Post-Game Plus/Minus: Blackhawks 3, Islanders 2 (OT)
For the second encounter in a row, the New York Islanders came back to tie the Chicago Blackhawks in the third period and force overtime, and for the second encounter in a row they failed to take the extra standings point offered by the Bettmans that be.
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Tonight Steve Staios was both -- er, all three -- hero, near-villain and OT goat. It was his blast through traffic (Michael Grabner was later credited with the goal) that tied the game at 2-2 with nine minutes left. It was his over-the-glass penalty (after a frustratingly pedestrian exchange between him and Mike Mottau) that gave the Hawks a late chance to claim the winner in regulation, and it was his inability to control a point pass in OT that led to a 2-on-1, which Patrick Sharp finished on the rebound.
Fuller recap and whistles to come later. This is our post-game plus/minus thread for your instant analysis with short-form praise and critiques (as opposed to full-on game thread stream-of-consciousness) for the night that was. This one should be fun, as many players could claim both a plus and a minus depending on which slide you put in your microscope. To keep it orderly, if you see someone making the same points/topics you have, maybe reply to them before starting your own string. Or, whatever you like. Bettman points beg for ambiguity.
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You think Teletubbies did this?
Well that’s fucking interesting man.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
they were right in front of me
Rather annoying to tell you the truth. You can actually see my ear next to the green guys hand. Awesome
by Strong Island Thuggery on Dec 8, 2011 10:34 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Hi, ear- youre famous! :D
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:42 PM EST up reply actions
I hate assholes who just want to get on tv douching things up.
They look like the kind of guys who stand up during play.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 8, 2011 11:24 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Like those 'green guys' in Vancouver
Or the ‘yellow’ Bruins fans that came to NVMC for that “game”.
What is the thought process?
Green sperm: Dude wanna be on tV?
Purple and Blue sperm: What can we do?
Yellow sperm: We’ll dress like multi-colored mutant sperm!
Green, Blue and Purple sperm: Do you think everyone will see us?
Yellow sperm: Yes, we’ll be recognized by all of our friends and family as 4 guys dressed as colored mutant sperm just to get on TV.
Blue sperm (not shown): Dudes, I don’t know about you guys, but I just decided I’m won’t be sitting with you guys at the game.
by Hockey1919 on Dec 9, 2011 2:09 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Plus Plus Plus
+ the league isn’t very deep this year – after Boston & Pittsburgh, no one else really scares me in the East – we played the Rangers even last time, and we are almost identical to the Leafs in many ways – very promising
+ This game was a Tie – ignore OT – meaningless against West teams anyway
+ Mottau-Reese has been a better pairing than expected – not great, but getting by…
+ Montoya (though he really needs to work on his rebound control)
+ Hamonic
+ JT keeps looking great
- should have played Ullstrom-Bailey-Wallace again/bring that line back please
- Can we not have Cizikas or Dibenedetto instead of Reasoner – pull out the wallet Charles
+ I really like the direction this team is heading in – we are playing with energy and chemistry
For the record, while we get the loser point, an OT loss is NOT a tie.
There was always 5 minute OT. (You’re right it hasn’t hurt us)
Writer at Beyond the Box Score and The Hardball Times
Pitchf/x enthusiast.
http://twitter.com/#!/garik16
Well- not always, technically. But I know what youre saying.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:04 PM EST up reply actions
there has not always been OT in Regulation
started in 1983, right afer we won the cup for the last time until now
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overtime_(ice_hockey)
Exactly :)
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:14 PM EST up reply actions
You know what I mean.
Writer at Beyond the Box Score and The Hardball Times
Pitchf/x enthusiast.
http://twitter.com/#!/garik16
Yup- thats why I said "But I know what youre saying."
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:29 PM EST up reply actions
Montoya?
how do you give montoya a plus for this game???? He didn’t comunicate with the defense on 2 dumps behind his net, 1 caused a scare, the other they both just left in the corner. He didnt cover his post tight giving the blackhawks the easiest goal scored on us this year (if not the last 2 years), then gives a big rebound straight in front of the crease in OT….. if dipi had the exact same game as montoya tonight, you guys would have his head on a stick….
