Islanders vs. Rangers Gameday: Battle of New York Resumes

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 6:30 AM EST in New York Islanders Previews

It's an important five-game run from here to New Year's for the Islanders, but the game within the game also gives us an odd kink in the schedule where they play two of the next three at the World's Most Expensive Arena.

Neither the Short Island Smurfs nor the Islanders approach this holiday weekend with a healthy lineup, so to quote my grandpa describing working for 19 cents a day during the Depression: "You did what you could with what you had. Nobody worried about anybody."

Islanders (11-14-6, 14th/E) @ Smurfs (19-8-4, 3rd/E)
7 p.m. | MSG/MSG+ | Audio: NHL - WRHU
[Where Hall of Famers School You, Then Suck] Garden
Children Overlooked by Family Services: Blueshirt Banter

UPDATE: The Islanders have re-activated Mark Eaton and returned Dylan Reese to Bridgeport.

On the Islanders side of course we have the concussed foursome of Brian Rolston, Steve Staios, Al Montoya and David Ullstrom. That brings up Micheal Haley, Anders Nilsson (who probably gets an appearance in one of these back-to-backs) and possibly more than nine minutes for Nino Niederreiter in his ninth game of the season.

The Rangers are getting the 24/7 treatment -- our mini-thread from last night is here, Blueshirt Banter described the episode here, Puck Daddy has highlights here. One credit to the Smurfs: They had the decency to dispense of the Devils in regulation. Another credit: It was fun to watch them get manhandled by the Blues.

The Rangers have a really nice record right now, and it's thanks to the usual suspect: Henrik Lundqvist. I think deep inside John Tortorella knows this: He knows his team, especially without Marc Staal, has ridden Lundqvist as it is wont to do. What's great for the Rangers is, if they could do this long enough to get to when Staal nears a return, then they've got the head start they need. But of course I'm going to point out their puck possession figures through the first third of the season raise alarms.

But for now, they're also without Michael Sauer and even last-resort depth fill-in Jeff "I was once dealt for Chris Pronger" Woywitka is banged up. Tim Erixon is one of the more interesting replacements.

The Rangers have actually only benefited from one shootout win (they're 1-2), so it's not like they're riding Lundqvist that far. Rather, they haven't needed the post-65-minute breakaway drill. Their team save percentage is .931 (third overall, behind only the Thomas Bruins and the Wild), and their shooting percentage is 10.6, second overall in the league (behind the Flyers). I'm not saying, I'm just saying...

What am I saying? These rivalry games are always of the "throw the records out" variety. But these are winnable games, if the Islanders solve Lundqvist. Sometimes they do that, sometimes they fall flat. Though sometimes the road team takes the day in this rivalry, the Islanders (2-4 in last year's series) actually lost all three games at the Garden in 2010-11.

Sean Avery hasn't played since Dec. 10, but I'm sure if the Rangers get a wild hair then Haley will keep an eye on him. That seemed to work out okay last year.

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Jeff “I was once dealt for Chris Pronger” Woywitka

Not that you’re bitter or anything…

by afrosupreme on Dec 22, 2011 7:00 AM EST reply actions 2 recs

Ha, nice.

I actually felt bad for everyone involved in that trade, except the dumb NBA-wannabe owner who forced it and the hapless GM who pulled it off and pretended it was a fair trade while also scolding fans not to expect Eric Brewer to be Chris Pronger.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 12:54 PM EST up reply actions

Pedan story is interesting on the heels of Trivino. Probably puts to bed the notion that the Isles go out of their way to draft guys based on their character. I personally never put much stock in it, and would hope that they are actually drafting much more on talent.

by afrosupreme on Dec 22, 2011 7:19 AM EST reply actions 1 recs

Re: Pedan

So let me get this stright. He made Middle Eastern racial slurs to a Greek guy?

Sounds like Pedan needs a Geography lesson, moreso than any disciplinary action.

by JPinNYC on Dec 22, 2011 12:02 PM EST up reply actions

Pedan-tic

The Isles fan in me wants to give this kid a slap on the wrist and have everyone move on…but the Greek in me loves the delicious taste of the frosted side!!

by GreekIsles83 on Dec 22, 2011 12:08 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Seriously

Even just a few years ago they would have put this down to being a bunch of stupid kids, since that is exactly what it is. But they should have him sit out a game to send a message if they really think it will help.

It is Diduck.

by Paumanok on Dec 22, 2011 4:29 PM EST up reply actions

Laviolette is the one at fault there

He chose to use the home teams tunnel and should at least show some respect and let the home team leave their bench. Ott did nothing wrong, just told him to wait his turn (with a few profanities I’m sure).

by 54_Fighting on Dec 22, 2011 7:33 AM EST reply actions

I agree

That is there turf and they should be able to leave without interruption.This will definitely be on 24/7, so it could be an even bigger discussion in the coming weeks.

All Who Oppose Grabner Shall Perish.

by pippup on Dec 22, 2011 10:38 AM EST up reply actions

I think the our tunnel/their tunnel thing is more for the players than the staff.

Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)

by TheMetalChick on Dec 22, 2011 10:39 AM EST up reply actions

Ott didn't think so.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 10:58 AM EST up reply actions

Wasn't it a joint tunnel?

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 12:07 PM EST up reply actions

I was wondering that

They must have an alternate one for the visiting team, but I could see why a coach wouldn’t want to walk across the ice, old-style.

Amazing how these situations seem to find Ott. He must be a totally innocent and lovely chap with the darnedest luck.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 12:55 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs

Yes

Apparently that’s where the visiting teams coaches go. Just Laviolette was trying to go while the Stars were still exiting

UVa Student. Twitter: @ericdavidmorris

by edavidmorris on Dec 22, 2011 5:30 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions

Flyers blew out the starts 4-1, so Ott was probably just pissed and didn't want to let Lav through.

It’s not like there isn’t enough room in that hallway for 2 people to walk side by side.

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 6:11 PM EST up reply actions

Gotta Get One Tonight....TRAP GAME FOR RAGS?

Maybe we can catch the Rags in a Trap Game? I know that probably sounds ridiculous but the Smurfs are also scheduled to take on their Winter Classic friends the Flyers tomorrow night.

With all of the 24/7 nonsense going on the #isles might be able to catch them looking ahead just a bit. Sounds crazy i know but…..lets hope.

A good end to the Calandar year for the Isles and they can put themselves right in the mix for the Playoffs for the rest of the year.

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Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano

by FB4Real on Dec 22, 2011 7:38 AM EST reply actions

If I recall..

…I think the Isles caught the Pens last year napping a bit during their Winter Classic 24/7 mumbo jumbo and pulled out a victory on Long Island, yes?

by barry_hal_oliver_24 on Dec 22, 2011 8:33 AM EST up reply actions

Yes...I was at the game

They beat The Pens and stopped Sid’s point streak that night.
That game was a little bit closer to the actual Winter Classic game but….since the rags play the Flyers Tomorrow night I think that maybe they can catch them off guard.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano

by FB4Real on Dec 22, 2011 8:44 AM EST up reply actions

Offgaurd?

Sorry guys but that sounds a bit pathetic.

How about we just go in there and beat them!!

by vince from NJ on Dec 22, 2011 8:57 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs

I know....

It does sound pathetic.

Its the Rangers-Isles. They are not going to be looking ahead.

Im excited about tonites game!

Lets Go Islanders!

Love to see someone drop Dubby.

by BattFist on Dec 22, 2011 9:28 AM EST up reply actions

I thought Dubinksy was out?

Or is he just not playing well? I liked him his rookie year, then he became such a douche.

by Les Beaver on Dec 22, 2011 9:41 AM EST up reply actions

Really...

Maybe DP will have a tables and chairs match with Dubby.

by BattFist on Dec 22, 2011 9:57 AM EST up reply actions

he fought two nights ago

he must be playing.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 10:42 AM EST up reply actions

He’s playing, but because he’s not scoring goals, people are ignoring him and/or trying to trade him.

Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf

by George E. Ays on Dec 22, 2011 10:45 AM EST up reply actions

Yep.

Par for the course, I guess. Thanks.

by Les Beaver on Dec 22, 2011 10:56 AM EST up reply actions

Dubinsky = Comeau

24 goals last year, 1 goal this year. Neither one is currently playing for the Dynastic New York Team!

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:09 PM EST up reply actions

Thanks Dubie for making me eat crow.... I now hate you even more.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 8:50 PM EST up reply actions

Is he still playing against crazy tough competition?

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 6:09 PM EST up reply actions

The only way the Rangers are looking past the Isles is if Hank isn't in net.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:10 PM EST up reply actions

Good article on PAP

http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2011/12/22/capellini-parenteau-fast-becoming-the-glue-holding-together-islanders-model/?src=fb

UVa Student. Twitter: @ericdavidmorris

by edavidmorris on Dec 22, 2011 7:53 AM EST reply actions 1 recs

Haley vs Avery

what are the odds both are dressing tonight? I love watching Avery cower around Haley.

by DirtyIsle on Dec 22, 2011 9:16 AM EST reply actions 3 recs

Doubtful. Avery was skating with the 5th line in practice again.

Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf

by George E. Ays on Dec 22, 2011 10:38 AM EST up reply actions

Is he in the doghouse?

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions

Avery has not been OUT of the doghouse.

Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)

by TheMetalChick on Dec 22, 2011 11:30 AM EST up reply actions

Should be though, Rupp sucks at hockey.

