay time, and his shifts begin in the offensive zone 52% of the time -- highest on the team along with Parenteau. Plainly, he is put in position to succeed (as opposed to Frans Nielsen, who is started in the offensive zone a mere 38% of the time), so he should be the team's leading scorer. Over time, he should do more.
Grade: B
Matt Moulson
Moulson's scored three more goals since the above stats were pulled -- and more importantly, he's signed a nice three-year contract to stick around. While there were understandable fears that he could never live up to last season, he pretty much has. While his powerplay time is ample, he continues to be one of the Islanders' better producers at even-strength, which is a testament to his value to the team even if additions to the team during his contract push him off the Tavares line.
Grade: B
P.A. Parenteau
PAP. The Fist. Do we still grade him as a Rangers cast-off, a reclamation project? Or as a first-liner?
He has proven at minimum that he's a quality NHLer. He works all 200 feet of the ice. He and Moulson's Corsi are tops on the team. He may not be a prolific scorer in the end, but his first half has shown he's a keeper. The Isles would do well to have depth filled with forwards like Parenteau.
Grade: A
Frans Nielsen
As Nielsen's biggest unapologetic advocate, I marvel when people criticize his lack of scoring: He's simply not deployed in a scorer's role (Nor is his frequent linemate Michael Grabner, incidentally). As mentioned above, Nielsen is used on defensive zone faceoffs more than anyone else on the team other than Zenon Konopka.
And yet despite starting in the defensive zone 38% of the time, his shifts end in the offensive zone 45% of the time. Simply, he is put out there to get the team out of trouble. He is put out there to drive the play the other way. I'm sure if he were used in the same offensive-friendly situations Tavares is, he would produce the same totals -- but it would likely be closer than the average critic thinks. I'd love for him to score more, too, but I won't be indicting him until I actually see him used in that role and come up short.
To paraphrase Nielsen's description of Tavares's sick passes: You know Frans, that what he do.
Grade: B+
Josh Bailey
What an up and down year it's been, from the six points in the first five games, to the hip injury that seemed to stall everything, to the demotion -- and lighting up the charts at Bridgeport -- that seemed to restore his confidence, to the current drought that followed a brief post-recall scoring binge. I accept that Bailey has been jerked around and asked to take one for the team -- and I believe his current placement on right wing is the worst of three possible positions for him. But the production is still too short, his appearance in games still too intermittent.
He'll surely rally out of this funk -- and his two-way play and PK work is still underappreciated -- but for now his grade suffers.
Grade: C-minus
Michael Grabner
Speed demon! Flavor of the month! His hot January makes the above stats the most laughably out of date of them all. (He's actually at 15-6-21 at the All-Star Break.)
Tied to Nielsen most of the season, Grabner has evolved from a curious speed case to a winger who is doing smart things at both ends. Like Nielsen, he is not often put in offensive situations -- his powerplay time is still meager, and his zone starts are only 44.6% in the offensive zone. Even his failure to finish his many breakaways, I suspect, is a bit exaggerated since he simply creates so many of them for himself.
A good no-brainer find in October, come February that waiver claim only looks better and better. No really, even among all-stars, his wardrobe looks better and better.
Grade: A-minus
Blake Comeau
This will be the most controversial grade here because Comeau's wanderings -- you may call them COZO's, or Comeau Offensive Zone Orbits for short -- and brain farts drive people nuts. However, he likewise is not given choice starts (43.6% offensive zone starts) and yet his and linemate Rob Schremp's even-strength scoring rates are tops on the team. As a bonus, Comeau is another go-to PK forward.
This is hard for some to admit, or agree with, but: Comeau is an asset. A cheap, cost-controlled one. Maybe he will smooth the rough edges to his game, maybe he won't. But it behooves the Islanders to keep him and find out.
[NOTE: For more on Comeau -- and Schremp and Bailey -- in terms of what we might expect in the 2nd half, check this FanPost.]
Grade: C
Rob Schremp Hockey
Likewise a divisive topic as he does not exhibit the old-time hockey traits held so dear, Schremp is nonetheless a scoring threat and, again, the Islanders' top per-minute scorer at even-strength. However, the season-opening injury delayed his start, and his play lately has had enough warts to warrant a healthy scratch and some frustration from fans and coaches alike. Schremp's game is hardly flawless, but it's hardly worthless. At the moment, it's still far better than the alternative. (Wanna see Jeremy Colliton in a creative/offensive role?)
He's had some time at the powerplay point, but not enough for us to know whether it's preferable to Nielsen there. It seems the Islanders like to use Kyle Okposo there though, so who knows what the second half will bring.
Grade: C.
Zenon Konopka
He was brought in as a curious combination of faceoff wizardry and willing pugnaciousness. He has delivered on both. Even his shorthanded faceoff record was 93-78 after 44 games. As mentioned, he is used specifically for defensive zone faceoffs -- his offensive zone start rate is an almost unheard-of meager 26.7%.
His fighting seems almost gratuitous at times -- frequent fights early in games, or against combatants who haven't posed a real threat -- but it's part of his game, and he will pile up the PIMs accordingly. He is not a threat to score -- nor hardly to get a shot on goal -- but for his singularly circumscribed role, he has delivered as billed. Live is life.
For what it's worth, Hockey-Fights has his record at 6-5-5 so far.
Grade: B
Matt Martin
If Martin's job is to hit people, he does as asked. He is used sparingly, usually on the fourth line next to Konopka and often Trevor Gillies (thought lately on a stronger fourth line with Colliton), so personally I don't yet fault him for his ugly Corsi yet. [NOTE: Check more into Martin's underlying numbers in this FanPost.]
People advocate using him more as an in-front-of-the-net guy on the powerplay or next to two scorers, but I'm not sure he has the skating or know-how to do that...yet.
Will he ever be able to be more of a power-forward type beyond a fourth-line/fighting role? Unclear, and maybe unlikely. Right now he's used as an energy-hitter guy, and that's what he does. His fighting skills are raw, but he's always game, so the Isles likely have something in that department if that's what he ends up being.
Grade: C
Trevor Gillies
He got his first NHL goal, and he's had his share of fights. He doesn't get to skate much -- and thus not even fight much -- but his fights are entertaining and Hockey-Fights has him at 5-2.
