THE BILLY BYE-BYE BLOG, DAY 2
10:00 pm: PB on News 12…and a hunch

10:00 pm - Looks like I’ll be doing a brief phone interview on News 12 Long Island at around 10:20 pm tonight about Billygate. Since we’ve been at this together for more than 26 hours, I want to make sure I type here whatever I might say on the tellyvision.

 

In the last two hours, I’ve had a series of conversations with people in and around The Premature Transaction. For what it’s worth, everyone to a man has displayed a casual “What, me worry”? approach to my investigation. Just passing it along.

 

There continues to be a feeling of confidence. Belief that a Guerin deal will be done as early as tomorrow. (I know what you’re thinking: Are you frickin’ kidding me with that “as early as” crap?). Belief that the Islanders will get True Value for their departing-any-day-now captain. Belief that Billy is excited about his next opportunity and that in the end everyone is going to hug it out.

 

I’ve also decided that it’s ludicrous for me to not take a stand, put my money down and tell you my hunch. Who am I kidding? This is a friggin’ blog. I don’t have to have any standards. You’ve all been so amazing these last two days, least I can do is put it on the line. If I’m wrong, really, B. F. D.

 

As of 10:00 tonight, I believe the team the Islanders have an arrangement with is Washington. A simple, two-team, pick-and-prospect trade. Simple, except for closing the darn thing.

 

*

7:38 pm - The Islanders just sent out a series of texts to the media saying:

 

1. There will be no news tonight

 

2. There is no timeline for any announcements

 

Which, when you cut right through it, means only one thing:

 

There is no trade.

 

*

 

7:05 pm - Some reliable media types with solid connections to Bill Guerin and others say Philadelphia.

 

I say…Washington.

 

And to address something I keep seeing in Comments: do you really think my life has come to actually knowing the deal, but writing this crap for the last 24 hours? LOL.

 

*

 

6:00 pm - A little more than 23 hours ago, Islanders captain Bill Guerin left the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum ice after the warmup before his team’s game against the Buffalo Sabres. He took off his Islanders uniform - presumably for the last time - and put on his suit.

 

The Islanders reported that Guerin was healthy, and not much else. A little more than 23 hours, more than 1,000,000 Point Blank hits and more than 1,000 Comments later, no news.

 

Besides some outragous rumors and rib-tickling trade proposals, some passionate Islanders fans wrote in this space that the Islanders do not owe them any explanation - not any communication at all. One said it’s strictly between Bill and the Islanders. One theory was that Garth Snow was merely playing everybody and driving up the price. Perhaps the Islanders were happy to read that.

 

All we know, 23 hours later, is you don’t have a major or minor trade, you don’t have a draft pick, you don’t have a prospect. You, and I, have got nothing.

 

*

 

3:30 pm - Washington, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and New Jersey all playing this afternoon. General vibe of confidence continues that trade will still be announced today or tonight. Hmmm…

 

Washington really looking like they could use a veteran guiding force.

 

Darren Dreger reports that now Bill Guerin knows where his trade is to, but isn’t saying publicly because potential new team has not confirmed deal as done.

 

One more time: just because the deal may take 24 hours, doesn’t mean it’s a difference-maker for the Islanders. Highly doubtful. You have been warned.

 

*

 

3:22 pm - Greg Logan’s story from practice today. Thanks for the plug on the Devils telecast, Steve Cangialosi.

 

*

 

1:45 pm - My friend Tarik El-Bashir, who used to cover the Islanders when they used to be covered by the New York Times, reports that the Capitals are not the trade partner. Tarik covers the Caps for the Washington Post. Woodward and Bernstein used to work there. Tarik cannot be wrong. Can he?

 

Islanders practice has ended. Garth Snow was not there. Scott Gordon could not speak on the subject of a Guerin trade. As predicted earlier this morning, despite the lack of any news, it was one of the best-attended practices of a last place team in the final weeks of a season in the history of professional sports.

 

Since last night and into today, I was told by Islanders personnel to get to Iceworks. I’m glad I didn’t. The reporters were rewarded with nothing. Maybe the team sold some stuff. Wow-wee.

 

Here’s the problem. I’m sure the holdup is for good reasons. Don’t question that for a second. But if this situation - can’t call it a “drama” anymore - gets to the 24-hour mark at 7:00 pm without any communication from the Islanders franchise to its fan base, this over-riding sentiment…

 

Hey, this is kinda neat! Everyone’s watching the Islanders! Bill Guerin is the biggest name in hockey for one day! The Islanders have done a great job keeping this professional and under wraps! I’m sure it’s a great deal and they just want to do the right thing for Billy and the franchise! Man, this is killing me! I can’t wait to find out what the deal is! I love this game! I love this team!

 

Turns to this…

 

This blows. I’m done. We’re trading a 38-year old with 16 goals for maybe a pick and a prospect. Used to care, now don’t care anymore. Let me know when it’s done.

 

And if, heaven forbid, Sunday turns to Monday, it could turn to this…

 

Uh oh. Here we go again.

 

The Islanders do not have to name teams, do not have to name names. But if this gets to 24 hours, some words from the franchise to its die-hards would be appropriate. All it has to be is: “We have a deal for Billy in place. It’s good for us and it’s a good spot for Billy. We can’t get into specifics, but some work has to get done for the trade to be finalized. In the mean time, he’ll stay off the ice. As soon as it is completed and approved by the league, we’ll talk about it extensively.”

 

(BTW, one of the most respected veterans in the game is in limbo, unable to talk about it to even some of his closest friends).

 

I would hope, at the very least, some level of communication from Islanders management is coming soon.

 

 

Add to the previous 762 Comments here.

764 Responses to “THE BILLY BYE-BYE BLOG, DAY 2
10:00 pm: PB on News 12…and a hunch”  

  1. 1 David

    i hope it wont come to this!

  2. 2 Will

    aw we should have gone for 1K lol man this suspense is killing me!

  3. 3 Michael Schuerlein

    Sorry to all the negative Nancies - this builds to the allure and mystique surrounding trades. It’s getting us all talking and that is good for hockey.

    To everyone saying the Islanders should have never pulled Billy out of the lineup - what if he got hurt and now you cannot move him. That’s why decisions like the one last night are made to begin with.

    This will end, eventually.

  4. 4 AM

    CB, you gotta love this time of year.

  5. 5 Adam in Upstate

    CB needs to get a sweet sponsorship deal just from this. lol

  6. 6 Darren

    I think I’m at the second stage “this blows”!

  7. 7 IslesFanInBkNy

    You are right CB. My finger hurts alredy from all this REFRESH button pressing excersises. I am a fan and I love this team but some respect to the fans shoukd come from the other end as well. It’s a same craziness as it was with injuries in the beginning of the season. Very immature IMHO.

  8. 8 Jon

    the Mavin just reported during the Devils game Guerin has told the Mavin he is going East.. which means Rangers.

  9. 9 Ray

    Here’s to another 750 comments! Hope for 1000 once the deal is official. Man this is fun, no matter what anyone says!

  10. 10 Greg

    given the poor weather forcast, I am enjoying searching to see who will break the news. Watching the Devils and Stan just announced the no news from the Isles.

  11. 11 BSTFAN

    East of LI is not the Rangers… It’s Boston

  12. 12 Kevin Fitz

    Jon - how would going east be the rangers? wouldn’t that be west?? East would be the Bruins

  13. 13 Jake from Albany

    East is not the Rangers. West wouyld be the Rangers from Uniondale

  14. 14 Giaco

    As CB has said, I think we should brace ourselves for a let down. It doesn’t sound like a collosel trade. Hopefully its creative at least… 3 teams involved?? something to make it worth the past 24 hours.

  15. 15 Marcus

    I think this news was leaked to start a bidding war for Bill. Thats the hold up: don’t be surprised. If so, sorry CB Snow is being shrewd and by keeping is mouth shut helps the teams cause going forward.

  16. 16 Joe

    I am sure this deal will involve a prospect and a pick, Something tells me it is with NJ or possibly the Rangers. Hopefully the prospect we get can score and move up to the NHL level soon. As far as Gordon goes, I understand he is focusing on the young players and correcting their mistakes. The coaching never stops, even for Vets. Hunter, who incidentially has not scored in quite sometime can probably use some coaching, just focusing on the young players is really irresponsible. All players need feedback whether old or young. Gordon definitely ailienated the team by ignoring his older players. Players are problaby under the imnpression that Gordon has his favorites. This really does need to be corrected, we cannot just move all young players up and hope to compete in the next two years. We will require some seasoned vets on the team.

  17. 17 bill scanlon

    It depends where he was when he spoke to Stan.

  18. 18 THall90

    Jon, #8…it can’t be the STrangers, because, technically, Guerin would have to be going west (Long Island is east of NYC) so I think he’s headed to Europe…

    OK, a bad joke, but what do you expect at this point?!?

  19. 19 Milo

    East would mean hes headed to Portugal

  20. 20 Coach B

    That may eliminate Washington as said by Darren Drager (TSN) before that Washington and Montreal were the two teams.

  21. 21 MiKe

    I think Stan was talking East, West in terms of CONFERENCE. Anyway, I’m thinking its the Rangers and we’ll get Valiquette and a pick. Or Boston with Witt for Kessel. Or the Canadiens with Witt for Higgins. Maybe. Perhaps. Whats the 1st basemans name?!

  22. 22 7th Woman

    Snow is shrewd. Never doubt that.

  23. 23 drew

    Thanks for standing up for us, CB. It goes a long way!

  24. 24 Rich

    am i the only one that thinks the Maven is overanalyzing the goin east comment. I think it just meant he was going to a team in the eastern conference…Also The Garden is WEST of Long Island

  25. 25 FanSince73

    Am at stage 3 - here we go again…
    it’s amateur night (& day) — Gordon better learn how to work with vets…we’re not going anywhere with this minor league coach
    can’t expect much with two goalies running the show.

  26. 26 first place isles

    Higgins would be sweet

  27. 27 4195mary

    If it’s Boston, is Patrice Bergeron too big of a risk? He’s young, he’s talented, and apparently available. He might also be near early because of concussion problems. Is this scenerio riskier than a second round pick?

  28. 28 Dominik (Lighthouse Hockey)

    Well, however it turns out, we’ll always remember that day in 2009 when the whole league was watching the Islanders.

    Lost in all of this: a member of The Future leading the club to a nice 2-0 win over a team that really needed those two points.

  29. 29 Jake from Albany

    Guerin and Witt to Boston for Kessle????? Are you Serious???? Idiot

  30. 30 al

    with avery going on recall today the rangers are trying to make some room. Also as reported on MSG last night Blair Betts and Vally will be UAF.From all reports all the reported teams have all been shot down .All but the rangers .you never know before last night I was thinking Lappy would get traded to the rangers.now, you never say never

  31. 31 Bruce

    Maybe, part of the deal includes Doug Weight and they need to get medical clearances before the deal is finalized ?or maybe there is a player coming back to the Isles that we are trying to resign before they are lost at the end of the year a la Ryan Smyth ?? just 2 thoughts

  32. 32 Michael from T.O.

