NEW JERSEY 4, ISLANDERS 2 (Final)
Read game thread here
Topics in the Comments chat include Howie and The Jaff, a good-for-the-soul goal by Kyle Okposo, Doug Weight’s injury, Mike Komisarek and a personal story of the day Jason Blake was acquired. My hope is these road game chats down the stretch are insightful enough that they are better reads than a typical recap. You never know what I might say or report, so please read if you have the time…CB
I encourage your feedback in Comments. 170 and counting? Thanks, everyone.
218 Responses to NEW JERSEY 4, ISLANDERS 2 (Final)
Read game thread here
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islesfan999 says:
iam hoping for another loss. Can’t wait for some trades.
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toorude says:
if you are bored kevin, pay more attention to okposo while on the ice – easier to do at the game than on t.v. – but he is something. i dont have enough experience to say he is going to bust out and be a star but he works very hard and you can almost see him learning right in front of your eyes. i thought he was best player on the ice yesterday, though nothing on the score sheet.
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Adam says:
Hey CB, would love to see a post on a potential future Captain of this team, since the spot may be open in the coming weeks. Thanks
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kevin says:
im gunna be furious if the isles dont do anything to mottaue.
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Kevin Fitz says:
toorude – the kid line and streit are the only reason i am still watching this team this year. too bad streit is out. he is the best off season fa signing in the league imo. In about 2 years when this team is much better, his true value will show itself throughout the league. We have him at a major bargain price.
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Islanders1984 says:
I agree with the motteau statement. Look at the 2nd game we played against tampa this week. More then one of the Lighting went after Jackman for fighting Leclavier. Isles need to stick up for each other like that
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JPinVA says:
there are plenty of reasons to watch this team. When a team is at this stage of a rebuild, especially with a new coach there are gonna be flashes of them clicking.
Even the last game, the Guerin to Weight goal was pretty cool.
there was a lot of good work against LA that created opps. When they start finishing those opps the team will “be back on track”.
Since the “tweaking” the team has been a lot less “boring” because if there was no change it was like chasing your tail. Now they look like a team that needs a little of this and some of that, and they will be in the playoff conversation again… then in the division crown conversation, and then cup contention.
there’s always a reason to watch… just ask the 12 Pittsburgh Pirate fans that still show up for games in rainy 45* weather. -
hoping the isles play a good game, but lose, how sad when you hope your teamn loses. and another thing would that be collusion if oilers sign jagr and make a deal with the isles to pick him up on waivers then trade him to the oilers, and who should the isles take from edmonton?????
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Gary says:
Wasn’t it a breath of fresh air when Howie Rose was on vacation and Jigg’s took his place on the West Coast trip.
Just hearing Jigg’s voice made it seem we the Islanders were in every game. Ahh the good old days came back in to focus.
Howie will be very happy this spring that the Islanders aren’t in the playoffs. That way he can run to Flushing for his CITIBANK (Let’s screw all you taxpayers) METS!!!!!
Howie please do Islander fans a solid and don’t come back next year.
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jonsson3 says:
LOVE HOW THE RAGS ARE DROPPING LIKE FLIES!!!
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DINO says:
LETS HOPE WE GET BLOWN OUT!!!!! JOHNNY OR VICTOR HERE WE COME
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We don’t really get blown out much we are competitive for the most part. Just keep losing get a top 2 pick and surprise everyone next year!!
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19 ISLE in NJ 22 says:
A reason to watch the Islanders???
Well … How about the prospect of savoring a re-built team that will make each future victory taste that much sweeter after enduring the re-build? That to me is one of the best reasons to watch the Islanders.
Watching this team improve will be a joy… we’ve already begun to witness some of that in Okposo, Bailey and Comeau.
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jiggs, met him at the morning skates when the isles played the flames, was able to chat and shake his hand, and tell to come back and be the voice again.
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comeau has been a no-show in the last few weeks or so. go-go is probably not happy IMO.
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BeatleBailey says:
Logan at Newaday had a nice blog on Okposo today. This kid is really enjoyable to watch and as Logan stated Gordon gets major credit for the kid line and veteran line. Just hope the vets keep scoring to drive up that trade value. C’mon Dougie there is a No.1 pick in you!!
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MT says:
So will it be Tamby or Sim? I’m somehow not getting the Isles feed on the plus 2
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why do they let stan fischler interview people. That Parise interview was ridiculous
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Jeff says:
Any one know from the pre-game which goalie will start tonight?
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thepolishprince says:
I’ll probably get crucified for this but Jiggs does nothing for me as a play by play guy. I much prefer the tandem of Howie and Jaffe even if Rose is a Rags fan at heart. just my opinion…
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Never mind Goaliepost.com finally updated.
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What happened to Hunter? I didn’t get a chance to see the game last night.
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Macch says:
CB. If the draft was today? The New York Islanders select_____________
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Jim M says:
pair tambs with neilsen..score a goal for god’s sake!!
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Got a question for everyone. If this was to happen at the end of the season what would you rather see happen>
1-Isles win Keeps Rangers out of the last playoff spot. But lose assurance of defintaely getting # 1 pick
Or
2-Isles lose last game get the # 1 pick but Rangers make playoffs cause of The Islander loss -
I want the number 1 pick no matter what. I don’t care what the Rangers do
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Tavares is more important then a new york rangers early first round exit. If they went on to win the cup. We would not here the end of it..
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first- go radek martinek
2nd- i would take the win. dont think it will come down to this but coming in second for the lottery isnt so bad. -
I think the Isles take Hedman 1st overall
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i meant draft. i know that means the possibilty of going in third but there is also a chance of going first anyway.
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Michael says:
Brendan Witt proving his worth right there. Thats why teams will trade for him- plays just like that. Yea sure he took a penalty, but he saved a goal. You think Campoli, Martinek, or Gervais would of been able to stop that from happening? No way.
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admin says:
Maach (26): see Saturday game chat. Not going there again tonight.
Friends: Jiggs is in his 70s and not coming back. Doesn’t want to. If Howie Rose was calling a perennial winner, my opinion is you wouldn’t hear many critics.
An option of Tavares or the Rangers making the playoffs? Please do not tell me this is even a discussion, or that it has come to this. Sorry if that sounds harsh, but sheesh.
