UPDATING THE 2008 DRAFT, Part I:
Rounds 1-3, from Bailey to Petrov
When asked on Saturday to describe the importance of the 2009 draft, Islanders GM Garth Snow said, “It’s huge – just like last year’s.”
With that in mind, here’s a review of the Islanders’ 2008 draft. With 13 picks to update, we will break this story into two installments. Today features the seven prospects taken in Rounds 1, 2 and 3. Tomorrow we’ll take a look at the six players selected in Rounds 4, 5 and 6.
* A word about our grades. Please note that the grades are not judgments of the quality of the Islanders’ draft selection or a projection of the players’ potential. The grade is strictly based on the strides they have made this season. If Kirill Petrov’s grade is far worse than Travis Hamonic’s, that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s not going to be a better pro. Less than one year after the draft, it’s too early to tell which draft picks the Islanders will eventually sign.
1. Josh Bailey (9th overall), C, Islanders: You know the story - made the team out of camp, passed his 9-game audition, wasn’t sent to Team Canada for the World Junior Championships. Now centering a kid line with Kyle Okposo and Blake Comeau, Bailey has not posted good numbers but the projection of a second-line center seems accurate. The 19-year old has handled an adversity-filled rookie NHL season with the poise of a ten-year vet, which counts for a lot.
Development Grade: B
2. Corey Trivino (36th overall), C, Boston University: Battling injuries (knee, shoulder) and a steep learning curve as a freshman at a major program, the 6-1, 180-pound Trivino has stuggled mightily and has just 2 goals and 5 assists over 17 games of limited icetime. The Islanders hope Trivino’s apprenticeship under legendary BU coach Jack Parker will serve him well in his sophomore and junior years. The first post-draft season of this fast and talented center has been an unsuccessful one.
Development Grade: C-
2. Aaron Ness (40th overall), D, University of Minnesota: After an okay first month, Ness has been everything the Islanders could have hoped for in his freshman season. The small, puck-moving defenseman is 2-13-15 in 29 games and is starting to receive first-pair minutes and first-unit power play responsibility – unheard of in Minnesota. True, the great college program is having a down season, but the first-year opportunity for Ness has been tremendous. Read our profile of the kid from last month.
Development Grade: B+
2. Travis Hamonic (53rd overall), D, Moose Jaw (WHL): Playing on an awful team in Moose Jaw, Hamonic has embraced the burden of major minutes on the blueline. As his 10-24-34 in 45 games illustrates, the 6-1 defenseman is starting to add some O to what was previously a stay-at-home game. That said, he is what he is: an old school-style dman who never hesitates to take the body, block a shot or drop the gloves. Here’s our inside story of the drafting of Hamonic.
Development Grade: B+
3. David Toews (66th overall), C, University of North Dakota: The brother of budding Blackhawks star Jonathan Toews, David is not in the same class skill-wise but nevertheless still has a long way to go. His transition to the collegiate game has been a slow one, hampered by injuries. With 5-6-11 in 23 games as a freshman with the Fighting Sioux, Toews needs increased conditioning and confidence to become a strong NHL prospect.
Development Grade: C
3. Jyri Niemi (72nd overall), D, Saskatoon (WHL): What a wildly up-and-down season for native of Finland. An early-season injury led to a brutal start in Saskatoon, but after playing well for Team Finland at the WJC he has been exceptional. Saskatoon is contending for a WHL title, so the 6-2, two-zone defenseman (6-18-24 in 50 games) will receive invaluable playoff experience.
Development Grade: B
3. Kirill Petrov (73rd overall), RW, Ak Bars (Kontinental League): This season has been a disaster for the 19-year old Russian forward, rated by us at the start as the Islanders’ prospect with the most potential (since unseated by Aaron Ness). A broken collarbone erased the first third of his season. Although he was not close to being in playing shape, his skill level was high enough for him to claim a spot on Team Russia at the WJC. Petrov stood out, but for all the wrong reasons. One Team Russia source told us, “Incredible talent, but Kirill needs to learn about commitment.”
Petrov has one goal in 6 games in the KHL, playing most of the year with their second-division team. He is at least two years away from coming to North America and perhaps more from making an impact. The Islanders have intimated that having three selections in the second round and three in the third enabled them to draft the wild card Russian. Petrov, 19 in April, seems to be proving what a long-term project he may be.
Development Grade: D-
In Part II, Donovan, Ullstrom, Poulin, Martin, Spurgeon and DiBenedetto. Talk about prospects in this thread, the current squad down below.
