It was a tough day for the Islanders. They had some bad breaks and some bad calls go against them but the bottom line was the machine called the New Jersey Devils ran all over New York on the way to another victory.
John Tavares was robbed by Martin Brodeur on several occasions and came up scoreless but was visible in his offesive assertiveness but the team losing C Frans Nielsen early on certainly hurt.
Isles will have several days off before heading to Atlanta Thursday night.
Game Stats:
-2/ 3SOG/ 22:40TOI/ Faceoffs:9-9
Highlights:
Links:
Rolston and Elias lead Devils to 6-1 win
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Friday, November 27, 2009
Tavares Nets 1st Game Winner
John Tavares scored his first career game winning goal to propel the Islanders over the Penguins 3-2.
It was a solid effort for New York who also got goals from Josh Bailey and Sean Bergenheim.
It will be a quick turnaround as the Isles head to the Rock for a Saturday afternoon tilt against the Devils.
Game Stats:
1G/ +1/ 2SOG/ 15:58 TOI/ Faceoffs: 6-7
Goal:
Highlights:
Post Game Interview:
Links:
Tavares goal lifts Islanders over Pens, 3-2
It was a solid effort for New York who also got goals from Josh Bailey and Sean Bergenheim.
It will be a quick turnaround as the Isles head to the Rock for a Saturday afternoon tilt against the Devils.
Game Stats:
1G/ +1/ 2SOG/ 15:58 TOI/ Faceoffs: 6-7
Goal:
Highlights:
Post Game Interview:
Links:
Tavares goal lifts Islanders over Pens, 3-2
Back In Business...Champs In Town
Well it has been 72 hours of holiday celebration and internet failure. Let's do some catching up.
The Isles lost to the Flyers after dominating the first half of the game and then seemingly falling asleep in the second half. Such is the life of a 500 team.
John Tavares had a beautiful assist on the lone Islanders goal by Trent Hunter. Hunter is riding an eight game point scoring streak.
Game Stats:
1A/ 1SOG/ 18:34TOI/ Faceoffs:9-3
Highlights:
Will hopefully find internet access to do the post game for Sid and the Penguins visit today.
Links:
Flyers continue dominance of Islanders
Islanders vs. Penguins Preview
The Isles lost to the Flyers after dominating the first half of the game and then seemingly falling asleep in the second half. Such is the life of a 500 team.
John Tavares had a beautiful assist on the lone Islanders goal by Trent Hunter. Hunter is riding an eight game point scoring streak.
Game Stats:
1A/ 1SOG/ 18:34TOI/ Faceoffs:9-3
Highlights:
Will hopefully find internet access to do the post game for Sid and the Penguins visit today.
Links:
Flyers continue dominance of Islanders
Islanders vs. Penguins Preview
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Isles/Flyers Tonight
Martin Biron takes on his old team without the suspended Daniel Briere.
Links:
Islanders vs. Flyers Preview
NHL suspends Briere for two games
Non-playoff teams, youngsters shine during NHL's first quarter
Links:
Islanders vs. Flyers Preview
NHL suspends Briere for two games
Non-playoff teams, youngsters shine during NHL's first quarter
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
The Aftermath
As always, plenty of great coverage out of Toronto today.
For some more of these great CCM JT pics above go here:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=22676&id=21050564944
Some video here:
http://www.facebook.com/CCMHockey?ref=nf&v=wall#/video/video.php?v=189792306299&ref=mfTavares post-game from TSN.ca
http://watch.tsn.ca/nhl/clip238554#clip238554
Links:
Tavares a reminder of lost opportunity
Robbed by masked man
Spotlight stolen
Leafs report
Monday, November 23, 2009
Roloson...That Is All
That is all you really need to justify this one.
Dwayne Roloson had 58 saves as the Islanders defeated the Maple Leafs 4-3 in (wait for it...)
overtime.
Roloson kept the aggressive Buds off the scoreboard in the 1st with 20 saves.
The Islanders would take the lead in the 2nd on a Jeff Tambellini breakaway goal thanks to a beautiful feed from Mark Streit. Matt Moulson and Sean Bergenheim would add goals and chase Vesa Toskala from the net with 3 goals in three minutes and thirteen seconds.
Then the customary NYI collapse came calling. First with the Isles just taking a three goal lead and Toronto and their fans dead in the water Coach Scott Gordon decided to take a timeout. The Leafs scored on the next shift and pretty much dominated the rest of the way till Josh Bailey finished it in the extra session.
Gordons' persistence to play his fouth line or should I say over play his fourth line is mind numbing. New York is not a deep team and while Richard Park, Nate Thompson, and Tim Jackman can be marginally effective role players when used within their means they are not premier checkers and Gordons' reliance on them when the Islanders are back on their heels is questionable. They have a grand total of 3(!) goals between them yet check the ice times tonight.
Park:19:06
Thompson:17:37
Jackman:10:55
Too much! Just too much reliance on role players...You can use the excuse that the Isles were killing penalties, but if your going to use that then Gordon needs to start implementing his younger players on the PK. 11th in the league is very respectable but not untouchable for that unit.
John Tavares' premiere in Toronto was suprisingly one to be remembered for his play in the defensive zone. JT made a couple of very smart plays in his own zone and hopefully showed Gordon that it's not just 4th liners that can be competent in their end. Tavares had an opportunity on a partial break late in the 3rd but could not connect. He has gone 3 games without a point.