Neighbor Joe from RVC: Get the NHL Center Ice package, listen to the other color commentators and then let me know what you think about Jaffe.
I’m writing a story for post-game, so I’ll be back and forth during the game…CB
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isles316 says:
People should listen to other announcers on the centre ice package and then talk about Howie. Howie is pretty good.
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mrlbem says:
I don’t understand the Howie Rose haters. Either they can’t get over his Rangers’ connection or they’re Yankees fans who hate the Mets and don’t like that connection. He’s one of the finest play by play guys anywhere and his sense of humor is second to none.
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I think Darren Pang is one of the best announcers in the game. But jaffe is no slouch. He not only does games for the Isles, but Versus realized hes good and he works for them also.
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mrlbem @ 38 – +1 from me on Howie
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i personally think jaffe is better
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d-man says:
you people don’t know what it’s like until you live in another state and are forced to hear other teams announcers from around the league on the center ice package. one sided, insulting, gimmicky, mostly not very fun to listen to. our guys are right at the top. you should appreciate that.
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ken says:
NHL on the Fly goes live to games throughout the night.. after listening to some of these announcers… i very much appreciate howie and billy.
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drew says:
Howie Rose and Billy Jaffe are top notch at their respective positions. I am dumbfounded over the lack of respect they get around here. I agree with those that ask you to listen to other announcers/color commentators before judging.
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oh i guess the hockey commentators arent that good in general i didnt know ..ill take clyde #10 thanks,, and howie
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Strummer's Army says:
as someone who has the NHL Center Ice Package let me just say how thankful I am for Billy Jaffe. I don’t know how much longer the Isles will be able to keep him.
Ya’ll know I am all about justice and vengenance but don’t expect the Isles to do much, they lack character big time in that department. It is really disapointing. IMO I don’t think Gordon cares that much about that part of the game and I disagree with him BIG TIME about that. Whoever mentioned how the Lightning went after Jackman after he fought Lecav (fairly) after Lecav instigated the fight and the Isles cannot even respond for Nielsen after a very dirty hit that was a good point. It has to be more of a priority for the organization about protecting each other and the Isles need to get more guys with character.
Since Hunter was out they should have called up Fritz and unleashed hell upon NJ. Sadly they seem very happy to just take it.
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you should hear the pittsburgh guy… what a doufus. he’s like a cartoon announcer of a horse race… and vanvouver. and washington. one time while watching a boston game the announcer actually insulted the isles by claiming that they had only one fan. a st. louis guy once said after the isles beat the blues that they didn’t deserve it.
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ugh and the Buf guy. Pit I think is the worst.
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I realize by trying the “you should listen to all the bad announcers” argument with my neighbor Crazy Joe from RVC, I’m actually not giving Howie and Billy their due.
From my standpoint, The Jaff surpassed Joe Micheletti in year two and now has joined the league’s elite. In his first year, I thought he tended to pick up a theme early on and hammer it for the rest of the game. That is long gone.
The only thing you don’t want too much from Howie is him veering away from the game. When it’s crunch time, in-game and in-season, Howie delivers. Other than 2001-2002, he just hasn’t had a sustained season of great play and big playoff games to build a rep. Not his fault…CB
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Jeff says:
Wow Okposo! what an effort!
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wowwwww KO what a goal and effort from okposo this kid has to be impressing everyone in the NHL its nice watching the kid blossom in front of our eyes
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patrick says:
wow!!!!!!!!!!!!
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that was sick
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Healy says:
Okposo!!
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At 8:12 pm tonight, I have officially upgraded Okposo from a B+, one-time all-star to an A-, 3 or 4-time all-star…CB
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Great play by KO.
On the announcer debate, I just can’t get into Howie, and it’s mostly because he goes on tangents that add nothing to the game presentation itself. I like Jaffe, but if I owned that team I’d give Jim Hughson or JP Dellacamera whatever they wanted to call our games.
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Yikes … didn’t look good with Weight’s leg there.
Regarding Jaffe: He is great on his own merits, but yes, as a Center Ice addict he is also great by comparison among his peers. What you want in an announcer is largely a matter of taste, but Jaffe is solid, with consistent observations, a non-extreme voice (sometimes tone is enough to turn me off), and a nice mix of home flavor and non-homer criticism.
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Isles78 says:
Say goodbye to Doug Weight
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There goes the draft pick and/or prospect for Doug Weight. Maybe meant to be and he’ll be back. How’s that for awful, inappropriate, premature and unprofessional injury conjecture? CB
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effin5 says:
CB
How about an article about all these hip injuries? Could you get the training staff to discuss what kinds of injuries they are and how they are occurring? Are they collision based and causing bruising or is it skating/stretching based injuries such as strains? We have to be leading the league in hip injuries the past few years. Thanks for such a great site!
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Walygz says:
OUCH….this team can’t catch a break ! Hate to lose our biggest bargaining chip.
Also, hope those who said Okposo is nothing special better re-evaluate their view.
Go isles !
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The training staff are barred from doing interviews. Thanks for the nice words tho, effin…CB
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Nick Classic (56): That’s funny, I love Dellecamera but Hughson really grates on me, yet I think the opposite opinion of both is more prevalent.
Always seems to be a little like music: tastes vary. It’s just a shame the truly great ones can’t be kept alive for ever. What I wouldn’t give to hear Dan Kelly’s voice again.
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theres your chance for colliton
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TuxTax says:
I signed on just to talk about how beautiful a move that was by Okposo. Sucks about Weight though
Crappy call on Hilbert… -
CB,
that spot for Colliton may have just opened up. I cant see why they would play Sim over giving a guy like Colliton a shot. Atleast i hope they wont play Sim over Colliton.
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Okposo’s confidence is growing by the game. He is becoming a real power forward and someone to contend with in the corners. He also is learning how to take and avoid a hit. Give him, Nielsen,Bailey and Tavares some time and it could get fun around here again.
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Michael (67): I hope I am pleasantly surprised, but I wouldn’t bet on it…CB
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MacDonald is showing why he should be our backup next season.