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 12:08 PM EST up reply actions

Lies

That’s Isles former first rounder Rupp

"I really wouldn’t wish rooting for both the Isles and Blues on anyone." Dominik
Contributor to Lighthouse Hockey not sure if I'm the Sniper or the Enforcer.

by Mark D on Dec 22, 2011 3:10 PM EST up reply actions

As well as

Stanley Cup winning goal scorer Mike Rupp

by Dorfer on Dec 22, 2011 3:57 PM EST up reply actions

Rupp's wife

grew up in the next town over from me. My neighbors are friends and have reported that he is a nice guy…….whatever that means.

"If the bell needs to be answered, we've got the guys to answer it." "If they want to start something, that's fine."- Trevor Gillies

Twitter: JenWillyard

by JW1970 on Dec 22, 2011 5:29 PM EST up reply actions

They might not know that Mike Rupp's from Cleveland

I suppose the neighbors might be changing their tune if they knew that.

by Dougtone on Dec 22, 2011 5:50 PM EST up reply actions

Hearing this saddens me much.

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 6:08 PM EST up reply actions

5-3-2 over the last 10

Is actually a fine pace. If they continue accumulating points at that pace (12 points evey 10 games), they end up with 88-90 points, which certainly puts them in “the conversation” ( or is it “TEH CONVERSATION”?). After that string of losses it was easy to see this team lose a bunch more and really lose ground and any chance at meaningful games in the winter. 3 wins out of the last 5 games of 2011 would keep them at the pace (TEH PACE!) And certainly seems doable.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 9:42 AM EST via mobile reply actions

Goalie

Al Montoya is now out. This is very concerning. They betetr hope their young goalies step up ..ie Poulin- they will need them/

by BLUEYOU on Dec 22, 2011 9:46 AM EST up reply actions

i think nabby and poulin could handle the load

although nabby hasn’t proved he can stay healthy, he looked sharp after coming in for montoya

by Dougy p on Dec 22, 2011 10:06 AM EST up reply actions

What the hell does TEH CONVERSATION and TEH PACE mean? That is really not funny anymore. It's quite annoying.

by Metzfan22 on Dec 22, 2011 3:38 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

THIS

is funnier

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 4:04 PM EST up reply actions

I guess you are not "Teh Hippest!!"

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:05 PM EST up reply actions

TEH is like metZ

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:11 PM EST up reply actions

Lol I'll give you this- it's from my first screen name like 15 years ago.

by Metzfan22 on Dec 22, 2011 5:15 PM EST up reply actions

i'm going to be in a bar surrounded by a-hole

rag fans tonight (i know they’re a-holes cuz they’re my friends)

these are the games we need to win, so i dont have to do the walk of shame

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 9:55 AM EST reply actions 4 recs

that's redundant

“a-hole rag fans”.

by martylnd on Dec 22, 2011 10:34 AM EST up reply actions

"(i know they’re a-holes cuz they’re my friends)"

That made me lol. the male friendship is a funny thing.

The only friends I have down here who like hockey are Stars, Wings and Wild fans. So consider yourself lucky.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 11:18 AM EST up reply actions

Wild fans down there?!

Snowbirds?

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 12:57 PM EST up reply actions

I don't know Dom,

Big military town and seems like a lot of people from MO, MI, MN, IL and WI seem to stay here after getting stationed here. Doesn’t hurt I’m a Vikngs fan and know a lot of Minny sports fans.

When I go to SPHL games, I see a lot of Rags, Flyers, Lightning and Bruins jerseys too.

Oh yeah, we have a lot of snowbirds, but I don’t know any of them. They drive slow though. real slow.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 1:13 PM EST up reply actions

Ah, makes sense

Actually have Minnesota bud who was stationed there, but he hates sports.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 1:18 PM EST up reply actions

I don't have any buds who hate sports

I have all diffrent types of friends, but we all have that in common.

I think guys who hate sports are kinda’ weird.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 1:22 PM EST up reply actions

I hate some people who love sports

And that doesn’t make me weird…yet I still am.

/correlation not causation

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 1:32 PM EST up reply actions

you're weird?

Naaaaahhhhhhhhh

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 1:37 PM EST up reply actions

How dare you insult me, of course I'm weird!

I mean, I refuse to use a backpack with wheels on it…that just doesn’t click with the rest of the world, so I’m told. I also suck down a beer or 3 daily in the comforts of my own dinky apartment, whether I have company or not…was told that’s odd as well. I obsess over a team whose only success that I’ve observed was my first season as a fan 19 years ago…

To hell wit TEH NROMAL!!!1

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 1:51 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs

Drinking alone

Seriously, what is the stigma against drinking alone? Beer is GOOD. Humans have perfected spirits and fermentation for thousands of years — why WOULDN’T you enjoy it with or without company?

Reducing it to strictly a social lubricant is to insult the brewmasters and distillers of the world.

Just don’t use it to black out and be “that guy” making the R.A. uncomfortable.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 2:45 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

works for me

i learned it from this guy…

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 3:15 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Thorogood is awesome.

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 6:08 PM EST up reply actions

I should've said I find it weird..........not they're kinda' weird.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 1:38 PM EST up reply actions

Where was he stationed?

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 1:24 PM EST up reply actions

Near Pensacola

Not sure the specifics, just that his stories are from when he was down there.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 2:48 PM EST up reply actions

Is he Air Force or Navy?

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:06 PM EST up reply actions

Navy.

Or was. A Navy pilot.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 4:13 PM EST up reply actions

Oh, he had the greatest job ever?

Yeah, he ws in Pcola, home of the Blue Angels. Those guys are Gods here.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:18 PM EST up reply actions

Navy has Aviators, don't they?

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:13 PM EST up reply actions

I bet he's into cars. I've noticed that guys who aren't into sports tend to be really into cars.

by TMS71 on Dec 22, 2011 6:11 PM EST up reply actions

Working IN the building

and relying on their generosity for livelihood!!!

That’s my story — most of the season ticket holders that come to my area know I’m an Isles fan.

They joke around about it — up until the Isles get the lead. I think it happened once or twice.

by jonny4gets on Dec 22, 2011 4:21 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Bit

Botta had some agent on his podcast yesterday who had some interesting things to say about FAs reluctance to play in LI (if you can get past Botta’s attempt to answer his own question). He also shed some furtherr light on Snow’s off to Kovalchuk. Worth a listen.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 10:11 AM EST via mobile reply actions

Where is this podcast found?

Was the question:

“So, Mr. Agent, tell me why FA’s don’t sign with the Islanders?”
“Well, clear-”
“I mean, obviously we know how much everyone hates Garth Snow. We know how he’s awful at his job, and Mr. Wang isn’t really a good owner, so what are the other reasons?”
“Well, Christ, that’s not really – "
“I mean, look at they’ve done over just the past few years. Brought in no one good. Snow’s prospects all stink. He takes everyone’s credentials cause he’s a petty man. His pads were huge. And I don’t know that you’ve eaten his chicken cordon blue, but it’s awful.”
“Well, no, that’s not – "
“And of course, the arena is a dump and Garth Snow doesn’t know how to use a hammer, so it’s not like he wants to fix it. I know how to use a hammer, I could have fixed it, but alas, he took my access away. Thanks for your insights on that. Next question, when your players speak with Snow, do they vomit right away, or do that get that sensation that they’re going to puke in a minute?”
“Ummm….”

by Les Beaver on Dec 22, 2011 10:20 AM EST up reply actions 9 recs

hahahahahaha

Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)

by TheMetalChick on Dec 22, 2011 10:41 AM EST up reply actions

I heard his cordon blue was good

It’s actually the one thing people speak highly of at IPB and HF boards.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 10:45 AM EST up reply actions

Not good enough for Paul Martin and Christian Ehroff, apparently.

by Les Beaver on Dec 22, 2011 10:47 AM EST up reply actions

He was taught by Chef Bruno and then Bruno was relased so that he would be a hit at the Team dinner.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:14 PM EST up reply actions

pretty spot on actually

If you search sny hockey on itunes it should come up. Itks actually pretty good. He covers the 3 local teams on a near daily basis and has Compton on as well as others.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 10:50 AM EST via mobile up reply actions

Christ?

Was that exasperation or a freudian slip!!!

by GreekIsles83 on Dec 22, 2011 11:57 AM EST up reply actions

It was supposed to be, "Chris", but funny enough, either works.

by Les Beaver on Dec 22, 2011 3:26 PM EST up reply actions

Damn, that was good Les

We are all Islanders, even if we’re from Jersey!

by Russel Ginart on Dec 22, 2011 12:09 PM EST up reply actions

Enjoyed Grossman discuss managing players

He talked about when Khabibulin was a free agent, and which teams were likely to bid in an unpredictable market. He’d told him “probably Edmonton and Long Island” and when Roloson signed with the Isles, he already knew what his only option would be. So of course EDM gives him four years, ha.

The one thing that got me was the PR spin from Grossman about players carrying “57% of the burden” of injuries. That is some impressive lingual pretzeling to turn “the players are assured 57% of revenues” into they “assume 57% of the burden” of injuries, or of the incentive to do things to reduce injuries. His theory was because insurance covers contracts for hurt players anyway (which I believe is WAY over-simplifying things).

He also said of Don Fehr: “No one on the planet has negotiated more CBAs.” I know he was just referring to pro sports, but ye gods, forget the countless anonymous reps who negotiate CBAs for actual unions rather than Fehr’s loosely associated groups of celebrities who rob each other via front-loaded contracts and routinely try to end each other’s careers.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 1:02 PM EST up reply actions

57% of the burden

this was alluded to on HNiC last weekend during Elliotte Friedman’s HotStove segment.

he said something to the effect:
‘With over $87m on injured reserve specifically for concussions, all these concussions were hurting the players’ pocketbook because of escrow.’