94 Responses to UPDATING THE 2008 DRAFT, Part I:
Rounds 1-3, from Bailey to Petrov
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McLovin21 says:
wow ness is tiny. i hope he can overcome that and make an impact here someday, but he’s really small. as for bailey, his numbers arent outstanding, but 16 points in 45 games on the league’s worst team isnt all that bad for a 19 year old kid.
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Mike Olivo says:
And this piece details the major problem with the Islanders and their scouting system: We have 3 pretty ok defenseman, and 0 premium goal scorers. We can never seem to develop that can’t miss goal scorer which is the major centerpiece the big team has lacked for years. Tavares can’t come soon enough!
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Swan says:
Love these articles. Brilliant stuff, CB.
I like your thoughts, although I am slightly surprised about the high grade for Ness. A friend of mine who used to work in UMinn athletics and who I trust thinks that Ness had an up and down season. He also thinks that he eventually will be a top AHLer but will have a tough time in the NHL (too early for anyone to know for sure, I know).
One of the good things about Snow drafting down was providing him the security to take a home-run chance on a Petrov. Even if Krill doesn’t develop, it was worth the chance.
Keep these articles coming!
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Bailey is young and a rookie, so it doesn’t mean as much for him. But in general, I think it should be easier for top prospects to put up numbers on a bad team. Bailey would be scoring even less on the Red Wings or SJ because he would get much less ice time.
It should be easier for Bailey, Tamby, Comeau, etc. to put up numbers on this Team because they are getting TOI they would never get on a better team. It goes to Mike O’s (and others) comments that there are no top snipers on this Team or in its prospects ranks.
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Adam says:
@Mike (3): Every draft doesn’t yield everything a team wants. Snow went after playmaking centers and puck moving D last draft because that was the most pressing need and hardest to find via trade a FA. There couple of late round guys who could have the scoring touch the Isles are looking for (Ullstrom and DiBenedetoo). Both will be featured in the second half of CBs prospect update.
Also look for Snow to go for scoring/shut down D (sans #1/2 pick) in this year’s draft to balance out the pool.
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StevieL says:
Wow! Not an A rating in the bunch. My guess is Hamonic and Niemi , besides Bailey are realistically the only ones with an NHL chance. Ness listed at 5’10″ 170 is probably more like 5’8″ 160 and will never play D in the NHL at that size! Guy’s like Getzlaff 6’4″ and Malkin 6’1″ would eat his lunch! Trevino , who was much hyped, has got to be the biggest disappointment! But I guess he is young, so maybe he bounces back. Petrov is a mirage! He is a fantasy. Showed nothing in the WJC and now the KHL. When exactly does he become a superstar?
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David says:
Sounds to me like Petrov is a bit lazy. If they’re worried about his commitment level that usually means the young player doesn’t work out or practice like someone who wants to improve. He’s 19 and some kids take a little longer to mature so hopefully he grows out of it. A good mentor would help to speed up the maturing process but I wonder who the team has working with him. Sometimes it seems as if the Russians are more intent on winning than they are on developing their young talent for the long haul.
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Islander505 says:
Swan, I’ll see your friend who used to work at UM, and raise my bro-in-law.
A guy who followed Ness all through HS (up dare in da north country now there dontcha know).
Says if Ness puts on even 20 lbs (where’s that legendary Freshman fat?) he’s a can’t miss for the big show.
Claims he is easily the best D-Man to come out of The North Country in many years.(insert Charlize Theron picture here). FYI, Matt Liskanen is considered the current title holder
His freshman numbers are excellent for a frosh at UM, regardless of the season they are having as a team.Side note….I was recently telling bro-in-law about KO’s exceptional skill at take-aways.
He says that is an obvious byproduct of Lucia’s system and coaching philosophy.Which, IMHO, kinda throws a little water on the Snow/Lucia mini-feud from last year about “what KO was learning at UM”….a feud that I have always suspected was a smoke screen by the two of them to keep the spotlight off of KO.
Just my opinion, from two time zones away.
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Macch says:
Great read CB. I love this stuff. the injuries are insane though. Its not enough that the big club is hampered with injuries, but our prospects have the bug too. I really think Bailey will be one hell of a second line center. That said JT must be the pick if the Isles get the firt overall selection.
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Coach B says:
Bsiley doesn’t appear to be a high end scorer but will do other things that just get points, Trivino will get a better chance next year with Colin Wilson likely to sign with Nashville. Ness is small but he is so skilled. Toews will get more time next year. Niemi was really good at the WJC and while not scoring as much this year his all round game is better (Sakatoon has Stefan Elliott running their powerplay, he could be a target if Snow wants to trade up this summer). Hamonic has has a great season for a terrible Moose Jaw team (scored the winning goal last night for Moose Jaw, 11th of the season) and is physical. We really can’t get much of a handle on Petrov yet.