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Neil says:
Howie’s call of the last 5 minutes, OT and shootout of the Isles-Devils game that got them in the playoffs on the last game of the season in 2007 is the greatest play-by-play call of anyting I have ever heard. And when he calls the shootout a skills competition and then calls it all half-a$$ like it’s boring him, like last night againt LA, I want to smack him.
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Another review CB!!!
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AM says:
I don’t get how playing Tambellini on the 4th line is going to prove anything to anyone. He’s playing with 4th line players, not scorers. Put him with Frans.
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AM,
I think Tambellini is lucky to just be back into the lineup. The only spot open on the roster is a 4th line spot with Thompson’s injury. I would love to see him w/Frans, but I dont think Tambellini should be worried about who he plays with, he should worry about how he plays.
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AM: Tamby has been with Hilbert and Frans all night…unless I missed a change-up due to Weight going out.
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Yep, Tamby should probably focus on bringing out his inner Hilbert. Because his scoring line minutes seem to be done, barring injury.
Man, Joey didn’t have a chance on that double-screen shot.
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I thought I saw him playing with Jackman but please correct me if I’m wrong.
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rob says:
CB- does your upgrade of Kyle include him netting 25-30 annually? because he sure does show flashes.
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Did I ever tell you about the day the Islanders acquired Jason Blake from LA? We were in the Garden that night. About an hour before the game, a veteran asks me if I can find Mike Milbury. I do and bring the player to him in the opposing team coach’s office. The guy says to Milbury, “Do you know what you have just done? That guy is a no-good pain in the ass”! Milbury said something to the guy about how it was nice the veteran showed some emotion for the first time all season. That’s the short version…CB
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sorry but i missed saturdays blog… what is the ” hedman” thing you are talking about. Chris can you fill me in? I’m assuming you simply stated that he might be the way the team goes if we get the 1st pick. Im starting to realize that might be smart after doing some research.
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I missed weight getting injured. Will he be back or is it a bad injury?
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I actually remember the day Blake was traded to the Island. Rob Blake was on the Kings at the time. I was talking about it with my friends father. I said, “we got Blake from LA.” and he simply said, “yea, the wrong Blake.” Now Jason turned out great for us. But that is still one of my all time favorite quotes.
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guerin13 says:
my prediction is that if weight’s injury prevents us from trading him, he is re-signed for a year. might as well if we can’t deal him. that was one sick goal by kyle and one sick save on parise from joe mac.
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Otter says:
Just heard one of the Devs announcers say he thinks KO could be on the Olympic team next year. I never thought of that…it’s a distinct possibility.
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ron (78): I don’t want to make it sound like I’m absolving the kid of any reponsibility for his own career, but if Okposo isn’t at least a 25-goal scorer, something is wrong.
(84) Mark Herrmann wrote about Okposo being a candidate for the U.S. team. Tough to call right now. Sometimes, USA Hockey prefers experience – not that it’s worked out for them all the time…CB
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Kyle never gave up on the play, it was just beautiful. Jaffe is awesome. If he wasn’t, he wouldn’t be in such high demand from XM and VS.
Nice story about Blake CB. I know you have more. I look forward to them.
If the injury keeps Dougie on LI, I won’t be devastated. I really didn’t want to lose him.
Win this one boys. Just because.
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UIF says:
I have Center Ice and hear other announcers, and I still don’t really like listening to Howie. Personal preference I guess, but many times by the end of the game I’m either listening to music or the second language function (when it’s not in Mandarin Chinese). The guy in Columbus is worse.
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was that Kip brennan on sober house
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glenn says:
CB:
With Michael Ryder’s injury in Boston, do you see them as a fit for Billy Guerin? -
Statement from Islanders on Queens interest at top of blog…CB
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richmondhockeyref says:
I have the Center Ice package on DirecTV. Does anyone know why the last 2 weeks or so I cannot receive the HD feed of the Islander broadcasts anymore? Directv does not have any answers for me.
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Thanks CB! Wouldn’t be a terrible idea to infuse some young blood into the US team. If he keeps up the pace, definitely worth them taking a harder look at possibly putting him on the roster.
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Howie brings up the subject of why no Islander has even laid a body part on Mike Mottau…CB
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pollard park says:
how bad is the weight injury?
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Scott says:
Tamby’s got to get to that first…So much speed being his game, ha.
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1984 (88) Go to Puck Daddy blog for the full details on Kip, Lupul and “Sober House.”
Glenn (89) At this point, I have heard nothing about Boston interest in Guerin…CB
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nyislanders93 says:
I missed Weight’s injury. Was it bad or should he be back before the deadline?
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I find that Queens comment very interesting. Unless I am mistaken, the organization did not have an official comment about the Kansas City situation. Garth said it had to do with business. But that is different from this as this is an official statement from the organization. Now I am not sure what this all means. Did they not put an official comment out about KS because it was a complete farce that they would move there? Or that it is a possiblity, but they don’t wanna add to the panic. Same thing with the Queens situation. did they officially comment because there is merit or because it has no shot of happening? I am not smart enough to know these answers. But still interesting to think about.
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Bergenheim is having a hell of a game. He needs to cut down the stupid penalties, but he’s definitely a guy who can score some goals when his hands catch up to his legs.
And Zach Parise is going to haunt us for years…
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NYICHAMP39 says:
Bergenheim has been showing some really good energy and moves out there lately. Outside of the two bad penalties last night these have been the best two games he has played in my opinion despite the fact that he has no points in both.
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wow on the same wavelength nick classic haha
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Brendan penalty, Zach goal – the Islanders fan daily double…CB
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the parise factor hurts. physically hurts. its as if we are being punished.
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Yes, Sean has made some great moves that have resulted in nothing. I love the hustle, I’d just love to see the finish… from the Finn.
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As soon as Weight is healthy the Isles need to pull the trigger and get whatever they can for him. He seems to be getting hurt every time he hits the ice. Hopefully this is just a day-to-day thing
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crap! this team pisses me off. no one stands up to mottaeu. howie should call this team a bunch of wusses on air. i know i should be talking about the goals but i want this team to lose as long as the kids play good and it is close. check!
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I love bergenheim it just pains me everyday to know that the isles essentially drafted an energetic fourth liner, possibly, a third liner at best in the first round of the draft.
