Recap-Islanders 4, Canadiens 3: Some overdue positives
by Dominik on Nov 17, 2011 11:43 PM EST
in New York Islanders Game Recaps
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Puck management. It's a big deal, win or lose, but being careless when you have the lead is exactly how a struggling team can shoot itself in the foot. It's how they lost the Rangers game in regulation, with Josh Bailey turning it over in the Isles zone on a weak backhand pass to try to spring Matt Martin.
The Islanders nearly did it tonight as well, with Mike Mottau's gut-wrenching turnover pushing what was once a 3-0 lead to 3-2. Fortunately Matt Moulson got one back right away to alleviate the pain, giving the Islanders breathing room in the third, where they refreshingly outshot the Habs 13-8 despite holding the lead and taking two penalties.
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You know your fanbase is wounded when the first thought after compiling a 3-0 lead is, "Please don't blow it like you did in Colorado" followed by two goals and "I can't believe you're going to blow it like you did in Colorado."
An opportunistic pass by Rick DiPietro, some magic by John Tavares, and a good shot by Matt Moulson with a fortuitous deflection staved off the doom. For the first time in five games, and just the second in 12, the Islanders are winners again. Enjoy.
Nabokov Gets Injured
Welcome to Islanders Country, Evgeni Nabokov. The picture of an Islander goalie being helped off to the corner gate is eerily familiar. Whether he's being "showcased" or just carrying his share of the load, another injury casts a shadow over the 36-year-old's season. He's started eight games and left two due to injury.
This Was Game 16
Scott at Copper & Blue has tracked post-lockout teams' records after 15 games and how their seasons have turned out. Last year's Sabres were the first team to have 12 or fewer points after 15 games and still make the playoffs. The Islanders headed into this game, their 16th, with 11 points. Now they have 13.
The chances of the Islanders reaching their stated goal are not high, but getting back in the conversation is not impossible. (And of course, once you're in the conversation...)
In their favor: A second consecutive solid effort, albeit at home against a team that played and traveled last night.
Not in their favor: The turnovers, the fact a couple of their goals scored were fed in part by fortunate misplays by the Canadiens
Game Highlights
Post-Game: DiPietro and Streit
DP dings Fischler on following the Devils. More MSG coverage here.
Pleasantries and Curiosities
Pleasant: Nino Niederreiter got pucks to the net, finished checks, and made a huge shot block with the game late and close. I will take the simple little things from the 19-year-old right now.
Curious: Mike Mottau turning it over in his own zone to the one spot he shouldn't for the goal, then possibly taking DiPietro out on the next goal against. Mottau played 9:50 total. He had zero third-period shifts.
Pleasant: Marty Reasoner backchecking his tail off to save a goal like a good Reasoner should.
Curious: Brian Rolston getting so much critical ice time. He's probably smart and savvy after all these years, but he physically does not appear fit for it.
Pleasant: Travis Hamonic's block at the end of the game, followed by plausibly denying knowledge of the puck's whereabouts as the clock wound dow-oh it was here the whole time!
Pleasant: DiPietro coming in cold, getting the job done, even getting a big assist.
Curious: Two turnovers from overhandling the puck in his first few minutes, as well as what looked to me like continued difficulty or slowness getting up from scrambles.
Pleasant: Matt Martin's physicality and improved stability creating the space for Mark Streit's goal.
Pleasant: Josh Bailey's pull-up pass to set up Jay Pandolfo's goal.
Curious: Him pulling up earlier in the game on the doorstep one-timer to get a second look. Ironically, it almost worked and you could tell what he was doing -- but is this a guy who should be holding up on his shooting opportunities?
Agonizing: Steve Staios taking a late boarding penalty, leading to a Habs powerplay goal. According to NHL.com he's tied with six others (hey, Andy Sutton!) for the sixth-most minors among NHL defensemen.
But tomorrow's Friday, and the Islanders won. In regulation. Sending the Habs home. Happiness, overdue.
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Curious: Mike Mottau turning it over in his own zone to the one spot he shouldn’t for the goal, then possibly taking DiPietro out on the next goal against. Mottau played 9:50 total. He had zero third-period shifts.
I watched that play again closely when it happened… I initially blammed Mottau on it (which wasnt hard after that horrible turnover that led to the first goal as well as…well, nearly every other time he is on the ice). However, he did not knock Rick down there on the 2nd goal. In slow-mo you see the Habs skate knock into Ricks skate, knocking him off balance. Mottau was trying to push the guy away from Rick.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
It is shocking to me though that Cappy continues to go to Mottau
IMHO Mark Eaton is plain better than Mottau.
The Isles have played 2 games thus far with the following 6 D: Streit-Staios, Hamonic-AMac, Eaton-Jurcina. They are 1-1 (A win against WASH and Loss at BOS). I would like a larger sample size on those 6 guys.
Also: I think a peak at Wishart in another week is not a bad idea if the current group does not do a better job.
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Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano
I think Eaton may be in next game.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 12:34 AM EST up reply actions
Me Too
He should be. I like Mark Eaton. He’ll never be mistaken for a Norris Trophy winner but I think he is good solid 5-6 D-Man.
I understand that the Isles have probably too many 5-6 DMen, but I watched Mark Eaton do a really good job throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs in ‘08-’09 when the Pens won the Cup.
Eaton was paired with Rob Sceduri for many of those games and they often were given the toughest defensive assignments (especially against Ovechkin and the Caps).
I’d like to see those 6 I mentioned above just a little more often.
They could use some speed back there though (Jack Hillen where are you?)
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Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano
Or Katic
Either would be a good partner with Eaton or Jurcina, I think.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 1:03 AM EST up reply actions
That's what that third pair is missing
Complementary parts instead of the slower variations they have now. But I think Eaton-Jurcina can be alright. Eaton had a horrible game in Boston so he took the scratch, but that’s gotta be their best bet barring callups.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Thanks
I watched it a few times and couldn’t tell. If anything it was one of those “can happen to anyone” plays, but given Mottau’s season and play in this game, it looked like another to add to the list.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
I was still complaining about Mottau on the first goal with that happened, and immediately was complaining about him again. My friend was telling me I was wrong and that he didnt hit Ricks skate, the Hab did. We had to keep going over it til we figured out who was right lol.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 12:32 AM EST up reply actions
He did fail
to get the puck in the corner right before that though. Should have been a relatively easy play.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
Exactly
Just prior to that goal, i believe Mottau had 3 chances to control and clear the puck, and failed majorly on each one
even without that
It’s to the point where every time the puck approaches him I clench up, waiting for awful to happen.