    Whatever happens, this is one day to remember as an Isles fan. Hopefully it also means an important piece to the future.

  33. 33 Coach B

    Another bit of news which Chris might look into, did the Islanders recently sign an undrafted OHL defenseman Peter Stevens, who plays for Barrie?

  34. 34 isles99

    the mystery team has to be pittsburgh. they need scoring more than anyone else.

  35. 35 4195mary

    Love Nigel Dawes. Great young player would fit in real nice as a future second liner

  36. 36 Chris S

    Nothing is ever easy with this team. It almost seems like they go out of their way to infuriate their fanbase. Like CB said, just make an annoucement that something is in the works. We all know that this is not Guerin for Ovechkin but some information would be nice.

  37. 37 MT

    Very, very interesting.

    As an ode to Billy I think I will always remember his reactions when Bailey and when Jeff finally scored and most recently when MacAmmond scored. He really cared about his teammates which I hope he can bring to whatever team gets him. Best wishes.

  38. 38 Michael from T.O.

    isles99, I also believe Pittsburgh is team that it could be. He would look good on a line with Crosby. He would be the Roberts of a few years ago.

  39. 39 jonsson3

    Guerin and Witt to Buffalo for Maxim Afinogenov, and Teppo Numminen this way we get 2 of the best names in hockey…
    Helloooo Numminen

  40. 40 Hunter07

    Honestly, the Isles don’t really owe anyone anything. A confirmation from the team about Guerin is just unnecessary. We all know something is going on, so what are the Isles going to come out and say “We have something going on, but we can’t talk about it…” Sorry, to me that is pointless.

    The Isles owe it to the fans to take their time and make sure they get the best deal.

    Besides that, I am sure we will all find out the deal and why it was held up so long eventually.

  41. 41 CJCB

    Guerin/Martinek for Godard and their 1st.

  42. 42 Joe

    The easiest way to get that first round pick the Isles gave up trading for Smtyh back is to trade Guerin to team that drafted a #1 pick in 2007 and is willing to part with it. A solid prospect to make up for the gamble we made for Smyth…Mr. Canada!

  43. 43 bill

    I’m a Rangers fan, and I’ve been looking on this progression for the past day (since the Rangers game last night), and honestly, I think Guerin would be a good fit, personally. Realistically, I don’t think that the Rangers would give up Valliquette, but for a Prucha/Dawes type of player and perhaps a draft pick would be more beneficial to both teams. The Rangers obviously need a power-winger, in vein of losing Shanahan, as well as someone that can score. Guerin is a gritty player who would mesh in with the type of game John Tortorella is trying to instill in the players.

    In my opinion, I say go for it, and I have no qualms of losing a Nigel Dawes or a Petr Prucha, because honestly, neither of them are going to be Rick Middleton, and that’s just fact. And besides, on the Island, they’d gain more playing time which would be good for their careers. I say count on the Rangers to be involved, but you never know.

    Perhaps a deal with the Islanders is under-the-table so they don’t claim Avery? It happened with Bryzgalof going to Phoenix.

  44. 44 FanSince73

    Hunter07,
    you kidding? they have our ticket $$ for two years…can you say disenfranchised fanbase?

  45. 45 ed

    That article in Newsday about Gordon was very disturbing. This is two coaches (Nolan,Gordon) that have divided the locker room. I don’t see how that atmosphere is going to help develop young players. Also, leaving Guerin hanging right now and that article will not help the Islanders in the eyes of free agents. Need to lose the circus imo.

  46. 46 4195mary

    If we all weren’t sitting in front of the computer in our jammies with nothing else to do, this might not seem so important. “Get a life, people” ( Shatner)

  47. 47 dally mac

    The longer this drags on the more i start to think the trade is to the Rangers, or that it’s a three-way deal with a third team. This is the strangest trade I’ve ever heard of. Although, maybe the reason we know so much about so little so far, is because of sites like this one. With this one ebing the best of course.

  48. 48 MR4742

    Wait, I’m confused. We already know that Guerin is being traded to another team for a pick or prospect or both. But if the Isles don’t come out and say that they are trading him we should be upset? This makes no sense. Why should I be upset at Garth for not telling me something I already know? Wow talk about whining.

  49. 49 DavidNYC

    I would have loved an update from the NYI but hopefully they are too busy negotiating a sweet deal. I do not think I have visited a website so often in such a short period of time in my life! On the other hand, this could all be very very anti-climatic in the end! The time its taking does raise many questions and make for lots of blog comment speculation :-) If it is just a 2nd pick for instance, why the delay? If Guerin approved the trade, why the delay? Did a better deal come to the table? Did Garth pull Guerin last night in hopes of creating more interest at the last moment? Is this just another NYI Circus act with a really lame ending? Hopefully we find out soon!

  50. 50 Angry Bill

    If its the devils, I would not expect much in return. Lamorello is a great gm and one stingy bastage.

  51. 51 DP

    I just hope he doesn’t end up on the Rangers, if he did he’d have to deal with the “new” Sean Avery.

  52. 52 Original Rob

    From the organization that brought you draft-day fiasco after fiasco, multiple criminal owners, and the Mike Peca 3-month-too-early-one-shift-return-and-then-he’s-out-another-3-months comes: The Bill Guerin Saga.

    NYI: Always in the news for all the wrong reasons.

  53. 53 BR

    Hunter (40) - Thank you! I’ve been feeling exactly the same way. With all the fans in the bloggosphere going nuts, I turned-on TSN this morning expecting to see “Guerin Watch.” No, they were showing ESPN bowling…

    People need to chill-out. We all know that a deal is in works. Let them finish the job. They will make an announcement when there is something to announce.

  54. 54 Ancient Lobster Boy

    Maybe Bill had second thoughts. He has the right by contract to do so. My guess is that he is taking his time to mull it over.

  55. 55 jaf10

    I think if the isles want a #2 or #1 pick theyd have to add at lest 2 more players like park and martinek somethign like that. If it was to the RAngers dont be surprised if its Guerin and Martinek or park for prucha and there 2nd somethign like that. If its to washinton park or hilbert would be invovled also i think.

  56. 56 MR4742

    ed, At which point do you blame the players for not getting along with three coaches now, 2 in the past two years. At which point do the baby primadonna veteran players take responsibility for not accepting these coaches? Every other team (player wise) they have coached had zero problems with them. You have to realize that veteran players on a losing team in rebuild mode are never going to be happy and it has nothing to do with coaching and all about their little fragile egos.

  57. 57 FanSince73

    Whining? - have you been watching the same team I have? or paying to see games?
    Mismanagement & immaturity & favoritism –re-read Newsday and get in the real world

  58. 58 Chrisitne

    “All it has to be is: “We have a deal for Billy in place. It’s good for us and it’s a good spot for Billy. We can’t get into specifics, but some work has to get done for the trade to be finalized. In the mean time, he’ll stay off the ice. As soon as it is completed and approved by the league, we’ll talk about it extensively.””

    Is it just me or did I just hear someone at the Isles organization cutting and pasting…

  59. 59 jaf10

    there is no favoritism its we are going with young players thats why we are getting rid of the vets its that simple.

  60. 60 Isles Fanatic

    All I know is if all this extended drama is simply for a 2nd round pick, it’s major overkill…get it done already…I am sick of all this cloak and danger…

  61. 61 4195mary

    I’m guessing it could just be a procedural thing. Maybe the NHL office needs some sort of clarification of contract clauses ,or whatever. My point is that it’s hard to believe Snow or his trading partner would string us along just to build up suspense or to raise the stakes.

  62. 62 isles316

    Maybe it’s a three team trade.

  63. 63 Hunter07

    BR (53)I guess me in you are in the minority. Oh well, that is the beauty of sports.

  64. 64 al

    If it’s the Rangers could you see Charlie Wang F’ing this up…who’s first Manny or Billy?

  65. 65 FanSince73

    hmm..getting rid of the vets and all the experience they bring…with an AHL coach? sounds like many years of typical Islander bs to come…
    BTW — how’s our goal scoring? think about it!

  66. 66 Vukota

    I’m sure Guerin had no problems with Gordon when he was playing on the 1st line and played the full 2 minuts on the PP.

  67. 67 RPchief

    #25 Gordon knows how to handle vets if the vets had value. He was told to develope the kids. That meant forget the vets in key spots and go young.(PP,overtime,shotouts)Those spots were being occupied by vets then after the 2-21 stretch it was in with the kids. Any vet would be unhappy with that senerio. So be it, we must rebuild the right way.

  68. 68 THall90

    Does everyone really believe that once a trade is cosummated, that Garth is going to get into the specifics of what held everything up? When all is said and done, don’t be surprised if we are all still scratching our heads about what all of the fuss was….

  69. 69 RPchief

    Noaln had a divided locker room because he was told to play the kids and he didn’t. He was gone. Gordon has a divided locker room because he is doing what the gm wants,,,vets gone…Let’s stay the course

  70. 70 jaf10

    FanSince73 not all the vets are going. If you want to get better and get good young players you have to get rid of some of the vets to get picks. The young players dont show up out of no where. He isnt a AHL coach anymore he is an nhl coach now and doing a good job if you ask me.

  71. 71 FanSince73

    chief - we know this bc Gordon has so much vet expereince? I’m not counting on a first yr coach…lots of mistakes from him this season.
    outside of Bergenheim, what kid is scoring any goals? And it took 1/2 the year…this isn’t rebuilding…I’m all for the kids, but let’s be smart

  72. 72 Mike from Oceanside

    How’s this for a scenario…Guerin & Gordon had a real blow-up yesterday, which led to Logan’s outing of the Guerin/Gordon relationship. There is no deal currently in place, but the Islanders are feverishly exploring a trade to move Guerin last night into today.

    Perhaps that’s why the “other” team has been able to keep so quiet for so long - as there hasn’t been another team as Garth burns up the phone lines looking to make a quick deal? Hey - stranger things have come out of this organization.

  73. 73 isles316

    I think that the veterans have completely different roles than they had last season with Ted. Anytime you have played for a long time and put in your dues and then you are being given equal or less playing time than young kids in their first or second seasons it hurts your ego.

    Grow up though. Guerin never allowed himself to embrace the situation. Remember when he said just a couple months ago he wanted to stay? Same with Weight. They are just bitter and sour that Bailey is getting more ice time and that a smart coach in Gordon is trying to get his players that will be here more experieince.

  74. 74 jaf10

    okposo and bergy are scoring. Frans and Bailey are playmakers.

  75. 75 Heineken

    hopefully its a package deal to montreal.
    guerin, martinek and 1 of our 2nds for
    higgins Mathieu Dandenault.

  76. 76 jaf10

    FanSince73 explan how you are supose to rebuild then

  77. 77 Rick

    Unless this is some sort of blockbuster deal, which I can’t see happening, we’re all still going to be scratching our heads going ‘they dragged this out for 2 days for THIS?!?!’ when all is said & done.