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dmen77 says:
Although I think Joey Mac is a decent backup goaltender, his rebound control has been awful lately. Danis’ rebound control was even worse in his first few starts this season but he has improved on it and the numbers don’t lie. I’d like to see Joey Mac do the same.
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Twisted Wrister says:
Man, Milbury’s pass on Parise is going to cost us for YEARS.
It’s too painful…
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cb, local talk radio in boston has been talking about how the bruins are interested in getting guerien, isles getting maybe sobotka or hunwick in return. what do you think of this?
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Atlanta lost tonight….maybe it’s “best” we lose too…….
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2:15 left…Hilbert, Tambellini, Nielson, Witt, and Gervais on the ice. The goal is supposed to come from …?
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UIF: parise
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yeah, I heard Mike Francesa and Michael Kay talking about that on their New York shows, too! LOL. Just kidding. Man, hockey trade talk on local big city radio, gotta love it. There’s a diff between them theorizing it – because everyone loves Billy – and Pete Chiarelli leaking it out that they are interested. I’m skeptical about the latter, for now…CB
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twisted wrister… i agree but get over it. good and bad. that’s what happens. woo hoo. we gonna lose.
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Thanks CB didn’t realize lupul was on it as well
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Fitz (99): The K.C. thing was an arrangement for a preseason game, the same as was done by another NHL team (that’s moving nowhere) this past preseason. Whereas Queens was a direct statement of intent/desire by a public official. And the statement’s content was just PR 101. Different situations, so I wouldn’t read much into it beyond that.
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FIsles says:
NYICHAMP39 (#108), you shouldn’t lose any sleep over drafting Bergenheim in the 1st round. Just look up the full 2002 draft. Ben Eager was drafted right after Bergenheim, Boyd Gordon drafted five picks earlier. Bergenheim was a solid pick from that year’s draft crop and he still has the potential to put up bigger offensive numbers.
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Another injury, another game out-shot big, another losing third period. Hope you guys don’t mind that I have veered away from the typical recaps for road games down the stretch. Also hope you’re enjoying these threads. I welcome feedback…CB
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@d-man:
It’s a friggin’ miracle that guy stayed with the team for so long. How he stayed GM is a mystery to me.
Thankfully KO is giving me some much needed hope. -
I Realize we passed on Parise, but so did the 14 other teams in front of us.
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i doubt 14 other teams pay for it the way we do.
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Positives out of this game:
KO gaining confidence with the nasty goal
Comeau showing off some speed and passing
Bergenheim showing some good eneregy
We lost…one game closer to Tavares and a hopeful future
night guys
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Fisles i agree with you on bergenheim. He just need to be given consistent time, they can’t take him in and out of the line up and they have to give him more than 4th line minutes
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CB when do you think we can expect a trade. And who do you think will be traded first.
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Can someone please tell me why in the hell did Park take 27 faceoffs and only won 10 of em?!?! so absurd
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GZ says:
Can anyone post a link to highlights when it becomes available? I got home late and missed the Okposo goal and Weights injury. Thanks!
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I just saw the 2003 draft class on a story from Puck Daddy. Forget just parise. I think milbury picked the one guy in that draft that didn’t turn out to be at least a decent player. That was a really talented first round of players
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Tony says:
Can anyone on the Islanders actually check the other teams players? What happened to open ice hitting and playing the body? If Witt and Jackman were not on this team they would have absolutely no balls.
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Bridgeport had a good third period comeback tonight from two down to win in overtime. Colliton scored the equalizer. Dustin Kohn with the first fighting major of his pro career.
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thanks FIsles (131). F Isles?
1984: The one player from the 03 first round to not play was Hugh Jessiman.
FAN999 (126): I think it will come down to the last week, and with Weight hurt again, Guerin’s NTC and Witt struggling, I would continue to not expect a bonanza…CB
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Outside says:
for all the bitching there is about the isles ice being bad.. why dont we hear the badmouthing of jersey’s ice.. this is what.. the 3rd time an islander has been injured as a result of the skate getting stuck in the ice?
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well at least it was a ranger pick that was a bust then. But there were some real decent players in that first round. Most better then Nillson thus far, although Nillson deserves more time to see what he can do.
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Just got back from Napper Tandy’s in Northport and I admit I lost it at the bar. Something about the Devils I hate. I wanted this game tonight. Giving up 50 shots was pathetic.
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feedback: yes chris… prefer this to recaps
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Yeah CBthis was definately a ton of fun tonight thanks for participating
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Appreciate the feedback. Probably the way we’ll go for most road games rest of the way…CB
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Watching Oilers vs Montreal. It’s amazing how much better the older uniforms look. Oilers have on their alternate which is the one they wore in the 80′s. Looks amazing.
Good to see Kyle get 2 points tonight.
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Paraise is truly amazing, I know 18 other teams past over him in the draft but if Milbury could have for once made a good decision, it would have given him some credibility as a NHL commentator!
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I have a diff question for you CB. What is the deal with the goal song? It’s hardly audible first of all and second of all, I think its time they went back to Rock N Roll Part 2. Whether the artist is a convict or not, that song is THE Goal song, and needs to make a comeback!
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michael says:
chris, i for one LOVE the fact that queens officials want the islanders more than our own TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD officials!! i think its time kate murray WOKE THE FK UP!!
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I’m real sorry, Eric, but I wrote about that topic for the first quarter of the season and I’m done with it. The team commissioned a new song and they seem to be sticking with it. Other than that, I have no further comment! CB
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They should play chelsea Daggers by the fratellis as the goal song
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CB, watching Montreal vs Edmonton. What are the chances the Isles sign Komisarek? Isn’t it a bit strange he hasn’t resigned at this point already and opened the door to that option just a bit wider?
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316: IF Mike makes it to July 1 – a huge IF – your Islanders would have a chance…CB
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I don’t intend this to take shots at anyone or anything remotely like that. Just something that’s been ongoing here all season from fans.
I really can’t wait for these kids to take the next step in their development so we don’t have to hear, “I really hope the Isles sign so and so off the UFA heap this summer”. I really don’t like UFA signings that much, especially when you need open spots for kids, as they are very unpredictable.