Someone later tweeted how and he responded:
“When players are injured, you get more players called up to replace them. That adds to the overall amount of salaries paid. The more salaries paid, the more players have to give up in escrow because they are only supposed to get 57 per cent of the pie.”

i still don’t understand but that’s the closest i can get to an explanation/logic behind it.

by noomz on Dec 22, 2011 3:51 PM EST up reply actions

That's it

Or at least that’s where that 57 figure comes into the discussion. It just sounds like PR stretching, a talking point they’ve planned to get out, since usually the players called up are usually low salary guys. Sounds more like an escrow argument than “players bearing the burden of their own injuries” sort of thing.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 4:06 PM EST up reply actions

Pie just gets cut up into smaller slices.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:17 PM EST up reply actions

escrow account

this LeBrun article from October 2011 clears it up.

The NHL and the players’ union have set the players’ escrow rate at 8.5 percent for the first quarter of this season, the lowest rate since the first year after the lockout.

So every player’s paycheck is deducted 8.5% each pay period to fund the escrow account “in order to protect owners in the event players earn more than the allotted 57 percent of hockey-related revenues at the end of the season.” Which is happening since the owners are having to add more salary (callups) on top of the pay raises many players have structured into their contracts (the extreme: Kovy making $11m next year vs $6m this year).

The players earned 90.59 percent of their 2009-10 contracts. The worst year for players was in 2008-09 when they earned only 87.12 percent of their contracts — losing almost 13 percent.

this article from Sports Business Journal from Jan 2009 shows what a bad year 2008/09 was as the Great Recession hit hockey revenues.

NHLPA Friday said that the “escrow payments the players make to guard against a shortfall in league revenues will be increased” from the current 13.5% to 25% for the remainder of this season.
…NHLPA Exec Dir Paul Kelly said of the NHL, “Considering the economy, we haven’t done that badly. Revenues went up by 12% and they’re estimated to be up by 2% this season” (Montreal GAZETTE, 1/24). Kelly indicated that NHL players will “collectively return about $217m back to the league this season as NHL revenues plummet.”
… Because salaries are up 13.9% this season and revenues are only up 1%, Bettman said the owners will have to recoup money from players at the end of the season. The league will sit down with the NHLPA to determine how much the escrow needs to increase, but Bettman said he doesn’t think "we need to be anywhere near the 25% or in the 20’s

Next CBA in Sept, this is where owners say 57% is too much, we want 50/50 and then Fehr and players accuse owners of hiding revenues. Lockout begins. Larry Brooks goes totally insane in his column.

by noomz on Dec 22, 2011 5:30 PM EST up reply actions

Yeah

And that’s why I suspect the players are already bringing up this “burden” and the escrow angle. If they think they’re already going to have to come back down from the 57% level, they’ll want that made up for somewhere. Which I can get.

But the whole escrow issue itself is one they either misunderstand or deliberately misrepresent. Revenues have gone up a lot most years, and they’re the ones who have elected to trigger the cap escalator.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 23, 2011 5:25 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Game tonight

Watch how officials call the game. If Rags get hometown, – Toronto type officiating it could influence the outcome.

by altosax on Dec 22, 2011 10:30 AM EST reply actions

You're probably right....

The NHL is so unprofessional..

by KO21 on Dec 22, 2011 1:54 PM EST up reply actions

You're probably right....

The NHL is so ~~unprofessional..~~ NBA.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:17 PM EST up reply actions

Neither the Short Island Surfs nor the Islanders approach this holiday weekend with a healthy lineup,

That’s great, but who are the Surfs?

Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf

by George E. Ays on Dec 22, 2011 10:32 AM EST reply actions

Wasn't there a basketball team called the Long Island Surf?

Low level, semi pro team, IIRC.

by Dougtone on Dec 22, 2011 10:39 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs

Hell, yeah. Great logo, too.

For the gif-impared, it’s a giant basketball eating Long Island.

"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 Dec 22, 2011 10:49 AM EST up reply actions 4 recs

what’s crazy is that their 3rd jerseys should have been black (even though i hate it) but with a blue outline of the island. would have looked awesome, instead we get recycled lettering from NYK jerseys.

by Dougy p on Dec 22, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions

Well, if you don't know, you never will. You're part of the 1%!

OCCUPY BSB!

by Les Beaver on Dec 22, 2011 10:44 AM EST up reply actions

Should probably be Short Island Smurfs vs. Long Island Serfs

I uh, I didn’t get much sleep.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 1:03 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Give us your tired, your poor, your huddled masses

And we’ll turn them into 30-goal scorers.

"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 Dec 22, 2011 1:04 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs

Great googaly moogaly!

by GreekIsles83 on Dec 22, 2011 1:55 PM EST up reply actions

Hate to say it but...

Biron’s played pretty well too. I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets the start tonight.

by ChryWheatGod on Dec 22, 2011 10:34 AM EST reply actions

Biron

I’d have to agree with you, especially since the Rangers are also playing back-to-back games.

by Dougtone on Dec 22, 2011 10:37 AM EST up reply actions

Birons a good goalie.

He would have played a lot more last season, if he wasnt out with a broken clavicle (was it clavicle? I believe so).

Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)

by TheMetalChick on Dec 22, 2011 10:43 AM EST up reply actions

You are correct.

Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf

by George E. Ays on Dec 22, 2011 10:44 AM EST up reply actions

BIron’s first goalie off, so yes, he’s starting tonight.

Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf

by George E. Ays on Dec 22, 2011 10:46 AM EST up reply actions

I'm sort of shocked

I figured he was on the tail end of his career, with how he flamed out in Philly and struggled here (obviously losing the starting goalie job to Rollie). Good to see he’s doing alright.

"I really wouldn’t wish rooting for both the Isles and Blues on anyone." Dominik
Contributor to Lighthouse Hockey not sure if I'm the Sniper or the Enforcer.

by Mark D on Dec 22, 2011 3:13 PM EST up reply actions

Jimmy Howard is right. The league needs to take action against those who blatantly run the goalie. That’s a key position and there seems to be no threat to making sure a key goaltender hits ir.

Can one be an atheist toward a hockey team? That means I have NO faith anymore.

by Turgeon1992 on Dec 22, 2011 10:36 AM EST via mobile reply actions

Hopefully they do

This running over the goalie has just become ridiculous and I don’t want to watch Montoya get run over to the point of no return.

All Who Oppose Grabner Shall Perish.

by pippup on Dec 22, 2011 10:42 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs

The Red Wings are another team who won't stand up for their goalie.

HHmmmmmm…

Wings, Sabres and Isles getting their goalies run over. What do those teams all have in common?

I wonder why nobody runs over Tim Thomas.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 10:51 AM EST up reply actions

You don't run over Tim Thomas

Tim Thomas runs over you.

All Who Oppose Grabner Shall Perish.

by pippup on Dec 22, 2011 10:53 AM EST up reply actions 5 recs

Exactly, and if he doesn't another Bruin will.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 10:56 AM EST up reply actions

kind of, sort of

As far as Detroit’s concerned – obviously this doesn’t cover times where contact is not called, or is called something else (like charging), but according to the boxscores, opponents have been called for goalie interference on Jimmy Howard only once this year, David Perron on Dec 6. Immediately Johan Franzen was called for roughing. (Chris Steward was also, so it looks like he stepped in after Franzen stepped in.)

Detroit, on the other hand, has gotten four goalie interference penalties themselves this season, including two in one game against Minnesota, Nov 1. On the first (Holmstrom), Minnesota immediately replied. On the second (Franzen), Minnesota scored on the power play to win in OT.

Small sample sizes and all, but again, nothing is a foolproof response.

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 Dec 22, 2011 11:03 AM EST up reply actions

Holmstrom is a walking, talking goalie interference call

For someone the Islanders see once or twice a year, I hate that guy. if the refs made half of the calls they were supposed to, he’d have more time in the box than G.I. Joe.

"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 Dec 22, 2011 11:07 AM EST up reply actions

None of what you said has anything to do with Howard getting run.

The reason Howard gets run, and Miller and Montoya, is because their teams let them get run.

Screw a goalie interference call. when you sit around waiting for goalie interference calls your goalie ends up on IR, like Miller and Montoya.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 11:12 AM EST up reply actions

Well I don't know what else to tell you

Nobody keeps a statistic called “goalie contact against” or “non-calls.” I can only look up what’s there. I can’t watch every game myself, not even all the Isles games. By what’s there, the Red Wings jumped in immediately after Howard was interfered with, the only time it was called. I freely admit that this can’t be the entire story, but how do we get the rest of it? Very hard to find clips – the only one on Howard I found was from last season.

But I daresay that if I wanted to just pull something out of thin air that was impossible to prove or disprove, then by definition, nothing anyone else could say would have anything to do with it.

Buffalo actually surrounded Lucic fairly quickly after he smeared Miller, but there wasn’t much of anything else they could do to him. They certainly jumped the hell out of Tootoo. The Sabres have the tenth-most major penalties and PIM/GM in the league right now. Detroit has the least of both. Again, only a proxy measurement, but it suggests two very different teams, who somehow have the exact same problem called “standing up for goalies.”

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 Dec 22, 2011 11:39 AM EST up reply actions

yes, they surrounded him

And it worked so well his first game back, TooToo ran him even worse.

The Wings are one of the least toughest teams in the NHL. Their goalie is complaining about getting run. Our fans complained about our goalie getting run, and the team did nothing, and now our goalie is hurt. Miller missed time.

So you can keep trying to find some stat to explain all this, but there is none. The thing that explains it, is how your team deals with it, when it happens. I don’t rememeber our goalie getting run like this the second half of last season.