Plus, I mean, there's The Gif:
Grade: C
Jeremy Colliton
Pretty early to say anything about Colliton -- especially with me cutting things off at Game 44 (Colliton has since nearly doubled his game total), but he has won about 60% of his faceoffs, including going 8-2 on shorthanded faceoffs.
While his two goals in his first game made for one of those fun mirage stories, it's nice to have a mobile, good faceoff taker stored on your fourth line.
It's quite too early to know whether he'll be a significant PK help, but so far he's done what's asked of him in a limited role.
Grade: Provisional Status
Incompletes
Jesse Joensuu...Doug Weight...Trent Hunter...The latter two were felled by injuries and haven't played since our first-quarter report cards. Joensuu meanwhile is back in the AHL, but we have at least one argument for not giving up on him just yet.
All told, there aren't a whole lot of superlatives nor massive negatives here because everyone is basically playing within the range of their expectations. This is a young, unproven group that's suffered from inexperience as well as massive injuries on the blueline behind them. Some of the most disappointing players may prove to be the ones who rebound in the final 30 or so games...or they may find themselves falling down the depth chart.
Class dismissed. Appeals to the grading body always welcome. After that, it's time to get on with the second "half."
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very generous
The team is second to last in overall points, giving anyone a letter A is a reach.
Was plus/minus taken into consideration? Maybe the only way an A is rewarded if you are on the plus side.
Bailey is much closer to an F, especially since he was sent down and other than the firsts few games has been invisible.
The record is terrible and not one failing grade. Are you practicing social promotion?
Fun list and thanks for putting it together
DF
Generous for sure, grading on expectations
I’ve gone through this many different ways in the past, and I always end up grading too harshly (D’s for everyone!) because the team overall is not good, or else just say, alright if ~B is expected level of play, has he met his expectations and/or ability.
LOL on social promotion. But anyway, if you look at the scale as based on expectations, then a bunch of C’s means the team’s record is not much worse than what it should be.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
thinking the same
Any task BIG or small, Do it well or not at all
by Rickfansince76 on Jan 31, 2011 2:16 PM EST up reply actions
Not sure I can agree with the grade for PAP, but......
…..given what Grabs has been able to accomplish, how much he can change the complexion of a game, I’d say he definitely DOES merit the A – a minus 2 might as well be at least a plus 2 on this team; I would’ve given Parenteau a B-, however – doesn’t compare with Grabner in that aspect but is nonetheless a very legitimate offensive threat whenever he’s on the ice (especially with JT and MMo…..)
PAP
I think the trick with PAP is that he’s doesn’t really seem to be a top line player, but given what people expected of him, his performance has been pretty good.
It doesn’t hurt that he’s playing with two of the more productive players on the team and getting lot’s of PP time. But Rags fans that I know have acknowledged that maybe they gave up on him too soon.
As a top liner I’d give him a B or B-, but relative to what was expected of him coming of the scrap heap, I would think you could argue that the A may be warranted
by SchneiderDiricov on Jan 31, 2011 9:46 AM EST up reply actions
Indeed
the trick with PAP is that he’s doesn’t really seem to be a top line player, but given what people expected of him, his performance has been pretty good.
Yeah, that’s it. I gave him extra credit for exceeding my expectations, and I think the expectations of most (if I may project).
Maybe I gave him an A also because someone ought to get a blue ribbon. I obviously don’t take these grades too seriously since my scale is so subjective. I just figure players are what they are, and if they’re playing to their talent level, they’re doing what they are supposed to…even if they’re talent level isn’t great.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
Minor Stat Complaint:
“And yet despite starting in the defensive zone 38% of the time, his shifts end in the offensive zone 45% of the time. "
It’s basically the case that zone-finish tends to regress toward the team’s mean zone finish for players in general over the long run…so I’m not sure how useful it is at showing how effective Frans is.
Also, see my fanpost for my opinion on Martin, methinks you are overrating him.
Zone Finish
Over the mean, over the long run, yes I know — but I don’t want to pretend it’s not there when he’s starting in his own zone way more than his non-Zenon teammates.
On Martin & everyone, I’m grading them based on what’s expected of them. I can’t divine what more Martin is being used for other than going out and hitting people. His hit totals are so waaay out of whack, that I’m not a bit surprised his Corsi so bad. You can’t spend that much of your time hitting people without the puck leaving you behind. I assume that’s not a priority for the coaches right now, and figure they’re resorting to the old energy/banging line theory.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
Martin
Oh, and I should add that my expectations for Martin weren’t very high. I think you have a point that he should ideally be developing his all-around hockey skills in the AHL. If I factored in how some hope he can be a power forward/banger on a more offensive line, then I’d give him a lower grade (although again, we haven’t really seen him even tried in that role).
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
My Rant
RHS does not deserve a C. He simply is lacking in the one universal quality that makes hockey a game we love. That is physicality. He can pass and skate well, and has a decent shot from the perimiter [not often taken] but plays a soft game which avoids contact and anywhere near the crease. If the Isles are to even threaten next season for play-off contention, then there is no room for him even on a 3rd line. Comeau at least uses his body. Schremp plays a touch football style instead of the real thing. He was a star in the minors and that is where he belongs. He is smallish but the Rangers Matt Zuccarello is smaller but he plays a physical game just the same and scores as well. Perhaps RHS fancies himself a Bossy type, well as they say “We can dream can’t we?”
Ummm, No?
Listen, a player can be bad because he isn’t physical enough. But Physicality isn’t REQUIRED of a player, and nor is it the one universal quality that makes hockey a game we love .
Hockey is won by scoring. I don’t know if RSH has a long-term place on the team, but the fact that he lacks physicality DOES NOT MAKE HIM NECESSARILY A TERRIBLE PLAYER.
Scoring of course is .........
how games are won and how the standings are determined. Nevertheless physicality is what makes hockey special – otherwise what you get is All Star type hockey games which is merely a show place for our best players, where of course real contact must be avoided so no one gets hurt.
"Special" is a word that doesn't MEAN ANYTHING.
You may like physical hockey best – so the Broad Street Bullies might be your type of thing. But what you like best is irrelevant for the good of the team, and what’s good for the team is scoring, preventing goals, and thus winning.
Question
Was Gretzky a “special” player?
Because, if I recall correctly, how threw approximately 0 hits in his entire career.