He is getting more than just plusses with (IMO accurate) comments about his rebound control, he is being credited with stealing a point, being awesome tonight, etc. I dont see it- I dont think he was horrible or anything, and he only let up 2G in regulation so you really cant complain in the end, but he has definitely looked better than he did tonight- in nearly every other game he has played, in fact.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 11:12 PM EST up reply actions
It's just awesome he was playing.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 8, 2011 11:25 PM EST up reply actions
I don't think this was his best game, but I think he played strong most of the game and he didn't let in any soft goals.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
I think goal #1 and the OT goal were both very preventable.
And I think when Al is really on his game, he stops goal #2 as well.
Of course I dont expect a shutout… and letting in 2G in regulation is perfectly respectable. But I cant go as far as saying that he was only beat by great goals- because tonight, it simply is not the case.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 11:55 PM EST up reply actions
I'll agree but
When he talks after the game he admits he thought Hossa was passing and the shot surprised him so as a goalie when a shot surprises you, your first thought is stop the puck, not where should I guide this rebound.
To be fair, if it was DP, I would’ve blamed his read on Hossa so by default, gotta question Toyota’s judgment as well
by BaltimoreIslander on Dec 9, 2011 12:38 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Was the first one actually a shot?
I thought it was a pass to the slot that deflected off Hamonic’s skate.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
On replay it's definitely a shot by Hossa because Okposo cut off the lane with a sprawled out stick:
http://www.nhl.com/ice/recap.htm?id=2011020407&navid=sb:recap
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Still don't agree based on that view
Thought the overhead view showed a deflection. (And the goal I’m talking about has Hamonic, not Okposo.) With a man coming into the slot for a sweet one-timer, why try the low-percentage bank off the goalie’s skate?
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
The first goal?
Definitely thought it was a pass that caught Montoya’s pad or skate. Fluky goal. I didn’t even feel like Al particularly misplayed it (as some have said-not having the post frozen), just a bad luck play.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
I have a hard time holding a 2 on 1 goal with Marian Hossa and Patrick Sharp involved against the goalie. Especially when that shot by Hossa looked like it was by design to get it to Sharp. It wasn’t going to go in, but there was very little else Montoya could do with it.
I thought he made enough other big saves to keep it close when they were taking it to us to even out anything he maybe should have had.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
by afrosupreme on Dec 9, 2011 7:14 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I agree, too
Hard to fault the goalie on the game-winner when the defender goes for the slide and misses. Give Sharp credit, too, for being right there. Also, I think Al may have been screened by Jurcina a little on goal.
Neither team was spectacular. Even the very talented Blackhawks. But Al did have enough saves to get it to OT. It’s weird but encouraging to see the Islanders not fold like a house of cards like they may have in the past.
"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 9, 2011 9:43 AM EST up reply actions
Have to agree on Al
Toyota was good last night but he was not his usual great. He made some great saves but looked a little shakey on others. I think he should have had that first goal, and 99% of the time he would have. Also his handling the puck caused some confusion on defense. Maybe its the emotions of playing his hometown team. Give credit though…he still only let in 2 in regulation, I will take that as an off night :)
by GreekIsles83 on Dec 9, 2011 8:59 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I'd agree, but if this is near his worst, we'll be more than fine.
by NewIsles on Dec 9, 2011 10:31 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
It sure doesn't mean another AHL goalie should start againt the Pens
Can we please trot our unofficlal number 1 goalie out there with hopes of being a little less embarrassed this time.
And that’s not a knock on KP, I love the kid.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 9, 2011 7:40 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
If Poulin didnt get hurt last season, he would have played the rest of last season and Montoya would still be a backup in the AHL.
Poulin did great for the Islanders last season. Putting him in if Montoya isnt 100% is not embarrassing at all. He is a good goalie.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 8:06 PM EST up reply actions
Poulin belongs in the AHL though. He's still really young.
DP didn’t get regular nhl starts until he was 22, and he was a 1st overall pick. Poulin should be “forced” into the ahl for as long as possible, especially given he just came off of a season ending injury last year. KP should have at least 1 more full ahl season under his belt before we think about starting the season or using Poulin as a backup/starter.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Nobody is saying to make him starter, Ozzy.
Why do you think he shouldnt even get a game in the NHL? Are you forgetting how good he was for the Isles last season?
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 8:13 PM EST up reply actions
No, just stating what I think. Some people even argue DP was rushed when he was younger.