I watch Preds and Stars games all the time, and i never see their goalies being run. At least not at the rate Montoya is, if ever. The lack of response is pathetic, whether you think so or not. We know your feelings on fighting in hockey, so we know you don;t look at it the same light that most hockey fans do. Stick up for somebody.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 11:52 AM EST up reply actions

Yes, we must know it to be so.

It is written.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 1:06 PM EST up reply actions

And will be written again

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 1:15 PM EST up reply actions

Huh?

by TMS71 on Dec 22, 2011 4:31 PM EST up reply actions

Could be the puck is in our end a lot more than

the Stars and Preds have the puck in their end. And if you’re looking a how speedy our D is, that could also explain why we’ve had our goalie run 4 times vs. other teams being victims once or twice.

Not buying that lack of the gritz argument. Do you think that during the heat of battle, Lucic makes a conscious decision to not put the brakes on because he’s only playing the Islanders, but has a different mindset against the Flyers? To me that’s similar to the capital punishment arguement that has not only NOT detered crime, but is correlated to states with higher murders after enactment.

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 1:52 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Actually, yes...

“…Lucic makes a conscious decision to not put the brakes on because he’s only playing the Islanders, but has a different mindset against the Flyers?”
And why do you suppose that in some games Semenko played on the same line as Gretzky? It was not his goal scoring ability. It was to make opposing physical players think twice. And think twice they did.

by JackandAce on Dec 22, 2011 2:45 PM EST up reply actions

Perhaps

but from a practical matter, how does dressing Haley protect Nabokov, when Haley will only play 5 – 7 mins. I guess for a home game you can send him out after the offending player is sent out to a faceoff. I realize how Gillies and Semenko protected their 1st line guys (and hell, one even chipped in 38 goals one season), but the 1st line guys are in constant danger of being hit. The procedure of protecting a goalie is quite different/difficult if your asking me (and I’m sure nobody is).

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 3:06 PM EST up reply actions

Haley...

The guy who 4 games later (last year) against Pitt actually stood up for his injured goaltender?
This is all about mindset, particularly the opposing team. Do they have any second thoughts about the physical game, or plowing through the crease? Its your team’s job to make sure they do. It never stops it completely, but I am sure it limits it. Statistics never tell the tale of such deterrence, but it has been part of the NHL since the beginning.
But at the end of the day, its more about the mindset of your own bench. Are they comfortable that someone will stand up and be counted? Oksposo tried, bless him, but lets face it, it was a poor attempt and won’t deter anyone. Haley, in my opinion, will (at least to some extent).

by JackandAce on Dec 22, 2011 3:29 PM EST up reply actions

Amen, my friend

What these hockey hippies fail to point out is:

1. The players have talked about this for years and years. They have written books on it, and had shows about it. I guess these players are lying about all their experiences, or how they couldn’t sleep at night at the thought of fighting Probert.

2. Anybody who has ever fought in their life (like most teenage boys do or at least did in my day, in my town) knows what will keep you from fighting. If the other guy has a big friend that wouldn’t mind killing you, it’s amazing how things change.

And yes, I think Lucic most certainly picks his spots on the ice and who to mess with. Would he be the first NHL player to pick his spots? Why is that hard to believe?

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 3:11 PM EST up reply actions

When it's Goon v. Goon fighting

I absolutely agree they pick their spots. When it comes to running goalies, I’m not so sure. And I don’t think it would matter if we suited Haley, Gillies and brought back Eric Godard. What may be a better deterent is if we went and ran their goalie. A Bob Gibson style payback. Next time Lucic ran our goalie, Tim Thomas paid the price.

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 3:23 PM EST up reply actions

I think all you need to do is look at the end of least season compared to the first half this year or last year.

i think it’s pretty obvious how different we were treated with those guys around, or at least after we stuck up for ourselves.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 3:25 PM EST up reply actions

Agree it seems like we've been treated better since

that Pen’s game. Part of it could be Shanahan (as it relates to this season).

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 3:37 PM EST up reply actions

No, i think it's back to normal this year, we are getting abused.

Even the Habs and Aves pushed us around.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 3:44 PM EST up reply actions

Yes

The other night against Dallas things got a bit testy and we had both Hamonic and Martin sent to the penalty box at the same time. Two of the last guys on this team I want penalized.
We need ‘agression absorbers,’ like Haley, who will play that role. Certainly not Hamonic.

by JackandAce on Dec 22, 2011 3:39 PM EST up reply actions

Good point

I’ll bet if you looked at all of the goaltender interference penalties on the season, a majority will have been committed by “skill” players or low end “skill players”. How many of them actually had “retribution” fights would be an interesting stat.

Point being, I doubt that most of the guys who committed the foul within that game “paid the price”. More likely, someone else got beat up for it, or there was a goon on goon brawl.

NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey

by Keith Quinn on Dec 22, 2011 3:52 PM EST up reply actions

There's really nothing hippie or peacenik about it

It’s more the simplistic boiling down of the issue to OMG, dress Haley and teams stop running your goalie and this superficially objective determination of which teams are “soft” and thus automatically have their goalies run and which teams are “tough” and so automatically no one touches their goalies.

That, a very debatable issue, added to the fact that the usual stereotypical “tough” guys who are brought up are, well, not good at hockey, so not many teams can afford to use them and suffer the consequent depth hit. (In contrast, Lucic? He’s kind of a good hockey player. That combination doesn’t grow on trees.) Bad teams are damned if they do or don’t, because their best players aren’t “tough” and they can’t afford to fill the lineup with weak tough players.

Agree with JackandAce that it’s very much about mindset, and I’ve never denied the psychological aspect of this game, the aspect that allows a player to do what he believes makes him better even if it’s rationally absurd. BUT realistically, sometimes those guys make a difference immediately on the ice in the self-policing department, and sometimes it doesn’t change a damn thing. Meanwhile, sometimes they are part of the team getting hemmed in and giving up goals and losing games.

It’s the constant assertion that there is a simple cause-effect line from A to B that explains all ails — that will continuously get rebuttals, because it’s just not that simple.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 3:45 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

I agree it won't stop everything

But nobody else on the team is stopping any of it.

And in all fairness, we’ve had some other guys pulling some pretty big minutes who aren’t very good at hockey anymore as well. for what Haley provides, how was he not a better option than pandalfo at the beginning of the season, not to mention he’s the perfect guy to be scratched.

There is one common thread to The Sabres, Isles and Wings though. So their goalie running come as no surprise to me. That and the way way the refs handle it it an abomination.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 3:50 PM EST up reply actions

To be fair

the PK was better when Pandolfo was on it. (Pretty sure, haven’t actually checked the stats).

NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey

by Keith Quinn on Dec 22, 2011 3:55 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Fixed

To be fair
the team was better when Pandolfo was off it. (Pretty sure, I really don’t need stats.)

by GreekIsles83 on Dec 22, 2011 3:58 PM EST up reply actions

yeah, stats mean squat to me.

The only stat that matters is wins and losses and those have got better when Pandawful left and now that Rolston is gone we won 2 in a row.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:00 PM EST up reply actions

Could have also been when Reasoner got back then no?

You can’t just continue to pull one piece out of an entire puzzle. If most here (pretty sure you’re in on this) complain about how bad Pandolfo is, and he leaves and is replaced by Reasoner, why does reasoner not get that credit?

Now Rolston has left, but could be that MacDonald is back right?

That’s why the stats matter…so you’re not left guessing as to why something happened.

Not saying that Pandolfo’s removal from regular strength duty didn’t help the club, but it hurt the PK a bit.

NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey

by Keith Quinn on Dec 22, 2011 4:39 PM EST up reply actions

i never said he was better or helped more

The team was better.

Just saying not having Pandalfo isn’t killing us.

And not pull one piece out of the puzzle? We are talking about Haley.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:45 PM EST up reply actions

On the one piece thing

because the point is there really hasn’t been a place in the season where a move happened in isolation. Nabokov got hurt, play DiPietro more, Eaton got hurt, you got more Mottau, but at the same time other guys got hurt and other players (Ullstrom) were added to the lineup.

If it was strictly a one for one thing, (FOr instance, in a completely healthy lineup, Pandolfo was yanked for Haley) and they won more/lost more, then I could agree with you that it probably is the cause (as long as the competition was the same/similar, the other team didn’t have injuries, the home road splits were the same etc). There are just a lot of moving parts within a season that it makes it pretty difficult to say A+B=C.

Trust me, I love Haley…I just don’t think he’ll be a magic elixir for sustained performance…nor do I even think that losing a Grabner or Moulson for a stretch would totally hurt the team either.

NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey

by Keith Quinn on Dec 22, 2011 5:30 PM EST up reply actions

Not to mention

I would figure Haley sells way more tickets than Pandalfo. Not that he should be on the club to sell tickets, but the talent margin at this point in their careers is not that much difference not to have Haley dress over JP.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:03 PM EST up reply actions

Wins and losses sell tickets

Not Haley. I’ve never gone to see a bad team just because they have a good fighter…have you?

NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey

by Keith Quinn on Dec 22, 2011 4:40 PM EST up reply actions

i go see my team regardless

But if you think fights don’t sell tickest you don’t read fight sites.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:51 PM EST up reply actions

Really?

People actually go to see hockey games specifically for the fights? No, I don’t read fight sights. I watch fights and enjoy them, I just couldn’t see spending money specifically for it.

Granted, if I expected a bloodbath like the Pens game, it would make me more likely to buy a ticket, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to get one because the Isles had called up Yablonski or Gillies.

NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey

by Keith Quinn on Dec 22, 2011 5:32 PM EST up reply actions

And...