RSH
I think the issue with RSH is not that he lacks a physical edge. As AP77 points out, many of the best players were not very physical. But to be fair, if you are not going to be physical, you better be a massive point producer to offset that lack of physicality. So RSH has to figure out how to be a more consistent point producer, or add a little more fire to his game to be more well-rounded. If he can’t do one of those, he belongs in the AHL.
by SchneiderDiricov on Jan 31, 2011 10:32 AM EST up reply actions
Fair enough, but you can say this about the vast majority of the Islanders forwards:
has to figure out how to be a more consistent point producer, or add a little more fire to his game to be more well-rounded. If he can’t do one of those, he belongs in the AHL.
Bossy was a physical player
He didn’t throw big hits, but he took whatever hit was required to make the play or score the goal. I don’t have a problem with players that don’t hit everything in sight, but I do have a problem with a player that will avoid a scoring chance to stay on the periphery.
In RSH case, I think we are seeing alot more of the latter than the former. He hasn’t shown the willingness to go to the net to get the puck. Does he have any goals off of a deflection this season? He has all of the skill in the world, and he is using it to avoid contact.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
I don’t see him willingly accepting it either. He just alwasy seems to be on the outside and only goes for the net when a rebound pounces loose. I don’t see him causing the rebound very often. Maybe it is perception on my part since he tends to circle as often as Comeau and he needs about a six foot radius in order to unleash his slapshot.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Yeah, I dunno. I mean, he’s not a power forward. His game isn’t to play to contact. Honestly, the only Islanders forward who does that anyway is JT — also not a power forward, but appears to be part of his game.
I can’t recall ever seeing a game where I thought: “Man, RSH would have had a great opportunity there but he peeled off [or something] to avoid contact.”
I don’t think of him as Gillies or Tonelli working the boards either, but I’m trying to think of just one instance where he went after the puck hard, made contact and came up with the puck and I couldn’t. The fact that I couldn’t even picture him peeling away from a hit either is because he doesn’t play in the contact areas very often.
Moulson is an example of a player, that isn’t a “power” forward, but he is always around the slot tipping and screening getting to the loose puck getting to the dirty areas. With Schremp’s hands I’d expect a few more tip ins and a few more plays in the crease pulling it out of a scramble and shelving it.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Schremp ISNT a tip in player.
Schremp’s always been known as a puck handler. Not a power forward who drives to the net and gets deflections, Schremp’s shot is about deeking out goalies-defenders and wristing one past. Finesse, not power.
If you are going to be a finesse player you still have to take a hit to drive to the net or make a move around a defender not circle around the zone. If he is going to be about dekeing the defense then he has to eventaully isolate and get around someone, which I can’t recall him doing either because he isn’t fast enough. The only place he can deke and use his finesse if he never intends to make body contact is the shootout.
I wasn’t saying he should always be set up in the slot, but he has great hand eye coordination the odds are he would eventually tip one in if he were anywhere near the scoring areas.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Yeah, and Moulson is a wing. So you’d expect him to be in front of the net more often.
I can recall several times of RSH digging the puck out of the corner/behind the net (or at least trying).
by AP77 on Jan 31, 2011 11:52 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Gretzky had Seminko...
and Mcsorley, even took Marty with him too L.A. I think a team needs both…you need physicality to wear down opposition, and make room for scorers, etc. Don’t think Bossy does as well with Trotts, Gillies, Tonelli etc.
I am beginning to be impressed by the number of players Snow and the pro scouts have picked up off waivers the last year and a half, whose careers they have either turned around/got on track and/or have them meeting their original expectations or exceeding. Got to be lucky to be good and good to be lucky. It shows their scouts are doing their jobs — hope the drafts prove as successful.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 2:42 AM EST up reply actions
oops
sorry for typos, Jr. woke up…that should say don’t think Bossy does as good without the Physicality of Trotts, Gillies, Tonelli, etc.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 2:48 AM EST up reply actions
Schremp
RHS does not deserve a C. He simply is lacking in the one universal quality that makes hockey a game we love. That is physicality. He can pass and skate well, and has a decent shot from the perimiter [not often taken] but plays a soft game which avoids contact and anywhere near the crease.
I’m not sure why what you describe means he doesn’t deserve a C. Should he get an F for not being physical?
I mean, what does that equate to then? In an injury-abbreviated season at even strength he basically has put up points at a similar rate as Tavares. He’s older, yes, and his ceiling isn’t as high — and it may be true that a contending Isles team will not have him — but in terms of how he’s used, he’s had his bright moments and some disappointing moments. Like just about every forward on the team, including JT.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
by Dominik on Jan 31, 2011 11:09 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Comparing Schremp to Tavares
I agree in your assessment in terms of production, but I think Tavares is showing he knows what needs to be done in the offensive zone (let’s not yet talk about his backchecking – which needs work) and Schremp that seems to be to reliant on simply out skilling players. At the NHL level I don’t think you can beat players as cleanly as RSH seems to want to. You just don’t have the time and the space and I don’t see him adjusting, that is why I’d give RSH a C and be more charitable with JT.
I don’t look at physicality in terms of sending a player through the boards either. I appreciated Morrow as much as Langevin, but I always have a feeling with Schremp that he rather stick handle out of high traffic areas than move into prime scoring space. He reminds me of Afinogenov that could stick handle in a phone booth, yet almost always wound up in the corner or further from the net than when he started.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Oh, I agree JT has shown progress learning what works and what doesn’t. And I’m not seriously rating him below RSH.
I just think RSH in a sort of third-line role has had his warts and bright spots. It seems like some guys get dinged for not being better players, or for not being who they aren’t, while others get a pass for learning on the fly. I think Schremp should be better than this, and will have to be if he wants to stick; but I’m just saying he hasn’t been far worse than the rest of the forwards.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
by Dominik on Jan 31, 2011 1:41 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Schremp at C, I thought was a fair grade
I think there are things that RSH can do to improve that grade or hit a wall. I even admit that I was knocking Schremp, while defending Comeau, but it is something intangible between the two.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
This:
It seems like some guys get dinged for not being better players, or for not being who they aren’t, while others get a pass for learning on the fly.