Road trip is over at a quality 3-2-2 thanks to Roloson. Huge test coming to Nassau Wednesday night in the form of the Philadelphia Flyers.
Game Stats:
+1/ 1SOG/ 17:42 TOI/ Faceoffs:5-12
Highlights:
Pre-Game Interview:
Links:
Islanders’ Roloson frustrates Leafs shooters
No Tavares, but give Kessel his due
Maple Leafs dominate but still lose in overtime
Leafs lose in OT despite 61-shot attack
Two paths, same destination
Leafs Live: Tavares must be reckoned with, coach says
Islanders show Leafs how it's done
Roloson makes 58 saves as Isles win in overtime
Dwayne Roloson had 58 saves as the Islanders defeated the Maple Leafs 4-3 in (wait for it...)
overtime.
Roloson kept the aggressive Buds off the scoreboard in the 1st with 20 saves.
The Islanders would take the lead in the 2nd on a Jeff Tambellini breakaway goal thanks to a beautiful feed from Mark Streit. Matt Moulson and Sean Bergenheim would add goals and chase Vesa Toskala from the net with 3 goals in three minutes and thirteen seconds.
Then the customary NYI collapse came calling. First with the Isles just taking a three goal lead and Toronto and their fans dead in the water Coach Scott Gordon decided to take a timeout. The Leafs scored on the next shift and pretty much dominated the rest of the way till Josh Bailey finished it in the extra session.
Gordons' persistence to play his fouth line or should I say over play his fourth line is mind numbing. New York is not a deep team and while Richard Park, Nate Thompson, and Tim Jackman can be marginally effective role players when used within their means they are not premier checkers and Gordons' reliance on them when the Islanders are back on their heels is questionable. They have a grand total of 3(!) goals between them yet check the ice times tonight.
Park:19:06
Thompson:17:37
Jackman:10:55
Too much! Just too much reliance on role players...You can use the excuse that the Isles were killing penalties, but if your going to use that then Gordon needs to start implementing his younger players on the PK. 11th in the league is very respectable but not untouchable for that unit.
John Tavares' premiere in Toronto was suprisingly one to be remembered for his play in the defensive zone. JT made a couple of very smart plays in his own zone and hopefully showed Gordon that it's not just 4th liners that can be competent in their end. Tavares had an opportunity on a partial break late in the 3rd but could not connect. He has gone 3 games without a point.
Road trip is over at a quality 3-2-2 thanks to Roloson. Huge test coming to Nassau Wednesday night in the form of the Philadelphia Flyers.
Game Stats:
+1/ 1SOG/ 17:42 TOI/ Faceoffs:5-12
Highlights:
Pre-Game Interview:
Links:
Islanders’ Roloson frustrates Leafs shooters
No Tavares, but give Kessel his due
Maple Leafs dominate but still lose in overtime
Leafs lose in OT despite 61-shot attack
Two paths, same destination
Leafs Live: Tavares must be reckoned with, coach says
Islanders show Leafs how it's done
Roloson makes 58 saves as Isles win in overtime
JT Returns To The GTA
The kid will have his family and friends in attendance as the Islanders play the Maple Leafs tonight at the ACC.
The Isles are coming off two sub-par efforts so I actually think the Tavares-mania could be a positve distraction.
Roloson/Toskala get the starts.
Links:
Maple Leafs vs. Islanders Preview
Tavares returns to Toronto tonight for homecoming
Tavares back in Toronto
Confident John Tavares tunes out the hype and sticks to game plan
Tavares makes Toronto debut
The Isles are coming off two sub-par efforts so I actually think the Tavares-mania could be a positve distraction.
Roloson/Toskala get the starts.
Links:
Maple Leafs vs. Islanders Preview
Tavares returns to Toronto tonight for homecoming
Tavares back in Toronto
Confident John Tavares tunes out the hype and sticks to game plan
Tavares makes Toronto debut
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Perron Give Isles The Blues
It was an ugly effort that does not require much analysis.
The Islanders lost 4-1 in St. Louis last night wrapping up a pointless weekend. New York jumped out to a lead with a Josh Bailey goal but would not be heard from again as the Blues got 2 3rd period goals from David Perron to wrap up the victory.
John Tavares played just over 15 minutes after playing 20+ minutes on Friday night. It was a quiet weekend for JT who did not register a point in either loss.
Tavares returns home Monday night as the Isles head to Toronto. Let the media circus begin.
Game Stats:
-2/ 1SOG/ 15:15TOI/ Faceoffs: 3-3
Highlights:
Links:
Blues win again at home
Islanders faltering with loss to St. Louis
Islanders quietly have become a pretty good team
Tavares' homecoming to Toronto
Tavares rolling in the Isles
J.T. a model roommate for Kadri
The Islanders lost 4-1 in St. Louis last night wrapping up a pointless weekend. New York jumped out to a lead with a Josh Bailey goal but would not be heard from again as the Blues got 2 3rd period goals from David Perron to wrap up the victory.
John Tavares played just over 15 minutes after playing 20+ minutes on Friday night. It was a quiet weekend for JT who did not register a point in either loss.
Tavares returns home Monday night as the Isles head to Toronto. Let the media circus begin.