Goalies are fragile players, as we all know. I would rather sign/trade for a fill-in rather then risk our possible future franchise goalie’s development.
And I’m sure you agree as I remember your comments on Poulin last year.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Yeah, I do agree.
Im glad he started in BPT this season and thats where he belongs now, when everyones healthy. When there are multiple goalie injuries, if the time comes when Montoya is not at his best and they might not want to give him a start one night, I am comfortable with that start going to Poulin. When one of the other guys are healthy, Kevin will be back to BPT.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 8:18 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, I think I just misread your comment at first.
My mind read “Poulin would be fine finishing this season as the starting goalie if Montoya went down”, but that’s clearly not what you wrote.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
That situation would definitely not be ideal (or preferable).
Im just talking about a start if they want to sit Al for a game, thats all. :)
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 8:26 PM EST up reply actions
I still don't understand why Cap won't clearly name him #1 goalie. There's no reason not to.
And Cap not saying makes me worry more and more that a healthy Nabokov means split starts for Montoya.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Nabokov will definitely get starts, Ozzy.
I suggest chewing on and ingesting that before he comes back, because being shocked or upset when he is back and it happens wont change things! :)
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 8:12 PM EST up reply actions
lol. I can take Nabokov starting once every 4 or 5gms, but split starts or even once every 3gms is gonna kill me given how good Monty has been this year.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Nabokov will probably sit a few, get a few starts, sit, start, etc.
But I think its short term- the goal is for him to be healthy and be moved.
Lets not act like NAbokov has been bad this year, either- aside from a bad game, his persona stats were (When he was healthy) pretty comparable to Montoyas- even though the team was playing like ass at the time.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 8:16 PM EST up reply actions
The big issue for me is that they are gonna throw nabokov right back into nhl starts.
I can see if Montoya cools off, giving Nabokov some starts, but if the situation swapped and Nabokov threw up a .930 in more starts then Montoya’s .910, with Montoya facing an injury that knocked him out a month of starts, I’d say give Montoya an AHL stint before throwing him back in or start Montoya as the backup until Nabokov loses the starting job. The only difference is, Garth/Cap want to showcase Nabokov for a trade, and it just so happens that Montoya is playing like Lunqvist and Nabokov is playing like an average goalie.
It’s just that since we are a team with a slim margin for error, I want to ride a hot goalie until he’s cool even if it costs us a 3rd/4th round pick because we couldn’t showcase a goaltender. To take this 1 step further, I’d say don’t even showcase Nabokov. Since DP has been fragile and reinjured himself, we should IR DP, give him an AHL stint when he’s healthy, and hold on to Nabby till at least the end of January because of DP’s health questions.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
You can't play a goalie all 82 smarts, no matter who he is
I think the whole #1 issue is rather silly, but it’s something some teams do. Some teams don’t do the whole public “he’s our #1” thing and it’s probably because they recall that this situation changes all the time and they’d rather not get caught up in the QB controversy of it.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
by Dominik on Dec 9, 2011 8:37 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The Bruins came out and specifically said that Tim Thomas was NOT their #1 goalie a couple of months after he had one of the best seasons in goalie history and won the stanley cup. I dont see him cowering in corners crying over it, but people think that this is bothering Montoya? I think its purely imagination and honestly, baseless.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 9:42 PM EST up reply actions
You're right, and we have no reason to play Al 82 games
None of that has anything to do with playing our best goaltender against the Penguins though.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 9, 2011 9:54 PM EST up reply actions
Exactly, I don't wanna play him 82. I want to play him 60gms. Is that too much to ask?
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
That was insane
I think that those were only 70 game seasons… luckily for him.
We may be in the box, but you get the penalty.
Lighthouse Hockey - a beacon of greatness on the rocky coast of sports blog mediocrity
Non-hockey scribblings at nightflyblog
I’d rather see them give Poulin the game in Montreal next week. He’s from there and played his junior hockey in the Q. Be a nice experience for him.
And even with Sid out, the Pens have a lot more firepower than the Habs. I’d rather ride Monty for one more, then give him four days off.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
Huge minus
to Brian Rolston. His inability to even hit the net on the 5-on-3 highlighted his inability to generate any offense on the PP.
Also, every time this team enters OT, I just shrug my shoulders and I’m glad to have the Bettman bonus point.