The other part is just what we saw the other night when Oks decided to stand up for his teammate. Really, thats not what we need to see. But I am sure he felt he had to because lets face it, only Martin on the bench might have also done so. Oks needs to play hockey, but he felt someone had to do it. Result? Off the ice for 5 minutes, and thankfully no injury to his hand.
Hockey players know SOMEONE on the team has to stand up. Glad the 80’s Isles did not let that person be Anders Kallur.

by JackandAce on Dec 22, 2011 3:52 PM EST up reply actions

Two minutes only

Since it was such a lame fight ;)

But yeah, in that situation, aren’t there competing arguments to whether someone should do something right then (and thus, it’s probably a skill player) or later (when it’s a rough player, but one who might put them in a tough spot with a penalty, or one who might not ever get the opportunity due to game situation)?

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 4:08 PM EST up reply actions

JandA is right I think

I think KO knew somebody needed to do it.

Good on him, even though he’s can’t fight.

Avery’s not a ballerina but he tried that one time, you know?

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:10 PM EST up reply actions

I prefer it just how it went down

Immediate response, theoretical message sent, and no damage done.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 4:13 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Not sure

I think players just know that their teammates will take care of it (on ice justice, if you will), or they won’t. And I would use HHOF Al Arbour as an example. He always carried “deterrents” on his team. The Bossy’s of the world were not expected to take care of those things. The message can be sent anytime during the game, not necessarily on the same shift.
I actually believe that Oks felt no one else would take care of it. But that is conjecture, of course.

by JackandAce on Dec 22, 2011 4:17 PM EST up reply actions

and yet Bossy retired due to a bad back from repeated cross-checks.

This will never be a black and white issue. Having a fighter will deter some players from doing stupid things. Sometimes guys will do reckless things in the heat of a game that a fighter will not deter. The question is do you have enough roster flexibility to carry a deterent that you do not intend to play.

The Islanders don’t need better fighters, they need fghters that are better at hockey.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:25 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Ha

opponents have been called for goalie interference on Jimmy Howard only once this year, David Perron on Dec 6

Oh man, that’s right — and the irony is that was an awful call! Not being a homer here, it was a joke. Perron was above the crease, not moving, and he got plowed into Howard by a Wings D-man. As a bonus, Howard jumped Perron and threw a waffle punch at Perron’s formerly concussed head.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 1:06 PM EST up reply actions

Goalie interference and running the goalie are different issues.

Holmstrom doesn’t barrel through the goalie (as far as I recall) the way Tootoo, Kane and Lucic did this year. One action is meant to help your team get a goal, while the other is meant to hurt the guy blocking the goal.

Can one be an atheist toward a hockey team? That means I have NO faith anymore.

by Turgeon1992 on Dec 22, 2011 2:08 PM EST up reply actions

Kane was trying to score. He thoguht (wrongly) that he could get around Jurcina and cut across the crease.

Jurcina cut him off and redirected him into Montoya – not from behind but from the side. He didn’t ‘run Montoya’.

by TMS71 on Dec 22, 2011 5:05 PM EST up reply actions

Kan'es feet certainly weren't planted like Holmstrom's usually are.

So he fast skated into Montoya with no control of where he would wind up if the defender stood him up.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:26 PM EST up reply actions

Well, that's the issue. He wasn't trying to run into Montoya - he thought he had a chance to score

but he had to know that if Jurcina beat him to that spot he was going into Montoya. Think what you will of it but ‘running the goalie’ is not the right term for it.

by TMS71 on Dec 22, 2011 5:54 PM EST up reply actions

The way I see it:

Kane was trying to score. He thought (wrongly) that he could get around Jurcina and cut across the crease. Jurcina cut off his path- so then Kane had choices: Change direction, stop. or keep going despite the path that would keep the goalie safe being obstructed. Kane irresponsibly and wrongly chose #3. So, yes he did “run Montoya”- because there were other options that he elected NOT to take.

Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)

by TheMetalChick on Dec 23, 2011 10:20 AM EST up reply actions

Might not be the right term but

Trying to score and running the goalie are not mutually exclusive.

Does a player stop when he’s heading full steam into the boards? Yes. He can and will. Does he stop when he realizes his path is either into the goalie or into a defenseman, who might then lead into the goalie? Depends. This is why I think the context demands more from the puck-carrier.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 23, 2011 5:28 PM EST up reply actions

This shit needs to change. Bring in Haley

by KO21 on Dec 22, 2011 1:55 PM EST up reply actions

Because Milan Lucic is allowed to elbow everyone?

Because Zdeno Chara is allowed to run your head into anything with no repercussions.

Can one be an atheist toward a hockey team? That means I have NO faith anymore.

by Turgeon1992 on Dec 22, 2011 2:05 PM EST up reply actions

Get rid of the Marsh pegs

Bring back the permanent metal pegs, or as some here have called them “courage pegs”!
Run the goalie at your own risk!!!!!!!

We are all Islanders, even if we’re from Jersey!

by Russel Ginart on Dec 22, 2011 12:17 PM EST up reply actions

Also get rid of composite sticks for the D on the PK

When a team is going on the PK, all defensemen and forwards should switch their composite sticks for wooden sticks. That would GREATLY reduce broken stick syndrome. How many time have we seen a player on the PK break his $250 composite stick and has to play stickless. After the PK the players can go back to their composite sticks! Hockey according to Russ!~lol

We are all Islanders, even if we’re from Jersey!

by Russel Ginart on Dec 22, 2011 12:22 PM EST up reply actions

And the Instigator Rule

So that players can fight without getting the extra minor.

"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 Dec 22, 2011 12:23 PM EST up reply actions

And while we're at it, and props to Butchie for the parlance....

slim down the damn goalies’ pillows!! He’s right, there’s absolutely no net to shoot at with those Garthian pads these punks wear in goal these days.

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 1:56 PM EST up reply actions

These are good ideas.

I think they should start with making the net permanent. Tootoo and such will think twice about running the net when a broken shoulder is possible.

Can one be an atheist toward a hockey team? That means I have NO faith anymore.

by Turgeon1992 on Dec 22, 2011 2:11 PM EST up reply actions

True

the goalies can play chicken and duck the oncoming forward at the last possible second. Would be like getting your bell wrung on a turnbuckle.

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 3:39 PM EST up reply actions

I always felt the same way until today

I just thought about when goalies go down side to side to make a save and was wondering if a net that didn’t move would cause more leg injuries. Think of it as a player skiing into the boards feet first.

by Empire39 on Dec 22, 2011 4:41 PM EST via mobile up reply actions

Side-to-side you are just as likely to get caught on the peg as a post.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:28 PM EST up reply actions

Wow, I’m now reduced to “Some” thanks Russel.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:27 PM EST up reply actions

Really don't know what to expect from this game

The Rangers are definitely ranked higher than their play suggests they should be. There is lots of times they struggle to get shots at net. It seems every time I catch part of their game they are putting up 5 shot periods. Great goaltending has bailed them out often. If we can drive play early and capitalize I think we will be in good shape but the capitalize part is always the trick, eh? There will definitely be no room to miss on opportunities that should be finished as both goalies haven’t been giving up weak goals. Of course, these games always seem to defy trends so I wouldn’t be shocked with a wide open 6-4 type game (either way).

No Sleep 'til....Belmont?

by Anarcurt on Dec 22, 2011 10:53 AM EST reply actions

ABC:6-3-2

11-26-2011(The first game AFTER BLAKE COMEAU) was a 3-2 win over the NJD where a last second goal by Zach Parise was disallowed because he “kicked it in”.
Since that time the Islanders have a 6-3-2 record. That’s 14 points in 11 games or a 1.27PPG average. Before that time they were 5-11-4 (14 points in 20 games, .7PPG).
If they can continue at an ABC pace of 1.27PPG they will end up with 90 points.
Right now Toronto has the 8th spot in the East. They are on a 1.09PPG pace. That would give them 90 points as well. The seventh spot is held by WAS, also on a pace to get around 90 points, and the sixth spot is NJ on a 92 point pace.
This playoff thing is doable!
Last year the Isles had 1.21PPG February and a 1.20PPG March. They have to avoid the 0.69PPG JAN though.
There is hope, but to secure that hope Garth Snow is going to have to get them a solid 20+ minute defender. The second half of the season is going to be rough, especially on the walking wounded. It would be a miracle if Streit, Macdonald and Jurcina played the last 51 games. Reese, Mottau, Eaton and dehaan(?) should not be asked to play more than ~15 minutes per game… and probably no more than half of the games.
Who knows what’s going on with Wishart… and the high hopes i had for Donovan have been shelved for now. Snow needs to act now to keep this season alive.
Not only that, he needs to start creating a July 1 safety net so he we don’t go into 2012-13 with a pre-defeated team.
BTW: The crawl out of the depths should start in the next five games. their most immediate targets to pass in the Eastern conference standings:
Islanders (.90PPG)
Tampa Bay (.91PPG)
Montreal(.94PPG)
If they can crawl over the other bottom feeders they can start to think about OTT, BUF and WIN all at 1.06PPG.
This whole unbalanced schedule thing sucks, but what is worse is the 3 point game dynamic. The NHL either needs to make ALL GAMES worth 3 points or do away with the stupid bonus point for mediocrity.
Okay… time to do my winter solstice shopping!

LighthouseHockey: We saw this coming!
@JPinVA

by JPinVA on Dec 22, 2011 11:23 AM EST reply actions

The math is the easy part

It’s actually not that daunting. The question is are they good enough to keep up the ABC pace for ~50 games? What’s heartening is that the ABC era is nearly a month old already and they have shown some resiliency during the period. I agree that defensive help is essential for making a go of it as well as a healthy Toyota.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 12:57 PM EST up reply actions

No doubt

And they’ll need some luck to keep up anything like that pace. Even this “hot” run is a bunch of one-goal games and shootouts.