Game Stats:
-2/ 1SOG/ 15:15TOI/ Faceoffs: 3-3
Highlights:
Links:
Blues win again at home
Islanders faltering with loss to St. Louis
Islanders quietly have become a pretty good team
Tavares' homecoming to Toronto
Tavares rolling in the Isles
J.T. a model roommate for Kadri
Friday, November 20, 2009
Islanders Drop Sloppy Game With 1 Minute Left
It was a sloppy game and the Islanders played down to the level of the Wild. A turnover led to Owen Nolans' game winning goal with 1:07 left. Martin Biron has just been unable to come up with the big save at crunch time to earn his team points.
The Islanders were 0-6 on the power play, though they did generate many chances they came up empty.
John Tavares' 5 game point scoring streak came to an end.
Game Stats:
Even/ 2SOG/ 21:31TOI/ Faceoffs:5-4
Highlights:
Links:
Nolan’s 2 goals give Wild 3-2 win over Islanders
Clutterbuck snap shot earns praise
Thrills, spills mark season's quarter pole
Fantasic freshmen, super sophomores and amazing finishes highlight the NHL's opening quarter
The Islanders were 0-6 on the power play, though they did generate many chances they came up empty.
John Tavares' 5 game point scoring streak came to an end.
Game Stats:
Even/ 2SOG/ 21:31TOI/ Faceoffs:5-4
Highlights:
Links:
Nolan’s 2 goals give Wild 3-2 win over Islanders
Clutterbuck snap shot earns praise
Thrills, spills mark season's quarter pole
Fantasic freshmen, super sophomores and amazing finishes highlight the NHL's opening quarter
Islanders/Wild Tonight
Links:
Wild vs. Islanders Preview
Avalanche and Islanders are two feel-good stories so far
Wild: Agitator wants to clutter up kid's mind
Trophy Tracker: Norris, Calder, Adams races after 20
Early awards contenders, Hawks cap squeeze, a sticky issue, more
Havlat out with strained hammy; Smith on way up; Biron in the cage; Roli: "Write with your heart, Roose"
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Olympic Talk-11/19/09 Links
There's some talk in the Canadian media that John Tavares could be considered for a spot on the 2010 Olympic team. While I would love to see Tavares achieve the great accomplishement of representing his country we need to remember that Hockey Canada has been hesitant to select young players and passed on Sidney Crosby in his rookie year.
It would not be the worst thing for JT to take the Olympic break as a rest, he's 19 playing his first NHL season. If the pros play in 2014 obviously Tavares would be strongly considered. But for now, we must realize the incredible depth of talent up the middle for Canada to choose from and be realistic that Tavares would be better served as a bystander this Olympic year.
Links from the net:
Where you're drafted means nothing once puck drops
HL ON TSN QUIZ: OLYMPIC PICKS, ROOKIES AND SHANAHAN'S FUTURE
Penner pushing to be Oly pick
It would not be the worst thing for JT to take the Olympic break as a rest, he's 19 playing his first NHL season. If the pros play in 2014 obviously Tavares would be strongly considered. But for now, we must realize the incredible depth of talent up the middle for Canada to choose from and be realistic that Tavares would be better served as a bystander this Olympic year.
Links from the net:
Where you're drafted means nothing once puck drops
HL ON TSN QUIZ: OLYMPIC PICKS, ROOKIES AND SHANAHAN'S FUTURE
Penner pushing to be Oly pick
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
The Road Warriors
Cue "Iron Man".
The Islanders ran their record to 2-0-2 on a current 7 game road trip with a 4-1 win over the Boston Bruins. There were no shortage of great performances tonight as Dwayne Roloson (who got the nod even though Newsday beat reporter Katie Strang reported Martin Biron) was excellent, Matt Moulson got 2 more goals, Richard Park (much maligned here but I give him props) contributed 3 assists, and John Tavares continued to emerge as a star.
It was a physical game and you can tell this Bruins team without Marc Savard and Milan Lucic was a desperate one. The Islanders jumped out to a lead when Jack Hillen made a beautiful rush to setup Moulson in his office to make it 1-0. The Isles would take a stream of penalties but did a tremendous job in killing them off including a prolonged 5-3.
Boston would tie it up after Tavares and Freddy Meyer failed to clear the zone but the Islander resiliency which is becoming a staple showed again.
Moulson got his 2nd on a nice feed from Park as a result of a great forecheck by Tavares that led to a Tuukka Rask giveaway.
JT was making things happen again. He had 3 point blank opportunities, 2 thwarted by Rask and 1 by the mountainous reach of Zdeno Chara. Johnny T also shanked a 1 timer attempt on a late 3rd power play opportunity but was still able to connect on his NHL rookie league leading 9th goal on a shot deflected off a Bruin skate.
Moulson though continues to be just as impressive a story as JT. He netted his 10th and 11th goals of the season. Not bad for a guy given up on by the Los Angeles Kings and signed by the Islanders primarily for Bridgeport. Always thought Molson was a solid player who never got a fair shot with the Kings and I was surprised when he was not tendered an offer making him a free agent. Credit Snow and the hockey staff for doing their homework.
Roloson had his best game as an Islander and it looked for a while that Rollie was going to pitch the shutout. Still, he was sharp on his angles despite the one goal and the Isles did a fine job of clearing the path and giving Rolson a good view of the puck.