  78. 78 Brian

    Scott gordon is absolutely doing the right thing…playing the kids and giving them a larger role. Maybe he’s not communicating with the vets the right way…but what he’s doing at this point of the year is right. And if there is a problem, gordon will learn from it.
    All I know is theat 3-4 years from now…the core players (okposo, bergenheim, bailey, etc.) will be on the coach’s side. Thats a good thing.

  79. 79 doug

    stan back with trade talk on devs broadcast in 5 min

  80. 80 jaf10

    it prob has to do with someone signing an extension on the other team or maybe they are tring to get guerin to sign an extension

  81. 81 Heineken

    i can totally See witt going back to washington before deadline as well. If we lose witt hello mike komisarek. Komi RFA or ufa this summer?

  82. 82 Chris TMC

    This is offtopic but in response to what people are saying here: There is no reported problem with older players. Park, Weight, Streit, they arent little kids. The discontent is because they are a 30th place team- and if they were NOT discontented with that, there would be something wrong with them as players! Would anyone rather them be thrilled with their team being in last place? You want them looking forward to working on their putting? Come on.

  83. 83 PjB29

    Being a Pens fan i would be suprised if a trade for Guerin would be coumpleted , the Pens need a physical presence like Brendan Witt more i believe

  84. 84 FanSince73

    playmakers, yes - but you someone in front of the net

    rebuilding is size & experience + new blood — look at how Washington rebuilt — it can be done

    we’re going to have to agree to disagree here — I’ve been down this road too many times…

  85. 85 Steve

    How’s this one> Dallas puts Avery on waivers. Rangers want Avery so bad, they cut a deal with Isles (say a # 7 pick) to make sure they get Avery. But they also want Weight. And Guerin. Isles sign Avery and then trade Guerin and Avery and Weight to the Rangers for Rangers # 1, Prucha and a # 7 pick. But what ’s holding it up is the Weight thing because the Rangers want to make it conditional as per how far they go; the Isles want something firmer. Plus Weight had to be told. (Quite an imagination don’t I?) Oh - and then Witt calls his agent. Back to the Caps for him. For their #1. And then Hilbert goes to Devs for a 4th rounder. And…

  86. 86 19 Isle in NJ 22

    Maybe we are expecting to much to fast??

    On NHL.com’s Deadline Blog they state that Guerin will be consulting his family on Sunday morning about the deal. So this would push back the deal consumation to no earlier than this afternoon sometime after he makes his decision. It isn’t indicated … but … perhaps there is more than one offer for BG to consider.

    For now I’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 teams in the East … ;)

  87. 87 Brian B

    for the record, I have to think that whatever the deal is…it’s a good one for the Isles. Why else would they make a deal so early without waiting for the march 4th deadline? It just tells me Snow got an offer and felt it just had to be done now.

  88. 88 doug

    stan just mentiond CB!

  89. 89 isles316

    “The Islanders blog, http://www.Islanders uh whatever. Chris Botta…” -Stan Fischler

    What an idiot. He says so much for someone that says nothing.

  90. 90 isles316

    Cangiolosi just said the correct website.

  91. 91 Walygz

    Watching the Devils game and Stan just said according to Chris Botta and his blog “Islanders…..Whatever”, Guerin is not going to Washington.

    Had a handwritten note from someone that he apparently couldn’t read. Quite funny.

  92. 92 Moose

    CBotts, expect a ton of hits. Stan and Co just name dropped your blog mid game during the Devs-Flyers tilt.

  93. 93 bossy4president

    Welcome to Islanderwhatever.com….thanks Stan.

  94. 94 nystrom23

    CB gettin some nice recognition

  95. 95 Michael Schuerlein

    I was just posting the Stan comment - glad I refreshed.

  96. 96 The Express

    (85)

    Because a player claimed on waivers can’t be traded until after the season.

  97. 97 Daniel

    I just laughed out loud listening to Stan Fischler say the Islanders blog Islander whatever because he couldn’t remember the name. This situation is getting very drawn out, I really hope it amounts into something. I was at the practice today and like reported, Guerin was not there. I guess only time will tell.

  98. 98 Greg

    They just mentioned your blog by name on the devils game

  99. 99 bill

    Steve -

    Why would the Rangers go after Dead Weight? They already had him once, and he sucked. So why bring him back? Although, I stated previously about a “deal” in place, so, you never know.

  100. 100 Islanders1984

    ryan smyth to teh flames, damn we don’t get to see him tommorow

  101. 101 FanSince73

    Let’s hope that today Wayne Gretsky pipes in and calls the Islanders a Mickey Mouse organization and we end up like the Devils…

  102. 102 Heineken

    stans a retard get off the air already… but when they went back to dano islanderspointblank.com got plugged :) grats cb

  103. 103 doug

    no new news according to stan fish

  104. 104 bossy4president

    Welcome to Islanderdwhatever.com….thanks Stan.

  105. 105 FanSince73

    gotta love posting about hockey whole wathcing hockey

  106. 106 isles316

    Devils broadcasts are unwatchable..god.

  107. 107 Heineken

    so wheres all the snow were supposed to get on the island? anyone know what were supposed to get ? how many inches?

    im sure we will all be shoveling snow tonight and still waiting on the trade :(

  108. 108 FanSince73

    well…at least we can watch Chico eating cupcakes while we wait…

  109. 109 Pete M

    8-14 inches according to Metro Traffic and Weather 5 min ago

  110. 110 Schultz39

    Guerin to Boston for their first. That’s my guess.

  111. 111 Jake from Albany

    (107) It varies on the Island. I live upsate in Albany and were supposed to get hit a lot harder than the island. Be gracious that you live on the Island. haha

  112. 112 Heineken

    hey you all know about the promo code for isles tickets on ticketmaster. If you enter “tuscan” you get 1/2 price isles tickets all seats from 300s to the 100’s, only game it doesnt work for is the isles rangers :)

  113. 113 Bob Bassen

    Yeah…Stan Fischler was relevent about 10 years ago.

  114. 114 admin

    I don’t mean to insult Stan, my friends on the broadcast or the Devils, but I think more people are on this blog than are watching the game. I do appreciate the plug and the credit, however…CB

  115. 115 Jimmy Mac

    I read the Logan article… I don’t see how Gordon did anything wrong.

    People make things a big deal out of nothing.

    Of coarse the young guys need more coaching.

    We are not going to make the playoffs, you need to let the young guys play. Everybody knew this was going on.

    Of coarse the vets want to continue to play top minutes. They’re competitive.

    I kinda liked them being on 2 separate units. If anything it should have started a heathy competition between the two.

    I think this article is a non issue.

  116. 116 doug

    thank you heineken…work for away games too?

  117. 117 Madchef

    Spot on CB and u know what it is way more insightful!

  118. 118 Islanders1984

    I thought tehy said on devisl broadcast ryan smyth to calgary but can’t find it anywhere. Anyone else find anything

  119. 119 Heineken

    116, yes any games. also you can use that “tuscan” promo code at the box office window. every game just not vs rangers.

    i’ve used it many times, its great.

  120. 120 doug

    it is just a rumor that they were stating

  121. 121 jonsson3

    no one here wants afinogenov?

  122. 122 Bob Bassen

    CB..I agree. Pending *snow storm* or not this head to head play-off type match-up should be packed house full of intensity type game.

  123. 123 doug

    thanks hein…..i live in NC and will use it!

  124. 124 25yearfan

    Steve Cangialosi = stand up guy for correcting the “whatever” with the correct website address.

    Interesting that Stan called it the NY Islanders blog, but fumfered when it counted (gotta love the chance to use “fumfer”)

  125. 125 Dani

    I’m just amazed we haven’t crashed your site yet, lol.

    Thanks for the updates.

  126. 126 Brooks

    Enough already im sick of this.

  127. 127 TuxTax

    Are we there yet? How much longer?

  128. 128 Michael Schuerlein

    Chris, Stan couldn’t remember your blog name last night either.

  129. 129 Heineken

    i’d be suprised if stan fishler knows what a blog is, guy should move to florida and retire already

  130. 130 4195mary

    I like Afinegenov, but he is 29. That might be a little older than the Isles need. Although if you can rehab him from being a “headcase”, he could be traded for a nice haul in a year or two

  131. 131 Pete M

    I’m one of the 3 or 4 people watching the Devils game because I’m sitting home sick and there’s nothing else on. Watching this team I don’t think they need Guerin, or anybody else, the way they’re playing right now. Getting Brodour back at this stage of the season is like making a trade for a franchise goalie (without giving anything up).

  132. 132 guerin13

    rds is saying that it’s the caps but they are having trouble clearing cap space to fit guerin in.

  133. 133 Vukota

    Caps are almost 2 million under the cap so that is BS.

  134. 134 Dissolutioned Brian in VA

    The crazy nut Wang has to sell the team because the lighthouse will never be built. Wilpon or Ratner should acquire the Isles and the get a real GM or real coach! We are a joke in the new nhl where parity is the name of the game with the stupid shootout loser point; look at us we are dreadful!

  135. 135 Vukota

    Give it a rest brian. It’s posts like yours that are embarrassing.

  136. 136 hellyeah

    the rate things are going, we may as well be contending for the stanley cup, wow. calm down people.

  137. 137 RPchief

    This place is jumping. I was #69 after giving the baby a bottle we’re up to 126, It’s good to know so many care. Brian #78 we are on the same page with this

  138. 138 Steve R

    I wonder who will end up sharin’
    The scoop on who is takin’ Guerin
    I’ve heard the song
    For much too long
    But Botta’s blog just keeps me carin’

  139. 139 beatlebailey

    CB is now “bigtime” I wonder when his people will start commenting on the blog instead ot THE MAN!. :-).VIP access to this blog will be $59.95 per year..lol

  140. 140 jonsson3

    afinogenov????anyone anyone beuller beuller

  141. 141 Bruce

    I don’t understand why people want Wang to sell the team. For the first time in decades it finally looks like the Islanders are going to have a sense of stability. Garth Snow hasn’t done a terrible job for us and he wisely decided to rebuild the team through the draft. Scott Gordon’s system will take a while to be effective but the decision has been made and he is here to stay (campoli trade). Kyle Okposo will be a stud and Bergenheim is finally looking like a good player. I am excited about this teams future and hopefully in 4-5 years we will be here in early march hoping to be the ones getting a player like Bill Guerin to help us make a run for the Cup instead of finding out where we are trading our captain to.

  142. 142 Maydog

    @100 Where did you see that? Could you post a link? Becuase that was the only reason I was going tomorrow night: To boo the crybaby

  143. 143 DanNOLA

    Banging my head with my laptop ala the monks in Monty Python’s Holy Grail is seeming like it is the best solution right now.

  144. 144 4195mary

    Maydog, you gotta admit when they picked up Smyth, even giving up 3 1st rounders, it was damn exciting.

  145. 145 rb

    watching my screensaver is more exciting than watching the Newark River Rats…and I hope Stan, Chico and the vastly overrated Doc Emerick (a/k/a shouting homer, boys and girls) enjoy their afternoon on Broad Street in beautiful downtown Newark (hope you got that Kevlar vest ready to walk to your car!)