I guess that’s part of my subjective feeling here, that BC is given tons of ice time and every opportunity (to fail) whereas others (such as RSH) are arbitrarily not notwithstanding similar performance.
by AP77 on Jan 31, 2011 2:29 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Chicken and the Eggs line
Comeau and Schremp and Bailey – They have to be the most polarizing guys on the team right now since we can’t come to a consensus on what is cause and what is affect. We all think they should be doing something more and we all think it is the other guy standing in their way.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
It's like a giant game of Mastermind
Swap them in and out to see which of them is the problem, which is successful without the other two, swap them from wing to center, and hope that five good games is not merely a small sample size, but their true capability.
Still wanna be a GM? =D
making you Google since 2004
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Still wanna be a GM? =D
Ha, no doubt. I mean, figuring this team is a challenge — part through the Islanders’ own-doing (going back through the years that led up to now) — but we have all these moving parts and very few givens. This isn’t the Flyers working a Leino in here, a Nodl in there. This is a whole team of Leinos and Nodls. (Leinos and Nodls should be a band name.)
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
I had Leinos and Nodls for lunch
Just add hot water, wait three minutes, and stir… quick and nutritious.
making you Google since 2004
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
I'd give Schremp either.......a
D or an incomplete. Here is my reasoning – If you accept my assessment in blue above, then the other thing missing is going to the net with the puck on your stick [ I don’t include shootouts] I have seen him do that twice in all the games I’ve watched. and Ive seen most of them. That is not true of the rest of the usual people on the top 3 lines. and he is often on the PP. This to me is indicative of his wanting to avoid the physical side of the game. In addition he is not a good two way player either and not exactly a good checker. If you think he can improve during the rest of the season, then give him an incomplete grade now. In the meantime the coach has had him sitting a lot lately. I wonder why?
RSH is the one forward I hope is gone next year…Bailey is still young and Comeau will be in his last year before UFA next year so shouldn’t be lacking modivation
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 2:53 AM EST up reply actions
Bailey is a lock to stay
Garth didn’t go to the trouble of demoting his first big draft pick to unload him. I agree with you about RSH if for no other reason than to push Josh into the deep end, so to speak, as second line center so that he can be what he was drafted to be: a playmaking center. I would put Grabs on his LW and trade for or sign a veteran with the capacity to mentor as his RW. Comeau I might trade for that veteran. He is too inconsistent.
No argument here...
I would agree with that, but I would add that I would like to see both Bailey and Grabner with Tavares a bit, if for nothing just to see how they click…Is Bailey going to be a solid defensive 3rd liner or a top 6 forward? The kid has never been given a chance and that to me seems strange given how the Isles targeted him in the 08 draft. If JT and Nielson are locks as 1st and 2nd centres, Bailey doesn’t get his shot with RSH @ centre too. I think Comeau’s value will peak next year, his last year before UFA. Comeau has to have a good year next year if he wants to cash in, so motivation shouldn’t be a problem. Sell him off then.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 3:13 PM EST up reply actions
If I were Garth...
I would put RSH on waivers and send him to Bpt if he clears and make Josh second line center. This season can serve a useful purpose if they find out who Josh is and what DP has left. Play BC and Grabs on line with Josh but see if you can get a Samuelsson in a cap deal before the deadline.
Gillies a C? come on!
Gillies deserves an A+++ and a trip to the all star game for the mustache and that GIF alone
he deserves an F
for fighting… and an D+ since when he plays more than 2 min a game we’re 5-10
love the guy, hate to give him such low marks, but a cool mustache and fiery attitude doesn’t = wins for this team
NYI Hockey! We'll get that winless month yet!
Bob, I hate to tell you this
but the entire team’s record is pretty close to that if you extrapolate those numbers out. 15-27-7. Remember that these grades are somewhat relative to expectations…that’s why you will see higher grades. Did you expect Gillies (for his role on the team) to have a line like 5-10-15 +10 150 pim with 80 hits and a 8-1-0 fighting record and 10 min per night?
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
by Keith Quinn on Jan 31, 2011 10:24 AM EST up reply actions
nope
Did you expect Gillies (for his role on the team)
this team isn’t good enough to have that role employed on the team… we’re playing a man short every game he’s in the lineup basically… and the “i got your back” value isn’t turning into W’s… that’s my main point on him
NYI Hockey! We'll get that winless month yet!
But it isn't turning into L's either
I think some of the problems here are this, “Who are you replacing him with?” That is a common thing with this team over the past several seasons. Replace Gilles with Colliton, what do you have? Same. Replace Gillies with Sim, what do you have? We can’t keep pruning BPT and then giving guys 3-5 a night. Are you going to put a 15 minute player with Konopka and Martin? Those guys aren’t getting 15 minutes a night no matter what, so then you’re under utilizing guys.
Of this statement:
this team isn’t good enough to have that role employed on the team
I believe this part:
this team isn’t good enough
There really isn’t much we can do…It’s not like we have guys banging the door down on this lineup. The alternatives are going to be worse either right now, or for that guys chances at development in the future. Bottom line is, you have to field a full team of guys, and playing 7 D didn’t work out either. We just don’t have the personnel…yet.
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
by Keith Quinn on Jan 31, 2011 12:53 PM EST up reply actions
I also feel that Gillies is particularly redundant when you’ve got Martin/Konopka willing to drop the mittens. I mean, I like the guy, but not sure he’s really needed.
Agreed
I think they used Gillies to help them find their big boy pants. And he probably helped them recruit Konopka, which ironically makes him evermore redundant.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
the gif is hypnotic, isn't it
Give in to the Moustache! Let’s f’n GO!
making you Google since 2004
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
As relative grades go these are in teh ball park
If you rate them on a curve where no one fails then I think the slotting of all of the forwards is pretty much in order. I do think PAP may be a little high with an A because I do not think he has consistently been the Islanders best forward, but therein lies the rub – consistency from all of the forwards.
I’d give PAP a B and Tavares a B+. If JT played to his eventual potential he would be an A. I’d give Comeau more or a C+ relative to Schremp and Konopka a B- relative to let’s say Moulson recognizing the roles these guys are intended to fill.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Thanks for playing along
Yeah, those are the quibbles I was hoping to stir up. I probably inflated PAP and Grabner just because they were nice surprises…and because giving everyone a C/C+ got old.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
If I slot players solely by what I expected from them, then a guy like PAP would be an A and a guy like Nielsen would be a C (since I expect much more from one than the other), but I tried to look at it in terms of what are they capable of and where do they rank in the Islander hierarchy. Nielsen has been the most consistent, but I’d like to see him produce a little more offensively so his all around play has been in the B range.