Isles will come home for a couple of days of sleeping in their own beds then are off to one of my favorite places in the NHL Friday night, Minnesota. Great arena and even greater people there.
Game Stats:
1G/ +1/ 4SOG/ 19:38TOI/ Faceoffs 6-8
Goal:
Highlights:
Links:
Moulson scores twice in Isles' 4-1 win over Bruins
No Comeback For Boston This Time Around as Islanders Strand Bruins 4-1
The Islanders ran their record to 2-0-2 on a current 7 game road trip with a 4-1 win over the Boston Bruins. There were no shortage of great performances tonight as Dwayne Roloson (who got the nod even though Newsday beat reporter Katie Strang reported Martin Biron) was excellent, Matt Moulson got 2 more goals, Richard Park (much maligned here but I give him props) contributed 3 assists, and John Tavares continued to emerge as a star.
It was a physical game and you can tell this Bruins team without Marc Savard and Milan Lucic was a desperate one. The Islanders jumped out to a lead when Jack Hillen made a beautiful rush to setup Moulson in his office to make it 1-0. The Isles would take a stream of penalties but did a tremendous job in killing them off including a prolonged 5-3.
Boston would tie it up after Tavares and Freddy Meyer failed to clear the zone but the Islander resiliency which is becoming a staple showed again.
Moulson got his 2nd on a nice feed from Park as a result of a great forecheck by Tavares that led to a Tuukka Rask giveaway.
JT was making things happen again. He had 3 point blank opportunities, 2 thwarted by Rask and 1 by the mountainous reach of Zdeno Chara. Johnny T also shanked a 1 timer attempt on a late 3rd power play opportunity but was still able to connect on his NHL rookie league leading 9th goal on a shot deflected off a Bruin skate.
Moulson though continues to be just as impressive a story as JT. He netted his 10th and 11th goals of the season. Not bad for a guy given up on by the Los Angeles Kings and signed by the Islanders primarily for Bridgeport. Always thought Molson was a solid player who never got a fair shot with the Kings and I was surprised when he was not tendered an offer making him a free agent. Credit Snow and the hockey staff for doing their homework.
Roloson had his best game as an Islander and it looked for a while that Rollie was going to pitch the shutout. Still, he was sharp on his angles despite the one goal and the Isles did a fine job of clearing the path and giving Rolson a good view of the puck.
Isles will come home for a couple of days of sleeping in their own beds then are off to one of my favorite places in the NHL Friday night, Minnesota. Great arena and even greater people there.
Game Stats:
1G/ +1/ 4SOG/ 19:38TOI/ Faceoffs 6-8
Goal:
Highlights:
Links:
Moulson scores twice in Isles' 4-1 win over Bruins
No Comeback For Boston This Time Around as Islanders Strand Bruins 4-1
Isles/Red Hot JT in Boston Tonight
The Islanders will take on the Bruins tonight in Boston.
Tukka Rask will be in net for the Bruins and Martin Biron for the Islanders. New York will be without Brendan Witt tonight due to personal reasons, Andrew MacDonald gets the call from Bridgeport.
John Tavares continues his surge for the Calder trophy as he now leads all rookies in goals and points. Tavares comes in riding a 4 game point scoring streak (3G/4A).
Links:
Ovie returns to Big Apple
Bruins vs. Islanders Preview
Rookie sensation Tavares changing Isles' fortunes
Florida Panthers, NHL experiencing a youth movement
Tukka Rask will be in net for the Bruins and Martin Biron for the Islanders. New York will be without Brendan Witt tonight due to personal reasons, Andrew MacDonald gets the call from Bridgeport.
John Tavares continues his surge for the Calder trophy as he now leads all rookies in goals and points. Tavares comes in riding a 4 game point scoring streak (3G/4A).
Links:
Ovie returns to Big Apple
Bruins vs. Islanders Preview
Rookie sensation Tavares changing Isles' fortunes
Florida Panthers, NHL experiencing a youth movement
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Isles Grab Another Point
Yes, the Islanders once again went to extra time and lost to the Panthers 5-4 in a shootout.
New York jumped out to a quick 2-0 first period lead on goals by Tim Jackman and Trent Hunter. The disturbing trend of blowing leads continued though as Florida came back to take the lead 4-2 in the 3rd.
From there John Tavares took over. First by burying his rookie leading 8th goal of the season and then winning a faceoff back to Kyle Okposo for the tying goal. Tavares now leads all rookies in goals and points.
The Islanders now have taken points in each of the first three games of the seven game road trip. Off to Boston for a Monday night tilt.
Game Stats:
1G 1A/ -1/ 4SOG/ 17:40TOI/ Faceoffs: 8-11
Goal:
Highlights:
Links:
Horton's goal lifts Panthers to SO win over Isles
DeBoer saw Tavares' promise
New York jumped out to a quick 2-0 first period lead on goals by Tim Jackman and Trent Hunter. The disturbing trend of blowing leads continued though as Florida came back to take the lead 4-2 in the 3rd.
From there John Tavares took over. First by burying his rookie leading 8th goal of the season and then winning a faceoff back to Kyle Okposo for the tying goal. Tavares now leads all rookies in goals and points.
The Islanders now have taken points in each of the first three games of the seven game road trip. Off to Boston for a Monday night tilt.