  146. 146 sbeer

    Does anyone have an updated list of the number of draft pick we have in 09 and in which round the picks fall? I am curious to see the breakdown …

  147. 147 isles316

    we have 2 first, 3 seconds, and 1 pick in each round after that.

  148. 148 james

    Stan also couldn’t remember Kyle O’s last name last night.His ship sailed a long long time ago. He has turned into John Madden. He just talks without ever saying anything relevant.I’m surprised he still knows what sport he’s watching. Good luck to Billy where ever he winds up.

  149. 149 sbeer

    Thanks isles316

  150. 150 Madchef

    IMO Wang has been a savior to the franchise, albeit he has made some poor descisions along the way there is a learning curve(how many bad signings, coach firings did the 80’s Yanks go through under Steinbrenner…..The Ed Whitsons, Steve Kemps of the world) Maybe finally he is letting the draft make his star players come to life…like the 96…maybe I’m jus sayin

  151. 151 DP

    I think I’ll check back tomorrow, when I’m snowbound with two kids home from school. Woo Hoo. Snowy waitin for the snow

  152. 152 Steve R

    Isles have NYI1, SJ1, NYI2, TOR2, BOS2

    Did I leave any out?

  153. 153 BigWiggs

    This has to be involing weight. The team that traded for him probably needs to know that the 4 week timeframe on his injury is correct and that he willbe back and ready to go. Sounds like a package deal of the buddies weight and guerin

  154. 154 Maydog

    It was, and I’m still for doing that trade. What I didn’t appreciate was him turning down the Isles higher offer, then signing with a non-Canadian team that isn’t that good and wreaking the Isles for 5 years. Thus the booing

  155. 155 4195mary

    Florida is absolutely desperate to make the playoffs. Maybe Jacques Martin would trade a first round pick. Hilbert would thrive on that team. Hilbert and Guerin for a first round pick (optional for 09 or 10).

  156. 156 Marc

    Fischler botching this web site was hysterical — only because Cangelosi quickly gave the correct address.

  157. 157 Law

    This is clearly a evil plan concocted by Wang, Snow, Botta, etc to give us all carpal tunnel from hitting refresh every 30 secs!! =P

    All kidding aside, even if this deal turns out to be minor in scope, how great is this time of year. Can’t wait till we’re playoff contenders again and the deadline takes on new significance.

    Thanks for the all the hardwork, CB, much appreciated.

  158. 158 Matt

    Why is it that everyone in this organization gets the learning curve excuse(post 150)? If its Snow its Wang and if its not Wang or Snow its Gordon. Give me a break how about having someone who knows what the he!! is going on!

  159. 159 4195mary

    Tough to argue with that maydog.

  160. 160 doug

    ok…Devils game over…give us the news!

  161. 161 Chris A

    With the snow expected this is bad for whoever gets him since most likely they would lose a day with him practicing causing him to miss a game

  162. 162 Hock

    Law #157 - Totally agree…..I’m exhibiting symptoms of carpel tunnel too!!

  163. 163 Jimmy Mac

    Why do I have this bad feeling this is all for nothing.

    Maybe there is no trade in place, and Garth jumped the gun.

    If we waited 24 hours to hear all this is for a second rounder, I will not be impressed.

  164. 164 jonsson3

    a f i n o g e n o v

  165. 165 Moose

    RE #165… Have you watched Maxim Afinogenov this year? Pass.

    Miro Satan Mark II level disinterest.

  166. 166 Vukota

    Jonsson3 what are you obesssed with getting Oleg Kvasha 2?

  167. 167 Vukota

    I meant Why

  168. 168 sbeer

    KAVASHA!! What ever happened to him? He could be on VH1s Where are they now!

  169. 169 isles316

    kvasha is playing in KHL as of December.

  170. 170 jonsson3

    can get him cheap he’s good you’ll see

  171. 171 4195mary

    He is very good, when he wants to be.

  172. 172 Jimmy Mac

    He’s a free agent…

  173. 173 jonsson3

    bring him on

  174. 174 FanSince73

    snow + travel time = NYR?

  175. 175 Isles78

    Ok Afinogenov has 3 problems. 1. which has been pointed out he plays uninspired hockey way too much. 2. He is a UFA at the end of the season. 3. Injury problems.

  176. 176 4195mary

    Good. He’ll be real cheap.

  177. 177 sbeer

    Does anyone think there is any chance that the isles trade the 1st or 2nd overall pick this summer for additional picks and/or immediate help?

  178. 178 RPchief

    I haven’t sat at a computer for this long since my thesis

  179. 179 4195mary

    no

  180. 180 mapisles2025

    now i’m pissed…was it really necessary to cause all this drama

  181. 181 Jimmy Mac

    not the top pick… but the others to move up in the draft… yes.

  182. 182 Moose

    No, Afinagenov is not ‘GOOD’. He’s an uninspired lazy player who only CARES when the puck is on his stick and he’s on the top line.

    There’s a reason Buffalo wants NOTHING to do with him.

    We’re creating a floater free team. He’s one of the NHL Floater posterboys.

    PASS!!!!

  183. 183 JT

    Any chance of a trade with the Wild and we land Gaborik? Maybe contract extension negotiations with his agent are what is delaying the deal???

  184. 184 Jimmy Mac

    another free agent… wht waste picks.

  185. 185 4195mary

    Guerin might consider playing for Lemaire again, even in Minny.

  186. 186 Bob

    Well based on what is going on today (NJ,Philly,Was,Pit & FL all playing today assuming it is one of these teams involved the only way it has not been announced is if a player in the trade is currently playing which can be assumed + a pick seems the most likely scenario at this point.

  187. 187 Vukota

    Did anybody read logans practice blog? I love what Gordon said. Something alomng the lines of he doesn’t care what people think and if he has to step on some toes to fix the problem then he has no problem doing it. It’s about time a coach could care less about the players feelings and worry about the whole team instead of catering to certain players.

    I find it kind of funny how Guerin didn’t complain earlier in the year when he was playing on the 1st line and playing the full 2 minutes on the PP. I guess Gordon was ok back then. The kids are thriving under gordon, that’s all that matters

  188. 188 Rob

    JT (183)- Gaborik????? did i miss something or is Okposo also available??

  189. 189 Jimmy Mac

    Botts…

    I think we all know(or we should know this deal is not a blockbuster deal.

    But at the same time… to pull the trigger 3 days before the deadline, it has to be pretty damn good.

    Nothing less than a 1st rounder, or a 2nd with a very good prospect will do.

    If it is Montreal… they are trying to do a deal with Calgary too. Maybe the Calgary deal needs to take place before the Billy Trade Watch will end.

    It is fun either way… keep up the good work CB.

  190. 190 Law

    Could be wrong, but why would the hold-up be that a player involved is playing right now? If a guy is about to be traded, you do what the Isles did last night and pull him off the ice so he doesn’t get injured (and nix the deal).

  191. 191 Coach B

    Washington-Florida and Pittsburgh game should be over by 5:45, eastern time.

  192. 192 FanSince73

    150 goals for
    45 points
    last in both
    thriving?

    getting exposure and ice time, yes

  193. 193 doug

    watching caps game now…said Guerrin is waiting…but could b interesting for Caps fans

  194. 194 Chris TMC

    Bob (186): I think that the most likely scenario is that Billy Guerin is the onle holding all the cards here. He might want to talk about things with his family, negotiate an extention with this other team, theres lots of reasons. And since he could have easily laughed and said he was going nowhere, he has every right to take as long as he wants. Not that it isnt driving me crazy wondering and waiting as well, Im just saying!

  195. 195 isles316

    maybe a player involved in the trade at the other end has a No Trade Clause?

  196. 196 4195mary

    A team that’s fighting for their lives just to make the playoffs might be more likely to add players and possibly disrupt the dressing room than a team with some breathing room. If this were true, Boston, Wash., Jersey probably wouldn’t chase Guerin.

  197. 197 Witty

    At this point the deal would have to be for Ovechkin to live up to the hype. The way the Isles have handled this (by not handling it) is absurd at best.

  198. 198 doug

    what bout semin…ive heard some people mention his name?

  199. 199 Vukota

    It’s not all about numbers. Get rid of the fantasy perception. They are thriving under Gordon.

  200. 200 Jim

    I don’t think the delay is because of another player playing. I think it’s because either the other team is trying to move somebody else, is looking to see what it’ll cost for a player similar to Guerin (Tkachuk) or is just not sure they want Guerin for what Snow is asking for.

  201. 201 C$

    Pitts: Matt Cooke, 1st rd pick
    NYI: Bill Guerin

  202. 202 Vukota

    How are the isles suppose to handle this? Something is holding up the deal. it’s not their job to constantly give us die hards a update every 15 minytes because we have no life,lol

  203. 203 The Real Truthster

    I don’t get you guys; seriously; Including CB. The islanders dont have an obligation to do ANYTHING accept discuss the parameters with billy guerin; Thats IT. It is in the best interest of the organization and the trade partner for it to progress in this manner.
    And to all the negative nancies who want to hiss and boo about scott and the “direction”, please provide me the “direction” you would like the team to go in; would you like 2001-2004? Then just say it. Stop being a back seat driver when there is a clear road of what a rebuild looks like; Just because you havent seen it doesnt mean it doesnt exist.

  204. 204 Moose

    #201, where’d you hear that?

  205. 205 Vukota

    The Real Truthster- Brilliant post. Post of the weekend!!!

  206. 206 isles99

    if you read between the lines of what botta is saying, we should expect not anything earth shattering coming out of this deal-as of now, im expecting it to be a 2nd rounder plus a “B” prospect from some team who desperately needs scoring and a veteran presence. (pittsburgh, montreal, and washington are my guesses in that particular order). cb, from reading your update, i have a felling you know something you’re not letting on. just saying.

  207. 207 4195mary

    It’s no secret Pittsburgh isn’t thrilled with Cooke. But if Garth could do that deal, he should run for gov.

  208. 208 The Ice Man

    CB, this issue will get over 1000 comments if it is not resolved in the next 30 minutes, max! I’ve been checking frequently, but this is my 1st post on the subject. First off, Good Luck to you Bill Guerin, wherever you wind up - you have been a classy gent! Next, the Isles organization does not owe us info starved fans any explanation, though it would be thoughtful and classy if they did make some kind of comment. Finally, given all the rumblings do we have any idea and can you comment if this is a multi-player deal, ala some of the suggested Guerin plus Weight options? Anyway, great reading and it is nice to know so many care, even some of the dirtRags invaders are showing they care, otherwise they wouldn’t be posting their inane comments.

  209. 209 BigWiggs

    This is insane now. Is Gath running around like a puupy dog for another gm making him sweat.

  210. 210 David

    i hate the fact that i was so excited about the trade, but now after reading this and that we might only get a second rounder and a b prospect, it takes the excitement away for me…o well better than losing him for nothing in july

  211. 211 Madchef

    I agree with CB we have been cooking this one for a straight 24 hours with many of us on this website for most of that time waiting and dreaming of some blockbuster. The fact is it won’t be anything major but thats okay just give us a pick or prospect and be done with it.