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One thing on Petrov…I have never been thrilled about letting prospects develop in their home countries. I say bring them here and develop them in the AHL or send them to college somewhere.
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Ed J says:
Great article!!! Isles in this years draft need 1-2 kids to come and make an instant impact for the GO_GO. We have alot of early draft picks and plz don’t waste em. This years draft looks deep and the rest of this season should go to our kids in Bridgeport to see what they got so we can add to year 2 of this reconstuction.
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admin says:
Steve L (7): Please re-read what the grades were for. Thank you everyone for your follow-up comments, pro and con. Enjoy the day…CB
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Steve-O says:
Great insight, Chris. I would have loved to see Bailey on the World stage at the WJC to see where he sits against other top prospects. He likely would have been #2 to Tavares at center, which hopefully will be the case next year also!
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Michael from T.O. says:
Another great job CB. Everyone would want these prospects to be moving along faster, but things take time. We have to remember that these guys are only 19-20 years old. Hopefully, there are a few diamonds in the ruff.
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Sean says:
love the piece chris. I used to read B.D.’s blog on hockeybuzz for this type of information, even though he only wrote 1-2 articles a week, but you give us something everyday. even though I know it will probably be hard for you to continue this next year, (at least to this extent) I’d love for this blog to continue.
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TimQ says:
Put a scorer on one side of Bailey and a physical presence on the other side and I think he’ll put up plenty of points
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beatlebailey says:
thanks CB we really enjoy the prospect analysis. i hope snow packages the san jose first rounder with a 2nd and third and moves up to the upper half of the first round 13-15. these second rounders really are a crapshoot
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CB:
Can we agree that there isn’t much there? I would be the first to admit that I not follow college, junior, or international hockey too much, but I just don’t see any of these players as top 6 forwards or top 4 d-men. -
Fortier says:
Looks as if the young “D” are way ahead of the forwards. The old adage is that you build from the goal out. Hopefully DP comes back healthy and I’m fine with Danis as a backup. Add Hedman to this list and we’ve got a nice blend of size and style. Hopefully, they’ll all reach their potential and we’ll have a solid corps of D. I know most of you clamor for Tavares, and I’ll admit I was impressed watching him in the WJC’s, but let’s not annoint him as the next Mario or Sid the Kid. Remember the great Rags’ picks of Pavel Brendl and Jamie Lundmark? Groom the D, address the scoring thru free agency.
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Smokey says:
I doubt any freshmen in college will notch an A grade in the development department. We all knew Petrov would need 2-3 years. I don’t think anyone should be worried about Josh Bailey.
Personally, none of this comes a surprise to me. You’ll start seeing the A+ grades when Botta gets around to Martin and DiBenedetto. The other prospects from the later rounds will pretty much get high marks across the board; I wouldn’t be surprised if Donovan also got an A with how he’s doing.
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MickeyBoy7 says:
Your report may have to make us rethink the Campoli trade. It just doesn’t sound like there is much help coming anytime soon from all these kids. Seems like we have another 5 or 6 years of “be patient” ahead of us. I’m starting to think that maybe stockpiling draft choices is Garth Snow’s way of saying “Hey, hang in there…give me a few years and I’ll show you something.”
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Hey Beetle (19), the entire draft, not just the 2nd round is a crapshoot. Chances are the guy you get at 24-30 or early in the 2nd turns out to be a better pick than the guy at 13-15. Garth should hold on to the picks unless he gets bowled over with an offer. The more you spit on the wall, the better your chances of some sticking!
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nyislanders93 says:
Fortier(21)- We need to draft John Tavares if the #1 overall selection is ours. We need a natural goal scorer on this team. We can always make a trade for another defenseman. A player of Tavares’ level is what the team needs most right now.
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19 Isle in NJ 22 says:
CB: Your grades also show a lot about the determination of these young-uns to progress and improve .. so with that I am disappointed in Kiril Petrov.. If he does lack commitment … it may say something about his attitude … or feeling of entitlement. We can only hope.
Mike Olivo (#3) … I agree with you … I think we have more defense potential in the under 20 group than forward potential. We can always grab a seasoned NHL D vet by being an attractive talented young scoring team. Looking forward to tomorrow’s remaining kids’ ratings. -
Hamonic is the guy I am most looking forward to. He’s big, he’s mean and proving he can score.