Official choice of Lighthouse Dog #1.
by Fabtraption on Dec 8, 2011 9:51 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Sometimes that helps
seriously.
The thing I am most afraid of when he’s back there is that he’s gonna kill Moulson in front of the net…which is usually allayed because the shots go wide. But still, his shot is like Chuck Knoblauch’s throws to first base…you just never know.
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
In that case
I’d worry more about Keith Olberman’s mother than Matt Moulson.
by Dorfer on Dec 9, 2011 8:57 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Rec'd
I had to throw away my Knoblauch jersey when he was traded to the Yankees.
Did it wind up eight rows into the first-base stands?
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
I forgot he is getting into Ovechkin high and wide territory, that's scary if he takes out somebody in front of the net.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Not just him
I’m surprised the boards on both ends don’t look like Swiss cheese right now. Shots that miss the net don’t go in for goals. At least, not as often as those that are on the net.
Still, I’ll take the point.
"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 8, 2011 10:05 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I couldn't believe how high and wide 2 or 3 of his shots in the 1st minute of that 5-on-3 were.
Frigging atrocious. Somebody get him off the PP ASAP! There is no need for him, Hamonic would be better, MacDonald(when healthy) would be better, Jurcina might be better, and maybe even Reese would be better. I still don’t understand why he gets lots of PP time. End the man crush Cap/Weight/Snow.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Tavares
+ Beast mode continues
- He’s being run into the ground — over 24 minutes of ice time today
Success was survival and, kid, it still is
+ Travis Hamonic once again outstanding. And he scored!
- Why did they get the wrong Isles goal song on goal #1? Hello!?
+ JT trying to absolutely will himself to score goals.
- JT taking shifts that are IMO too long. This might be unpopular to say, but him doing this was responsible for giveaways and turnovers.
+ KO continuing his strong play, even if he wasnt on the scoreboard.
- Bailey getting a penalty for absolutely NOTHING, and the Hawks scoring on the subsequent BS penalty.
- Steve Staios getting hit from behind and nobody even caring.
+ Steve Staios scoring
+ Not losing in regulation. Giving up the 2nd point to a WC team doesnt really come back to hurt, which is good.
- Montoya had a relatively weak game. Rebounds right to the opponent, falling in the corner, and I sincerely believe he could have had both goals he let up. I think Poulin should play against the Penguins.
+ The Isles NOT GIVING UP. Down 2-0, this team didnt care and kept playing, Thank you, its great to see.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
I see what you mean when you say JT's overly long shift was responsible for the goal
But I think he actually made a very heads up play in the corner with a solid pass to Staios. Unfortunately, staios’s failure to control the puck led to the 2 on 1
He did the best he could in his position
But if he wasnt on as long of a shift, I think he may have been able to move the puck better.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:30 PM EST up reply actions
They played Bro Hymn for both isles goals tonight. Maybe they changed it?
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
The 2nd goal they played the correct song, it was only Goal #1 they got it wrong.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:47 PM EST up reply actions
Well, I guess the crowd was too loud for me on the 2nd goal then while I sang Bro Hymn to the goal. lol
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Trust me- I watched the game on DVR and we went back to make sure what song they played, you could hear it clear as anything.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:58 PM EST up reply actions
+ isles come back and earn point against one of the nhl’s top teams.
+ I have not looked at tsn draft centre in weeks
- i think we are 0-6 in to/so, we gotta win one already.
we gotta win one already
no we don’t – this isn’t a coin flip – we suck at OT/SO
by Cary K on Dec 8, 2011 10:16 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
+
+The more I see Patrick Sharp, the more I admire the guy. He’s a player and that was truly a scorers goal in the 2nd period.
Journalism Plus/Minus
- Katie Strang tweeting that Wallace was sent down to Bridgeport before the game – ah the state of journalism
+ Journalism isn’t dead here (see Dominik’s Dalgarno piece – what, you didn’t read it already?)
The one getting paid doesnt really care, while the one doing it simply for the joy of it genuinely does.
It shows.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:31 PM EST up reply actions
dom doesnt get paid?!
everybody "wong" chung tonight
by potvins_cups on Dec 8, 2011 10:45 PM EST up reply actions
They should pay me
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 8, 2011 10:49 PM EST up reply actions
If someone had told me before the game...
that we’d come back from down by 2 to take a top NHL team to OT, I’d say thank you very much, and remember… puff, puff, PASS!