Konopka is a strange example for me, he is doing for more than I thought he would and yet I am torn on how effective he has been. He’s been very good on draws, but he shouldn’t necessarily be out there to win the draw in the offensive zone. I like that we finally have someone willing to drop the gloves, but I cringe that he does so without thinking about who’s momentum he’s lifting.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Heh, my feelings on Konopka exactly. He is just an odd case all around.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
Yes he is
But for some reason I really want the Isles to keep him. He has odd intangibles I guess.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Jan 31, 2011 10:58 PM EST up reply actions
It isn't his taste in music.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
I think that is a bit harsh considering he is only a year older than Grabner and he is outproducing him by nearly 100% . You look at the hype and Grabner is a great rookie while Comeau is a bust. We come to be too familair with some players as they develop and we are too aware of all of their faults.
I love the Grabner story as much as the next guy, but production wise he is Blake Comeau that was developed in the AHL by three different organizations as opposed to Comeau that has been developed through three coaching regimes on Long Island.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Super F Minus-Minus category
I should keep track, or do a side-category, just tallying how many times a player drives me crazy, regardless of his overall effectiveness.
Comeau leads the team in What Really Grinds My Gears.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
The tally would need to run up to infinity. There isn’t a single player on the ice that doesn’t drive me crazy at least once a game, but that is an academic reaction to every single thing a player does on the ice and much easier to do on watching on TV than doing on the ice. In the end, I try to blank out individual plays and do what you suggest and just figure their overall effecitveness as a whole.
I do the same with my own game and critique every bad passs, missed check, failure to hold up a forward, missed clearing attempt, screen of the goaltender, icing of the puck, dislodging of the goal net for a delay of game, taking a half/assed penalty when I should have given the forward a two-hander to really earn the penalty, leaving my feet for a blocked shot, or poor shot selection from the point.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
sounds like...
you could play for the Isles with decision making like that!
by SchneiderDiricov on Jan 31, 2011 2:33 PM EST up reply actions
Never had a shift where I couldn't have made at least one better decision.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Ditto that
And that comes from doing! Repetition and practice and reinforcement lead to automaticity. I don’t know if you saw TMC’s “Stop Thinking, the Psychology of Choking” fanpost, but that was very good. Basically gets into the fluency of the processes it takes to make decisions and just palying. It was right before SG got fired. Makes sense that once in a slump, those things can get worse especially when anguishing over ice time and scratches also.
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
by Keith Quinn on Jan 31, 2011 2:45 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Hockey is for the mad
Never had a shift where I couldn’t have made at least one better decision.
This is one reason hockey is so awesome. All that situational awareness, all that good decisions bouncing badly, bad decisions bouncing well. The challenge and the disorder never ends.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
The tally would need to run up to infinity
Or at least up to 11! Yeah, a completely non-objective stat like “aggravations per/60” or “gave me IBS on the PP” etc. Sometimes, you just gotta have fun with the growing pains. I like the Cozos and maybe “Schremp Schleps” could be used for his similarly stupid dangle lap around the O zone?
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
Grabner
It’s nice to see him doing well (well, not so nice because if we was doing this well last year I imagine we would have held on to him), and he reminds me of me when I played Minor Hockey…ton of breakaways because I was fast, but absolutely no finish on any of them. hahaha. I imagine he’ll get it figured out though, unlike me.
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
NM's Chief Lady Pleaser. Just ask eightyseven.
well, you're welcome for the goalie, anyway
making you Google since 2004
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
LOL
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Jan 31, 2011 11:00 PM EST up reply actions
Too Generous!
This is a terrible group of forwards. They are too soft and can not maintain any puck possession anywhere on the ice.
NSFW
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QILn1G8zaqc
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
by Keith Quinn on Jan 31, 2011 12:16 PM EST up reply actions
OBVIOUSLY
You do not watch Islander hockey games. Tavares, Moulson and Parenteau do a very nice job of puck possession as do Nielsen and Okposo. And to call theses forwards “soft” is totally ludicrous. What team are you watching???
Youth WILL be served!!
The REBUILD marches on!!
by upstateislesfan on Jan 31, 2011 1:23 PM EST up reply actions
This is a terrible group of forwards. They are too soft and can not maintain any puck possession anywhere on the ice.
In that case, everything they’ve provided is just gravy — performance way above their abilities at the NHL level — so let’s give them all A’s.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
by Dominik on Jan 31, 2011 1:42 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Off the subject
But the Daily News in todays editions mentions in passing that the Nets owner Prokharov has no interest in buying another pro franchise and will concentrate on the NBA. Add recent reports of the Wilpon’s very serious money problems and you must come to the conclusion for better or worse that the only way that the NYI stay in the NY area is if they remain in Nassau or Suffolk. This may be the reason that Wang is silent on future plans, because outside of a Lighthouse revival or another local billionaire, things don’t look good right now.
Err I don't think that's the case.
The Wilpon money issues are irrelevant, they aren’t caused by sports (Madoff) and the Isles wouldn’t be relying upon his money if they move to Queens.
Similarly, I don’t the suggestion has been to sell the team to Prokharov, but rather to see if we could share the building (The Nets and Devils do not share owners right now, for example.)
by garik16 on Jan 31, 2011 12:47 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
JT gets pts in bunches it seems
He needs more consistence in his scoring but it would help if he had a top tier talent to work with on his line….KO might help on his line but Id prefer a proven veteran guy
Grabs has picked up his game all around in the last 5
NHL.COM now has him at +2 instead of -2. BTW I have posted a piece on BR and linked it in a fanshot. A Canuck fan had defended their trading him based on his poor defense, small size, and lack of physicality. I immediately thought of the Arbour Bossy quote about checking and goal scoring. Please do read the article, comment on it, and “like” it if you do. Thanks.