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
How do you spell relief?
D-O-N-O-V-A-N
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
And who said Pandalfo wasnt
brought to the Island for his point production. Man looked good tonight. Obviously at 38, its hard to expect that from him every game, but he does play his role.
Josh Bailey, seems to be getting it more and more lately, playing much stronger games. I think he will bump back up to the third line eventually.
I hope KO is paying attention to the work ethic and simplicity of Ninos game. Kyle has the skill and the tools, just needs to go out and do it.
Rick Roll coming through. I cannot say one of those goals was his fault, just good offense. Solid effort, again GT has not been an issue.
Blake Comeau, looked much stronger again tonight, skating well, shooting, and driving. He just needs a bounce to get going.
FN, was about to enter Beast mode with that back hand attempt.
JT, has been in Beast mode all season. Man is possessed. It would not surprise me if he goes on PPG production this year.
Well we won, so now lets win another, and another, and another….
by ghalbart on Nov 18, 2011 12:21 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
If Bailey continues this type of play
how about you bump Comeau to the 4th line and promote Martin to the 3rd?
Martin-Bailey-Nino
Comeau-Reasoner-Pandolfo
At least that Bailey line will have some good bangers.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Nov 18, 2011 12:27 AM EST up reply actions
If Bailey continues this type of play (and Nielsen too)
…Isles are in good shape.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 12:29 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed
In fact…Idealy….Fransie is the third line guy.
Lets hope that Josh bailey can just keep up the stronger play the last week or so.
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Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano
I loved watching Fransy play live
He makes defense look so easy for him, and his concentration on the game is second to none. I like how he peers out under his visor while owning people defensively.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Nov 18, 2011 9:39 AM EST up reply actions
I love that Line
Love It. A space maker or two would really help Josh Bailey IMO.
Ideally Okposo fits in there somewhere. I think the scratching of Okposo sent a message to this team…‘Yeah we signed him to a 5 year deal, but that doesn’t mean he gets preferred treatment of that he isn’t expected to do dirty work’
Cappy is doing a fair analysis thus far….If Nabby is out for a few weeks I think it is a good idea to call up a FWD for Depth.
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Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano
I feel bad to say this
but I kind of hope Nabby is out for a little while. The extra forward depth would help the Isles figure out their problems and they could scratch TWO of Okposo/Bailey/Comeau or whoever else is playing like shit.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
It would certainly create a good problem
I mean, we know about him so it essentially creates a 24-man roster again. Probably hurts the ability to trade him if he looks like a creaky old injured guy, but it’s not like he’s going to fetch more than a pick, I’d think.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
It also gives Montoya a lot more starts
so we can stop seeing “OMG WHY AREN’T THEY STARTING MONTOYA WTFBBQ!!??!?!”
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Nov 18, 2011 10:34 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Bailey and roles
I noticed with the game winding down, Capuano had JT out there with Pandolfo and Martin at one point — that shift where the Isles kept the puck mostly in the Habs zone. JT’s overall hockey smarts just shined through.
They were rotating Reasoner-Nielsen-JT there, which is cool (esp. after Bailey goofed last game). If bailey can come along slowly now, there’s hope.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
I agree
Slowly…..It will happen. I think with the amount of ice time and quality of line mates right now, this is the best thing for him. He finally has an NHL body he is comfortable with, has the skills, and hopefully just finds his way. And its not like he looks pissed or upset about being on the 4th line.
Soon though, I think he will benefit from some more talented wingers with speed and perhaps, just maybe we can see the Josh Bailey we hoped for all along. Don’t stick a fork him in yet.
I thought it was very smart of Cappy to do that in the end. Not only is Tavares a beast and can pretty much do whatever with the puck, but it also shows Bailey what needs to be done and how to do it in the last 5 minutes. No brainfarts, only simple hockey.
After his first two seasons
I really never expected JT to be a guy out there during the final minutes while protecting a lead. Sometimes it’s best not to make absolute judgements on 18-22 year olds. He is most certainly in beast mode.
by Dorfer on Nov 18, 2011 9:29 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
My goodness, me too
The overall difference in JT this year is something to behold. I saw him working with Martin to kill time and protect the puck with his body and there have been more moments like that this year that get me expanding what kind of full game to hope out of him.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
JT's work to control pucks along the boards...
or to chase down an opposing player who already has control of the puck along the boards and win it away from him, has been unbelievable. Such a huge leap in his play in this area
It was a pleasure
To see Martin and JT just play catch along the boards at the end taking time off the clock. We looked very much in control!
by GreekIsles83 on Nov 18, 2011 7:09 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Let's not forget when Bailey started looking good
Was when Cappy got him away from BC. (Worked for BC too). Now the problem becomes that you have to have one of them on the 3rd and 4th lines (unless you disturb the 1st and 2nd chemistry…which I wouldn’t do at this point) which may not be ideal going forward. It also limits you on the forward scratches to some degree. I don’t think you scratch Pandolfo immediately now, Comeau looks better, and Rolston looks untouchable and that line is showing some chemistry.
How/where does KO get back in?
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
by Keith Quinn on Nov 18, 2011 7:47 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Good Problem
The way Pandolfo was breathing during intermission, it may not be had to rest him for a game, even though he scored that goal. Those lungs may have to hold up for the entire season.
If Rolston keeps on skating, I think he keeps on playing. But he did seem tired in the 3rd period, like last game. (PK goal against, and then he was right back out there in the final couple minutes, I believe.) Perhaps play him on the 2nd line in the 1st period, as long as he’s flying like the past two games. Then switch him to the 4th line for the 2nd period (Martin or Comeau would be good on the 2nd line, I think), then switch him back to the 2nd line for the 3rd period so that he’s rested. A little unorthodox, but if he can only play about 10-12 quality minutes, then play him 10-12 minutes. I like this Rolston, who is flying all over the ice.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:09 AM EST up reply actions
It is always a ood idea to rest veterans
I is no secret that from around 30 and on, the speed of the body restitution goes down way. It simply take the body longer and longer to recover physically.
That means that it can be a really good Idea to have veteran scratched on planed rotation.
This also count for younger player with smaller injuries. That may from time to time spare a lot of time major injuries. Because even through that lot of injuries seems accidental, studies in other sports shows that the number of those injuries decline, when the smaller injuries is given the right time and treatment to fully recover. But that is of cause a risk and benefit evaluation for a team.