  212. 212 19 Isle in NJ 22

    Hype!?!? Aren’t we the fans creating the “Hype”? Has the Islanders organization “hyped” this deal? They’ve been quiet … which is what has everyone on edge. CB has warned us in the previous thread not to expect a blockbuster.

    Traditionally we’ve gotten our trade news via a “News Outlet”, but with blogs things get out we’d normally not see … both true and untrue … I wish I knew now but I don’t. I can hold out another 24 hours if I had to & I’m just as curious as everyone else. CB will let us know when he knows.

  213. 213 JT

    Rob, Gaborik has been out virtually all season with his injury. Adding Guerin will get them something back for someone who hasnt been doing squat this year. It may actually work out. Besides that Gaborik is a UFA, so if they arent going to sign him past this year Minn may consider it. Maybe there is a swap of some draft picks. Minn is offensively challenged so I am hopeful of a shot at it.

  214. 214 RPchief

    Vukota#199 I’m with you. Throw the numbers out. Forget goal numbers for this year. Every under 25 guy on the roster has improve greatly. I still believe if DP was in goal we would be sitting in 10th or 11th place. It will benefit us that he missed all but 5 games, we get a top pick 1 or 2 and then get ready for next year with a year experience for our young player.

  215. 215 FanSince73

    Vukota -
    doesn’t sound like it from the locker room
    we’ll see next year or when Gordon crosses the DP line

  216. 216 mapisles2025

    An Islanders spokesman said the team will issue a statement today….so much for that.

  217. 217 Rob

    JT (213) - I hope you are right - From your lips to God’s ears - i was not at all saying its a bad idea but its not “east” and Gaborik’s name has always been thrown out there to us and it never materializes

  218. 218 Aim

    Ya know what leave it to the NYI to make a dog and pony show out of this. They should have not even sent Guerin out for the warmup last night instaed of pulling him from the lineup right before game time. If there is a deal in principal as we were led to beleive last night do you think if it involved a player from another team that the player would be risking injury and playing today?? If that is the case Billy should have played last night and then there is no topic of conversation! Hey I agree the NYI dont have to explain anything but coming up on 24 hours maybe a general statement would have been nice…..we have a trade in place but BG is negoting an extension with that team etc etc

  219. 219 JT

    Rob(217)I agree with you. Also thinking maybe a lil misinformation with the whole east thing?

  220. 220 Vukota

    Doesn’t sound like what? from the locker room.

  221. 221 Obs

    The waiting game continues… Caps are in, Caps are out, What about Pitt, Rags, Devils, Montreal? I really don’t want to see another pick (Unless the fleece someone for a 1st) but a Blue Chip Prospect would be nice.

  222. 222 Vukota

    The only ones amking a dog and pony show out of this is us and the media!!!

  223. 223 isles99

    blogs may not be mainstream yet but they do provide plenty of great insight into a how a deal really goes down with all things that are taken into consideration. you never get that with a newspaper.

  224. 224 The Real Truthster

    Aim, the only dog and pony show is the one you have going on in your head about this.
    Pulled him before gametime?? “Be nice to us fans and give us an update”

    So let me get this straight, you think its a dog and pony show, they should have played him in the game or excused him BEFORE the game, and 24 hours later made a statement just to appease us the fans

    Of course, why this shouldnt be between islanders management and their captain right? We, the fans, need to be the insects on the walls to find out the juicy tidbits

    I would trade Aim and that disgruntled VA fan for debby downer of SNL lore in a second.

  225. 225 Aim

    yes that is true Vukota everyone has got over the edge here. Last night took the cake when everyone was falling all over Wade Redden it is geeting out of hand lets just sit back and wait nutin else to do I agree that in the end we will all be getting nuts and wind up with a mid 2nd rounder and a mid level player to get the NYI back to the cap floor.

  226. 226 miket

    This is frustrating. The organization strung us along the entire first half with DP and his injured knee.
    Now this 2 day trade drama for a guy who (while being a nice guy and a good leader) is a 38 year old winger with 16 goals. Give me a break already.
    Thank god for spring training!

  227. 227 Pete M

    Absolutely right Mick. It’s like moving next to an airport, then complaining about the noise.

  228. 228 doug

    aim……thought you were suspended for 5 games for going over ur limit on posts!

  229. 229 Danny in Section 306

    How credible is that Cooke+1st Rounder scoop? That’d be phenomenal for a Pittsburgh team that’s slumping fairly low…

  230. 230 Chickendirt

    As annoying as this is I gotta give em credit. All eyes in the hockey world are on where Guerin is going and the Islanders organization.

    They’ve been masterful at keeping tight lipped and not letting on. We’re all sucked into the drama.

  231. 231 Jimmy Mac

    Maybe Garth will make another trade before the Guerin Trade Show finishes up.

    Maybe Witt…. lol.

  232. 232 Obs

    Is Phil. out of the mix?

  233. 233 4195mary

    I don’t really see Guerin in Pitts., but what about Hilbert? He put up good numbers with Crosby( Nova Scotia’ own!), and he seems to be a more well rounded player now. They keep sayin’ Syd needs a new winger. Could be worth a second rounder.

  234. 234 Ed J

    lol grats CB on the plug in the Devils game…..

    my goodness almost 1k reply’s today….

    looks like someones NHL blog is a big deal….

    Grats again CB and I am sure this site will gets lots & lots of hits this week…

  235. 235 cgs878

    With the Islanders’ luck this season with injuries, I understand why they pulled him out of the game last night. Why risk an injury to Guerin? As far as this whole “Guerin trade watch” (or dog & pony show, as some people have termed it), does it really matter where he goes and what the Islanders get in return? It won’t change the immediate future nor this season’s dismal outcome. I guess there’s nothing else going on in the world of hockey today. Personally, I’m gonna go watch my TiVoed Devils game and root for Parise to surpass Ovechkin in goals before the end of the season.

  236. 236 Aim

    nope not true and to answer the earlier comment. The Islanders created this by letting Guerin warm up and having him on the lineup card for last night. When that happens and the player doesnt play, that is pulling a player before gametime. The NYI played the game 1 player short because of this. My point being if a trade was so close scratch him! that is why we have all been going nuts here for 2 days. Guerin plays last night non factor. The NYI lie about injury all the time so if they said last night BG scratched lower body no one would have noticed. Of all the hundreds of trades we have all seen you gotta admit this one is a bit bizarre!

  237. 237 Will

    CB is definitely right, as this nears the 24hr mark I’m getting very sick of it. I was going crazy the whole game last night and through much of the night. I woke up and immediately ran to my computer to see if there was any news. I’ve been hitting refresh for hours. I’m very quickly getting to the point of not caring

  238. 238 THS

    Its about damn time the organization stand by a head coach. Remember when Laviolette was run out of town because of the locker room? Well, they replaced him with SS (sinking ship) and got us no where. There were also whispers after Nolan left last year. So, it doesn’t seem to matter the coach, there always seems to be some background noise. The answer to all that is: who cares? The team needs to build with youth and you have to commit to that. As a veteran, if you can’t understand that, then goodbye and good riddance. I applaud Gordon for not letting it phase him and I applaud the team for supporting the coach. I am now convinced that they are committed to building this program the right way.

  239. 239 4195mary

    I sometimes feel bad for Snow in situations like this. Compare Bill Torrey making a trade 25 yrs. ago to what’s happening this weekend. Pretty uncomplicated back then. Garth will probably have to hold a press conference just to explain the delay.

  240. 240 Steve R

    it’s perverse but entertaining nonetheless… kind of like the anticipation that comes with a blind date…

  241. 241 4195mary

    Hope she ain’t ugly.

  242. 242 Smokey

    Congrats on 1,000 posts on this topic, CB. Between the 760 in the other thread and the 240 in this thread, you cracked the mark.

  243. 243 The Real Truthster

    If you are going “crazy and curious” over a trade that has yet to be announced, it says more about you then the trade that has yet to be announced.

    IF you dont see it EXACTLLYYY when it comes out hot off the press, its not going to change a few hours after it occurs.

    So in reality, this really IS the case of curiousity..killing the sunday

    No doubt, banter will be exchanged back and forth between the pessimists (you konw who you are) and optomists (we know who we are too) invariably using this “suspense is killing me speculation” as some sort of microcosm of the entire islanders year. The pessimists will argue the “woe is me” karmic philosophy, while the optomists will try their gosh darnest to bring them to the light.

    And in the end, the trade ..still.wont..get..announced..any quicker

    Because like everything in life, there are processes and procedures and rules and regulations, things to abide by and consummations to be in order.

    Ah the power of an idle brain.

    with that ..i am out to leave you all to satiate your curiosity with possibilities from the cosmos.

  244. 244 jon from nj

    You’re now correct CB…I am tired of this. It’s ridiculous.

  245. 245 coral springs isle fan

    Washington getting shelled by the Panthers; perhaps they should get into the Guerin mix.

    I hope they tell Billy NOT to shovel any Snow (the white frozen precipitation predicted to fall) until after the trade. Also, please do not take the kids sleigh riding until after the trade is approved.

    Let it Snow baby!

  246. 246 the bomber

    i just think the delay is because he’s going to the rangers and the deal hinges on us claiming Avery when he hits waivers then shipping he and Guerin to the Rangers. Who we get back? you got me. I dont even wany Avery on our team for the 5 minutes it takes to claim him then ship him off. what a piece of turd.

  247. 247 doug

    I think its called being a fan….i dont know bout ya’all…but the Isles are my religon!

  248. 248 Fritzfan

    Islanders love the talk that suspense drums up. Wait until draft day if they have #1. We won’t know in advance and will have a Tavares/ Hedman split screen as it gets announced.

  249. 249 Vukota

    Can’t trade a player you picked up on waivers until the offseason

  250. 250 Greg

    Just heard on the Washington-Florida broadcast that Boston media reporting that he may be going to Boston.

  251. 251 the bomber

    jeez vukota you keep killing me, we may need to drop the gloves

  252. 252 TimQ

    I know this is completely off topic but if Kate Murray and ToH ever doubted that there is passionate fanbase, all they need to do is check these strings out.

  253. 253 Macch

    Agreed CB. Let’s see if we hear something when the Caps game is over

  254. 254 mapisles2025

    This isn’t going to even happen today

  255. 255 Vukota

    Sorry bomber.

  256. 256 bossy4president

    Isn’t this the same Billy Geurin that everyone in the hockey world made fun of the Islanders for picking up and then making our captain? Now all of a sudden it’s a huge deal on what team he is going too?

  257. 257 BigDaddy

    I wonder if CB knows what the deal is? This is probably 1st or 2nd + salary dump or prospect for Guerin.

  258. 258 ItsGoodToBeRich

    I’m starting to think that this trade will not get done. Its been almost 24 hours since Guerin was pulled from the line-up, and usually when that happens a trade is announced after the game. For some reason maybe the other team decided not to make the trade, either that or there might be more players involved. Whatever happens, I can’t see the Isles getting back more than a second round pick or some prospect no one has ever heard of.