BITCH, BITCH, BITCH
All of those bitchin’ about Rob Schremp and Blake Comeau: Please tell me who you would replace them with?? I happen to like both of these guys (despite Comeau’s lack of consistency), because they attempt to be creative on a team that lacks offensive punch. Yes, their creativity does not always lead to results, but for the most part the effort is there. And complaining about Rob Schremp’s lack of physicality seems really petty to me. The guy is a puck control, fake you out, score from the circles sort of player. Expecting him to be physical is kinda like expecting Trevor Gillies to score. Not every player has to throw his body around to be successful (Gretzky, Bossy, LaFleur, just to name a couple). i thought the grades were reasonable considering expectations. With no proven veteran scoring on this team, you are watching a team full of kids trying to play grown up hockey and learning lessons the hard way. I like to cut them some slack and watch them grow up without being too harsh and expecting too much. Just MHO.
Youth WILL be served!!
The REBUILD marches on!!
by upstateislesfan on Jan 31, 2011 1:35 PM EST reply actions
I would think that a rationale discussion on the merits of a player is not necessarily bitching. Saying so and so sucks, is just plain bitching, but commenting that Schremp can be more phyiscal isn’t a bitch fest. Just the fact that the players are being graded means that this is an open discussion on each players merits. Otherwise everyone gets an A and we pretend every game is a win.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Not meant as a criticism...
just my term for the back and forth. Not meant to be derogatory but in the past, especially where Comwau is concerned ALL of us have bitched about his overall play. Maybe I should have said “Complain, complain, complain” instead. Sorry about that.
Youth WILL be served!!
The REBUILD marches on!!
by upstateislesfan on Jan 31, 2011 1:46 PM EST up reply actions
Without complaining or bitching there would be 50% less internet.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
by Hockey1919 on Jan 31, 2011 1:47 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I actually enjoy the back and forth. It maybe helps me look at player a little differently. There may be attributes someone else sees that I don’t and it challenges some of my own assumptions and biases.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
by Hockey1919 on Jan 31, 2011 1:49 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Wow, can I do a two-prong rec for both 1919's replies?
Because you hit on exactly why I enjoy this place.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
In all seriousness you’ve set up a great site. You manage to keep the flaming haired bridge jumpers and rose colored pollyannas properly balanced.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
by Hockey1919 on Jan 31, 2011 5:03 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
so true!
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Jan 31, 2011 11:02 PM EST up reply actions
Heh, thanks. I was always afraid I wouldn’t feel the same once people moved in though. Turns out building that bridge over the river out back was key.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
“All of those bitchin’ about Rob Schremp and Blake Comeau: Please tell me who you would replace them with?? Seriously? I’d replace Rob Schemp with my grandmother, she’s in her 80s but has more heart and hits harder…
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 3:07 AM EST up reply actions
one solution for Schremp
Give him a two way deal and put him in Bridgeport. I think it is well documented that Bridgeport needs help and he has done very well at the AHL level. So maybe he becomes Sound Tiger captain and maybe his game improves enough to where he is either marketable or useful for the team.
I don’t think Schremp passes through waivers if he is sent to Bridgeport. As much as I have a problem with many parts of his game, he is a competent NHLer as a third line option and the Islanders may not find anyone better to replace him at third line center dollars. My hope is that he improves in the areas where he is weak, not that the Islanders give up on him because quite frankly until some of the younger draft picks develop, there isn’t much else. His value is in allowing some of the younger players stay an extra year in Bridgeport so that they eventually become a better option.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
As much as I have a problem with many parts of his game, he is a competent NHLer as a third line option and the Islanders may not find anyone better to replace him at third line center dollars.
Yeah, me too. I’ve always seen him as good still-young project who they can either hope to round out his game — or else pump and dump by letting him collect enough points to be attractive to someone else via trade.
Right now they don’t have an obvious replacement.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
hmmmm
I think a guy as small, light and soft as Shremp has to be either a top six or bust. 3rd liners need to be solid defensively and need to be able to check, or at the very least, have strong positional play like Neilson. I also think Schemp is taking up valuable ice-time away from players like Bailey who can not be sent down to the bridge.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 3:20 PM EST up reply actions
Edmonton waived him without him ever having played in the NHL. I think his value has gone up since the Islanders picked him up. He could be a depth addition for another team (see Tambellini), waivers are also an inexact science since whether a player is picked up or not is often dependent on timing with injuries and cap management as much as to do as talent.
I tend to think Bailey should be given a better chance to play center as well, but that wouldn’t mean discarding Schremp until Bailey shows what he can do. IF you keep Schremp around on a one year deal he would be just as easy to waive and keep as a “Sim” like insurance policy.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
time to cut bait and fish
There will never be a better time to try Josh out as second line center than now. To do it, though, RSH has to go Bpt.
Give him a two way deal and put him in Bridgeport.
Having a two-way deal doesnt matter unless youre looking to skimp money… which the Isles arent.
But as far as your idea of putting Rob Shremp on waivers goes- if he could just pass through waivers, he would never have become an Islander in the first place- remember?
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Feb 1, 2011 11:21 AM EST up reply actions
Already been waived by Edmonton and then Isles?...
If Shremp gets waived by the Isles, I am really not sure if there are that many teams willing to give him a third chance. If Shremp is to be an NHLer, it has to be as a top 6 forward. If he can’t crack and stick with the top 6 for rebuilding teams, not sure how many teams above if any would want him. To me, Shremp is a none factor in the Isles future. For me, it boils down to when it is best to move Shremp in order to free up ice-time for kids like Bailey.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 3:25 PM EST up reply actions
AGREED
And it is one of the things I love about this place. The ability to engage in mostly rational discussion (bitchin’ & complainin’) keeps things interesting. I don’t get a lot of “rational” discussion on other sites, just mindless venting without any regard for the facts. I respect the opinions of the great majority of the posters here and they always make me think about what I am saying (just like you just did!!!).
Youth WILL be served!!
The REBUILD marches on!!
by upstateislesfan on Jan 31, 2011 1:50 PM EST reply actions
#replyIPBcommenter
Your a moron, this proves that your dreamin', facts are for loosers lolz
making you Google since 2004
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
by mikb on Jan 31, 2011 2:25 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Facts are just opinions with numbers to back them up.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Great quote
from my Behavior Analysis program
“Without data, you’re just an a-hole with an opinion!’
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
rec'd
because I love that you accurately uses the syntactic and graphophonic errors!
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
A different perspective on grading...