I’m a broken record, but I thought they could be around a 20th place team and a hot start would make the possibilities seem even higher (that enticing playoff chase). Now with the awful start, just making it up to 20th will be a challenge.

/knockonwoodandgoaltending

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 1:11 PM EST up reply actions

Assuming relative health....Big Assumption I know

I think the Isles project as a team that is more likely to improve and progress forward than some of the others.
They have some players that do typically have stronger 2nd halves (i.e. Grabner) and if it got close…they could be hungrier than some of those other teams might be to get into the playoffs.

Veteran Heavy teams like WAS, NJ (Kovalchuck is due to something stupid soon) could fade down the stretch. Especially a team with expecations to do more than just get into the playoffs (i.e. WAS, TAMPA, BUF). OTTOWA is still the worst team in the league IMO so they could fade for sure.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano

by FB4Real on Dec 22, 2011 1:04 PM EST up reply actions

the playoffs are not doable...

without streit snapping his funk, them picking up someone to permanently upgrade the eaton/mottau situation, and the impending return/demotion that takes place when crawlston returns to the lineup

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 1:56 PM EST up reply actions

Crawlston coming back could cause the implosion of Isles love all over America.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 2:59 PM EST up reply actions

We get to be on 24/7!!! Hooray!

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 12:08 PM EST reply actions

they'll edit us out

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 12:09 PM EST up reply actions

Blur

everything Islanders

by rck88 on Dec 22, 2011 12:10 PM EST up reply actions

Heh!

Well they didn’t cut us last year. Not only did we get the mention for snapping Sid’s streak, but the body mic’s picked up the equal amount of jawing between Crosberry and Konopka…AND the ref telling Sidney to be quiet after only ZK was sent to the box. High def proof that some of the hatred for isn’t out of no where. Go us.

by GreekIsles83 on Dec 22, 2011 12:12 PM EST up reply actions

That game didn't get nearly the coverage that other games did though.

Especially in light of snapping Sid’s point streak that HBO had built up the whole series. I remember getting about 30 seconds and being like “that’s it?” To be fair I think that was the episode before the Winter Classic and they had to take time to highlight the prep work that goes into building the rink etc.

I think we’ll get more coverage this time around, they already made sure to mention our rivalry at the end of this weeks episode.

You wouldn't believe how good the Corsi is for my NHL 12 Be A Pro player.

by ArsenalLI on Dec 22, 2011 12:38 PM EST up reply actions

they had to take time to highlight the prep work that goes into building the rink etc

I can only hope they can devote time to that again this season!

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:29 PM EST up reply actions

Best thing about the Isles being away both games against the Rags?

Can’t wear the black jerseys on 24/7

by rck88 on Dec 22, 2011 12:21 PM EST reply actions 2 recs

So didn't quite realize how expensive tickets are to go to MSG

if I wanted to make the trip to support the Isles tickets for 400 level seats on stub hub were around 80 dollars and then it’d cost me another 20 to take the train to Penn.

That absolutely sucks for the average fan.

You wouldn't believe how good the Corsi is for my NHL 12 Be A Pro player.

by ArsenalLI on Dec 22, 2011 12:44 PM EST reply actions

It kinda sucks for the above average fan too.

Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf

by George E. Ays on Dec 22, 2011 1:15 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions

Ha

Indeed. Oh dear pro sports, where are you headed?

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 1:18 PM EST up reply actions

To homes and sports bars with 80 inch LED TVs where you can see more of the action than from ‘limited visibility seats’ 1000ft from the ice surface that you paid $200 for.

Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf

by George E. Ays on Dec 22, 2011 5:16 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs

I get the in game experience at home.

I have my wife poor have a glass of beer and half a glass of water, hand her $10 and then spill it on myself when I go to sit on the couch.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:31 PM EST up reply actions 7 recs

“poor "of course is pour, at $10 a glass I should be poor.

“have” should be half, but maybe that is why I am being served diluted beer, I’m already tanked.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 23, 2011 10:48 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs

You should see what we shelled out

for Steelers tickets on Christmas Eve for 6 out of 7 of us (oldest male child not a sports fan).

Tis the friggin season.

"If the bell needs to be answered, we've got the guys to answer it." "If they want to start something, that's fine."- Trevor Gillies

Twitter: JenWillyard

by JW1970 on Dec 22, 2011 5:36 PM EST up reply actions

Yuck!

@NYIslanders NYIslanders
#Isles news: Mark Eaton has been activated from the IR. Dylan Reese has been returned on loan to Bridgeport.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 12:59 PM EST reply actions

The second that Tweet hit the internet

The Rangers scored a goal.

"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 Dec 22, 2011 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 4 recs

And Mottau is still here

No ferry ride for him? I would gladly pack his suitcases.

by Francesca on Dec 22, 2011 1:05 PM EST up reply actions

Yeah....Now WHY

Mark Eaton…I Like him ( A Vet With A Cup To His Credit), but to be fair….Dylan Reese does not deserve that fate.
#Isles D loses some mobility now (and some offense).

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Twitter: @mikeryaninc
"Past performance Is Not A Guarantee For Future Results"
"Listening is a Skill" -Jack Capuano

by FB4Real on Dec 22, 2011 1:07 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Oh boy.

You know you’re in trouble when you’re sad to see Dylan Reese get sent back down.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 1:18 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

just wait!

til the SS snow angel returns… here’s a pic of him in his 2nd favorite place on off the ice

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 2:02 PM EST up reply actions

Awww, man.

Well, I blame Reese for this. He could have taken Mottau out in practice if he really wanted to.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 1:12 PM EST up reply actions

Looks like Rolston didn't instruct him well

by Francesca on Dec 22, 2011 1:19 PM EST up reply actions

Chistmas Tree Defense Pair

Mottau and Eaton will get lit up like one. It’s 3-0 Pond Scum six hours before gametime. This is gonna’ be a very long night.

How many PPG will we need after this disaster?

Reese was doing fine. He should have stayed. Keep the extra defenseman and let Mottau sit. Or better yet, just have him stand in the corner until after Monday’s game.

by martylnd on Dec 22, 2011 1:32 PM EST up reply actions

I'm wondering if they had the roster flexibility

Unless they IR someone (Ullstrom, Montoya, Staios?), they don’t have the room for both.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 1:39 PM EST up reply actions

Is this another fucking cap floor maintenance move?

Eaton healthy, makes more money therefore gets to play…I dunno am just asking.

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 1:37 PM EST up reply actions

Don't think so

Eaton’s salary counts whether or not he’s active.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 1:39 PM EST up reply actions

I meant

Do the Isles refuse to send down the vets to BPT cuz they need their salaries? Is this why Mottau or Rolston will never be sent down this year? I’m just wondering if this whole cap floor situation contributes to superior play NOT being rewarded. Which would suck ass.

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 1:42 PM EST up reply actions

It's more than just the cap floor

Rolston, as a 35+ contract of more than one year, counts anywhere he plays in the organization… unless he is picked up on waivers by another club. As unlikely as that might be, it’s one reason not to risk doing it. (I could see a team with the room claiming Rolston just to screw over the Isles.)

As for Mottau/Reese… Mottau only makes 165,000 more than Reese at the NHL level, and the Isles can afford the difference and still stay above the floor. The difference is that Reese can be moved up and down without clearing waivers, meaning there is no risk of losing him. Even though he’s better than Mottau, the Isles probably feel that can’t readily afford to lose even a marginal NHL defenseman to a waiver claim.

Most of us, I’m sure, would rather see them lose Mottau and rely on guys like Wishart or de Haan for emergencies.

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 Dec 22, 2011 1:50 PM EST up reply actions

Ok, so I'm guessing then that

…there will be a point in time later in the season when they hopefully CAN risk losing these vets to waivers. Perhaps if the Isles are in the playoff mix (7-10th place) come end-of-January and the kids are outplaying the vets, Garth trades for a player who makes enough money that he can risk exposing Rolston to waivers – and if that player is a Dman, Mottau as well.

You know, for a team that has no margin for error, it certainly sucks that they can’t slide that margin slightly to their favor by keeping the better players on the ice.

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 2:01 PM EST up reply actions

Emergency recall explained

At IPB. Thanks, Kevin! You do good work over there.

"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 Dec 22, 2011 3:41 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Now where have I heard that before?

;)

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 3:50 PM EST up reply actions

Gah!

I must have missed it between the Capt. Ricky picture and the Unleash-the-Haley threads.

"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 Dec 22, 2011 3:57 PM EST up reply actions

Oh, I know, I'm just being a whiner

So much CBA work, so not easily boiled down into an FAQ.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 4:09 PM EST up reply actions

Honestly, it "could" be a salary saving move.

Mottau makes $950k in the ahl and nhl($800k cap hit), while reese makes $635k while in the nhl and $60k in the minors. So “technically” Wang saves $550k for the year with Reese in the minors and mottau up. So F us. Mottau likely has to be on LTIR for us to get rid of his terrible ass. It sucks, Reese earned a spot over him.

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 5:55 PM EST up reply actions

Why are they so against

carrying 7 defensemen? Any ideas?

by afrosupreme on Dec 22, 2011 1:49 PM EST up reply actions

They’re idiots.

Also explains Eaton/Mottau/etc.

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 1:51 PM EST up reply actions

So Nino can play 6 mins a game

and Tavares 25 mins.

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 2:00 PM EST up reply actions

Not carrying an extra D-man saves us money too.

$7.75k per paycheck in the NHL instead of the less then $1k paycheck Reese would get in the AHL. That crap adds up in the world of Wang.