  259. 259 RPchief

    It doesn’t have anything to do with a player in a game. They would be sitting out just like BG did last night. If a team was in discussion of a trade they would not risk a guy getting hurt. The Montreal (O’Bryn)deal was interesting until he got hurt lastnight. He’s not on the team but he scored more goals for us this year then Gervais has in the last three. Sign him up

  260. 260 BigWiggs

    Notjing like the isles for taking a sunday from us

  261. 261 Ajax

    as I was stated earlier, you cant claim a player off of waivers and themtrade them, so the Avery thing wouldnt be a factor in this

  262. 262 bossy4president

    addition to #256

    Now he’s a great leader that will help a playoff team go deep into the playoffs? Do these writers even remember half the BS the write?

  263. 263 Rich

    Guys Guerin to Sabres for Pominville and a 2nd rounder…my source is well connected he says its with the sabres and most likely player I mentioned. We will see

  264. 264 Akeem

    We’re now over 1000 comments. Mazel tov.

  265. 265 BSTFAN

    #263

    IF that were true, that would be a nice enough deal.

  266. 266 MiKe

    Its to the Rangers!!

  267. 267 bossy4president

    I’m fed up……not with the BG trade hold up, not with the Isles themselves….I’m fed up with the hockey media talking down my team at every mention of the word Islanders. No one is good when we get them but then after they leave of when they’re on other teams they are awesome.

  268. 268 RPchief

    Why was POminville in the line up lastnight. They would have pulled him too.

  269. 269 mapisles2025

    No chance its guerin for pominville+2nd thats not fair whatsoever

  270. 270 the bomber

    cause they still need to win any game they can…

  271. 271 Rob

    Pominville had 80 points last year and is 26 years old so they throw him AND a 2nd rounder for Guerin - you must be talking about your drug source - next time call your hockey source

  272. 272 Rich

    The trade has changed form from last night…my guy stated

  273. 273 mapisles2025

    who’s your guy

  274. 274 Will

    @rich

    That is completely rediculous, most likely the furthest thing from the truth and too funny. Rich, whoever your source is, ask him to retire.

    If I’m wrong, I owe you guys some beers. and if i’m wrong, Garth Snow deserves a medal, and some F$@king cookies.

  275. 275 Ajax

    perhaps the delay is from the NHL level

  276. 276 Jon

    that trade would NEVER happen

  277. 277 Rich

    By the way he has 46 points this year…13 shabby goals

  278. 278 Chickendirt

    Just an FYI this site is being in mentioned at the place we shall not mention. So expect a ton of BS.

    As I’m sure most people are aware of anyways.

  279. 279 Rich

    it might have to take our 1st rounder from sj

  280. 280 David

    right what CB said, i went from excited to not pissed off, to not caring anymore…WTF IS THE OTHER TEAM….so annoying

  281. 281 BigWiggs

    where did you hear rangers 266

  282. 282 Buhwheat

    Rich is full of Ich.

  283. 283 THall90

    Can’t see Guerin accepting a trade to Buffalo…they’re not a promising contending team, they’re LUCKY at best if they make the playoffs, and who thinks they’re going deep?? With that said, Pominville and a pick wouldn’t be so bad, considering that we are all anticipating the worst case, being an unknown, never-heard-of prospect and a pick….

  284. 284 Moose

    Hi, I actually watch Buffalo games. The Mayor of Pominville is not getting dealt. Sorry.

  285. 285 bill

    You can trade a player that was claimed off of waivers. It’s legal.

  286. 286 mapisles2025

    no u cant

  287. 287 The Express

    (278)

    “The place we shall not mention….” You mean the place you post at all the time?

  288. 288 Rich

    Just cause u watch buffalo games means exactly whaaaaat?

  289. 289 Moose

    Rich, it means I’m informed enough to know that a journeyman 38 year old gearing up for retirement is not fetching a 2nd Rounder and A CORE PLAYER OF THE BUFFALO SABRES.

    Keep Dreaming, Man.

  290. 290 Rob

    Rich’s posts should be deleted - save that BS for another blog - that is too rediculous with no credibility

  291. 291 Rich

    Fair enough Moose, like I said it may take our 1st rounder from SJ to complete the deal. Don’t have all the details yet

  292. 292 mapisles2025

    Rich what is your evidence? Next you will be claiming that DP was traded for Lundqvist

  293. 293 Rich

    map, i would make that trade in a heartbeat..

  294. 294 Michael Schuerlein

    http://www.islanderswhatever.com

    Thanks for the idea Stan!

  295. 295 Rich

    GUYS MY SOUCE who is a high level executive for an eastern division team told me that these discussions were serious, no reason for me to make this stuff up…he may be wrong but whatever..i am sure he’s pissed i leaked it

  296. 296 bill

    You can trade a player that was claimed off of waivers, it IS allowed. I believe the former team has to have a say in it, though. Something to that affect.

    I have the feeling that GM’s Sather and Snow have a deal in place, considering Sather probably heard that someone else wants to claim Avery off of re-entry waivers (any team that’s below the Rangers), and since the Islanders will get first pickings, there might be a deal between the Islanders and Rangers that Guerin and Avery will be shipped off to MSG for whatever. The Rangers need to clear cap space, as well. Since this deal has been held off (and let’s be reasonable: if this deal was to Montreal or Boston or something, the deal would have already been made hours ago, instead of everyone sitting here confused). I have a pretty good feeling that Guerin will be shipped off to the Rangers, considering the amount of deliberation that has been involved with this whole situation. And if he doesn’t go to the Rangers, then the chance of the Rangers acquiring Avery are slim-to-nil.

  297. 297 mapisles2025

    I would take Pominville+2nd for Guerin+SJ 1st in a heartbeat but neither trade is going to happen…i just want to know more about your source. what is his connection?

  298. 298 David

    rich where are you getting your ideas, you sound like another eklund, a guy who makes stuff up to gage interest from hockey fans during a time of “unrest”

  299. 299 BigWiggs

    how does everyone know hocky executives here? I can;t believe how many people have sources

  300. 300 bossy4president

    The queen will never leave Manhattan….there are to many guys attached to his twigandberries.

  301. 301 4195mary

    Why would they trade Pominville? Doesn’t make any sense.

  302. 302 David

    youre right mary, its complete and utter BS why would the sabres trade away one of their most promising players, while theyre barely making the playoffs, for a 38 yr old rental player??? i cant believe people even considered this plausible for even a half a second! this guys toying with us(that is if u believed him in the first place)

  303. 303 Rich

    I’ll shut up now..didn’t make it up..sounds too god to be true for Isles fans. Did P-ville fall into the chateay bow-wow in Buffalo Idk but Guerin has more goals than him this year and can provide ledership to a very very young team

  304. 304 Scott, East Meadow Long Island

    This just in from TSN..

    “The waiting game continues for Bill Guerin.

    However, in Guerin’s case, sources say the Islanders forward now knows who the team is and Guerin and Islanders’ general manager Garth Snow are both waiting for that team to make its final decision to close the deal.

    The identity of this mystery team is being concealed in fear the trade will fall apart.

    Final confirmation would end a saga that started when Guerin was pulled out of the Islanders lineup after the warm up and before Saturday’s game against the Buffalo Sabres.”

    Lets hope that this deal doesnt fall apart..It would be difficult to see BG in the lineup tomorrow night…

  305. 305 Will

    Rich, please, just stop..

    If you somehow by the grace of god turn out to be right, then most of us will probably be immediately struck by lightning.

    Until then, keep your “sources” out of this.

  306. 306 ISLESFAN999

    Anyone who has info is bsing. If botta isnt sure believe me no1 knows yet other than the 2 gms. The deal hasnt even been made yet otherwise we would know.

  307. 307 Rich

    Did Botta break the Campoli trade? Nope

  308. 308 Isles78

    CB, I’ve always been under the impression that teams don’t like announcing trades on Sundays and will usually hold off until Monday can you confirm this. I’m not expecting any announcement tonight.

  309. 309 Cruicky

    306 - that’s been there since 3:31 pm. Old news

  310. 310 Scott, East Meadow Long Island

    Sorry 311…just read it..been out all day, figured it was new info…

  311. 311 Isles78

    I guess Rich broke the Campoli trade lol

  312. 312 Rich

    No, never took credit for it

  313. 313 Kevin Schultz

    My sister’s nanny’s ex-husband’s dog says that Guerin is on his way to the grocery store.

  314. 314 MT

    Caps game is over, lost 6-2

  315. 315 akeem

    Scott(306) - that’s th link CB had - that’s not just in…

  316. 316 Will

    Wait I Have breaking news from a source (high level executive) that guerin was traded to boston for kessel krejci lucic and wheeler.

    the only hold up is that boston wants to give us some money, but garth snow said that his bank is closed on sunday.. damn!

    LOL :D

  317. 317 mjrb24

    Zipay is saying it’s Pitt.

  318. 318 Bri On LI

    This has been fun, but I’m getting a little antsy…

  319. 319 Matt

    I’m not one for defending the Islanders and the way they do things believe me! But really guys you can’t get mad at Snow for not announcing the deal when it quite obviously is not done, I have a feeling its going to be a big let down for most of you when you see the results! If we get a second and a prospect that would sound about right or maybe a late first straight up if Garth pulls a fast one. A lot are saying there are some willing to over pay so who knows.

  320. 320 Glenn

    REVEAL THE TEAMS, SOMEONE!!! PLEASE!!!

    CB, a side question: After the Islanders won the 92-93 Patrick Division, the banner was raffled off the next year
    on Fan Appreciation Day if memory serves. Why was that banner, from such an amazing season, never replaced?

  321. 321 Pritchett54

    rich, who else are we gonna trade at the deadline? Is someone gonna take weight off our hands?

    How about Weight and SJ 1st rounder for Sid Crosby and Evgeny Malkin?

  322. 322 4195mary

    They could be overpaying, being that it”s 4+ days before the deadline

  323. 323 Matt

    Thats a little steep for Crosby and Malkin. Only give up SJ’s first!

  324. 324 isles99

    according to wikipedia,richard park is a member of the washington capitals. wtf is up with that. i know wikipedia had guerin to the vikings, chiefs, and other bs but that was taken off immedietely. but park’s pahe has him as a member of the caps. wtf isthat all about?

  325. 325 THall90

    mrjb (#319) where did you see or hear zipay?

  326. 326 akeem

    I heard it’s between the Whalers and Nordiques, but Guerin would rather go to Hartford since it’s closer to home…

  327. 327 Rich

    Will, for your sake I hope the Isles get back Roman “I’ll make you an offer you can’t refuse” Hamrlik…Maybe then you’ll be a happy fellow

  328. 328 The Express

    (319)
    Link?

    (326)
    People have beeen screwing with Wikipedia a lot the last 2 days. It means nada.

  329. 329 Will

    word on the street is that guerin’s only willing to wave his ntc to go to Hartford if ron francis comes out of retirement to join him.

  330. 330 Rich

    I hate Crosby,, like him or lump him….wtf does that mean…even ovechin wanted to tear his head off

  331. 331 Will

    Rich, my man, I’m a deeply satisfied individual, I mean come on, what other time of the year can we talk about this $hit than trade deadline time…

    This is my favorite time of the year, and i wouldnt have it any other way.