As always a good read, but these [I think] are based on your expectations. So I’m going to go with a grade based on what I feel is value to the team and relative productivity(in grade order):
A : None
A-:
Frans Nielsen(42-5-16-21(-1)): Frans has had one of his better halves playing a middle six center role. He has also contributed in all three phases. He’s been a solid two-way at even strength, a PK staple, and a nice addition at times as a PP point man. He has elevated his role offensively with Grabner and Okposo past Robbie Schremp’s line and that gives him more responsibilities than he’s had in the past. His +/- rating has suffered slightly, but it is still the second best on the team. For Frans to be an A I’d expect him to be on a 20 goal pace at this level of his development. I fully expect that in the second half… which would mean that he would finish with about 14 goals.
B:
John Tavares(18-18-36(-21)): At 20 he is starting to produce at an all-star clip. I made the argument that Gordon was holding him back somewhat in the style they were playing. That was laughed at… but since 12/16/10 (one month into the regime change) John is 21-10-12-22(-3), in the 14 games that Gordon coached this season he was 14-6-4-10(-11). The top line, in general, is playiing better and he has shown top notch talent even if his linemates are at a secondary level being bouyed by the 20 year old’s maturation.
B-:
Moulson(49-17-12-29(-13)): Matt has maintained a very respectable 30G/yr rate. He has played a pretty responsible two way game since the 12/16 milepost(-1), thoughhe only has 6 goals in that 21 game span. Molson does what he is supposed to do and is an excellent middle six LW playing above his pay grade.
Comeau(48-13-17-30(-15)) this one may not make any sense to most, but here is my rationale. Blake is a middle six wing, playing in that role. He has been shuffled around with different linemates, and inside this one season been held captive to a system that did not benefit from his skills AT ALL. Since the 12/16 milepost Blake is 20-8-7-15(-6)…the worst part of those numbers coming since being put on the third line with RSH and out of position JB. Even so, that is a 60Pt clip which is pretty respectable for a third line wing who is a key PKer and sometimes PP contributer. His COZO’s are mind boggling, but there needs to be some level of intervention to assist with this, and Scott Allen just isn’t that guy (not saying that Allen isn’t doing a good job, but somebody needs to help comeau more).
Grabner:
C+:Papineau, Konopka
Running out of time… will give the rest of my opinions if requested.
Lighthouse Hockey: where "you better check yourself before you rec yourself" -bobl
If your life isn't pathetic enough already, follow me on twitter @JPinVA
Papineau still hating that Osgood deal?
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
Parenteau...
wow… what a brain fart that was.
Lighthouse Hockey: where "you better check yourself before you rec yourself" -bobl
If your life isn't pathetic enough already, follow me on twitter @JPinVA
HA, memory lane on that one lol
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Jan 31, 2011 11:03 PM EST up reply actions
Yes!
but these [I think] are based on your expectations. So I’m going to go with a grade based on what I feel is value to the team and relative productivity(in grade order):
Yes, exactly! Sorry, I should have put that standard invitation at the top, more clearly, but that’s totally what I intend for these (along with our usual daily banter).
I could go down the leaderboard and sprinkle grades from top to bottom A to F, but I just find it more fun as a way for people to discuss what they were hoping for, and how well (or poorly) those expectations were met.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
That's cool... and I completely understood what you were saying..
but I just gotta be different.
Lighthouse Hockey: where "you better check yourself before you rec yourself" -bobl
If your life isn't pathetic enough already, follow me on twitter @JPinVA
Izzie!
Izzie, Ozzie… Ozzie, Izzie.
Papineau, Parenteau… Parenteau, Papineau.
Roli, Olli… Olli, Roli.
Shake hands and let’s have a good clean thread!
making you Google since 2004
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
He is so frickin cool
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Jan 31, 2011 11:04 PM EST up reply actions
Ciao.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
by Dominik on Feb 1, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Neilson
I’d be happy if Frans average 15 goals a year as a 3rd line centre, and I think he needs to bulk up a bit too. Agree with you about Tavares and Gordon.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 3:15 AM EST up reply actions
Frans will be 27 in April
Don’t think bulking up is realistic. He is what he is: a superb defensive forward who can provide some secondary scoring and gives you a definite edge in skills competition wins.
Disagree B.C...
Unlike the rest of us, athletes have the best trainers and diet and health experts money can buy. I would find it hard to believe that Frans has some kind of medical reason as to why he can’t bulk up and add a bit of muscle. It has helped JT’s game. I don’t think Frans is providing secondary scoring either. I’d like to see a third liner at least be able to average 15 goals a year. Adding a little muscle to his frame would help Frans.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 3:31 PM EST up reply actions
What would be the cost of bulking up? I’d like to see him be a bit stronger, but with his body type, bulking up may slow him down. I’ve seen too many athletes get bulkier, but less flexible and more prone to breaking.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
I hear you...
but the trainers today are not like they were in the 80s…they have this sort of thing down to a science, been there done that…10 pounds would do Nielson wonders. Not asking him to add 30 pounds of mucles.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 3:41 PM EST up reply actions
i think rob schremp has been a nice addition to the team, yeah hes a small guy and doesnt do much in the dirty areas, but his puckhandling and creativity are slick and fun to watch
by dougweight4coach on Jan 31, 2011 8:17 PM EST reply actions
also hes been nice in shootouts despite his unorthodox 4mph troll
by dougweight4coach on Jan 31, 2011 8:18 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Something that occurs to me:
….we don’t have a single player, defenseman or forward, which has reached the 20-assist mark after more than half the season has elapsed….for a long while it was Wiz with 18 of ’em, since matched by JT and almost reached by BC, with A-Mac and Frans tied at 16 just behind him. But it does speak volumes as to our lack of a reliable playmaker (would K-O have 20 or more helpers by now had he not been injured? We can only speculate…..)