My big fear is that guys like this tend to do well the year or two after we draft them and dissapear.
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Strummer's Army says:
Everyone except Toews and Petrov seem like sure things to eventually make the roster. Harmonic and Neimi are the type of d-men this Islander squad badly needs. I’m guessing they are both a year away at least. Petrov and Toews could each surprise and turn into real valuable guys. I’m cutting Petrov a break because I’ve seen how hard it is for guys to come back from collarbone injuries initally. It may still be bothering him.
I’m not worried about Trevino. He’ll be very good. He needs to add bulk.
Ness’ Ht. doesn’t bother me (though I am hoping for a huge growth spurt for him)but his wt. listed now at 180 needs to get better. He’s young and could easily add 40lbs with good training. If he adds 20 he’ll be an NHL d-man.
Love Josh Bailey and think he’ll only continue to improve.
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Hey Fortier(24) agree that the whole draft is a crapshoot I just think you improve your chances of getting an nhler the higher you go in the first round. Give me 2 picks from 1-15 in the first round and you can have my 2nd through 7th rounders. Unless of course we have detroit’s scouting department.
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The PolishPrince says:
Tim @ 18 – Bailey is playing with a scorer (Okposo) and arguably a physical presence ( Comeau). However, all three of them are young and need time to develop. I think that in the long run Bailey should be a fine 2nd line center for the team for years. I’m really hoping Trevino has a solid confidence booster of a season next year.
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nyislander93: Who exactly are we going to trade for “another defenseman?” Besides the last time I looked, Hedman was being called a “Pronger type”, which is a lot more than “another defenseman!”
If Gordon is going to continue his style of play it is essential that we have a solid corps of D to defend against the numerous trunover & odd man rushes that this style creates. As for Tavares, I do see his potential, but what exactly are you expecting from him? By the time he maxes out, KO, Bailey, Bergey and hopefully some of our many draft picks will have matured as well. We can agree to disagree, but given the chance I’d take Hedman. -
I think the Isles will hit a home run with either Ness, Harmonic or Niemi. One or two of these prospects are going to be awesome on the blue line in 4 years. Still not convinced we have enough of scoring. Toews, Petrov and Trivno have a long way to go, hopefully Bailey will mature next year and find the net more.
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hathead68 says:
nyislanders93- Agreed, we need Tavares if we have the oportunity to draft him. Like Al Arbour said befores drafting Bossy, “Get me the goal-scorer, I can teach him how to play defense.” You cannot teach offensive instincts. Our defense isn’t all that bad, we actually have some decent defense prospects (Blake Kessel also has potential), and we can still address defense at the draft, and through trades and free agency (RFA’s even). Tavares’ goal scoring ability has been compared to Brett Hull. Hedman is nowhere near a Chris Ponger or a Dennis Potvin. Yes, I know it’s all a crapshoot at this stage, but I’m just sayin IMO.
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I read about Trivino playing at BU this year a few months ago. I think Parker was going to limit him anyways just so not to overload him. He was out healthy a few games early this season.
Parker is doing this with a few other freshemen on the squad as well.
I don’t think we really no much about this kids for another two years.
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If Tavares is available and we opt for Hedman( which the guys I play with and work at icemworks are telling me)I am going to have to consider heavy meds to control myself. I just looked back at the last 8 years of drafts and a few things stand out. Aside from a few exceptions the last 1/2 of the first round picks are not NHL studs. The fact that we have 5 picks in the first 2 rounds is great but the big time goal scorers come in the first or 2nd overall picks. Our first round picks in the last 15 years have been less than stellar from my viewpoint. I am on board with this “rebuild” but in 2 years if we are still basement dwellers I will lose my mind. Go get JT and go get Brandon Sugden to protect your assets and we can watch this plan come to fruition.
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Fortier- Both Tavares and Hedman are franchise players but Tavares has more value. The Isles drafted Hamonic, Ness, and Niemi which will help their defense. They can make an offer to Komisarek in the offseason and then in a couple years, their D looks to be a lot better. Mark Striet and Komisarek will be the top 2. Hamonic, Ness, Niemi, Hillen, Kessel, Martinek, Meyer, Sutton, and Witt can back them up. It just seems like the team has too many defensemen. Tavares is a player we cannot pass up on.
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Big Z's Slapper says:
CB- I really appreciate the looks at the prospects. It is hard to find this kind of information anywhere else. I’m actually encouraged by the apparent depth at the blue line in the system from last years draft alone. To echo the sentiment of post 36, given the apparent depth at D, Tavares is the way to go. We haven’t had a bonafide offensive machine since my man Ziggy.