Rotation down low late in the game
JT out there with Pandolfo and Martin
Loved how JT and Martin owned the puck, until it was Pandolfo’s turn and he quickly turned it over. Not to harp on Pandolfo since it was one of his better games.
by Hockey1919 on Nov 18, 2011 9:50 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
That shift
was maybe the best of the game. Both Martin and JT played it smart and tough on the cycle. Allen must have been excited at how smaht and hahd they were playing there.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
by afrosupreme on Nov 18, 2011 10:19 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Indeed
He was wicked excited, Im sure!
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 10:43 AM EST up reply actions
Can't agree on Comeau
Yes he works
But he also make big mistakes in that game, he may not have registered any direct turn over, but I saw a few passes, that was ending in direct turnovers. If or they was leading to any of the goal, is difficult to know, but it didn’t help stabilize puck possession.
On the other hand, on other time, he do well.
I notes, and not for the first time, he sometime ending up with some far to long shift. I also notes, that in the end of some of those shift, the Canadians became very dangerous. It may very easily be what cause in his big minus total and lack of scoring.
And yes he could easily have had a goal yesterday, but he could also easily been -5 in the other end.
The best new in my book yesterday, except for the win thing, what seeing Bailey do quite well. That was nice. It will make it all easier for the two top lines, if Baileys line start playing like yesterday.
I don't specifically remember his mistakes last night
But to me that is the yin and yang of Comeau, the nut to crack in figuring out what he’s worth. Lots of nice skills and the capacity to engage physically, but his decision-making leaves me wondering how much he can be counted on.
On that note (decision-making), Bailey too. They’re at different points in their age curves, but are their mistakes inherent flaws, or things they’ll eventually remove?
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
I thought Bailey played a good game last night
Despite his little flubber on his front of the net shot, I thought his quick stop and pass play to Pandolfo was a thing of beauty. That’s the Bailey we all want him to be.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Nov 18, 2011 10:42 AM EST up reply actions
Indeed
And he did well to receive the initial pass from Pandolfo off his skate, too.
I admittedly may simply be awed by the novel sight of two consecutive cross-ice passes completed by an Islander.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
by Dominik on Nov 18, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Small victories.
Small victories…
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Nov 18, 2011 10:58 AM EST up reply actions
Not just skills, Comeau's top speed is blazing.
When he has a runway, he’s faster than anyone on the team, except Grabner, right?
I do fear that if Isles trade Comeau, he’ll become the next Grabner. Not as quick as Grabner, but his top speed is remarkable.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:13 AM EST up reply actions
Accoriding to Justin Bourne
Comeau has one of the sickest wristers he’s ever seen. Apparently it’s getting it off that seems to be a problem for him. When it clicks he gets goals in bunches. Wish that we could see it just a little more often in-game.
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
Add to the sickness of it
His unparalleled ability to zing it over the crossbar and into the glass with astounding consistency. It’s a sight to behold.
I can only agree,
that if Comeau could be a little smarter in hockey sense from time to time, he could be really good in both ends.
I think the biggest difference between Grabner and Comeau is not the speed difference. It is that Grabner is really using his speed on back checking as well on rushes.
Maybe we should replace him with Rolston on the second line for some shifts. But Comeau must be much more disciplined on the length of his shifts.
I don’ think he can really be the next Grabner. We already know he can score 24 goals in less than a full season, so over 30 really wouldn’t be shocking.
Which is also why he has a whole lot more trade value than Grabner did for FLA last year. He’s more than upside at this point.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
by afrosupreme on Nov 18, 2011 11:59 AM EST up reply actions
Defensemen Grades
Streit: B-. The goal keeps him from the ‘C’ range tonight. Not one of his better games.
3.086 (16 games played)
Staios: C-. A trip early and a boarding penalty late (we’ve seen that one before). I like that he plays with an edge, but he has to be smarter. Other than those two penalties, I thought he played pretty well, though.
2.292 (16)
Hamonic: B. A string of solid games for Hamonic. He and AMac seem more comfortable in the defensive zone lately. (And not being trapped in there as much as usual helps, save for PKs.)
3.115 (16)
AMac: B. Three good games in a row is not luck. Lighter work today for this pair (no 5-on-3s for a change!), but still solid when they needed to be.
2.857 (16)
Jurcina: C. Yes, he still looks slow, but I didn’t see too much wrong with his play tonight.
2.242 (7)
Mottau: F. I debated whether to give a ‘D’ or an ‘F’. It wasn’t quite as bad as Eaton’s last performance, but still deserves the ‘F’, I think. (And I think Isles would do better with Jurcina/Eaton next game.)
1.784 (11)
Not in action:
Eaton:
2.150 (14) Between C and C+ average
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 12:34 AM EST reply actions
Parenteau is really impressing me. Finally.
I was sorta ambivalent to him last year. But he seems to have taken the Matt Moulson Blue Light “Nice Work. Now Do It Again” one-year contract option and made the most of it so far. He’s played with a lot of jump in almost every game and he, Tavares and Martin really have been the brightest spots so far. Maybe he will soon reach the vaunted TEH CORE status.
Nice win, I don’t care where or who or how the Habs played last night. That stretch in the second period was brutal though. I think Mottau might take a seat against the Bruins. At least I hope he does.
"He's depriving some small village of a pretty good idiot" - Mike Milbury on Ziggy Palffy's agent. On Twitter: @Dan_of_Science
by PGI on Nov 18, 2011 1:03 AM EST reply actions 2 recs
He really has.
Closing out the game late, too, he’s just been making smart, energetic plays all over the ice.
I want him signed, but I want him motivated like this too. When they resort to the cliches about veterans, they must be thinking of the smarts and decision-making accumulated over time like this.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Which is kinda funny, if you think about it
because the veterans who were brought in this year have been some of the biggest problems on the team so far. Mike Mottau plays like he’s never played hockey before.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
I like that more people are saying nice things about PAP.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 1:11 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
I've never seen the use of a smiley like that in the subject line!
How do you do that? Are you a witch?
Oh and rec’d.
Proud to root for the Jets, Mets, and Islanders!!!
Twitter: cmauceri524
Bart Scott: "I’m sure now there will be something written about how the Jets are back, and we won’t listen to that either, because at the end of the day we know that you guys don’t know what the hell you’re talking about."
by CharlieIsles on Nov 18, 2011 8:21 AM EST up reply actions
How do you do that? Are you a witch?