Amateurs practice til they get it right. Professionals practice til they can't get it wrong.
For once, the play of the team improved after we were done
How often does that happen with them? Good sign.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 8, 2011 10:50 PM EST up reply actions
done=*down*
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 8, 2011 10:57 PM EST up reply actions
so i'm gonna go
+ on the defense blasting them from the point
+ on the team pulling together and changing the momentum in the second half of the game. Definitely started of slow and could have had a better first.
- Streit giving up the puck and passing to nobody in the offensive zone. He has been looking lost lately. I wonder if something is up with him
- Doug Weight as the PP coach
by Strong Island Thuggery on Dec 8, 2011 10:45 PM EST via mobile reply actions
WHY WHY WHY WHY WHY STAIOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What is it with our d-men, it seems like they cause so many damn goals against for us with their brain farts and bad decisions. Streit today pinching way too deep cost us the 1st goal, then Staios in OT cost us the game. Why? There is no frigging excuse for D pinching in OT, none. I know our defense is supposed to be our weakness, but damn this is getting irritating with how many goals they are costing us with stupid hockey 101/201 mistakes and penalties and foot races/pinching costing us..
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
I just cant put that all on Staios.
Especially since he is the reason they even got to OT in the first place. But really I think that JT would have made a better decision if he wasnt out there too long (and he was out there too long)
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:53 PM EST up reply actions
I have to blame staios there, even though he gets a + for sending it to OT.
His job is to not let any forward beat him/be between him and the net in OT. He made a stupid decision and it cost us the game. And not that I completely fault Okposo on that play too because he was hustling his ass back, but doing the sprawl out of despair to block a pass on that play was sort of giving up there. If Okposo hustled the whole way and took the body on Sharp instead of diving, I don’t think Sharp puts away that rebound and I think Okposo saves the game.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
That said. Great battling game pretty much all around. I like the improvement.
The biggest surprise for me was how much our 4th line outplayed their 4th line and how many scoring chances our 4th line had compared to the rest of the team.
And can someone teach our team how to finish breakaways? Grabs almost every game is having too much trouble burying them and JT couldn’t finish 2 breakaways he’s had today.
And this goes without saying, but Montoya stole us a point. I recall at least 2 gamesaving saves. 1 was the kick save on a cross pass that didn’t make it across for a 1 timer, which might have been on the PK, and the other one off the top of my head was a seabrook shot with Montoya screened and stretched out in almost a full split to save a goal sliding in the side post. Not to mention another time or to I can’t remember at the moment. (Oh, there was a snowman of despair montoya saved a goal on too, can’t remember others though.) But Monty defintiely “stole” us a point tonight.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Stole a point???
And this goes without saying, but Montoya stole us a point. I recall at least 2 gamesaving saves. 1 was the kick save on a cross pass that didn’t make it across for a 1 timer, which might have been on the PK, and the other one off the top of my head was a seabrook shot with Montoya screened and stretched out in almost a full split to save a goal sliding in the side post. Not to mention another time or to I can’t remember at the moment. (Oh, there was a snowman of despair montoya saved a goal on too, can’t remember others though.) But Monty defintiely "stole" us a point tonight.
I absolutely disagree. Montoya was burping up rebounds right into action all night and the D was running around covering for him. He should have had the corner of the net on the first goal. He also was wandering around, falling down, I think this was one of his poorer games- fortunately, the Isles D stepped up and covered for his mistakes. Montoya has deserved a lot of credit for his play this season, but this game was average at best- IMO he did not “steal” this game at all.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:57 PM EST up reply actions
I don't think his rebound control was very bad tonight, especially considering he was playing one of the best offense's in the nhl.
What do you mean they won 4 cups in a row? Is that possible?
Al was awesome again
he did seem to be falling down, but that didn’t hurt anything. he’s just steady. They need steady.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 8, 2011 11:06 PM EST up reply actions
It actually was.... rebound control is Al's weakness.
Look at the OT goal… its the rebound right into the middle of action that gets him.
There were a number of those tonight, but the D was picking them up for him.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 11:07 PM EST up reply actions
With this team
I wonder how many goals against fall into the category of “fluky” or “terrible” as opposed to “good play by opposition” and how that compares to other teams.