In a lot of cases going to another team is not good for players. It takes time for them to get to know what they team mates play like. They also have a hard time adjusting to new systems and philosophies of play. Every year we go through the same thing with the July 1st free agent spree in the NHL and many of the big signing rarely work out.
I hope in a year or two fans become more excited about player development and who’s coming through the pipeling. UFA is highly overrated in this league.
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Eric says:
Bergenheim is not a 4th liner! He is only 25. He is a solid 3rd liner at worst, 2nd liner at best. We will know in the next 2 years.
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SteveWebbClapClap says:
If KO makes Team USA, I’m buying a Team USA jersey the day they are out. I’m still miffed Parish wasn’t on Team USA in 2002. He was leading the league in goals at the time..
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Maybe Laviolette didn’t like parrish
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Andreas the Badger says:
Byfuglien might me available from Chicago, I read via kuklaskorner. They need a battle tested veteran on the blueline. Witt for Byfuglien and a 3rd? The latter actually has a heavy contract comparable to Witt’s, which of course is a plus for Chicago, and he’s got SIZE.
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Byfuglien is a guy I have advocated for many of times. He’d be a great addition with his PP prowess, shot, fighting ability, and hitting. He has skill. According to the Chi papers they want Weight because they need a 2nd line center. Which I’d say do it. I hope he isn’t hurt. That is the thing about waiting until the deadline is guys sometimes get hurt.
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I understand that Tambellini needs to produce. I just don’t think it is a legit shot when he’s playing with career third and forth-liners. Andy Hilbert, Richard Park, Tim Jackman, Nate Thompson. I don’t think you can judge him based on the talent our team has at this point. The KO-Bailey-Comeau line is not going anywhere. Comrie-Guerin-Weight was going great but may change obviously because of injury. You have Hunter-Bergie-Frans. The main point is that if you put him on a line with Spezza and Alfredsson, Elias and Gionta, heck even Callahan and Dubinsky, you could pass judgment within 20 games. You can’t do it in the situation he’s in now. I’m nervous by that if goes to another team who gives him a shot with 2 legit players, he’ll come to bite us in the butt.
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dalcy says:
Jaffe and Howie get goofy and annoying Michiletti wants to have Drury’s children and sam rosen has always been irritating. But nobody is worse than Chico Resch. devil players can do no wrong according to that guy. emrick is intelligent but can be annoying.
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AM on Feb 11th, 2009 23:11:55 said: “I understand that Tambellini needs to produce. I just don’t think it is a legit shot when he’s playing with career third and forth-liners. Andy Hilbert, Richard Park, Tim Jackman, Nate Thompson. I don’t think you can judge him based on the talent our team has at this point…”
Nope, Im not buying this.
How come every other forward on this team can do better without playing with players the likes of “Spezza and Alfredsson, Elias and Gionta, heck even Callahan and Dubinsky”???
I dont hate Tambs and I WISH he was gonna produce here but come on- the excuses people invent to explain why he cannot score goals really amaze me.
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As far as complaining about Jaffe and Howie go, I cite the old adage: You dont know what youve got til its gone.” If the Islanders didnt have those two, the complainers would finally have an actual reason to complain.
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Coach B says:
With the things Okposo is doing on the ice and his rapid growth you can see he has first line potential. That is worth watching the rest of the games this season.
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You can’t really compare the production of young one player to another. They all have different growth curves.
Tambellini is not going to develop the same as Okposo, Spezza, Bailey etc. His growth curve is most likely to be simialar to Jason Blake’s.
I don’t understand why Gordon has him as a healthy scratch after the ASG. He has been playing much better and generating scoring chances.
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The Express says:
Isn’t there a rule that you can’t quote other posts?
Anywho, didn’t Komisarek say that he didn’t want to negotiate until after the season? I thought I heard that somewhere.
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Dorfer81 says:
Howie is a first class announcer. I’m still on the fence with Billy. I miss Eddie though. “Wwwoowwww what a goal by Marty McInnis!”
Also I like to pretend I’m on a first name basis with these guys.
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yes, there is, Mr. Express. Chris TMC, please refrain. Thank you…CB
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Missed that one! So I guess you just want a refer to it by number thing? That works.
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JD says:
I think that Howie is as good as they come and at first when Michiletti went to the rangers I didn’t know how we would replace him but when we brought in Billy I realized how bad Michiletti actually was. Billy is so much more knowledgeable about the game and I feel like he really explains the game well to those who don’t follow and understand the game so well. Plus he has his own spot on NHL Live. I do still like the games when Jiggs does a few but Howie and Billy should definitely stay to make seasons like this a little easier to swallow.
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SIR WILLIAM says:
Chris, Your silence on Bergy is deafening.
My guess is that he will not be back next year. Any comment?…SW -
Chickendirt, Tambs has been doing better but what player that had been playing deserved to sit over Tambs? I mean he does only have 2 goals.
I know you like him and I want him to do well also but it just isn’t there.
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SW (166): Writing more him as part of a bigger post tomorrow. But tough to look at this season any other way than yet another one where he and his coach can’t seem to get on the same page and that Sean can’t make the jump into clear-cut top 9…CB
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Chris do you think anyone could be traded at the deadline that no one has mentioned ?
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sure, but no one who’d bring back much…CB
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I agree with you, isles316… and IMO a legit case cannot be made to sit guys like Hilbert or Park, or even Jackman or Comeau (who didnt make the team when Tambs originally did) to make room for Tambs. Jeff seems like such a good guy, and I agree with people who say that he is doing some of the little things better than he used to, but the guy just- doesnt- score- goals. I dont know why, but I do know that saying its because he isnt playing with elite players is not a legit excuse. Tim Jackman isnt playing with elite players, either. On paper he isnt even the player that Tambs is supposed to be- but he does things that Tambellini for whatever reason simply cannot do at this level. Jeff is literally the least productive forward on a last place team- I just dont see any real reason to make excuses for that.
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I just got finished watching (Thank you TiVo) the game… so I’m a little late here.
1. Chris this is a great idea for the remaining away games if you can stand it. So far they’ve been really good reads. i haven’t been involved in any of them. I’m sure that’s not a coincidence.
2. Another strong game by the Isles. Great goal by KO, and a heady play by both Comeau and Marty on the first tally. things are starting to come together.