I made you think that was the subject line!
(Damn, Im good!)
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 10:51 AM EST up reply actions
Too many of us were assuming it was all JTs handiwork.
Putting PAP with Nielsen has allowed us to see that it wasn’t JT carrying him (not quite carrying him, but elevating his game). PAP may even see this as an opportunity that he can help make a line, not just be an addition to it.
To be fair
…Even before switching lines, PAP was playing noticeably better hockey this season than last season. It seems both Tavares and PAP took huge, unexpected steps early in this season.
But the reason the line switch worked seems to be that PAP is better able to “carry,” or lead, a line than Grabner is. (Not a knock on Grabner, but PAP seems to be a more complete, more dynamic, player so far this season.)
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:18 AM EST up reply actions
I tried to address this in another post about the forecheck
JT is much better defensively this season and Frans is Frans, so that allows PAP to be more aggresive on the forecheck from the outset. Last season he did a lot of the puck carrying on the JT/MaMo line and at the start of the season we saw JT carrying it more allowing PAP to get in on the forecheck.
yes, this
A good example of how a team and a unit helps influence each other in subtle ways.
Though I do have to say (in reply to NoDak) that I for one DID expect to see Tavares step forward again this year. He did it from juniors to his rookie year, and from his rookie year to last. One by one he became better in all the areas people identified as weak spots in his game – and not just noticeably, marginally better – immediately and obviously better. Just from rookie year to last year, the difference in his skating, puck control, faceoffs, and stamina was extraordinary. He’s a special player.
Isles fans of my generation got spoiled by special players, because we got to feast our eyes on Trots, Potvin, Bossy, Smitty, et als. Even after that, there was Patty La, and then the quite enjoyable Turgeon teams, and Zigmund Palffy… It was so easy to take that for granted.
Tavares is the first player of that dynamic quality the Isles have had in the decade since Palffy was dealt. I am really savoring watching him play – you never know when you’ll get another one like him.
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
by mikb on Nov 18, 2011 11:36 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
If he keeps improving at this pace...
…Tavares will have 130 pts by his 8th season.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:54 AM EST up reply actions
In my generational terms - I have a Trottier #19 and now a Tavares #91 jersey
I have all of the other pro jerseys (including fishsticks), just none of them are numbered. JT is the first player in 20 years I have committed a jersey to.
This and the fact that only the numbers 1 & 9 appear on any of my jerseys. Still waitng to get that retro Kings 19 Goring.
Goring!
I’ve got an old Kings jersey, but never considered slapping a name on it. Hmm…
Nielsen is the first Islanders player jersey I’ve committed to since {counts…} 20 years ago as well.
If the Turgeon 77 don’t fit, then I must have “filled out” since ’91.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
I have a Kings, but black/white/purple it must be a Real Madrid crown purple
That’ll be me sporting it at the Coliseum when I eventually track it down. It is the next in my 19 collection rundown – Trottier, Sakic, Yzerman, Robinson, Ratelle, Toews, Thornton, then possibly a Seguin and Backstrom.
Rod Brind'Amour
will always be a 19 to me :(
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
On that note
Wayne Merrick was #19 with the Blues.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Distinct possibility if I could find the retro powder blue
The name and the number MUST match the style of the uniform the player wore, if not from the exact year and be a pro if it is going to be numbered. It’s just a thing and why I don’t have a “fishstick” Trottier.
PA outscoring JT since the switch
6 to 5 in six games…so each is still getting it done at a high rate.
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
PAP has been or second best player. Very consistent. You know you're getting effort, a bit of an edge, and some playmaking and drives to the net every night
…and few bone headed plays. he’s worth signing for 2-3 years. People that want to ride him don’t get it. It’s the classic how can he be any good if he’s been an AHLer until 27. I like Matty Mo because he puts the puck in the net, but PAP does so much more for the team IMO.
PAP has been outplaying Fransie significantly so far this season fromw hat Ive seen- the alst few games Fransies starting to look like himself though- which is great.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 11:59 AM EST up reply actions
As I stated above, I agree. It's been Tavares and then a good distance to PAP...and then a fairly sizable gap to Fransie or Grabs or even Martin.
Hamonic’s been clearly our best Dman followed by Streit and then Amac. Our biggest two problems is the lack of much of anything from Como, Bailey and KO and us having 3 Dmen that are 6-7 Dmen on most teams. They are way too slow, bad at clearing the puck, and molasses making that pass forward to start the rush.
by NewIsles on Nov 18, 2011 12:08 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
You would also have to incounter the defensive part of the game.
That why I do not agree with you, on the difference between FN and PAP
That sentence was hard to read...
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Nov 18, 2011 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
I'm just razzing TMC for the grammatical errors.
I can be an ass like that.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
I think what she meant to say was:
Fransie is done being nice and allowing others to look good and is now returning to ultra domination form.
Return of the Frans-inator
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 1:53 PM EST up reply actions
Frans
6 points in six games since removing KO and inserting PAP. 3 in 10 games prior to that.
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
I like what I see...
…but let’s remember it is his contract year. If he plays like this all season, someone is going to offer him at least $3million per for 3-4 years. His play this season could be the difference between him being wealthy or being very, very wealthy (on my scale) when it is time to retire. Other youngish players set to be UFAs: Nielsen, Jurcina, and Montoya. (Or is Jurcina old now?)
I believe that statistically players perform better during “contract years”, but I have no hard evidence. Does anyone know if hard evidence exists?
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 1:11 AM EST up reply actions
That could be why they need to enter Moulson-like talks in February
I’ve only seen anecdotal evidence (a lot) about walk years, but he’s been so effective and driven, and he’s paid so much dues in time served, that it’s hard for me to imagine him totally laying off the pedal.
Basically his all-around play makes me think he’d be a great guy to have locked up even if depth pushes him down a line or two. Fortunately they have time to collect more data both on him and the prospects who should one day take his job.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
by Dominik on Nov 18, 2011 1:28 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
It's Amazing
how close he came to playing in Europe.
"Matty Mo thinks it's different. He must be extra high today." BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Moulson's response to Isles black jerseys.
Contributor to Lighthouse Hockey not sure if I'm the Sniper or the Enforcer.
Wow, yeah, no doubt
I always forget about that clause.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
I wonder (with that anecdotal evidence)
How often those “contract year” guys are givn favorable assignments and linemates to “increase their trade value” just in case.