Game Stats:
1G 1A/ -1/ 4SOG/ 17:40TOI/ Faceoffs: 8-11
Goal:
Highlights:
Links:
Horton's goal lifts Panthers to SO win over Isles
DeBoer saw Tavares' promise
JTs' Two A First
John Tavares had the first two goal game of his career as the Isles roared out of the gate to a 3-0 lead in Carolina. But as has become the norm, the Islanders went to overtime where Kyle Okposo notched the 4-3 victory over the Hurricanes.It might have been too easy early on for the Islanders as they stopped skating causing defensive lapses and the Canes comeback was capped by a horrendous goal given up by Martin Biron to tie it and send to extra time.
The Islanders did prevail in the end to continue their successful run of 6-2-3 in their last 10.
Johnny T got off to a great start by bringing back some memories of his classic 09 WJC goal by bunting a rebound off the back glass into the net. JT would later add a second goal by sniping out in front of G Manny Legace for a tap in.
Tavares didn't see much if the ice in the second half of the game as Coach Scott Gordon played his role players for a huge chunk of the second half resulting in less offensive pressure and thus the blown lead. JT had a rough night in the faceoff circle but was robbed of his chance of his first career hat trick with the diminished playing time.
Off to Florida.
Game Stats:
2G/ +1/ 2SOG/ 17:27TOI/ Faceoffs 2-9
Goals:
#1 "the bunt"
#2
Highlights:
Post-Game Quotes:
Links:
Okposo scores in OT in Islanders' 4-3 win; Tavares gets two goals
Okposo's overtime goal lifts Islanders over Canes
Friday, November 13, 2009
Isles/Canes Preview
Isles in Raleigh tonight. Kyle Okposo is with the team and is a gametime decision.
Links:
Hurricanes vs. Islanders Preview
History in the Atlantic?
First-years excelling across the NHL
Bid on JTs' Painting:
Time is Running Out!
Links:
Hurricanes vs. Islanders Preview
History in the Atlantic?
First-years excelling across the NHL
Bid on JTs' Painting:
Time is Running Out!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
6-6-6 Is The Coach Possessed?
No it's not a satanic message or a spell such as the possible one that implores Scott Gordon to play 4th liner Richard Park more than any other forward in his lineup (more on that later). It's the Islanders record with tonights 5-4 11 round shootout loss to the Capitals.
This was a strange one indeed. Washington came out and took the lead 8 seconds in on a goal by Alex Semin. The Isles roared right back and chased Jose Theodore from the net with 3 goals in 5 minutes to take a 3-1 lead.
New York would relinquish the lead and trail 4-3 until the returning Trent Hunter equalized the game with a power play goal at 17:52 of the third.
The shootout was a long one but I wouldn't call it a memorable one with shooters missing the net, losing pucks, and the majority shooting pucks into goalie pads.
John Tavares recorded an assist but seemed to be off at certain points of the game. JT looked like he might be nursing some effects of the flu passing through the Islanders and all NHL locker rooms.
It didn't help JTs' cause that Kyle Okposo (H1N1 virus) was out of the lineup leaving 4th line role player Richard Park on the top line for a 2nd straight game. The Isles from ownership down preach that they are a rebuilding team that is building through youth development but there you had Park, 33 years old, 1 goal in 18 games and 87 in 621 games getting the most ice time out of any of the Islander forwards.
That Park plays on the top line, takes certain faceoffs for Tavares (even though Park was 5-7/JT 11-6), received power play time late in the 3rd period over team leading goal scorer Matt Moulson, and was out there in overtime along with Nate Thompson (another 4th liner for life) more than Moulson and Tavares is an indictment on what the coach is thinking at times.
Look, Richard Park is a nice plugger and has given the Islanders all he has but he's a 4th liner at best and probaly would not even make the top 5 teams in the league. The only way he can help this team is playing a limited role, win or lose. If you lose at least you have a kid or a player with potential learning.
Rant over.
Carolina on Friday the 13th, yes like the Coachs' bench work the Isles have some scary things going on right now.
Game Stats:
1A/ Even/ 3SOG/ 18:48TOI/ Faceoffs 11-6
Highlights:
Links:
Clark’s 11th round goal gives Caps shootout win
This was a strange one indeed. Washington came out and took the lead 8 seconds in on a goal by Alex Semin. The Isles roared right back and chased Jose Theodore from the net with 3 goals in 5 minutes to take a 3-1 lead.
New York would relinquish the lead and trail 4-3 until the returning Trent Hunter equalized the game with a power play goal at 17:52 of the third.
The shootout was a long one but I wouldn't call it a memorable one with shooters missing the net, losing pucks, and the majority shooting pucks into goalie pads.
John Tavares recorded an assist but seemed to be off at certain points of the game. JT looked like he might be nursing some effects of the flu passing through the Islanders and all NHL locker rooms.
It didn't help JTs' cause that Kyle Okposo (H1N1 virus) was out of the lineup leaving 4th line role player Richard Park on the top line for a 2nd straight game. The Isles from ownership down preach that they are a rebuilding team that is building through youth development but there you had Park, 33 years old, 1 goal in 18 games and 87 in 621 games getting the most ice time out of any of the Islander forwards.
That Park plays on the top line, takes certain faceoffs for Tavares (even though Park was 5-7/JT 11-6), received power play time late in the 3rd period over team leading goal scorer Matt Moulson, and was out there in overtime along with Nate Thompson (another 4th liner for life) more than Moulson and Tavares is an indictment on what the coach is thinking at times.