    :D

  332. 332 mjrb24

    I read on Zipay’s blog that in his opinion it’s Pitt. He didn’t give a scenario, but he was talking about who on the Rag$ is expendable, and then mentioned Guerin’s destination.
    http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/hockey/rangers/blog/

  333. 333 Kristie

    This is getting really old, hope we hear something soon.

  334. 334 akeem

    Will (330), that’s not what I’m hearing. My sources tell me that he’s holding out because he wants to be on a line with Pat Verbeek…

  335. 335 Rich

    I guess the package for Witt, Park, Hilbert, Guerin and Martinek wouldn’t land Pominville either?

  336. 336 Rich

    Maybe Vancouver will take him Cliff Ronning was unstoppable in NHL 94

  337. 337 AM

    This is nuts. When was the last type there was this much hype for a player like Bill Guerin getting traded a few days before the deadline? Just goes to show show you how crazy its going to be on deadline day. These 5-6 teams who are the only sellers are in the drivers seat.

  338. 338 Larry Ziegler

    I say there is no trade in place and the Islanders got nervous when Witt got suspended and Martinek hurt himself, they saw 2 possiable trading chips miss time, so they are taking no chances with Guerin.

  339. 339 Kevin Fitz

    ahhhh!! it’s been two hours since CB’s last update!! I am going stiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiir crazy!

  340. 340 akeem

    Guys, let’s take a chill. THERE ISN’T THAT MUCH HYPE! It’s just here, I promise…

  341. 341 4195mary

    Vanek and Roy would have to be included for cap room.

  342. 342 Obs

    It’s Luca Brazzi! Well, all kidding aside I hope it’s Luca Caputi, a big, 6′2″ 185lbs LW from the Penguins or Alex Grant 6′2″ D-man with a big shot. I don’t think that is asking too much for BG.

  343. 343 Will

    @akeem
    Damn! Pat Verbeek, hell, lets get andrew cassels and geoff sanderson in there while were at it :D

    @Rich
    Indeed Cliff Ronning was dominant in NHL 94 as was that whole team, bure, courtnall, ronning, hell i could even pot some goals with jyrki lumme haha

  344. 344 Justin Marques

    AM:

    This hype is good for the Islanders, very good! If teams are getting into a bidding war, and I pray that they are, we might wind up coming out with more than we thought we would from this deal. If the deal turns from a second and a prospect to a first round pick because of a bidding war, wouldn’t that make you happy? Who knows, maybe more players are involved, and maybe this is really a big deal overall. Only time will tell, but it’s good to have the focus on the Islanders for once, and in a positive light!

  345. 345 guerin13

    this reminds of the mats sundin will he or won’t he waive his ntc situation from last year and when he couldn’t decide between van and nyr this year.

  346. 346 David

    how about this for a trade possibility? guerin to dallas for brett hull, and guerin becomes the stars’s new gm? ENOUGH ALREADY!!! WHATS GOING ON WHOSE BEEN TRADED WHERE?!!!!!

  347. 347 mtrico

    Strange that CB has been silent for so long. It would be nice to know what is going on.

  348. 348 4195mary

    Again, I love BG, but let’s not overdo it. He’s getting near the end of a great career. Bidding war, don’t think so.

  349. 349 Kevin Fitz

    I updated richard parks wiki page to show him as an islander again :)

  350. 350 akeem

    I got a better one - Guerin to the scrap heap for Eric Fichaud

  351. 351 THall90

    Do you really think that, if this was really part of some kind of blockbuster, something with more than just 2 teams involved, it would still be this quiet? The more people involved, the more likely someone would leak something, and I don’t mean “leak” like this character Rich and his Pominville BS…

  352. 352 Bobby

    There is no way he waves a NTC to go to Buffalo!! Truth be told we have hyped this so much it doesn’t even matter who or what we get back. We have more than likely set ourselves up for a huge dissapointment.

  353. 353 THall90

    This blog is like CRACK…how did I ever let you guys suck me in to this all day????

  354. 354 doug

    #352….understatement of the year!

  355. 355 Michael from T.O.

    I keep reading Guerin to the Caps, with the holdup beign trading Nylander.

  356. 356 4195mary

    Let’s try and acquire Richard Kromm. Guerin, Witt, Hilbert, and Tonelli for him.

  357. 357 Pnut

    @mtrico
    maybe he hasn’t heard anything, then why go on here because Chris doesn’t have to come on here hourly
    ….
    I am beginning to think Guerin will be here after the deadline, the longer this takes, the worse for a trade, something has to give (and I am a usually optimistic fan)

  358. 358 Danny in Section 306

    It’s going to be Guerin for 2 Second’s and some fourth rounder; I know it’s been hyped but everybody has to stop expecting the Isles to get back a high-caliber player.

  359. 359 doug

    i think the only thing we r getting back is the C off of BGs jersey!

  360. 360 Obs

    Prospect or Pick? Which would you prefer?

  361. 361 Mike from Oceanside

    What is going to appear first…The snow on the ground or the Snow in front of a microphone?

  362. 362 doug

    prospect

  363. 363 David

    whats the chance that its actually the caps, and that snow is working on an extension with nylander and thats the holdup?

  364. 364 Stephen Herrmann

    I wonder if Witt will actually end up in Washington? anyone have an opinion on that?

  365. 365 4195mary

    Why would we want Nylander. He’s 35, soft, and a former ranger.

  366. 366 doug

    think it would be good for both wsh and witt….i wanted Pat Lafontaine to finnish here!

  367. 367 Roberto

    Nylander is not an impending UFA…so zero chance.

  368. 368 Jake from Albany

    That was a good one Mike for Oceanside (361)

  369. 369 THall90

    Can’t see them getting Nylander…what for?? We’re rebuilding, so why go from one veteran to another? I’m not saying that I wouldn’t take him, but not straight up for Guerin, and if I’m Garth Snow, this makes no sense…

  370. 370 ISLESFAN999

    nylanders has 3 yrs left on his deal and ntc. We do not need him. We need picks

  371. 371 HilbertSnipe

    I’ll be happy with anything at this point as long as Comrie doesn’t come back to the Island.

    Bobby, I think everyone set themselves up for a huge disappointment except for maybe me haha!
    If something in the trade wire is holding this up, it is near impossible to have any organization handle it perfectly IMO. If it’s what is speculated, and that is that something is holding it up on the table, then the Isles are more than likely trying their best to get the trade done. I wouldn’t mind a statement by management, but for those of you who are complaining about constant updates from the Isles themselves, I think that is ridiculous. That is the media’s job… to speculate. I’m sure G-SNOW is doing his best job to get the trade done!

  372. 372 Obs

    @365
    Nylander would be the throw-in salary dump to make cap space for BG’s contract. The real question would be who is the prospect or how high is the pick.

  373. 373 Michael from T.O.

    The deal for Nylander would make no sense, unless he is traded to another team (Chicago?) for a package.

  374. 374 Bobby

    On a side note, if you read the newsday blog it sounds as though Gordon has sewn the “C” on Hunter’s jersey himself.

  375. 375 4195mary

    You could flip him at the deadline, but why not do a 3 team deal if that were the case?

  376. 376 Stephen Herrmann

    i would never want nylander.

  377. 377 doug

    HEY CB…..is it safe to go eat dinner?

  378. 378 the bomber

    this will be priceless when hes back in the lineup tuesday night

  379. 379 Chickendirt

    Anyone think Weight could be following Guerin?

    Maybe that could be part of the hold up? Just the ironing out that portion of the trade?

  380. 380 C$

    NYI : Bill Guerin

    WAS: The dude that played goal for one period.

  381. 381 isles316

    Sutton and Meyer are not on the Isles depth chart on the team website. Don’t know if that is cause of injury but Thompson and Weight are on there and they are hurt.

  382. 382 Stephen Herrmann

    Bill Guerin will not play, they wont risk letting him get hurt before the deadline. We already lost Weight. Snow is too smart to not let Guerin play.

  383. 383 Mike B.

    Witt to Washington just was said to be imminent on Isles Nation

  384. 384 4195mary

    I’m not sure, but doesn’t Nylander have a large contract now, something similar to Guerin.

  385. 385 bruinsfanatik

    Don’t u think its possible that with the previous experience Gordon had with Providence that he might want to get some kid he already knows in exchange for Guerin??

  386. 386 Jimmy Sparx

    Let’s get ridiculous here……..

    To Montreal: Guerin, Weight, Witt, Park, 1st rd pick(San Jose), 2nd rd pick, 3rd rd pick, and $$$$.

    To Islanders: Higgins and Komisarek.

  387. 387 Justin Marques

    The only way we get Nylander is if it is part of the salary dump. In that case, it could be Witt and Guerin to the Capitals for Nylander, a good prospect, and a first rounder. Guerin and the salary dump would equate to the first rounder, and Witt is worth a prospect. See though, everyone can speculate as much as they want. My words here are as pointless as everyone elses until we find out if the trade really goes down and what happens.

  388. 388 Justin Marques

    Jimmy Sparx, that was the worst trade I have ever seen in my life. Higgins isnt worth more than a good prospect and a second round pick at best. Komisarek is worth a first and a prospect, but why would we give up all those players for them two?

  389. 389 Jake from Albany

    Sutton and Meyer are on the depth chart

  390. 390 isles316

    they are on the roster page yea, but off the depth chart.

  391. 391 doug

    i think we are all missing the point here….if we get someone decent…how do we keep him here? We have traded away or lost our last four captins,even with a NTC!

  392. 392 Bob Bassen

    Um, so, just for a break in the action, what was everyone’s all time favorite Mike Comrie-toe-drag-move?

  393. 393 Mike

    CB…congrats on 1 mil hits!

  394. 394 Steve K

    Justin (388), I think it was a joke…

  395. 395 Kevin Fitz

    Congrats Chris on 1,000,000 hits in one day. that is unbelievable! I think I provided about 350,000 of them tho!

  396. 396 David

    IM CRYING ALREADY GARTH SNOW!!!!! TELL US WHAT THE DEAL IS! ill do anything at this point!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

  397. 397 brian

    andy strickland says guerin to flyers…isles waiting for flyers to clear cap room

  398. 398 admin

    updated with a chippy non-update and a question at 6:00 pm…CB

  399. 399 Fauxrumors

    Who broke Campoli? Pretty much every mainstream media outlet. TSN and RDS both reported it long before you lame site. The fact that you were in an airport on not surfing the net does not mean someone you know wasn’t. Just because you heard it on your blackberry and not the net doesn’t mean you broke it!

    IDIOT!

  400. 400 Michael from T.O.

    brian, just read that too. Wonder what they would get in return?

  401. 401 Kristie

    Thanks for the (non)update, at least it’s something.

  402. 402 Jimmy Sparx

    To Justin #388— Like I said ridiculous…lol.

  403. 403 isles316

    The Flyers have plenty of cap room, that is a false statement from Strickland.

  404. 404 Moose

    FauxRumors (# 399), do your homework. You have no idea who you’re insulting, do you? This isn’t some schmuck in suburban Philadelphia in his basement using the handle of a 3rd line schlep as his alter ego.