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
by Keith Quinn on Nov 18, 2011 7:52 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
I wouldn’t think that teams (or more specifically…coaches, would be like that). A GM would have to mandate something like that to a coach and I gotta believe that most coaches would like working/coaching under thos circumstances.
Anyway, let me ask you….is PAP the third most gisfted offensive talent on the tam after JT & Grabs? Whadya Think?
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano
He may be tied for 2nd with Grabs
I think the best three options (beyond Tavares; Grabs, PAP, MM) all have a piece missing from their games, but bring a lot in the other departments.
Grabs- Missing “puck handling”
PAP- Missing a good shot
Moulson- missing speed
Not that any of them are “missing” these things to a debilitating degree, but those are the underdeveloped parts of their games that JT has all of now.
What I think puts PA in second place is his poise, patience, and decision making. He really never looks rushed and seems to limit crucial turnovers and can continue a play in danger of falling apart.
That’s probably just experience (age) though. Grabs can probably get there and develop that because of his speed. Moulson will never be relied upon to do it, and I wouldn’t expect it.
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
by Keith Quinn on Nov 18, 2011 8:32 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
I want a line of Grabner-Nielsen-PAP soooooo badly.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Nov 18, 2011 10:23 AM EST up reply actions
It would be a funny line
We still need two very good lines, and even Tavares alone does not make that. But after yesterday, may Martin?
Grabner-JT-Moulson is a great line
but I really, really don’t like the idea of having your top three scorers all on the same line, especially when the secondary scoring lines aren’t scoring at all. We see that PAP is a great set-up man and Grabner is a great finisher – the line reminds me of FNGO with better puck possession and that makes them really, really dangerous.
I love Martin, but I don’t really want him on the top line next to JT – I can see the guy potting 15, maybe 20 at best, but his place is usually in front of the net and that’s currently occupied by Moulson. Nino could play on JT’s wing, but I don’t like the idea of him getting top 6 minutes yet. Okposo may be the best option so that he can get himself going, but I’m not confident on going from healthy scratch —> first line quite yet.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Nov 18, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions
Compromises a coach's realities isn't it?
Problem Okposo did not bring much in the first many games to the FNGO line this season. I two believe he have to earn he place in the line up again. It is not fair to anybody else if not.
Nino is two young, but I am find with him getting a shift for Rolston from time to time. As the lines are now.
It really does
It puts a lot of pressure on the top line to score and it doesn’t help any of the secondary lines if your three pimary goalscorers are all together. By game 20, I’m hoping to see a bit of a shakeup on the lines so that Rolston can get off the 2nd line.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
LIAR!
;)
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
It's just so weird to think of JT as a speedy player
….but it’s true. Same goes for his leg/core strength. (And his speed/strength increases are undoubtably connected.) Remarkable.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:21 AM EST up reply actions
You're probably right
But he’s certainly faster than his rookie season, right? Or at least quicker/more explosive. I don’t think beating others to the puck (or tying) is 100% better anticipation.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 12:45 PM EST up reply actions
True, his skating is much improved. He does appear faster, he's no longer a kid either.
That first step allows him to create room and then his puck skills also allow him to lose players.
PAP
has really honed his game and is executing it to the T. He was never really deemed a physical player, but do not tell that to him, when he is on his game, he hits, pushes, talks smack, drives, shoots and makes some really nice plays. He can do some wonderful things when he enters the zone with the puck, or for that matter, he is really a smart player without the puck, also he has shown that working with other players is ok by him. He may not have ultra sound speed but he isnt a rock either.
Man is second on the team in scoring and looks like he is on pace for at least 50 points again. Go Paps.
He's actually on a pace for
75+ right now. That’s the most by an Islander since I don’t even know when? Yashin’s best year? Palffy? Turgeon?
Though JT is on pace for 82 so…bad timing for PAP, but still.
Doubt he can keep that pace, but should still end up better than last year unless he hits a helluva slump.
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
by Keith Quinn on Nov 18, 2011 7:57 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
I actually wouldnt be surprised if he finished with around 70 points
I mean Looking back at last year, everybody’s stats took a hit be cause of the 20 game streak of suck-itude. If you look at the stats from the other 60 games of the year, I’d say his offensive production would be in the 60-70 points range over a full season
"Mario Lemiuex… I used to respect you."- Turgeon1992
He never seems to turn the puck over
His puck management is fantastic
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano
PAP play much like Grabner last year?
Is it me or is PAP play much like Grabner did last year?
Fore checking like mad, force turn overs and stressing the opposition.
To me he seem more free in his game and more dangerous.
I am not sure if he is not benefiting even more playing with Nielsen, now than with Tavares. And that is a little funny in many ways.
I personally think Tavares has been better with PAP than with Grabner.
But as coach says all the time, you know what?
When one player plays very good. that help the whole line look better….
When one player sucks, make the whole line look less good….
PAP on the forecheck
With JT maturing defensively and now playing with Nielsen I think it allows PAP to be more aggressive. You can’t take chances on the forecheck if you have doubt that the Center will make the proper read to cover your neutral zone assignment.
That was what I meant
And it was not meant as a disgrace of Tavares. More like PAP may had been better than expected.
Could not agree more
He has been consistently good all year. Maybe one poor game. Very good offensive instincts, and his work along the boards is underrated. And he has played well in any situation, and with any linemates.
He's pretty good
for a guy who isn't really a first liner.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
by afrosupreme on Nov 18, 2011 10:25 AM EST up reply actions 4 recs
He's a second liner now. So....
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
yes
there is evidence of it – my own 2 eyeballs
God had nothing to do with it.
He was too busy helping Tim Tebow last night.
(takes another swig of Jack Daniels and cries into his jets shirt.)
Proud to root for the Jets, Mets, and Islanders!!!
Twitter: cmauceri524
Bart Scott: "I’m sure now there will be something written about how the Jets are back, and we won’t listen to that either, because at the end of the day we know that you guys don’t know what the hell you’re talking about."
by CharlieIsles on Nov 18, 2011 8:23 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Tebow is a lot like Joe Kapp
The qb who took the Vikings to Super Bowl III. All heart, and his teammates obviously believe in him.
I’m still not a Tebow believer, but we will see.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Nov 18, 2011 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
that should read super bowl 4
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Nov 18, 2011 9:44 AM EST up reply actions
I must say I was impressed by him last night
although I don’t think it will work against a team with any skill on the offensive side of the ball….meaning they are never going to outscore a team who knows a thing or two about scoring points.