3. there is a lot of talk about Milbury passing on Parise. What happened when the Isles were chasing Sutter when both the coaching and GM positions were available. Any insight on that Chris?
4. I like the snipe[t] about Blake. Blakey is RED HOT now and leads the leafs in scoring. And still, nobody wants to talk about why everybody hates the guy.
5. Howie and jaffe are in the top three teams in the NHL. As a center ice package holder for the last few years, I could think of far worse than our boys. Jaffe is going to be gone soon… way too good for Dolan to let him do Islander games. Watch him wind up in Buffalo until VS, ESPN or the NHL Network scoops him up.
I’d like to see Beninoti (Caps) do our games because he’s an Isle fan and does a great job with the play by play… after that, I wouldn’t trade a home grown (even though he’s a ranger fan at heart) guy like howie. I wish he would stop tempting fate with shutouts and no hitters though… THE GUY IS CURSED.
6. Tambellini is out of excuses… but not years on his contract. If anybody should be getting SHOPPED it is him. Is there a rule where you can’t trade with the Ice capades? Because i think we can get a muppet or two for tambellini.
Okay… definitely over the 100 word limit… but it’s late… and it was a one hitter. -
I only had to see the length to know who posted that.
3. Brent wasn’t offered anything and didn’t want in with the NYI at the time because he was committed to his team and his son Brandon in Red Deer. Lou went after him hard and Brent felt they were a good match. It’s as cut and dried as that…CB
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In between periods the Devs had Danny Aeillo on. I was wondering if you had a little NHL restaurant review in you?
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mm30 says:
That player he went to Milbury about Blake has to be Garry Galley.
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i want to know why sutter always looks absolutely miserable behind the bench. he looks like he’d rather be having root canal that be coaching. i don’t get it.
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BrassBonanza says:
Who would have thought Hugh Jessiman would have been such a bust??? I wonder if the Isles would have drafted him if he would have slid down a few spots?
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potvin05 says:
I know I’m really late with this but Rose/Jaffe are both at the top of the list as far as NHL announcers. They hit the nail on the head often and they do not sugarcoat anything. That’s what us fans deserve, honesty. I don’t know if most will agree, but IMO, Doc Emerick is as good as it gets, any sport. He makes it all exciting. Too bad he’s with Chico who gives homer (very ironic considering he spent most of his career here) a whole new name.
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WarrenG says:
Believe me guys, as a Center Ice watcher for the last 10 years, we have the best announcers in the league. Howie is awesome, doesnt hurt that im a MEt fan aswell, but he really speaks the game well. I have to admit i was unhappy about Michelleti being snagged to the Rangers, but i think Jaffe has come along pretty well. He is very Knowledgeable and speaks great. I do love when Jiggs comes to announce but after gettin stuck listening to the Kings, Panthers ( POtvin sucks cause he is a panther) and Lightning announcers, i am so greatfull to hear HOwie and Jaffe tonight. ALthough im not sure whats going on with the HD feeds, i have been screwed out of them the last 3 games.
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doc says:
Comeau had a great game.
Okposo, Nielsen, Bergenheim keep getting better.
MacDonald was strong… despite a few rebounds… hey you can’t control every puck… geezzzz.
DOC
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mLem says:
I am about done with Tambs personally…I see it this way, Okposo has the same supporting cast as Tambs. See the difference? And regardless of who is around him Okposo made his own play tonight, dug along the boards to keep the puck in made a move or 2 and then got his own rebound. Bergie has even made similar plays at times, we’ve seen Comeau dig, win and create…Where’s Tambs?
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Green 19 says:
As for the no HD Feeds on Directv, MSG Network pulled them 2 weeks ago when their agreement with Directv expired. Dolan wants Directv to pay big fees to carry them and Direct said ‘screw you’ to him. This also includes the Devil and Ranger HD broadcasts as well.
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Islander505 says:
Don’t know if this has been posted tonight, I did not see the game… caught the highlights on NHL On The Fly on the NHL network… but KO’s goal made top play of the night.
And he earned some high praise from the announcers.
We got a good ‘un in KO folks.
And I haven’t read all the comments here yet….geesh this is a popular place…(Do you get paid for this Botta?) but I’ll add my 2 cents on the Rose/Jaffe discussion.
Jaffe is easily one of the best hockey color commentators today (I watch a lot of Center Ice), Rose is acceptable but I don’t consider him part of the elite among hockey play by play guys.
Disclaimer….I might think more highly of him if he would quit being the WDD(Wet Dream Destroyer) and continually jinxing shutouts with his disdainful attitude about superstitions.But that’s just my opinion…from two time zones away.
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another bad penalty by witt and one by guerin cant wait to see them go!! cost us 2 goals
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I understand past frustration with Tamby, but please folks, it is very hard to see him slammed so hard when he has not played in a game in 21 days. Trust me, I’m as frustrated as you. I hope he has been getting Go-Go Gordon coaching and maybe it will stick. If he gets a few more games with decent minutes and does not produce, trade him for a sweaty moldy jock strap or waiver him. One more shot before the deadline.
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Did Comrie play tonight?
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mclem, they play different styles and okposo is supposed to be better so how can you compare them?? i think there are only like 3 people that still want to see tambs and im one of them. my points: this is a rebuild so why are we trading young guys with potential? he has speed and a helluva wrister and is just having trouble adjusting to the nhl. right now there isnt room to play someone who hasnt scored in god knows how long but sitting him isnt helping his development. what i expected him to do when he came back is to show determination and get into a fight and drive to the net like you are 6’7 235 and work your ass off. didnt see that from him but maybe scott needs to have another talk with him. but trading a guy that can have huge potential sounds like a milbury move. and if we arent patient then how can we have a rebuild. it takes some guys more time then others. especially if you are sitting in the sky box. tambellini needs to get his act together but no way in hell should we trade him. what if after the vets are traded tambs scores more then 3 goals. not a lot but work with me. he tries a different workout in the offseason and starts off the seson well with say 5 goals and 2 assists ( i mean in like 20-25 games ). everyone will say it just took time. he may be a late bloomer. its a rebuild so we have time. its not like he is our number one prospect.