I feel obviously like the first goal was bad, but the one timer was well placed and tough and the third was an odd man rush, so tough to fault him on that, but the one extra is the difference maker and this current point streak only has one game in there that was decided by more than one.
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
his rebound control was atrocious tonight….this was easily his worst game since being an islander. The D definitely stole the point tonight. They scored and saved montoyas ass.
No way was it his worst game
It wasn’t even as bad as the last Hawk’s game.
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 8, 2011 11:17 PM EST up reply actions
You think he was "bad" in the road game in Chicago?
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 11:20 PM EST up reply actions
No, i don't think he was bad in either
"We can't get pushed around," Haley said. "What commentators say about us, that's their job. My job is to try and limit as many people who want to take liberties with our guys as possible."
by BobbyNystromOwnsYou on Dec 8, 2011 11:22 PM EST up reply actions
sad (above) had said it was his worst game as an Islander- you disagree and said he “wasnt as bad” as Chicago. So thats why I asked. IMO he looked better in Chicago than he did last night.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 8:10 PM EST up reply actions
This game was below average for Montoya
Not awful, and he made some very good saves, but he wasn’t as good as most games this season.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Dec 9, 2011 4:29 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
stupid DirectTv app didn't record the game
Left for work at 8am and didn’t get back until 9:30pm. All I wanted to do was watch the game. Damn technology. From now on only recording manually on the dvr
DP will be good again... written 9/6/11. Now thats a prediction truly believed!
maybe theres a replay tonight?
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 8, 2011 10:59 PM EST up reply actions
nice play overall
+keeping the point streak alive!
+ref’s. seemingly arbitrary calls on boarding.
-Rolston takes way too many poor shots (good chances, terrible accuracy), but an overall all strong game, best ive seen him skate in awhile. still a minus tho, I wish Bailey had his confidence
-I harp on this point constantly, but if we had maybe two stronger d-men. I look at Staios and Motteau and they just seem like dead weight sometimes. Like OzzyFan said, Staios pinches, but just isnt good enough (fatigue, speed, what ever it may be) to retain possession. i saw some truly lackadaisical shifts from their older players. I know Staios scored tonight and hasnt been our worst d-man, but I have trouble seeing him as part of a legit member of a first pair. A couple of these guys are really over their heads. It’s purely speculative, but another strong d-man would be the real tipping point, at least in terms of vying for the 8th seed.
everybody "wong" chung tonight
Ugh, boarding
- I forgot about that Bailey boarding. Maybe from the ref’s live view it looked worse, but the replay just looked like a check. Then to have Staios get dumped with no call…
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
by Dominik on Dec 8, 2011 11:25 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah he wasn't facing the glass
he was sideways and got hit and ended up facing the glass. In fairness, I’ve seen a lot of calls like that lately, so maybe the NHL is trying to get that ’hit from behind/side into the shoulder that spins a guy toward the boards" out of the game.
Konopka’s was the same as was Parenteau’s earlier in the season.
NY Islanders, just one irrational free agent signing away from contention!
Website:Lighthouse HockeyTwitter: @KeithLHHockey
Yea
He hit him in the numbers and the guy fell into the boards. Ref was across the ice, so I can see how he made the call, despite Bailey not really touching him.
I’d say that got made up pretty well on that elbow though…
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
Difference between boarding and hitting from behind. Two different calls.
Boarding is ANY hit that sends a player violently into the boards. Hitting from behind is … well hitting a player from behind. Boarding is often called when a playerr is violently hit from behind into the boards.
But what about crosscheck on PAP?
Refs were pretty even, though. Isles did get a 5-on-3 on two calls which could have been missed.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Dec 9, 2011 4:33 PM EST up reply actions
I both agree, and disagree...
The high stick from Bollywood, which created the 5 on 3, had to be called. Butt ending a guys face is exactly the same as a spear to the groin to me. The Kaner swing and a miss was weak to me, but I didn’t totally disagree with the call either.
It is dammned hard to talk about a game when I am a Homer for both teams!
There is a problem with outliving your enemies, it usually means that you have outlived your friends as well...
Honnor thy father - D. Vader (Robert Asprin, Myth series)
by burpchelischili on Dec 10, 2011 6:20 AM EST up reply actions
Yea
I thought overall, if anything, we got the benefit of a few calls. Refs weren’t great but they were generally fair on the calls.