Proud to root for the Jets, Mets, and Islanders!!!
Twitter: cmauceri524
Bart Scott: "I’m sure now there will be something written about how the Jets are back, and we won’t listen to that either, because at the end of the day we know that you guys don’t know what the hell you’re talking about."
by CharlieIsles on Nov 18, 2011 9:45 AM EST up reply actions
The Big Tebowski
He just abides for three quarters, and then… boom.
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
Living in my hockey bubble...
I had no idea what was going on with Tebow and the Jets last night, just a few random twitters and Keith’s “Holy shit Tebow” tweet.
This morning I learned. My condolences to all. Here, have more Jack.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
My hockey bubble is big too, and my Vikings blow
But I still love the NFL.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Nov 18, 2011 9:01 PM EST up reply actions
I've never been so happy to have not watched a game
If the Jets miss the playoffs, this game will be the tipping point.
"He's depriving some small village of a pretty good idiot" - Mike Milbury on Ziggy Palffy's agent. On Twitter: @Dan_of_Science
Hey Hey, Ho Ho, Mike Mottau has got to go
Stick a Fork in him, he’s done. Send him to BP, give the kids someone that’s a better tutor then Reese at least. At this point what’s the danger of calling up Wishart? He has to be given a chance at some point. His +3 leads all BP defenseman, hell he’s the only defenseman in the positive for the team right now. He’s 3rd in points among BP Dmen and is only 1 point off the lead.
The Islanders gave Witt 42 games during his last season. There’s no reason to give Mottau another 10 NHL games.
"Matty Mo thinks it's different. He must be extra high today." BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Moulson's response to Isles black jerseys.
Contributor to Lighthouse Hockey not sure if I'm the Sniper or the Enforcer.
by Mark D on Nov 18, 2011 1:30 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
If Mike Mottau is going to be relied on to teach defense to the young'ins
then we’re really screwed.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
OK, kids
See that? Don’t ever do that.
Thanks, coach!
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
by mikb on Nov 18, 2011 10:52 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Pay attention now, here's how to make snow angels
You really shouldnt do that during games, though.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions
Coach teaching...
… Now kids, now you instead take a look on Mottau, that the way you must never do! …
It will be like one of those scared straight programs.
“Dont wind up like me, kids.”
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions
I didn't see the game
Did Okposo play? What was the breakdown of NYI fans to Habs fans in attendance? (80-20?)
no he did not
Scratched. Nino in, who played like he belonged. Not sure in the breakdown, but that probably is right.
I'd say 80-20 is fair
Most of the Habs fans seemed to kids bussed in for the event. How come my school never had a field trip to an NHL game?
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Nov 18, 2011 8:23 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
LOLOLOL
Rec’d for memories. My Scout troop did a couple of Coliseum trips – we got to see the Globetrotters, and the MISL’s Arrows. (I even remember that they lost to the Pittsburgh Spirit, 9-8.)
I’ve seen the Isles at the Garden (someone threatened to toss me from the cheap seats onto the ice if a Ranger got a hat trick), at the Brendan Byrne Arena, and in Philly (1-0 OT game where Peca scored the shortie and Garth Snow was in nets). Never at the Coli. I have GOT to get there.
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
by mikb on Nov 18, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Ooooh, I smell MISL memories
Steamers. Arrows. Nassau Coliseum. F-You Steve Zungul!!
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Was a team really called the "Arrows"?
Last night I had a dream that the Isles relocated to Utah and were renamed the “Salt Lake Semicolons”. I thought it was just a crazy dream.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 6:01 PM EST up reply actions
Checklist
I posted this here, but I want to follow up on it. These are the things I think need to happen for them to consistently win hockey games:
1. Mottau gone.
Doesn’t this become more and more evident every night.
2. Ullstrom up.
If Nabokov goes on the IR this could happen for Boston. It might have to wait until there is an injury though.
3. Wishart up as 7th defenseman.
Mottau’s shiftless 3rd period should expedite that this.
4. Healthy deHaan in as 6th defenseman.
Looks like he’s going to need some extra time in BPT to recover, then to make sure he’s okay.
5. Haley up as 13th forward
Pandolfo scoring is making this more difficult. If Mottau is waived, and the team scores 3+ in their next few, maybe this is something they will have the luxury to do in December.
6. Third goalie off NHL roster. Trade Nabokov or waive Dipietro.
Nabokov may have solved this himself. Unfortunately, Ricky proved he was “good enough” tonight… but he’s really not that good. Hopefully Montoya gets the lion’s share going forward… but Rick can be an adequate backup.
7. Pandolfo gone.
I’m starting to wonder if Pandolfo isn’t the one Devil Dropping worth keeping. He and Martin have now pushed two different centers from fourth line time to third. I’d still prefer Bailey and Martin to play with Comeau, but maybe Pandolfo has earned his spot. I’d still like the flexibility to bring in Haley for fourth line duty whenever necessary.
8. Rolston reduced role or gone.
I know he has a very good slap shot, but he’s just not getting it done. 3 shots on goal is good, considering he doubles that number if the stat was shots AT the net, or towards the net. It’s the picture of him leaving the back door open on the PK that bothers me more. With flexibility Rolston gets a few games off.
9. Deal for viable 20 minute defensive option. Nobody that isn’t named Tavares is safe.
Looks like Carolina has put two guys “on the market”. Kaberle would be an improvement over our bottom 3, and his biggest cost is cap space which we not only have, but it would give us more roster flexibility to take on more salary. Allen makes more sense because he is a UFA at the end of the year. Kaberle would have two more years left on his contract… but that times out closer to their defensive depth from prospects. Either one could fit, and might relieve some of the pressure next UFA season… It’s just a matter of cost.
10. No more forwards on the PP point.
This one spoke to Doug Weight behind the bench… and guess who was back behind the bench last night. Scott Allen. Hopefully that’s the beginning of the end of the Dougie back there. He does seem like a good presence, but the PP is getting into the SUCKS class, and four forwards isn’t helping it. Hopefully when they upgrade the defense this will end.
LighthouseHockey: We saw this coming!
@JPinVA
i think you mean anyone not named tavares is fair game
screw homework, its all about islanders hockey
For criticism... sure
… and he shouldn’t eb safe either.
But I don’t see this as a Bailey or Comeau problem anymore. They tried to patch this team and all of the patches are making things worse… even the one who is doing his job the best.