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 5:58 PM EST up reply actions

I sincerely hope youre joking and poking fun of the people who actually believe this kind of conspiracy-laden silliness.

Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)

by TheMetalChick on Dec 23, 2011 10:22 AM EST up reply actions

I really don't know what to believe in anymore.

Half of me believe this true and half of me doesn’t. Nino being “forced” to the nhl with his bonus loaded contract this year because we need his salary to reach the floor is reason enough for me to consider this. Not to mention Wang talks about losing millions with this team a lot. So I just don’t know.

$500k is a lot of money, especially if we are trying to “budget” as a team, as you can see just by running through our roster and salaries.

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 23, 2011 11:55 PM EST up reply actions

It’s a conspiracy … but the other explanation is….?

by afrosupreme on Dec 26, 2011 8:34 AM EST up reply actions

Mottau should have been waived and Reese kept. That's how sad the defense is.

Can one be an atheist toward a hockey team? That means I have NO faith anymore.

by Turgeon1992 on Dec 22, 2011 2:11 PM EST up reply actions

Or

have a guy in the press box! This is killing me!

by afrosupreme on Dec 22, 2011 2:18 PM EST up reply actions

Because we haven't busted him out for a while...

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 2:36 PM EST up reply actions 8 recs

these things crack me up every 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 Dec 22, 2011 3:01 PM EST up reply actions

that's the best one yet

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 3:01 PM EST up reply actions

these are always brilliant

"I really wouldn’t wish rooting for both the Isles and Blues on anyone." Dominik
Contributor to Lighthouse Hockey not sure if I'm the Sniper or the Enforcer.

by Mark D on Dec 22, 2011 3:16 PM EST up reply actions

Awesome

by afrosupreme on Dec 22, 2011 4:27 PM EST up reply actions

This is pure genius

All Who Oppose Grabner Shall Perish.

by pippup on Dec 22, 2011 5:46 PM EST up reply actions

LMAO!

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 5:56 PM EST up reply actions

SnowCap show another young player

that in the lofty world of the perennially sub .500 NY Islanders, merit means nothing. A nice formula for continued losing. Well done boys, very well done.

by randyboyd on Dec 22, 2011 1:46 PM EST reply actions

AP77 goes deep into enemy territory tonight

I’ll be catching this game at the Garden. I’ll show these idiot Rangers fans how to really hate the Islanders.

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 1:50 PM EST reply actions 4 recs

They don't stand a chance

by afrosupreme on Dec 22, 2011 1:53 PM EST up reply actions

every time I hear the whistle

I’ll know that AP77 is there – only yelling BAILEY instead of POTVIN.

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 Dec 22, 2011 2:09 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Tonight I think I am going to pick on Eaton, actually.

But your general sentiment is of course correct.

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 2:26 PM EST up reply actions

good seats?

or what i should really say is, are they visible from any of the cameras?
because i shudder to think at the signs you’d throw up there if you knew that they would be on tv

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 2:29 PM EST up reply actions

I hope they’re decent at least — they cost enough, $150 per :(.

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 2:34 PM EST up reply actions

insanity

$150 per sad face is way too expensive

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 2:39 PM EST up reply actions

Man...

a bunch of negative nancies around here today

by rck88 on Dec 22, 2011 2:00 PM EST reply actions

You must be new

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 2:01 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs

You must be Nancy ;-P

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 2:02 PM EST up reply actions 5 recs

I get it!

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 2:02 PM EST up reply actions

Hooray!!

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 2:03 PM EST up reply actions

I just got rocked

harder than the Islanders will get tonight…

Tough crowd

by rck88 on Dec 22, 2011 2:05 PM EST up reply actions

It's all good in the hood.

Most negativity here is humorous and/or sarcasm-coated. We’re all hopeful deep down , and the odds of most us admitting that are 50/50, but there’s only a 10% chance of that. At least that’s what the stat guru’s say…

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 2:12 PM EST up reply actions

the numbers say otherwise

We harp on AP77, but mdesarmo and ripcurl have higher relNeg per 60 posts. But AP is still valuable as a specialist joykiller when we’re short a commenter.

Clearly you're not an objective observer.

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 Dec 22, 2011 2:19 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

I ain’t no passenger.

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 2:21 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Wearing your Jersey - AP?

by altosax on Dec 22, 2011 5:58 PM EST up reply actions

And how about if you isolate Cary K's comments

to Islander victory threads where AP77 and KO21 are ~~whimsically cheerful~~ healthy scratches, his at times blog-leading relNeg/60 plummets into relPos territory. I couldn’t find the category at behindthenet for qualFlip or qualFlop but I’m sure he’s at least top 5 in these.

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 2:44 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs

These posts are awesome.

Writer at Beyond the Box Score and The Hardball Times
Pitchf/x enthusiast.
http://twitter.com/#!/garik16

by garik16 on Dec 22, 2011 3:09 PM EST up reply actions

be hopeful

but realistic

hope without realism = naivete & dangerously so

owners without commitment = beyond naivete = exploitation

but we can root and be senselessly hopeful all of us nonetheless

by Cary K on Dec 22, 2011 3:33 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Haiku + Taoism =

Carfuciousku?

by afrosupreme on Dec 22, 2011 4:29 PM EST up reply actions

You'll see us optimists pop up every once and a while

We’ve learned to appreciate the sarcasm and humor of AP77 and his ilk. It just wouldn’t be an Islander blog without it.

Dom does a great job though of keeping spirits up (yet measured) around here. It makes for a great atmosphere.

by rosey7 on Dec 22, 2011 2:30 PM EST up reply actions

speaking of which

Dom does a great job though of keeping spirits up (yet measured) around here. It makes for a great atmosphere.

that’s because he ships guys like me and JPinVA top shelf booze to soothe our sorrows… ps Dom, i’m running low

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 2:37 PM EST up reply actions

Please bear with us during the busy season

The holiday shipping schedule has all the LHH elves working double-time.

And some of these peasants think they’ll actually get Dec. 25 off. Ha!

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 2:53 PM EST up reply actions

lmao

James T Paulson

by Jtpdolphins2009 on Dec 22, 2011 7:06 PM EST up reply actions

seriously?

If we’re a bunch of negs then what are they over at IPB???

by KO21 on Dec 22, 2011 2:03 PM EST up reply actions

Angels of Death?

by afrosupreme on Dec 22, 2011 2:04 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs

Nihilits

"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 Dec 22, 2011 2:06 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

or Nihilists

Joke fail

"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 Dec 22, 2011 2:06 PM EST up reply actions

Don't worry

it was all futile in the end anyway.

by GreekIsles83 on Dec 22, 2011 2:07 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs

Kirara?

Wow, I never thought I would see that here. That has made my night.

All Who Oppose Grabner Shall Perish.

by pippup on Dec 22, 2011 6:04 PM EST up reply actions

A PSTD clinic

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 2:30 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs

you think it's easy?

it’s pretty tough to find something negative about this years squad. But we persevere.

by randyboyd on Dec 22, 2011 2:06 PM EST up reply actions

post game press conference with Cappy about the LHH comments section

Well, i’d have to disagree with you Peter about what RandyBoyd said,
i think we have several passengers here in the comments section, guys who still think browsing thru an article without posting a comment on the dire state that the team is ok… but it’s not ok.

we need to comment hard each and every night.

this guys know that they need to out-comment the competition every game or they wont get the results they’re looking for.

and about the bad calls? well, the moderators have one hell of a tough job here, and sometimes they miss them, but if we keep commenting hard, we should be able to overcome those hurdles…

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 2:15 PM EST up reply actions 4 recs

you should see Dom's videos

“In this comment, the poster clearly targets the brains of his oppenent. He uses all caps. This commenter has a prior history of being warned and has had three comments deleted in his career.”

“The Office of Blog Safety has suspended this commenter for three game threads.”

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 Dec 22, 2011 2:22 PM EST up reply actions 6 recs

nice

too bad we can’t make an animated vid for this

These comments crawl up from the depths of the deepest Chasm of Saar

by bob l on Dec 22, 2011 2:39 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Not to mention the sarcasm font abuse!

We are all Islanders, even if we’re from Jersey!

by Russel Ginart on Dec 22, 2011 3:13 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

and the damn lack of RECs, if someone takes the two seconds to write it, you can at least have the decency to REC it!

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:36 PM EST up reply actions

hehe

by KO21 on Dec 22, 2011 6:49 PM EST up reply actions

Reese to BPT

nice Xmas present to us from Wang

Fuck you Charles

by Cary K on Dec 22, 2011 2:12 PM EST reply actions

Seriously, the insistence on playing our starting 7 D-Men is just.....odd.

Wang/Garth, it doesn’t matter if they play or not, you’re still playing them. So why not play the better players? Reese has proven to be better than at least Mottau this year, and he’s not really that young or in need of development. Why send him down?

Writer at Beyond the Box Score and The Hardball Times
Pitchf/x enthusiast.
http://twitter.com/#!/garik16

by garik16 on Dec 22, 2011 2:19 PM EST up reply actions

Can it be a roster space issue?

Could there be a legit reason for not to wanting to IR any of the injured players?

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 2:34 PM EST up reply actions

Only if they think they'll use them before the minimum IR period expires

Actually, there are some other weird elements in the darker corners of the CBA regarding longtime vets (like Haley’s rule where if he doesn’t play X number of NHL games this year he’ll be a UFA instead of an RFA this summer) and time served, but off the top of my head I can’t think of any that could possibly be meaningful. (And I don’t think the Haley one is meaningful for his case.)

I’m guessing the Reese return is because he was recalled on emergency basis, so to have him up here after Eaton is re-activated would mean requiring waivers again next time they would send him down, which is a possibility when you’d have so many guys coming off IR including, of course, carrying three goalies.