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4195mary says:
Ryan Miller has a high ankle sprain.How about Joey Mac and a second rounder and maybe something else for Buffalo’s first rounder. Just a thought.
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jbranny says:
I watched both Colorado College/Minnesota games this weekend and was totally unimpressed by Ness. Small and plays small. Weak passes. Ineffective on the power play. He is hitting a wall right now and does not look ready for a next level. Can’t see him getting to the island for a number of years.
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If we can get much love from the hockey gods and can land JT, we can possibly use our second 1st round pick with Toronto’s 2nd round pick(at around 35), and move up and possibly grab winger Zack Kassian(6’3″ 210, 24G 33A in 52GP, good fighter), then use our 2nd round pick for defensive defenseman Taylor Doherty (6’8″ 220, physical, and good skater), then Boston’s 2nd rounder on best goalie available. ONe heckuva draft!!!
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Mike from Oceanside says:
I’m going to disagree with CB on “B” grade for Bailey this year. I’d like CB to reconsider and provide an “A-” for him.
Making the squad out of training camp for was just one hurdle he leaped this year. Within that initial nine game audition, Josh proved that he was not outclassed at all on the NHL level which allowed management to keep him with the parent club for the year – a second hurdle he cleared. Deposit a full season of experience on the NHL level into his account and I’d say -for his development grade this year- he easily could muster an A-.
What more did Josh have to do this year to increase his development grade??? I say the rookie -a lable he will no longer have after this year- did just fine.
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I think it’s still to early to debate Tavares or Hedmen … A bunch of us said we should wait to game 60 … well here is game 59 … and it’s still tight. I think the Isles will only play better (CB outlined how a team like the Isles plays better after the deadline in an earlier thread).
One thing that we should keep in mind however given the choice … Both Hedman and Tavares are “Can’t Miss” … but all things being equal … Tavares will sell more tickets and attract more UFA studs in the future. IMO.
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CB, can you do this type of report on the 2006 draft picks please?
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Strickland says:
CB, you really think Ness has the most potential out of all the Isles prospects? Interesting. I would tend to lean towards Hamonic. It’s the lack of size that scares me about Ness. Despite his obvious skills, that’s a huge flaw to overcome.
I might also put Trivino (even with his rough season) ahead as well. Just a gut feeling as I haven’t seen enough of him (from watching a few of his BU games) to from a real educated opinion. But his size, (more room to grow on his frame) speed and skill are evident, even in the short bursts he’s shown this year. He’s years away, but I’ve got a lot of faith in his abilities.
One thing’s for sure about Ness: unless Don Lucia starts playing Ness on the wing, we won’t see a repeat of the Okposo “mess”.
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Eric says:
CB: If bailey’s potential is suppose to be a 2nd line center than why at 19 isn’t he playing in the minors??? Usually kids that are 19 that play in the nhl in there first season are usually 1st liners/all-stars. I would think the islanders drafted him thinking he has 1st line potential, otherwise why wouldnt they take a 1st liner at #5? Please dont tell me draft picks. IF you have a 1st line player you take him period! I am not saying Bailey wont be a 1st line center but maybe you are setting the bar to low?
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Mario says:
Great article CB. Just got back from the Bridegeport game (5-2 win) and we so desperately need a pure goal scorer. Taveres is the only way we can go. As your article states we have d-men in the fold but no goal scorers.
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Eric (45): you might want to read the half-dozen or so pieces I’ve written this season on the Bailey subject. The most recent one – my final one – ran just a few days ago. And btw, Bailey’s only options this season were juniors or the NHL.
Thanks everyone for the passionate Sunday discussion…CB
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There is only place for this franchise to go this season and that’s up. I really think we are seeing the worst of all possible scenerios with this rebuild this season.
Considering all the injuries.
Recently, despite the Carolina game, you can see that the overall skill level on the team has improved. It’s not like the last few years where they were hackin and slashin at the puck trying to bang it out all night in the corners.
The passing and individual skill with the puck is much better.
Next year we hopefull have a healthy DP with is going to vastly improve this club. They play the way they are now in front of DP they will have at least ten more wins.
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Jim M says:
Anyone else have that bad feeling that the once highly praised 2008 isles draft is starting to look not so good after all??
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isles3113 says:
#36 i agree with u on the fact that we should draft tavares if we can get Komisarek… If that fails i have a feeling Garth will choose Hedman whether we pick 1st or 2nd
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Although i would prefer Tavares
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ISLESFAN999 says:
I think Snow picks tavares. We need scoring bad!