I’m gonna lay off Pandolfo… but just because it’s good to havea JP on the team. But over the long haul Pandolfo redefines Bailey and Martin as checking line players… I’d much rather have them be the guys who make it 3-1, rather than protect a 2-1 lead. This team can’t afford to protect one goal leads with two lines that are offensively hobbled by PATCHES.
We’ll see that shortly when Boston pounds this dynamic into submission. If you offer better offinsive forwards you will defend better by applying offensive pressure. But they have to give it time… and allowing it to happen in games you will most likely lose anyway makes more sense than sacrificing it when the schedule gets softer.
LighthouseHockey: We saw this coming!
@JPinVA
Rolston still not helping his case, even in a win
It’s the picture of him leaving the back door open on the PK that bothers me more.
and he was out their for his defensive acumen? I mean Gionta all alone, pass into the pants and still had time to settle the puck and roof it. Just terrible, that he is getting so many critical defensive assignments.
Turrible even
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Yeah, doesn't seem to be Rolston's strongest aspect of his game.
I think Isles have 8 or so forwards who are better for PK, if you count Tavares, who really shouldn’t be out there unless it is crucial and/or the best 4 or 5 PKers are tired.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:40 AM EST up reply actions
Rolston is like fools gold.
he can get you some goals because the one aspect of his game, his slapshot, he still has. Everything else has gone to shit. It amazes me Cappy doesn’t see the same we see. Pandy, I actually think he’s played well despite not really having much asked of him. What he has been asked to do, he’s actually done well. He’s the only “devil dropping” worth keeping
Cappy did see the same KO that we did and benched him rightly so
At this point he may just be working his way through the roster. Rolson was played way too much last night, but that may be the coaches way of removing all excuses. Too bad, in a victory it is difficult to find fault in one particular player.
However, this will not hold true for Mottau and Comeau’s lack of ice time may mean he was keeping KOs place warm.
Yes, it's all QB-ing...he might see it all, and is taking time to work through the kinks.
Any word on status of Nabby? Injured list and bring up BPT Ullstrom or Casey C?
That's an interesting point
When multiple players are failing or flailing, you just can’t bench them all at once. (Well I guess you can, but then you’d kill Tavares & friends.)
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Maybe what we’re seeing is Cappy trying to get the guys he wants.
He rides Nabby hard … until he breaks.
He rides Rolston hard hoping he breaks?
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
by afrosupreme on Nov 18, 2011 12:48 PM EST up reply actions
Well adding Kaberle would theoretically help the PP
But I said the same thing about Rolston.
I’m not a big Kaberle fan, though, from what I have seen. But at least he can advance the puck, and perhaps he’s the finesse guy Isles can pair with Jurcina or Eaton?
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:37 AM EST up reply actions
Not sure if they showed it on TV, but nearing the end of the game
Subpan was mugging JT away from the puck right in front of the ref, and JT had enough and knocked the big bastard down. The crowd roared in approval.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Nov 18, 2011 8:21 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
It was behind the play, so not much TV time, but they are supposedly really close friends and you could hear the crowd reactio and ref take a look.
May add to the intensity and maybe why Subban deflected the puck Moulson’s goal to hand JT another assist.
I heard the crowd
and Howie said something, but didn’t see it.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
by afrosupreme on Nov 18, 2011 10:35 AM EST up reply actions
Saw just the trailing bit of it before the camera followed the puck
Good to hear. I heard the crowd and figured it was a cry for a penalty with Subban interfering with him back there.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Thats what I thought, too.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 10:57 AM EST up reply actions
It was easily my favorite thing I saw in either game
I like that JT has that in him. He’s lucky they’re friends, or he might have the Letang treatment.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Nov 18, 2011 9:04 PM EST up reply actions
the one thing i hate about college...thursday night football games during hockey season
had to work VT’s football game last night, great game, so i guess i missed one hell of a game here. It sounds like JT entered beast mode yet again, Mottau made some stupid moves, Josh is looking like the player we want him to become, Pandolfo scored(?!?!?!?!?) and Matt Martin is Matt Martin. Nabby getting hurt seems to be both a blessing and a curse. He is a solid goalie which sucks to lose, but the 3 headed monster is cleared up for now. Hopefully i can get to a game next week when im home.
Now if anyone should be called up or any moves should be made right now, waive Mottau, call up Ullström and maybe Wishart and another D. Pair Ty (or other D) with Streit and Staois with Eaton. Have Ullström play 4th line center with Matt Martin and either BC or Pandolfo, move Bailey to 2nd line wing with Frans and PAP, scratch Rolston and/or Pandolfo and have KO play with Reasoner and Nino to have line combos and pairings of
MM-JT-Grabs
Bailey-Frans-PAP
Nino-Reasoner-KO/BC
Matt Martin-Ullström-KO/BC/Pandolfo/Rolston
Hamonic-Mac
Streit-Wishart
Staios-Eaton/Other D
Montoya
DP
For anyone who asks why i think Bailey should play with Frans and PAP for right now or the D moves; Nino isn’t ready for top 6 time yet. While yes, he is playing a good game, he only has 2 NHL games under his belt right now, let him simmer with Reasoner and KO who have played in the league for years and help him with his responsibilities on ice. Put Staios with Eaton and have them play the least ice time. Staios can play good positional hockey up to a certain point, after that he cant be of that much use, so play them against to other teams checking line where there shouldn’t be a lot of offensive issues. Play Wishart with Streit so he can get some good minutes with a smart partner who can cover his mistakes.
wow…thats a handful
screw homework, its all about islanders hockey
Bailey-Frans-PAP who shall score on such line?
Bailey-Frans-PAP is no good
MM-JT-Bailey is more realistic
well
with Bailey-Frans-PAP, PAP can score for one, he has 14 points right now, 2 behind JT. Frans has both a wicked snap shot and can dish the puck. Josh has a nice wrister that he can use when close to the net, and all 3 can dish it to each other. It was just a thought.
screw homework, its all about islanders hockey
I may be crazy
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 10:58 AM EST up reply actions
But it just may be...
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:42 AM EST up reply actions
Yes but
Even that I would not arguing for that line, but he is right, Frans has score more than expected, Bailey did show he did have that shot
Jan
FYI they’re having fun quoting song lyrics with “crazy” “may be” and “lunatic” etc. (Not sure your country of origin, so I figured there might be cultural references going on that are outside of the discussion about lines.)