If they’re intent on playing Eaton/Mottau over Reese, and they’re at home for the next week anyway, this does preserve their flexibility and protection.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 3:01 PM EST up reply actions

I guess the question is

has his play been solid enough — and are there enough superior options out there — for him to have earned a permanent spot.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 3:35 PM EST up reply actions

Scapewagon no more

Good to see that Dylan has grown enough for us to care.

It is Diduck.

by Paumanok on Dec 22, 2011 4:20 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs

Yeah, who a thunk it? Reese being a guy we lament seeing sent down.

I feel like giving out a Krusty the Clown cry.

by Hockey1919 on Dec 22, 2011 5:37 PM EST up reply actions

Get yer optimism here

@coreypronman Corey Pronman
Player to watch for Sweden is…. Johan Sundstrom. May end up on the Swedes top line. Good skater and puck skills w impressive two way sense

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 2:45 PM EST reply actions

But then there's this tweet from the future

@NYIslanders NYIslanders
#Isles news: Brian Rolston has been activated from the IR (osteoporosis, gout). Johan Sundstrom has been returned on loan to Bridgeport.

Lighthouse Hockey. Where Islanders fans come to panic with punctuation.

by DP'sknee(andhipandflubugandotherknee) on Dec 22, 2011 2:47 PM EST up reply actions 4 recs

Wait, returned on loan from where?

From the WJCs?

Writer at Beyond the Box Score and The Hardball Times
Pitchf/x enthusiast.
http://twitter.com/#!/garik16

by garik16 on Dec 22, 2011 3:06 PM EST up reply actions

Oh, that's a fake tweet. I missed the joke.

Writer at Beyond the Box Score and The Hardball Times
Pitchf/x enthusiast.
http://twitter.com/#!/garik16

by garik16 on Dec 22, 2011 3:07 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Why will we be keeping Rolston for that long?

Tell me future Garth! Tell meeee!!!!

All Who Oppose Grabner Shall Perish.

by pippup on Dec 22, 2011 5:50 PM EST up reply actions

Deryk Engelland Suspended Three Games for Head Check

NEW YORK – Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Deryk Engelland has been suspended, without pay, for three games for an illegal check to the head of Chicago Blackhawks forward Marcus Kruger during NHL Game #488 in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, Dec. 20, the National Hockey League’s Department of Player Safety announced today.

Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and based on his average annual salary, Engelland will forfeit $9,189.18. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

The incident occurred at 8:55 of the first period. No penalty was assessed on the play.

Engelland will miss games Dec. 23 at Winnipeg, Dec. 27 vs. Carolina and Dec. 29 vs. Philadelphia. He will be eligible to return Dec. 31 at New Jersey.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 3:20 PM EST reply actions 1 recs

But John Scott was in the lineup! And immediately fought him!

How could this still happen?!

(Just ribbing you, but this is what I mean when it’s not as simple as Enforcer = Protection.)

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 3:49 PM EST up reply actions

I know it's not that simple

but it’s not simple how many time Montoya’s been run this year.

The it’s not that simple thing works both ways. no?

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 3:53 PM EST up reply actions

Absolutely!

To me, it’s as generalized as saying, “Islanders lost because they decided to dress Haley and he was scored against,” etc.

I just think there are many evolving factors to this game. Capuano is obviously a GRITZ-friendly coach, but even he didn’t find ways to dress or play Haley much. I think he’s trying to balance that line of getting other better players to do things so they don’t have to rely on a special assignment guy all the time.

And I’m also frustrated because the Blues are a tougher team, in the parlance of our times, yet they went a whole year without David Perron because of a head hit by Joe Thornton. Joe Thornton! He feared not the toughness.

Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.

by Dominik on Dec 22, 2011 4:12 PM EST up reply actions

I'm kind of a simple guy

So my words may read simple too.

I’m also very black and white. I think if our top guys were tougher we wouldn’t need a Haley. But they’re not exactly Horton, Lucic, Nytsrom Gillies, ya’ know?

And i love those guys, but my opinion is, when your best players are not very tough, we need somebody like him to balance things out.

BTW, tough to me means hockey tough. These guys are all tough compared to us normal humans.

"We owe him a lot more than he owes us at this point. He's been stellar all year. He still gave us a chance to win this one, and we've got to find a way."

—C Josh Bailey, on G Al Montoya after a 5-3 loss Tuesday in Montreal.

by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 22, 2011 4:16 PM EST up reply actions

I hope more hockey tough is coming

Can’t wait for Lee and Cizikas to pan out and get up here…and eventually Mayfield and Pedan on D…that should help. Hopefully Okposo took his first step towards being a real leader on this team.

"Seriously that's the last time you guys f#@%ing won?" -RSH (about beating the Penguins in '93)

by Bryan2112 on Dec 22, 2011 4:31 PM EST up reply actions

Funny thing about toughness

is I think people over-estimate how much of a deterent it is, but underestimate how helpful it is in winning hockey games. It’s no coincidence that when we won our cups we could match hit for hit with any team. Did that make Dave Shultz and Terry O’Reilly back off? I doubt it. What the hitting does well (and I don’t think Gordon ever understood, but Arbour sure did) is get the opponent’s timing a little off. That split second hesitation of going into the corner makes a huge difference. Also gets them off their game. Steve Webb and Darius could suck the life out of more talented teams than ours.

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 4:51 PM EST up reply actions

Yes

But you can ask yourself, how well would the ‘80 Isles have withstood Boston without Howatt, Nystrom, etc.
Actually, I wonder what this current version of Isles would be like against the Maple Leaf playoff team of 2002. I can’t even picture it. Nor do I want to.

by JackandAce on Dec 22, 2011 5:00 PM EST up reply actions

Good, he's a fairly raw bottom pair d-man.

If fighting wasn’t in the NHL I’m not sure he would have ever made it to the nhl.

What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?

by OzzyFan on Dec 22, 2011 6:03 PM EST up reply actions

Biron in goal tonight

by 4PeatSake on Dec 22, 2011 4:16 PM EST reply actions

Streaming the game to my phone tonight

while out to dinner with my brother and mom…

frowned upon or appropriate?

by rck88 on Dec 22, 2011 4:41 PM EST reply actions

Imperative

by JackandAce on Dec 22, 2011 4:50 PM EST up reply actions

Me in a nutshell:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLd4zOxAguM

by rck88 on Dec 22, 2011 5:14 PM EST up reply actions

waivers

why do i care if rolston would be picked up on waivers?this would be a good thing.with eaton maybe thers an unwritten rule that a player cant lose his spot due to injury.sort of like baseball?

by heibs on Dec 22, 2011 4:48 PM EST reply actions

Well it'd put us below the floor.

Which could result in us losing our first round pick. Granted, I’m not sure what would stop the team from just signing a retired veteran role player let’s say “Garth Snow” for his cap hit if that happened.

Writer at Beyond the Box Score and The Hardball Times
Pitchf/x enthusiast.
http://twitter.com/#!/garik16

by garik16 on Dec 22, 2011 5:03 PM EST up reply actions

And what a pick it will be!

by AP77 on Dec 22, 2011 5:13 PM EST up reply actions

waivers

thanks for the explanation.i was thinking that no one would pick him up from waivers and if they did who cares

by heibs on Dec 22, 2011 5:20 PM EST up reply actions

Depends really

Let’s say for instance that we are las in the league with Ottawa and Edmonton right above us…they both have cap space. One of them could sign Rolston at the prorated cap hit for the season, and get the Isles docked their pick…which at that point, moves them up one spot in the draft rankings to first overall.

It’s an unlikely scenario, but possible. Also, consider that a divisional rival could do it to hamper the team in the future. There is also a one million dollar fine for going below the cap floor. So the longer that the season plays out, the more likely Rolston may be claimed off of waivers (as injuries pile up, teams need veteran playoff depth, and the cap hit dissipates)

NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey

by Keith Quinn on Dec 22, 2011 5:39 PM EST up reply actions

then they could overpay me, I could fake injury

and keep me in the press box for the rest of the season and make no difference on the teams success just like rolston now.

by Madchef on Dec 22, 2011 6:01 PM EST reply actions

If there was an over/under for penalty minutes tonight.............

I’d take the over if the the number was 40. What about you other guys at the bar?

by altosax on Dec 22, 2011 6:06 PM EST reply actions

the evil kirkians will lose to the islanders 4-2

by Khan Noonien Singh on Dec 22, 2011 6:27 PM EST reply actions 4 recs

Rec'd

for no particular reason.

It is Diduck.

by Paumanok on Dec 22, 2011 6:30 PM EST up reply actions

true fact

This was the first on-screen example of the Vulcan nerve pinch. Leonard Nimoy was supposed to just phaser-stun evil Kirk, or cosh him over the head, but Nimoy argued that Spock would have some elegant Vulcan way to do something like that, so he snuck up and casually grabbed Shatner – who played along with it perfectly.

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 Dec 23, 2011 10:08 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs

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Islanders Schedule

Last 5 Games

@ Columbus The Cannon	Sat 04/07	L 3 - 7
Winnipeg Arctic Ice Hockey	Thu 04/05	W 5 - 4
@ New Jersey In Lou We Trust	Tue 04/03	L 1 - 3
Ottawa Silver Seven	Sun 04/01	L 1 - 5
Boston Stanley Cup of Chowder	Sat 03/31	L 3 - 6

1979-80

Source: Uploaded by user via NYIslanders on Pinterest

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

Source: Uploaded by user via NYIslanders on Pinterest

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

Source: Uploaded by user via NYIslanders on Pinterest

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

Source: Uploaded by user via NYIslanders on Pinterest

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.

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