Look, Richard Park is a nice plugger and has given the Islanders all he has but he's a 4th liner at best and probaly would not even make the top 5 teams in the league. The only way he can help this team is playing a limited role, win or lose. If you lose at least you have a kid or a player with potential learning.
Rant over.
Carolina on Friday the 13th, yes like the Coachs' bench work the Isles have some scary things going on right now.
Game Stats:
1A/ Even/ 3SOG/ 18:48TOI/ Faceoffs 11-6
Highlights:
Links:
Clark’s 11th round goal gives Caps shootout win
Hurting Isles In D.C. Tonight
The Islanders will play the Caps tonight in Washington. The injury list is starting to grow as Kyle Okposo has contracted the H1N1 virus and Doug Weights' "upper body injury" has now been projected as a 4-6 week absence. Add this to Radek Martinek being lost for the season and the injury bug is starting to catch up to the Islanders again.
Good news is Trent Hunter may be in tonights' lineup after recovering from a pectoral injury. Another positive-no Alex Oveckin! But then again that has not stopped Washington from lighting the lamp with 11 goals in their last two games.
On a side note, there was actually a comment from GM Garth Snow recorded in the NY Post last week, maybe he has awoken from his nap on the job. Should be interesting to see if the road trip coupled with the holidays approaching could make for any moves on the horizon. Snow, minus contract dumps and draft day picks shuffling, has been non-existent in the trade market for quite some time now. We went from Mad Mike to Sleepy Snow. Still waiting for him to utilize that cap space he's so proud of.
Links:
Capitals vs. Islanders Preview
Good news is Trent Hunter may be in tonights' lineup after recovering from a pectoral injury. Another positive-no Alex Oveckin! But then again that has not stopped Washington from lighting the lamp with 11 goals in their last two games.
On a side note, there was actually a comment from GM Garth Snow recorded in the NY Post last week, maybe he has awoken from his nap on the job. Should be interesting to see if the road trip coupled with the holidays approaching could make for any moves on the horizon. Snow, minus contract dumps and draft day picks shuffling, has been non-existent in the trade market for quite some time now. We went from Mad Mike to Sleepy Snow. Still waiting for him to utilize that cap space he's so proud of.
Links:
Capitals vs. Islanders Preview
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Isles Score 6 To Net 6th Win
It was not a game you would show your players if you were coaching team defense or goaltending, but it was an entertaining affair at the Nassau Coliseum tonight. The Islanders defeated the Thrashers 6-3 as 13 different Islanders registered points.
New York got it going in the first period with a beautiful feed from John Tavares to Andy Sutton for an even better finish. Roloson would give up a softee on a wrist shot from D-man Zach Bogosian a short time after that to tie the game, but the Isles kept up the pressure and would get the first goals of the season from Sean Bergenheim and Jack Hillen to close out the first.
The Islanders would control the game the rest of the way and out shot Atlanta 45-34.
Tavares did a great job drawing defenders to set up goals by Sutton and Moulson. JT was roughed up on a hit by Eric Boulton but did not miss a shift.
All in all a solid effort and a must needed victory as New York heads out on the road for the next seven games starting in Washington Wednesday.
Game Stats:
2A/ +1/ 2SOG/ 19:10TOI/ Faceoffs 6-7
New York got it going in the first period with a beautiful feed from John Tavares to Andy Sutton for an even better finish. Roloson would give up a softee on a wrist shot from D-man Zach Bogosian a short time after that to tie the game, but the Isles kept up the pressure and would get the first goals of the season from Sean Bergenheim and Jack Hillen to close out the first.
The Islanders would control the game the rest of the way and out shot Atlanta 45-34.
Tavares did a great job drawing defenders to set up goals by Sutton and Moulson. JT was roughed up on a hit by Eric Boulton but did not miss a shift.
All in all a solid effort and a must needed victory as New York heads out on the road for the next seven games starting in Washington Wednesday.
Game Stats:
2A/ +1/ 2SOG/ 19:10TOI/ Faceoffs 6-7
Post-Game Interview:
Highlights:
Links:
Islanders shake off injuries, beat Thrashers
Islanders use balanced attack to beat Thrashers
Friday, November 6, 2009
Islanders Drop 2nd In A Row
The Islanders were defeated by the Devils 2-1 tonight.
It was pretty much a game straight out of Devils Coach Jacque Lemaire playbook, meaning it was boring as hell.
Franz Nielsen scored the first goal of the game in period 1 but the Devils were able to score on two long drives in the second which decided the contest.
John Tavares had some chances but was unable to cash in.
The Isles offense in general has been stagnant over the last two games. Not helping matters any is the potential loss of defenseman Radek Martinek late in the third with an apparent knee injury.
Back to Long Island tomorrow to face the Kovalchuk-less Thrashers.
Game Stats:
Even/ 1SOG/ 17:55TOI/ Faceoffs 6-4
Highlights:
Links:
Danis makes 23 saves, Devils win fourth straight
It was pretty much a game straight out of Devils Coach Jacque Lemaire playbook, meaning it was boring as hell.
Franz Nielsen scored the first goal of the game in period 1 but the Devils were able to score on two long drives in the second which decided the contest.