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Schultz39 says:
We all have to be very pleased with KO – one of the best goals of the year. But we do have a lot of gaps to fill. Bailey certainly has some of the tools but he is a long way away. I really wish he could’ve sent him back to juniors for one more year – don’t want him to get discouraged with only 2 goals and playing on the last place team in the league.
One thing that really jumped out at me last night vs. NJ is how small of a team we are. I know speed is important in Gordon’s system but we get knocked off the puck and killed on the boards way too often.
I know it was asked earlier….why has NO ONE on the Isles taken a run at Mottau? In times when we suck, it’s important to build the team mentality that you don’t touch our young guys without paying for it. Maybe Mitch Fritz wasn’t the right guy but this org needs an NHL ready policeman to take us through this rebuilding phase along with some other team toughness type of players. Witt has taken a backseat in this role. Taking Tamby’s playing time away won’t put this organization back.
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jonsonn3- Comrie was the invisible man again, not sure how he is in the NHL, I have seen faster skaters and better moves at a puck shoot. Does the guy know how to stick handle? Does he know how to make a pass without telegraphing who he is going to? It’s time dish this guy off. IMO his only worth is having Duff and Comrie jersey’s in the stands(probably the highest selling islander jersey this year).
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Did you see Hillen get flattened by 5’5” Gionta? Yeah, lets get more undersized puck moving defensemen.
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Jim says:
Do you guys think, if Mitch Fritz had received the same ice time Bailey has received this year, that he would have more than 2 goals? Just wondering.
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Botta will tell us how good Streit is because of the plus/minus and praise Go Go and Snowy for getting this man.
Then he will tell us Witt’s plus minus is meaningless and how good his trade value is.
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Streit was signed before Gordon was hired, but keep all the great insights coming, Jim…CB
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TuxTax…. exactly!!! We need him to score a few goals and trade him fast! On another note does anyone else think ESPN is a joke? top 10 plays..8 basketball, 1 soccer, a Fleury save and no MacDonald save or Okposo goal…!!
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Jax says:
Jim stop embarrassing yourself.
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Can’t even watch ESPN anymore, VS isn’t much better either, where is the damn hockey coverage? NHL Network is where it’s at. Good game coverage, they show more than just the goals and they talk about every team and every game. Isles are still the laughing stock sometimes, but what can you expect when you are in last place.
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CB, good to see you’re still checking this. Quick question, what are your thoughts on Marty, you never mention him. Do you think he’s going to be trade bait or are you in the same thought as I am that we would never get a decent return on him and the fact that Snowy’s played with him, signed him to an extension, and sees his worth (when in the lineup) to this team for now and the future?
Thanks Chris. -
That may have to be a True Value segment…CB
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bcarroll25 says:
is there a more invisible player than tambellini? 30 games last year, 40 games this year, forget the lack of scoring it’s hard to remember seeing him play.bergy might take a stupid penalty,but he skates and forechecks, comeau, even jackman contribute without necessarily scoring.
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OK, thanks CB.
I’ve probably mentioned this before but Thanks for this site. Your writing, insight, knowledge and passion for this team is incomparable. I’m sure I speak for everyone here (except Jim) when I say that we hope this is the first of many seasons of PointBlank. -
Tambs’ problem, as far as I can tell, is an aversion to contact. Last night was one example of many this season…he’s racing a d-man to the puck. If he wins the race, he has a breakaway. It looks like they’re going to get there at the same time and…Tamby pulls up and lets the defenseman get there first. I can’t even say how many times I’ve seen him do that this season. He has a nice shot, but it’s useless if he refuses to fight and skate to the shooting areas. He’ll always take the path of least resistance, which is why most times he simply skates far to the outside and puts a harmless floater on net.
Can that be corrected? It’s up to him, I’d say. But you’d think after being benched he’d wait at least a couple of games to start pulling up again. That’s not rust, or not “seeing the ice,” or “the speed of the game”…that’s a conscious decision to pull up.
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Marc from Troy says:
At the risk of pulling a JPinVA, CB, some comments from someone who wasn’t near a computer last night:
- These in/post-game discussions are great, but am I missing something or are the recent pre-game posts somewhat less than we’ve come to expect from you? Asking only because of the high bar you’ve set, but not hearing about Hunter’s injury until I turned on the tv just seemed odd.
- Agreed that, especially in comparison to other cities, we’ve got it very good w/Howie & Billy. For those interested, latest episode of NHL Network’s “Voices” series airs tonight @ 7:30 spotlighting Howie Rose.
- Is it wrong that my first thought when Weight got hurt was “goodbye, trade”? Get well soon, Doug.
- Along those lines, if the replacement is another center, it absolutely should be Colliton – although it wouldn’t surprise me if somehow the bodies get moved around and we see Sim again. Ugh.
- Park probably took all those face-offs because of Weight being out. Neilsen can’t take ‘em all. (Just one more reason to call up Colliton.)
- I know it doesn’t do any good to continually revisit this, but my level of anger when Parise scores on the Isles is infinitely higher than when, say, Langenbrunner scores. It just is, and there’s damn good reason for it.
- Keep it going, KO. Fantastic goal.
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Mike says:
Just a quick note on Rose and Jaffe. I was at work one night and wanted to watch the game so I picked up a feed online. It was the actual feed to the truck so it never went to commercial. It happened to be during a game when the Isles were getting spanked. Both Rose and Jaffe were hilarious. I was laughing my a** off. The back and forth that took place when those guys went to commercial had me cracking up. It’s too bad we don’t get that feed on TV.
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Quez says:
First off, if the Isles did their jobs as well as Howie & Billy, we would be perched near the top of the conference. Yes, CB, Jaffe HAS surpassed “turncoat Micheletti.” Is anyone in the scouting dept. that passed on Parise still on staff? It gives me acid reflux every time I see this high Hockey IQ, hustling, scoring machine playing for our neighbors. Lou Lam prob had an accident in his boxers when we passed on him. Maybe we can trade Comrie for Leonardo DiCaprio, if only for the upgrade in girlfriend. Who doesn’t want to belly up to that Bar!
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Tony says:
KO’s goal was nice, but not highlight-reel worthy and not what Jaffe and Rose made it out to be.
And yes, passing on drafting Parise was the worst mistake this franchise has made in years.