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Dan says:
I hope Snow picks Tavares to go along with last years D picks
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CB;
I found a list of guys that may be available late in the draft (Would have emailed this but having trouble switching my settings).
26. MARCUS JOHANSSON
Profile
2008-09 Team: Farjestad League: SweJE
Position: Left Wing Ht/Wt: 5-11, 189 lbs.
Stats through 2/11: 37 GP, 5 G, 8 PTS
Notes
Johansson scored two goals in six games for Team Sweden at the 2009 World Junior Hockey Championship in Ottawa.
Scouting Ranking
International Scouting Services: 127
Central Scouting Bureau: No. 6 (Europe)27. KYLE PALMIERI
Profile
2008-09 Team: USA-18 League: NTDP
Position: Centre Ht/Wt: 5-10, 191 lbs.
Stats through 2/11: Not available
Notes
Palmieri, ranked 19th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, will play college hockey with Notre Dame this fall.
Scouting Ranking
International Scouting Services: 33
Central Scouting Bureau: No. 19 (North America)28. DAVID RUNDBLAD
Profile
2008-09 Team: Skelleftea League: SweJE
Position: Defence Ht/Wt: 6-2, 189 lbs.
Stats through 2/11: 39 GP, 8 A, 8 PTS
Notes
Rundblad is a skilled puck handler and skater. He can be a risk at times and will often get too fancy with the puck. Rundblad is also a little timid around his net and will often attempt to fish the puck out instead of getting involved physically during scrambles. – From International Scouting Services
Scouting Ranking
International Scouting Services: No. 24
Central Scouting Bureau: No. 4 (Europe)29. JORDAN CARON
Profile
2008-09 Team: Rimouski League: QMJHL
Position: Centre Ht/Wt: 6-2, 200 lbs.
Stats through 2/11: 44 GP, 29 G, 48 PTS
Notes
Caron represented the QMJHL at the 2008 ADT Canada-Russia Challenge and will play for the Oceanic at the 2009 Memorial Cup as the host team.
Scouting Ranking
International Scouting Services: No. 30
Central Scouting Bureau: No. 20 (North America)30. DYLAN OLSEN
2008-09 Team: Camrose League: AJHL
Position: Defence Ht/Wt: 6-2, 205 lbs.
Stats through 2/11: 47 GP, 8 G, 24 PTS
Notes
Olsen, who plays for the Camrose Kodiaks in Alberta, is ranked 23rd among North American skaters listed by NHL Central Scouting.
Scouting Ranking
International Scouting Services: 31
Central Scouting Bureau: No. 23 (North America) -
They just have to take the best player available since Center and Defense are such huge needs. Tavares showed more at the WJC. He showed he was a clutch player, impact guy, goal scorer, and a winner. Hedman played well but it appears Tavares proved himself more. At least according to the rankings he seperated himself.
From a PR standpoint the entire world knows Bailey and fans no less of Hedman. You pick Tavares and no one is disapointed but if they pass on Tavares and select Hedman then the comparisons will be there for years. I think you get on more National TV games with a guy like Tavares.
Either way the Isles will be getting a great player.
Let’s make some more trades Garth!
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Jim – Way too early to say the draft was good or bad at this point. Just my opinion of course…
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Caron and Olsen sound good off the list.
Isles don’t need another center that high if they select Tavares but Caron would be tough to pass. Taylor Doherty & Zack Budaj would be excellent picks around there. Also, a few other big d-men. I am praying SJ bottoms out as low as possible for that pick and same with Toronto. -
#50 the darft happens before free agency. Even if they draft Hedman, sign Komi. Think of the Isles defence then: Streit, Komi, Hedman, Sutton, Gervais and Hillen. Not to shabby.
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Neil says:
I watch every BU game. Corey Trivino is now a health scratch for the last 3 weeks and arrived at BU physically not ready to play Division I hockey. Ironically, his spot was taken by Matt Gilroy’s younger brother, Kevin. Like a previous poster said, Trivino is on an upperclassmen dominated team. BU is losing a lot of talent after this season and hopefully a year in BU’s renowned strength program will make all the difference.
Freshmen not named Tony Amonte, Keith Tkachuk or Colin Wilson carry the equiptment bags and play 4th line minutes for Jack Parker. -
slsangus says: For a “normal” franchise, Hedman would probably be the better pick – most Cup winners over the last 10 or so years have all had the dominant defenseman (Lidstrom, Pronger, Stevens, etc.).