Today's Lines From Practice via The Team Site
Lines from the day’s practice:
Forwards
26 Matt Moulson – 91 John Tavares – 15 PA Parenteau
40 Michael Grabner – 51 Frans Nielsen – 21 Kyle Okposo
57 Blake Comeau – 12 Josh Bailey – 37 Jeremy Colliton
17 Matt Martin – 28 Zenon Konopka / 44 Rob Schremp – 14 Trevor Gillies
Defensemen
47 Andrew MacDonald – 36 Travis Hamonic
27 Milan Jurcina – 24 Radek Martinek
38 Jack Hillen – 42 Dylan Reese
6 Ty Wishart – 8 Bruno Gervais
Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
52 Kevin Poulin
Out
Nathan Lawson (Knee)
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
57 Blake Comeau – 12 Josh Bailey – 37 Jeremy Colliton
Ugh.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Jan 31, 2011 11:05 PM EST up reply actions
A good old song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm-zWDaoCtI&feature=related
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
by Keith Quinn on Jan 31, 2011 11:15 PM EST up reply actions
Now its time to play our game
Its time to play our ga-ame.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Feb 1, 2011 12:01 AM EST up reply actions
57 Blake Comeau – 12 Josh Bailey – 37 Jeremy Colliton
this is the 2nd line for bridgeport no?
by dougweight4coach on Feb 1, 2011 12:01 AM EST reply actions
Close
If you replace BC with Rhett.
"Gervais...he looks danger in the fist with his face!" JPinVA
by Keith Quinn on Feb 1, 2011 12:05 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
As I have come in late to this...............
and I am familiar with Dom’s Law of grading based on expectations:
Moulson, Tavares….B- As already stated, more was expected. Is it the old Sophomore Slump bringing JT down and MM with him?
PAP: I hang my head in shame and will give him a B+, since I figured he was just a filler Rags reject. However, he’s still not a true 1st line player.
Konopka…has delivered what was expected. Fights and Faceoffs on the 4th line. Would be higher if not for stupid penalties. B
Grabner B+. Only player out of Snow’s Filene’s Basement pickups that I thought would stick around (if and when we get those sexy linemates for JT)
Nilesen…Struggled with this one. His description fits that of a Checking Center, yet plays on 2nd line. Based on his filling an off-role, B+
Bailey gets an D- ….because if he was playing better, Nielsen wouldn’t be forced to play on the 2nd line to begin with. As Dom knows, I never liked this pick because I felt he was too safe a choice. However, I admit he was thrown under the bus having to play on the big club immediately when he wasn’t ready. Still don’t think he will be more than a 3rd line center, but I feel one day we will be reading, " (team) has acquired Josh Bailey, former 1st round draft pick of the NY Islanders………
Except for KO( inc), gotta give other forwards a C-. If we can ever get some of the other 73% of players who didn’t say they wouldn’t play for the Islanders show, these guys simply won’t be around.
I took into consideration the health of the blueline, or there would have been a few F’s in there.
OK, you may now throw me under the bus and scorch the back of my neck with a revolving red light.
haha no those are fair grades though maybe baileys grade is a bit low (perhaps due to the fact you did indeed predict his shortcomings) but the fact that hes only two years (and two days to be exact) older than i make me feel like he has plenty of potential and may just be a late/regular blooming 2nd line center , not the phenom some people expected him to be
by dougweight4coach on Feb 1, 2011 12:18 AM EST up reply actions
Better late than never, FGS
Although I don’t see JT as sophomore slumping. I think usually that emerges either from other teams doubling-down their focus on a new threat (and they already focused on JT last year), or else a kid who got a little too comfortable.
To me, he’s clearly playing better than last year. Figuring some things out, attacking opponents with a more informed approach. He definitely has his lulls and droughts but it’s nothing like last year in my book.
Lighthouse Hockey: "Are you fist-f#$%ing me?!" --P.A. Parenteau
JT’s offensive game is from the hashmarks…the problem last year was JTs age and size. You embarrass a guy like pronger, the elbows come out. I think pronger intimidated JT last year and this sort of thing had an impact on JT’s game and confidence. JT has added some muscles this year and it has helped him a lot I think. Also, the Isles management eating some crow and bringing in the goons to protect JT from guys like pronger taking liberties.
by CanadianIsleslifer on Feb 1, 2011 3:38 PM EST up reply actions
An area I think JT has improved is actually above the hash marks. He’s using the slapshot more often and it helps to create more room down below. Last season, you knew he would pick up the puck in the corner, go to the net and get dumped by a waiting defenseman along the goal line.
This season he has played higher up the wall and chosen to exploit open space down low when it is available. I agree he’s had more success when moving to the net becuae of his muscle, that and his improved ability to win faceoffs so that the Islanders can dictate how to set up in the offensive zone.
Sarcasm is my permanent font.
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1979-80
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May 24, 1980: Tonelli to Nystrom. At long last, the steady build of the New York Islanders from expansion doormat to surprise semifinalist to annual contender reaches the promised land: Buoyed by a late season trade for Butch Goring that gave the team the depth up the middle GM Bill Torrey had been seeking, the Islanders knock off the Philadelphia Flyers in six games.
The victory justified the faith in coach Al Arbour who guided them from their second season to their first Stanley Cup seven seasons later. The Islanders would not be the first expansion team to win the Stanley Cup, but they would be the only one capable of a dynasty.
1980-81
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May 21, 1981: This time it was much easier. After falling to "only" 91 points in the 1979-80 season, the Islanders returned to their division title tradition, piling up 110 points -- a whole 13 points over second-place Philadelphia.
Between the quarterfinals (where they beat the upstart Oilers in six games) and the finals, the Islanders reeled off eight consecutive wins -- with a four-game sweep of archrival Rangers in between. As they defeated the Minnesota North Stars in five games for their second Cup, their goal difference in the final was a combined +10.
1981-82
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May 16, 1982: Another year, another landslide title. The Islanders won the Patrick Division by a whopping 26 points over the second-place Rangers, and were seven points clear of their nearest competition for the President's Trophy, the still-not-quite-ripe Edmonton Oilers.
A first-round scare against the Pittsburgh Penguins turned in the Isles' favor thanks to John Tonelli's heroics, and a true dynasty was on its way: Past the Rangers in six games, then an eight-game sweep of the Quebec Nordiques and Vancouver Canucks to run away with the Stanley Cup.
1982-83
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May 17, 1983: Not so fast, whipper-snappers. The Edmonton Oilers' steadily rising challenge for league supremacy took them all the way to the finals for the first time, where the New York Islanders summarily dispatched them in a four-game sweep. For the Islanders, the Dynasty was secured. For the Oilers, it was a powerful lesson in where talent ends and the demands of playoff hockey begin.
Four years, four Cups, 16 consecutive playoff series wins (a record that would grow to 19 until the rematch with the Oilers the following year). Mike Bossy scored 60 goals yet again, and Wayne Gretzky became acquainted with Billy Smith's crease.