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Jethro09 says:
If I had my choice between option A) Tavares and the rags making the playoffs, or option B) Hedman and the Rags missing the playoffs, I’ll go with option A. The Isles need Tavares in the absolute worst way and the Rags are going to get killed in the playoffs anyway, so who cares if they make it?
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KP says:
Tony, even the Devils announcers were raving over KO’s goal. Thanks Optimum for making me listen to Doc and Chico because you can’t create one more HD channel on MSG.
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From the better late then never Dept. … I have to say … as much as I can’t stand Howie’s incesent (sp) veering off the game during play … He still is better than the majority of play by play announces in the NHL when he’s on his game … I do however disagree with ya Chris about Howie not having the advantage of important games to call … sans the 01-02 season … Howie is supposed to be a professional and should always call a good game … and he does show flashes of Emmy Award game calling at times … and other times he’s just off … he should correct himself more often after miscalling plays too.
I think Jaff’s insight and color are outstanding … and Howie brings him down at times … has nothing to do with me being a Yankee fan … I think Howie at times just would rather be doing baseball … because he has longer periods of time to go off on tangents … ala our old friend Phil Rizzutto … during the game.
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I can’t believe that we are this far into the season and some of you are still defending Tambo. The lengths that some on this site and others go to to defend Tambo is border-line offensive.
Face it: He’s a bust. He stinks. He’s never going to cut it at the NHL level. If he does, it will surely be with a different team and not becuase the Isles weren’t “patient” with him (they’ve been overly patient with him, IMO), but because he needs a fresh start somewhere.
Tambo plays with no fire. He has no passion for what he’s doing. He shies away from contact and is absolutely lost on his side of the red line. Useless. Lets stop defending this guy already. The Kings gave up on him. Nolan gave up on him. Gordo has no confidence in him. Maybe we should give some of the professionals the benefit of the doubt in their assessment of Tambo. For God sakes, Milbury liked and traded for him. That should tell you all you need to know about Tambo.
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CB’s Okposo upgrade from B+ to A- …. about time CB … I always believed that B+ was his sure thing potential … but that he was more likely to achieve an A- … not just wishful thinking … I had a lot of opportunity to see him play on CSTV during his freshman year … and their announcers (especially after that trick goal scored between his legs) would say that KO was something very rare … a hybrid power forward that will run you over to score a goal … and finesse player that will fake you out of your pads … they’ve made Roenick and Igilna comparissons … I remember one time an announcer said … When Kyle starts playing with skilled men … he’s only going to get better … while other players would normally see their skills diminish … Kyle as highly rated as he is … is underated … because he also possesses the gift of determination … which you can’t teach.
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Gary says:
Howie and Billy are B+ announcers (with a chance to be A-
. I like Jim Hughson, can’t stand Pittsburgh’s crew (TV or radio) or the eternally lame Rick Jeanneret on Sabres radio. My favorite play-by-play guys are Ralph Strangis of the Dallas Stars (TV and Radio), Pete Weber of Nashville and my favorite team of all is the San Jose Sharks crew of Randy Hahn and Drew Remenda. They make you laugh your butt off while doing a great job calling the game. -
randy boyd says:
Ok, why are we picking on Howie Rose? Honestly, from GM on down, he is the most experienced, competent professional related to this organization at the moment.
Hpoefully he will prove to be a good choice, but can we stop writing about how great Bailey is playing? The guy goes through most nights without making a single NHL quality play. He is small, weak and not a great skater. He gets pushed off with regularity by average sized NHL players. More often than not, his attempts at passing are turnovers. HE DOES NOT BELONG HERE. HE NEEDS TO DEVELOP ELSEWHERE NEXT SEASON, AND MAYBE THE ONE AFTER THAT.
Finally, can we actually get to the rebuild part of this rebuild? I want to see this team skate every night with no more than two players over the age of 27 or 28, and they should be Park and Streat who will be here next year.
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Hopefully and Streit. I do know how to spell.
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Matt says:
I don’t know how anyone can think that Bergenheim only has 4th line potential, honestly boggles the mind. If we trade him I feel it will come back to haunt us. The guy needs to play with anyone besides Hilbert and Jackman. I admit he needs some work but don’t give up on that one so quick. I also don’t see how anyone can think that there is a remote possibility of Gervais being part of this teams future he is by far the worst player on the ice at all times. Weak clearing attempts, horrible passer, weakest shot I think I’ve ever seen, never hits the net, and never hits anyone. Honestly love your blogs CB but think this one is off a bit. Enough already get rid of him!!!!!
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Isles4cups says:
Did Comrie play last night? – that’s funny!
You’ll have to tune into TSN, THE SCORE, or CTV SPORTSNET if you want hockey coverage. It’s hockey…hockey…and more hockey!
I would like to see Tambellini succeed at the NHL level with the Islanders, but the door of opportunity may be closing?
Kyle Okposo continues to look better with each game, his strength in the corners is impressive.
I don’t have a problem with Rose and Jaffe. I’ve watched and listened to a lot of the other announcers on NHL Centre Ice from around the league, and these two guys are pretty good IMO.
I would love to see Dustin Byfuglien on the right wing in an Islanders uniform.
This is a great site CB…thanks!
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West Coast Fan says:
I want the radio announcer back who used to yell “ISLANDER GOAL! ISLANDER GOAL!” into the mic every time they’d score, way back in the seventies. It was really fun on nights when they’d pop in like 8 or 9 against LA or whomever…
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Cain says:
Any word on Weight?
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Chris, thanks for this site. I love reading the game threads…the site is the best thing going to stay in touch with the Isles when I can over here.
To West Coast Fan, I believe the “Islander GOAL!” announcer from the 70s you are referring to is John Sterling: current radio play-by-play voice of the NY Yankees.
After years of listening to other announcers around the country, Islander fans are lucky to have Howie and Billy. They are a “top 5″ team. I do think that Doc Emrick, Joe Benninati, and Sam Rosen are also top of the line play-by-play guys.
Kind of a boring part of the season for a team in our position. Obviously no playoffs. Deadline still about 3 weeks away. And the draft is still about 5 months away (which is what this season is all about). Not much reason to get pumped up about games right now. But I will still watch cause I don’t really have anything better to do!