Don't make me bring out the Silky.
Mercy...
+ No injuries to either team.
- The Chicago announcers said that there were NO Shots on Goal during the 5 on 3. WTF??
- There were a few phantom calls from the refs tonight. (Kanes elbow, Baileys call.)
- – - – Why do these Hawk/Isles games insist on going to OT/SO? Are they trying to kill me?
++++ Entertaining games that remind me why I like these teams.
There is a problem with outliving your enemies, it usually means that you have outlived your friends as well...
Honnor thy father - D. Vader (Robert Asprin, Myth series)
Kane did appear to try to elbow
Did he not connect? Because if he did connect, seems like an obvious call go me.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Dec 9, 2011 4:34 PM EST up reply actions
Apparently he missed
But when you throw that blatant of an elbow, I don’t see why it matters that you missed.
Lighthouse Hockey: A flute with no holes is not a flute. A Dane with no holes is Frans Nielsen.
I have a feeling it matters if youre Malkin.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 9, 2011 9:44 PM EST up reply actions
I agree that an attempt to elbow a guy up high should be a minor
But as far as suspensions are concerned, I think whether the player connects should be taken into consideration. Part of the reason that Martin didn’t get a long suspension last season was that he didn’t connect (or barely connected) with the sucker-punch in FNF game. And the guy who swung his stick towards Nino’s face last season, like a sword (was that also a Penguin?), surely would have gotten a long suspension if he connected— or at least would have deserved one, in my book.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Dec 10, 2011 11:16 AM EST up reply actions
Friday morning quarterbacks...............
I am going to join in………….With a 5 minute OT, of course you play to score,but as hometeam in this case you play a more careful defense, because in a SO we had 2 big advantages – 1. the right to choose who shoots first and 2. We have the better goalie. So bottom line that pinching in by the D, that led to the Hawk score could have been avoided and the better shot at the extra point could have been realized.
True, Staios shouldn't have been that deep 4-on-4.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Dec 9, 2011 4:36 PM EST up reply actions
Umm...

Is this a comment on how young so many of the Isles are?
I mean, WTH?
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
I see it more
as a comment on the scarcity of birth control…
There is a problem with outliving your enemies, it usually means that you have outlived your friends as well...
Honnor thy father - D. Vader (Robert Asprin, Myth series)
by burpchelischili on Dec 10, 2011 6:12 AM EST up reply actions
There is an interesting segment of Freakonomics...
…that links the drop in crime-rate over the past decade or so with the emergence of birth control and abortion about 15-20 years prior. (One of them, who seems to be anti-abortion, at least with some types of abortions, says that the data support this conclusion, and that… oh, I don’t know how to phrase it… download the podcast. It is interesting.)
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Dec 10, 2011 11:24 AM EST up reply actions
I LOVED that book. The sequel (Superfreakonomics) was great, too.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 10, 2011 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
I think that the two on the ends look a little non-sober in the picture.
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Dec 10, 2011 11:17 AM EST up reply actions
If I was wearing that in public Id want to get drunk, too.
Let Us Go, Islanders! (Ever notice how strange that sounds without the contraction?)
by TheMetalChick on Dec 10, 2011 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
Running Total and Defensemen Grades
Kyle 3, Post 2.
Streit: B+. Another good game from Streit.
2.988 (26 games played)
Staios: C. A mixed bag— similar to Reese of two games ago. The goal (assist?) saved him from a ‘D’. (But I question whether he should have been out there in OT. Better than Mottau or Jurcina 4-on-4, I suppose.)
2.246 (26)
Hamonic: A-. Very good. The goal bumped him up from B+.
3.187 (26)
Jurcina: C. A typical ‘C’ game. He has the ability to be a C+ (even B-) player on a regular basis, but hasn’t shown it yet this season.
2.123
Mottau: C-. No awful mistakes, but a few minor ones.
1.898 (19)
Reese: C. I have him down for one bad play early on and one good player later. Overall not quite as good as his first couple games, but he’s more mobile than the other three bottom-pair defensemen.
2.175 (4)
Not in action:
Eaton
AMac
"The reader of this sentence exists only while reading me."
by North Dakota Red Eagle on Dec 10, 2011 11:32 AM EST reply actions

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