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
a little billy joel is good for the soul
screw homework, its all about islanders hockey
by DarthDoyle on Nov 18, 2011 5:40 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
He's also an Islander- even if he is a frickin Rags fan.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 10:24 PM EST up reply actions
Why, back in my day...
High school played on Friday, college played on Saturday, and the pros played on Sunday. There was none of this Sunday night, Monday night, Thursday night, Saturday night business…and we LIKED it, dag-dern it we loved it. And you could order a cup of coffee without speaking French and needing change for a $5 bill.
More than anything, you missed an entertaining game. Don’t think there were any revelations you haven’t seen in the other games … just a better score, a slight comeback (Montreal scored first), peppered with moments of holy shit here and there.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
We wore onions on our belts
Which was the custom at the time.
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
by mikb on Nov 18, 2011 10:57 AM EST up reply actions 4 recs
Like Doug Weight?
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 10:58 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
they hadn't invented belts yet in Weight's day
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
No white ones though
What with the war.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
by Dominik on Nov 18, 2011 11:11 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The big yellow ones are perfectly acceptable.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 1:09 PM EST up reply actions
You get a free rec for gratuitous Simpson reference
I like when people pander to the audience.
Well, Monday Night football does go back to 1970.
I agree though. Too much going on on Thursday nights now.
I thought I'd take a little "Germans bombed Pearl Harbor" license
Tough crowd, tough crowd.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Licensure like that is how Hitler rose to power
and how grammar Nazis are made.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Was anyone else amazed by JT's Assist to Moulson's Goal?
A one-handed back hand pass on the tape (I’m sure a little bit of luck was involved, just a little though) of Moulson’s stick. It’s good to see him do something special each game that keeps that little bit of hope alive that one day things will be better.
He had so many great chances last night, too bad none went in. Great game for him though.
Patience will prevail, if not...
He had another one-handed pass later in the game that I thought was even better.
Similar, from the right wing to the center of the ice. And then another setup by JT that same shift, I believe.
He could have had a 5-pt night with some luck.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:45 AM EST up reply actions
It’s good to see him do something special each game that keeps that little bit of hope alive that one day things will be better.
This. Its so true. When they were showing that clip of him on draft day they showed “the wink” and I remember the absolute joy I felt at that moment… the feeling of, “Its gonna be OK now! We have John Tavares!” We all need to remember how special he is, and how lucky we are that the Isles have treated him right and that he really wants to stay here. Thank god.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 11:51 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Felt this as well
Also from that clip: Whatever Snow told him up on stage had to be good. Genuine laughter from each of them. Could’ve been anything, possibly his first official hazing.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
I know exactly what youre referring to.
Theres actually a great photo of them laughing together at that very moment, too. :)
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 12:53 PM EST up reply actions
"I knew you were the one all along
I just wanted to expense a good dinner and golfing while watching you sweat."
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
"I told Duchene it would be him..."
by Les Beaver on Nov 18, 2011 2:32 PM EST up reply actions 5 recs
Classic.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 3:26 PM EST up reply actions
Notable Guys that Rolston had more shifts than...
Parenteau
Martin
Staios
Moulson
Comeau
Everyone else but Streit, Tavares (only 1 less shift), Nielsen, Amac, Hamonic and Grabner
just don’t understand it.
by BaltimoreIslander on Nov 18, 2011 11:41 AM EST reply actions
Yeah, it seems Cappy overplayed him.
I’ll stick with my previous suggestion: 2nd line for 1st period; 4th line for 2nd period; 2nd line for 3rd period. He’s been flying all over the ice the 1st periods of the past two games. Let Comeau or Martin do the “flying” for the 2nd period.
Rolston played about 4 more minutes this game than last game. (17.5 to 13.5.) I don’t think he can be a 15+ minutes-a-game forward.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:50 AM EST up reply actions
And that would keep Rolston from the long-change for 2nd period
….when he is tired.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 11:52 AM EST up reply actions
Period-by-period line changes?
That’s maybe crazy enough to work.
Hoping that Haley comes around more than once every 75 years.
It's largely
because he plays on both the PP and the PK. I think he and Frans are the only forwards doing that regularly.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
by afrosupreme on Nov 18, 2011 12:01 PM EST up reply actions
I'd say "just pick one for Rolston!", but
…I don’t think he’s been particularly good at either special teams thus far.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
Yes
And his lack of physic probably cost the last goal
Hmmm
I never thought about it that way. You know, a good old fashioned physic might just put him in a much better mood, too.
At this point Im willing to try anything!
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 4:25 PM EST up reply actions
Am I wrong
or is this three goals in three games for Matty Mo? Is he (in NBA Jam terms) On Fire?
Hoping that Haley comes around more than once every 75 years.
Youre right
Its a three game goal streak, five game point streak for MattyMo.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Nov 18, 2011 12:51 PM EST up reply actions
IS IT THE SHOES!?
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Nov 18, 2011 1:10 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Yes
4 goals in 5 games. 6 points in 5 games. A five-game point streak.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 12:50 PM EST reply actions
Is this another Project Runway reference?
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Nov 18, 2011 1:55 PM EST up reply actions
OH,OH! I LOVE THIS GAME!! I'll go first...
You know your fanbase is wounded when I watched the game last night but still broke out into a cold sweat while watching the highlights this morning and the score because 3-2.
by Bepfront on Nov 18, 2011 1:55 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Ha, perfect.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
Rolston
I know I’m late, but I’ve just watched the game now (and haven’t had the time to read the whole thread).
I’m very surprised reading so many negatives about Rolston’s performance in this particular game. Maybe to trade for him was questionable and perhaps he’s still been inconsistent since playing with Nielsen and PA, but last night he showed an excellent performance in my opinion – certainly with the support of two very good line mates, but he skated very well, played a smart game and he did make offensive plays, too, lots of good plays in fact. That line dominating the Canadiens’ top lines all night wouldn’t have been possible without decent contribution from Rolston. And, a bit like last February, winning games seems to be very tough for them without benching the most uneffective players for parts of the game and on the other hand their best lines outplaying the oppositions’ best lines. And that’s of course something they can only do if they have a sixth forward contributing on the highest level. And that’s what Rolston did for them in this game.
I don’t expect him to repeat this evey night, not at all. But I think it’s important to realize what his performance meant for the team in this game and how much they need this kind of contribution. Again, not saying Rolston’s still able to do it every night or that they should count on it, but at this point it’s their best bet and it did indeed work in this game.
by BenHasna on Nov 19, 2011 12:05 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
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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.