The problem is that the Isles are not the “normal” franchise, in the sense that our offense has been so consistently subpar for years; so much so that any gaffe on defense in a given game pretty much dooms us to a loss. This franchise badly needs someone who, when he touches the puck, makes the other team nervous. They need Tavares more than they need Hedman. A healthy DP can cover for defensive errors, but he can’t give them the consistent offensive skill that has been lacking since Palffy was here.
Think of a Tavares-Bailey-Okposo line together for 5-10 years. When was the last time we had a threat like that?
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Post 60. Both Bailey and Tavares are natural centers. If they draft JT, he will be the firt line center, bailey second, and neilson 3rd. Not bad building block to grow with.
In my opinion, lock Okposo and Tavares on the first line and got get a guy like Kovalchuk when he becomes a free agent.
You smell what the rock is cooking?
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Akeem says:
slsangus, we won’t jave a threat like that. Tavares is a center, as is Bailey. They won’t be on a line together.
I kerp reading that people are wondering why the Islanders can’t seem to develop that top-notch goal scorer. My response is, who DOES have that guy? Blue chip goal scorers are so few and far between – it’s not like ever team int he league has one and we don’t… -
#58 i know the draft is before free agency, but gm’s talk to players before july 1st, so garth should have a good idea on if he can come to an agreement with Komisarek… That was what i meant by if we can get Komisarek
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Lets worry about the deadline first then the draft and then free agency.
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Jimmy Mac says:
Tavarses this year, and Hall next year… we have a top line to go along with Okposo and Bailey.
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mrlbem says:
Garth should at least explore a trade with Montreal for Higgins. Might make the Island more enticing for Komi if his buddy is there. Wonder what it would take to get that trade done?
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would love higgins on this team. c’mom garth how about guerin and a no 3 for higgins???
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NYICHAMP39 says:
No way montreal lets higgins go without getting a major return. Im thinking they would do Higgins and Montreal’s second rounder for SJ’s first rounder and Kyle Okposo. But seriously, why would we ever do something like that??
To be quite honest I dont think having a “long island boy” here would entice Komi as much as his family and the amount of money we are willing to dish out to him.
I don think we need him in particular. He is a good shut down dman but slightly overrated IMO.
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dont think it would cost us KO and 1st rounder
these are higggins stats from the montreal wesbite. What is up with higgins this year? He was hurt i guess right?
GP G A P +/-
35 8 7 5 -4 -
We could prob get higgins for guerin and #2.
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JPinVA says:
If we are going to talk about LIer’s, how about one with Islander blood and in the fold already. have the Islanders signed Jordan Hart to a minor league contract? I saw the name in the BP stats, and it looks as though he was in last night’s lineup.
If he’s the size listed 6’1″ 200, and has half the heart his dad had…that would make him relatively 6’5″ 230.
Nice post CB… just catchin up. Real nice game last night as well. It’s nice to see four lines rolling, and all contributing. the last 20 could be fun if they give efforts like last night’s.
I’m really hoping that a change of scenery sparks McAmmond. It appears that his numbers have dropped since the Downie incident.
If the organization decides to go with Nielsen and Bailey as their top two, maybe Dean-o fills that third line center spot and then there’s room for Colliton, and money in july… JUST TO MAKE THE FLOOR. -
Strummer’s Army: regarding post 57
I’m just reminding you that the further Toronto falls in the standings the better their odds are at the draft lottery… remember? I know none of us want to see Tavares going to them. Remember that article in the Toronto Sun? Those idiots think he is theirs by blood or something. Id be fine with pick 36 fom them thankyou! -
Pritchett54 says:
Wait until CB posts his second part of last years draft. Dibenetetto(sp?) has been tearing up the OHL. He and tavares are leading the league in scoring. I believe it was initially thought that he was only putting up big numbers because he played with stamkos last year but he has been even better this year. His teammate and the captain of his team Matt Martin looks pretty great too. He scores, hits, fights and looks like a future power forward. You add these guys in with Bailey, Ness, Niemi and it starts to look like a terrific draft class.
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C’mon guy’s! Snap out of it! You are not going to get Chris Higgins, a player who has been touted as a future Canadian Captain for Guerin and a pick!!Higgins was hurt for a stretch this year! He is a terrific player. Would love to see all the LI kids on the Islanders, Komi, Higgins, Nystrom, Scuderi add the kids playing in college like Gilroy and players who have ties to the Islanders like Parise, Ferraro etc. Hey CB, how about an all Long Island team , bet it would compete!
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Seriously, people…because a guy is from LI does not increase his skill set. Why the love affair with players from LI?
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This is getting out of hand…I don’t even want to see the seeds planted re: an Okposo deal. This guy is finally starting to figure out how to be a true sniper…he must not be dealt. He stays. Period.