John Tavares had some chances but was unable to cash in.
The Isles offense in general has been stagnant over the last two games. Not helping matters any is the potential loss of defenseman Radek Martinek late in the third with an apparent knee injury.
Back to Long Island tomorrow to face the Kovalchuk-less Thrashers.
Game Stats:
Even/ 1SOG/ 17:55TOI/ Faceoffs 6-4
Highlights:
Links:
Danis makes 23 saves, Devils win fourth straight
Islanders Face Danis Tonight
The Islanders will bus their way to New Jersey tonight to take on the Devils and former goalie Yann Danis tonight.
No changes in the lineup for the Isles but Coach Gordon has decided to go with Martin Biron for the second straight start. It will be the first time this season that Biron has received two starts in a row.
Links:
Devils vs. Islanders Preview
No changes in the lineup for the Isles but Coach Gordon has decided to go with Martin Biron for the second straight start. It will be the first time this season that Biron has received two starts in a row.
Links:
Devils vs. Islanders Preview
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Islanders Shutout In Buffalo
The Islanders 4 game winning streak came to an end tonight in Buffalo as they were defeated by the Sabres by 3-0.
New York seemed a little tired and the well rested Sabres took advantage. The Islanders spent too much time in the penalty box in the first and second periods and Derek Roy and Thomas Vanek made them pay with power play goals.
Buffalo dominated in the faceoff circle with an amazing 39-8 advantage. This resulted in the Islanders chasing the play the majority of the night as the Sabres dictated the game.
John Tavares and his linemates Kyle Okposo and Matt Moulson weren't much of a factor tonight. JT couldn't seem to get in the flow after a the Islanders spent too much time killing penalties in the first. His 4 point scoring streak comes to an end.
With the olympic condensed schedule the Islanders have no time to dwell on this loss as they head to the Rock Friday night to play the Devils.
On a side note: Congrats to new NHL Hall of Fame inductees Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Brian Leetch, and Luc Robitaille.
Here's what lucky Luc had to say about JT in a conference call held today:
Question: Luc, just wondering if you had a chance to look at John Tavares. And I'm wondering, he reminds me much of you in that he's not a brilliant skater but has this phenomenal eye-to-hand coordination. Have you had a chance to look at him and do you think he could be another Luc Robitaille?
Luc Robitaille: First pick, he better ?
Question: He was not exactly where you were drafted.
Luc Robitaille: I think he's a very special player. He's got a knack around the net that's very special. I've seen him play probably five games this year. And I'm always impressed. You watch him and you're not sure about the game, and the next thing you know he gets the puck and something amazing seems to happen. He definitely has a knack, too, in the big moment and the bigger the game is to shine. I think he's going to be a very, very special player in our league.
Game Stats:
Even/ 2SOG/ 15:54TOI/ Faceoffs 2-7
Highlights:
Links:
Miller, Sabres beat Islanders 3-0
New York seemed a little tired and the well rested Sabres took advantage. The Islanders spent too much time in the penalty box in the first and second periods and Derek Roy and Thomas Vanek made them pay with power play goals.
Buffalo dominated in the faceoff circle with an amazing 39-8 advantage. This resulted in the Islanders chasing the play the majority of the night as the Sabres dictated the game.
John Tavares and his linemates Kyle Okposo and Matt Moulson weren't much of a factor tonight. JT couldn't seem to get in the flow after a the Islanders spent too much time killing penalties in the first. His 4 point scoring streak comes to an end.
With the olympic condensed schedule the Islanders have no time to dwell on this loss as they head to the Rock Friday night to play the Devils.
On a side note: Congrats to new NHL Hall of Fame inductees Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Brian Leetch, and Luc Robitaille.
Here's what lucky Luc had to say about JT in a conference call held today:
Question: Luc, just wondering if you had a chance to look at John Tavares. And I'm wondering, he reminds me much of you in that he's not a brilliant skater but has this phenomenal eye-to-hand coordination. Have you had a chance to look at him and do you think he could be another Luc Robitaille?
Luc Robitaille: First pick, he better ?
Question: He was not exactly where you were drafted.
Luc Robitaille: I think he's a very special player. He's got a knack around the net that's very special. I've seen him play probably five games this year. And I'm always impressed. You watch him and you're not sure about the game, and the next thing you know he gets the puck and something amazing seems to happen. He definitely has a knack, too, in the big moment and the bigger the game is to shine. I think he's going to be a very, very special player in our league.
Game Stats:
Even/ 2SOG/ 15:54TOI/ Faceoffs 2-7
Highlights:
Links:
Miller, Sabres beat Islanders 3-0
JT Paints For Charity
John Tavares has contributed the above painting to benefit the Kidney Foundation of Canada.Please click the links below to find out how you can bid on an original piece of art by JT and how you can donate to a great cause.
A Brush of Hope
Celebrities from coast-to-coast are giving those with kidney disease A Brush of Hope - now they're asking you to do your part.
Isles/Sabres...Again
The Islanders make their final visit to Buffalo tonight. This will be the third time the two teams will meet in the past 19 days. Sabres took the 1st game in Buffalo 6-3, Isles returned the favor last Saturday 5-0.
Martin Biron will start in net for the Islanders, Ryan Miller for the Sabres. Should be the same lineup tonight for the Islanders but there are whispers that the some players are ill or banged up. Could be an opening for Blake Comeau, Rob Schremp, or Freddy Meyer to get back in.