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Mike…couldnt agree with you more. Higgins is a good player but him being from LI means nothing to me. There are more special players out there that we could target in a trade.
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You have to think these guys like Weight, Bergy, Hunter, DiPietro, Bailey, Guerin and now Hillen all saying they love playing here has gotta help the Isles rep around the NHL.
From Newsday:
Hillen will be a restricted free agent, but he’s not looking to leave.“I love playing here,” Hillen said, “so if they want me back, I’d love to be back.”
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Reality check time.
These players are all 18-19 years old. Bailey being the only top 10 pick and sure fire NHLer.
None of these players will be franchise players.
It takes years to determine if your draft is a successful one.
Players can take several years to develop.Bergenheim was drafted almost seven years ago and is still trying to find his way in this league.
Tavares or Hedman will be a start but if anybody thinks any of the 2nd and 3rd rounders from this year or last year are going to make an impact before 2011-2012 then I think you might be dissapointed.
It’s a complete rebuild and its going to be a painful one…hence the term growing pains.
We’re doing it the right way but there are NOT 4 bobby orrs and 3 mike bossys waiting to be called up.
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isles79-83 says:
An interesting read, Scott Cullen at TSN does a story on the 10 years of the draft and highlights the studs and the duds.
Pay close attention to where Henrik Zetterberg, Paval Datsyuk, Johan Franzen, Marc Savard, Shea Weber and others were drafted.It goes to show how important the scouting is and I am always surprised how many people comment how Garth Snow is doing a good job or bad job but there is little talk of the work guys like Ryan Jankowski and Ken Morrow have done and have to do as well as what Trottier does to develop them. Obviously the Redwings system should be used as a template.
Getting another pick in the first round whether it be used as trade bait or for making our on selection has a great value even if it turns out to be the 30th pick.
The trick is selecting the right guy. For every Zetterberg, there is a Pavel Brendl or more.
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cb do the islanders have a strength coach,ya know real weight lifting to add muscle mass ??because we seem to have some real thin injury prone guys.bailey should hit the free weights and do some legal supplements to add some bulk he has to be vulnerable out there at his weight and physical maturity
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Dank 516 says:
Does anyone know what Ottawa will do with Comrie?
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Rangers lost and i think they might wanna make a push for guerin. Snow should trade guerin to them and pickup a pick and a prospect or prucha or someone.
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dalcy says:
stop this Prucha, ranger trade nonsense. we do not need any more smallish forwards that get pushed around. and we don’t need an effing rangers, period.
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Isles316 says:
Try and be patient everyone. VERY patient. As someone already said, this is going to take years and not 1 or 2. Maybe 6 or 7 like it did in Chicago and has in LA. LA still isn’t a playoff team and look how they are regarded as far as a rebuilding project.
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I’m gonna lay a bet here. I’ll say that Snow is gonna make a play for another first round pick and Streit is gonna be the bargaining chip. At least one of em.
Where the first lands I don’t know. One thing is certain is that Ottawa is not gonna rebuild the are gonna reload. Murray would be a fool not to make an attempt to go for it with a first line of Spezza, Alfredson and Heatly.
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Unless the Isles can get Atlanta’s #1 pick then Streit isnt going anywhere.
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Walygz says:
There is no way Streit is traded unless its for a mid to high first rounder another high pick and a surefire defensive prospect. I don’t think anyone would make that offer and we can all enjoy watching Streit play for the next 4+ years.
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Some of the ideas people come up with here are just… wow. In one breath you talk about how worthless a player is, but in the next you believe that some other organization will give you their top players and draft picks for that same player. Its crazy.
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BTW this is an interesting article, CB. From what I know I agree with you that Petrov has had a terrible season. But as youve said more than once he is a risk for a long-term reward, and the fact that he could pan out in time is whats worth betting on.
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Trade Streit?
What the hell are you people smoking?
The chances of Garth Snow trading his SHOWCASE FREE AGENT PICKUP are as likely as me landing on an deserted island with Jessica Alba and Jessica Biel at my side.Mark Streit is a walking advertisement for his GM prowess and represents JOB SECURITY for Garth Snow.
He’s here through AT LEAST next year.Short of being offered Ovechkin in exchange, Streit ain’t going anywhere…
(But then again….I wouldn’t mind being stranded with the Jessica’s.
TRADE HIM GARTH!!!) -
I doubt Streit is goin’ anywhere..
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Hock says:
505 – You have a great imagination (and good taste in women)
So not only is the team getting hit with injuries, but our prospects are too… Unbelievable