Links:
Sabres vs. Islanders Preview
Tavares-Moulson connection? All chemistry
Ovechkin's plan: Nachos, Coke and recovery
TNT provides grit, experience
Martin Biron will start in net for the Islanders, Ryan Miller for the Sabres. Should be the same lineup tonight for the Islanders but there are whispers that the some players are ill or banged up. Could be an opening for Blake Comeau, Rob Schremp, or Freddy Meyer to get back in.
Links:
Sabres vs. Islanders Preview
Tavares-Moulson connection? All chemistry
Ovechkin's plan: Nachos, Coke and recovery
TNT provides grit, experience
Monday, November 2, 2009
Good Things Happening On The Island
The Isles won their 4th in a row and stretched their unbeaten in regulation streak to six games. From the net out the Islanders are playing hard and smart hockey and are getting production up and down the line.
Tonight the hero was long time stay at home defensemen Brendan Witt. Witt netted 2 goals increasing his career goal total to 25 in 862 career games. Great efforts as well from Doug Weight, Andy Sutton, Jack Hillen, and Dwayne Roloson. Honestly, we could list all the names cause it was a classic team effort.
John Tavares fired home his 5th goal of the season on a nice feed from Matt Moulson. JT has points in 4 straight games and was all over the net. Tavares again had several great chances and once the kid starts burying them with more regularity he is going to trigger many of those entry level contract bonuses.
The Isles will head to Buffalo Wednesday which will mark the start of the possible season defining stretch of 14 of the next 17 games on the road.
Game Stats:
1G/ even/ 6SOG/17:24 TOI/ Faceoffs 12-10
Goal:
Highlights:
Tonight the hero was long time stay at home defensemen Brendan Witt. Witt netted 2 goals increasing his career goal total to 25 in 862 career games. Great efforts as well from Doug Weight, Andy Sutton, Jack Hillen, and Dwayne Roloson. Honestly, we could list all the names cause it was a classic team effort.
John Tavares fired home his 5th goal of the season on a nice feed from Matt Moulson. JT has points in 4 straight games and was all over the net. Tavares again had several great chances and once the kid starts burying them with more regularity he is going to trigger many of those entry level contract bonuses.
The Isles will head to Buffalo Wednesday which will mark the start of the possible season defining stretch of 14 of the next 17 games on the road.
Game Stats:
1G/ even/ 6SOG/17:24 TOI/ Faceoffs 12-10
Goal:
Highlights:
Links:
Isles/Oilers Tonight
Not much info coming out today. Isles are rolling and will keep the same lineup with the exception of Goalie Dwayne Roloson back between the pipes.
The flu stricken Oilers come to town tonight. Expect Nik Khabibuhlin to get the call in goal.
Great job by Newsday Isles beat writer Katie Strang getting this quote from formers Rangers head coach and current Oilers' assistant Tom Renney. Renney on the Islanders/Oilers rebuilding plans "I liken it to what we’re doing in Edmonton. I call it the “cast on the arm,” where it’s broken, you’ve got to put a cast on it and you’ve got to heal internally and get better."
Links:
Islanders vs. Oilers Preview
The flu stricken Oilers come to town tonight. Expect Nik Khabibuhlin to get the call in goal.
Great job by Newsday Isles beat writer Katie Strang getting this quote from formers Rangers head coach and current Oilers' assistant Tom Renney. Renney on the Islanders/Oilers rebuilding plans "I liken it to what we’re doing in Edmonton. I call it the “cast on the arm,” where it’s broken, you’ve got to put a cast on it and you’ve got to heal internally and get better."
Links:
Islanders vs. Oilers Preview
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Tambys' Trick A Treat
That's right, I went with the cheeseball Halloween headline.
Jeff Tambellini recorded his first career hat trick as the Isles defeated the Buffalo Sabres by a count of 5-0. Martin Biron had a great performance making 38 saves in the victory.
With the win, the Islanders finished the month of October at 4-4-5. They are currently riding a 5 game unbeaten in regulation streak (3-0-2) and are making positive strides daily. Coach Scott Gordon, whom i've been critical of, deserves praise.
John Tavares recorded an assist and now has a point in 3 straight games.
The Islanders will take on the struggling Oilers tomorrow night at the Coliseum.
Game Stats:
1A/ 2SOG/ Even/ 16:20TOI/ Faceoffs 7-8
Highlights:
Links:
Tambellini Trick Helps Isles' Biron To 200th Win
Tambellini gets first NHL hat trick
Jeff Tambellini recorded his first career hat trick as the Isles defeated the Buffalo Sabres by a count of 5-0. Martin Biron had a great performance making 38 saves in the victory.
With the win, the Islanders finished the month of October at 4-4-5. They are currently riding a 5 game unbeaten in regulation streak (3-0-2) and are making positive strides daily. Coach Scott Gordon, whom i've been critical of, deserves praise.
John Tavares recorded an assist and now has a point in 3 straight games.
The Islanders will take on the struggling Oilers tomorrow night at the Coliseum.
Game Stats:
1A/ 2SOG/ Even/ 16:20TOI/ Faceoffs 7-8
Highlights:
Links:
Tambellini Trick Helps Isles' Biron To 200th Win
Tambellini gets first NHL hat trick
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