    Thanks.

  405. 405 Brooks Simpson

    There is another blockbuster trade brewing, but a few things are holding up my being able to announce it yet. These include neither the teams nor the players having been decided upon yet. Details forthcoming when I have them.

  406. 406 Jimmy Mac

    Strickland now saying Flyers… waiting to clear room under the cap.

  407. 407 The Express

    (399)

    Don’t let the banhammer smack you too hard….

  408. 408 Bobby

    Pitt won, so 3 points seperate 6-10….that puts us in the drivers seat as a seller. So we got that going for us.

  409. 409 admin

    (399) Faux: That’s why I asked the question. I didn’t know. Thanks for answering my question on my lame idiotic blog you just happened to be on 30 seconds after I asked it…CB

  410. 410 Adam in Upstate

    Well, Moose (it’s Twilight), With a name like FauxRumors you think this joke has a clue anyway? Go back to your basement and cry to yourself, troll.

  411. 411 4195mary

    Nice job Brooks Simpson, or can we just call you BS.

  412. 412 Will

    Philly? eehhh… idk, how the heck would they fit all that salary especially now that briere is back, … In all honesty, if they pull that trade off and happen to go deep in the playoffs, Paul Holmgren deserves the gm of the year IMO.

  413. 413 doug

    faux….go home!

  414. 414 ISLESFAN999

    I really wish people would show CB respect. He is awesome and does all of this for us fans. I for one really appreciate it. I am a die hard islanders fan and this is my favirote site!!!

  415. 415 Pat, Stony Brook

    I’m sure 399 pissed off pretty much everyone, lets just let CB handle it.

    Thanks again for the update, again even if its not breaking news, its still something to read, and still keeps me at the edge of my seat. Hope you’re stayin warm Cb.

  416. 416 isles316

    Guys, the Flyers have over 3 million in cap space. All contracts now are pro-rated making Guerin’s about 1.2 or so.

    They have plenty of room. Strickland also thought that Pronger stepping on someone’s ankle last year got a much longer suspension then it deserved so since then I take nothing he says seriously.

  417. 417 Bob Bassen

    Philly is probably the tightest against the cap. That’s why they had to lose Metropolit and another just get Briere back form the inkury list. Jersey is a close second which is why Clemmonson is in the minors and Weeks is still with the Big Club.

  418. 418 4195mary

    Well said 999

  419. 419 doug

    i 2nd you 415..as a fan of this ng team liviout of state im still part of the action with this site!

  420. 420 jaf10

    i reada nylander was a healthy scratch maybe its a 3 way trade Islanders, chi, and wash.

    Maybe its to philly i know they want pronger and that will take lupul, one of there d guys and a pick. Guerin would take lupul’s spot.I wonder if its possible for us to get James Van Rymesdyke if we add witt in the deal.So something like Guerin, Witt, Park for Van rymesdyke and a 3rd and any salary dumps they want to get rid of

  421. 421 Mike B.

    Guerin to Flyer for Van Riemsdyk I hope!

  422. 422 coral springs isle fan

    Good riddins to MC Toe Drag. He had a few good ones but give me 10 chances at something and I am bound to strike gold once or twice.

    I am convinced nothing happens until tomorrow. I probably will hear it on NHL network on XM. Who would want to break a story on a Sunday anyway. You get more bang for the buck on a business day when everyone is working and looking for a story.

    This long played out deal will probably be followed by another move shortly after. Garth is hammering away in a bunker right now. Make it happen Snowy!

  423. 423 Will

    There is no way that philly has 3 mil in cap space.

    I mean, I may be wrong, but i dont see it at all… any proof?

  424. 424 jaf10

    not a cahnce that would be straight up. Wed have to add so much more

  425. 425 Isles78

    I think CB has done a great job, he isn’t making things up he just reports facts which gives us Islander fans some insight into many situations that arise.

  426. 426 Bob Bassen

    Must be a three-way deal…I mean WTF would be holding up Guerin for a pick and/or prospect?

  427. 427 jisles

    I think this is a big trade and the isles are probably giving more up ie weight also. If this was just guerin for draft picks and prospects we would have known about it last night. You dont sit on that. So I am still going to say this is a big deal and the islanders are taking on a veterean player who is going to be a FA at the end of the year and are working out a contract extension. Just my sense. It is not a stretch to for the islnaders to bring back a veteran player who is in the prime because we would have sillinger playing right now. lets see what happens.

  428. 428 jaf10

    if it was a 3 way i think wash chi isles would be teh best bet.

    wash-guerin and idk

    chi-nylander and idk

    isles- pick or prospect

  429. 429 jaf10

    yeah maybe weight is invovled some how

  430. 430 ISLESFAN999

    Are lots of trades this hard. Or is it possible no deal was really made at all and snow is that smart!

  431. 431 Will

    I dont think its a 3 way, i think its someething simple, and highly doubt us getting back anything more than a pick or prospect…

    The wait is making this way more overblown than it should be..

  432. 432 Chris TMC

    Post 399: Wow, what an angry post. Oh well, now there is one less blog for me to bother following.

  433. 433 Bob Bassen

    Philly lost Metropolit to Montreal on the Waiver wire just to make room for Briere coming off of the injured reserve list on Thursday. Jersey is super tight against the cap also which is why Clemmonson (who had a great year) was sent to the Minors when Brodeur came back.
    Sorry for the echo.

  434. 434 Will

    Clemmonson was sent down because Weeks has a 1 way contract and they did not want him to be claimed by another team.

    That from Lou himself.

  435. 435 john

    I just pulled up the Isles offical web site and Bill Guerin’s photo on the front page was replaced with Kyle Okposo’s. That’s interesting.

  436. 436 TIM

    Isles fan 999 #414 i’m with you CB we got your back

  437. 437 Cain

    #435: Just noticed that myself too…

  438. 438 Will

    @john
    he’s still under the roster though… I wouldnt look too much into that until he’s taken off the roster..

  439. 439 Obs

    Capitals Recall Jay Beagle from Hershey.

    That should clear up why he was a scratch from the Hershey game. Another dead end rumor.

  440. 440 Kristie

    (417) Clemmensen is in the minors becuase he didn’t have to clear waivers to go down because he was an emergency call up. Weekes would have had to clear to go down.

    I would love to see Guerin bring back VanReimsdyke (spelling?) but I don’t think it will happen…not with just Billy anyway.

  441. 441 doug

    been like that all day on nyi.com

  442. 442 SinCityHockeyFan

    ok common sense here… i firmly beleive if cb does know anything and its not supposed to be leaked cb cant break the story…. or he would most likely be cut out of the loop. I think cb has been dropping hints..

    second you can trade a player claimed on waivers if its before the dead line…. if you pick up a player off waivers after the trade deadline that player could still be traded BUT he can not play for the team he was traded to until next season… this is referred to as the “Jeff Hamilton rule” remember him lol.

    And its real easy to people to have hockey connections… think about it…. hockey players and execs have friends… siblings and they also grew up and went to school somewhere. I for instance grew up on long island.. and played hockey with quite a few people who played and still play in the N.H.L. wow i miss playing late night hockey at the rinx in hidden pond park.. made lots a great connections. I guess what im trying to say if you played ice hockey growing up and were quite good at it. you’d be amazed at how many hockey connections can be made. I have what may people would consider quite a few credible sources. only difference is friends don’t take advantage of the people they know so they can make themselves look good on message boards. So i highly doubt rich as any kind of first hand knowledge. I think hes just stirring the pot. and he’s getting a reaction from you guys.

    if i had to venture a guess i be willing to guess that garth pulled guerin from the line up to force other gm’s hands hes been talking to.. so if hes talking to three teams for instance… you make them think a deal is real close… then it makes the other teams eaither sh*t or get off the pot.. or if it was a game of poker garth is calling.. so he can see what the other teams are holding. i also have a strong feeling cb is fully aware of garths plan… i think snow is alot shrewder than people give him credit for.

  443. 443 Will

    Guerin for JVR not happening guys, not a chance..

  444. 444 Obs

    I’m not going to work till this gets done.

  445. 445 Stephen Herrmann

    I doubt to even hear anything by tonight. Its almost 7PM.

  446. 446 jisles

    I am sitll not ruling out the rangers. Sather wants to inject new blood and get rid of dead wood. The rangers want to make a push for Kovulchuk but they cant because of the cap they have to clear cap space. The rangers are like the yankees at trade deadlines. They give up whaterver they have to to make the postseason and Rangers with that massive payroll have to make it. Sather sees that slipping away and the rags cant score. He sees Guerin leading the worst team in the nhl in goals scored and knows he still has soemthing left if put between a playmaking centerman (Gomez). I beleive it is to the rangers for Redden and a pick. The islanders pick up another veteran dman. Redden is not a bad player. He is in a bad situation and he obviously cannot handle msg. Garth’s thinking is if I get Redden the isles will take on a 5 year contract. Which is basically what he gave streit. Assuming Redden gets his game back the islanders now have 2 solid vet dman and all but assures us of getting Tavares since there will be no need to draft Hedman. I would do it in a heartbeat.

  447. 447 Will

    I just dont see how philly makes room for Guerin…

    Im thinking that he’s not going there..

    I may have to eat my hat, but i just dont see it happening..

  448. 448 jaf10

    We are def going to eat a big salary if we trade him to philly

  449. 449 Obs

    Phil would be a great team to work out a trade. They are ranked 7th in terms of prospect talent in the NHL. Lots of top tier prospects to be had.

  450. 450 bruinsfanatik

    seriously philly doesn’t have room for a bag of pucks under their cap…

  451. 451 Ron from Lindenhurst

    *INSIDER UPDATE!!!*
    Guerin heading to the All American Hamburger in Massapequa for what could be his last meal on Long Island :)

  452. 452 Madchef

    fauxrumors #399, good thing u are an internet dope, cause if you made your statement in front of a 1/2 dozen of these blogger you would be pickin your teeth up off the floor….JMO

  453. 453 jaf10

    i hope garth is talking to teams about his other players also.

  454. 454 4195mary

    When Redden played in Ottawa, he was usually their best d-man( on offence and defence). Last season that seemed to change. Lack of confidence, change of coaches, who knows. He isn’t the same player he was 5 yrs. ago. Don’t think you can blame MSG.

  455. 455 isles316

    If you go to NHL numbers you will see that the Flyers have plenty of cap room seeing that Guerin’s pro rated salary is about 1.2 mill or so.

    Enough with the Philly is making room business. He COULD be going there, but it isn’t stalling because they need to make cap space.

  456. 456 Brooks Simpson

    Mary on 411 … So long as you call. :)

  457. 457 The Express

    (451)

    Now we’re talking. All American is good stuff.

  458. 458 Kevin Fitz

    Isles316 - the 3 million it says they have in cap room is for the full year salary amounts, not what is left. so guerins number for that site would be 4.5 million. so they do need to make cap room. plus, that site is not 100% accurate. no sites are.

  459. 459 Bob Bassen

    It appears that Philly has 57 grand of cap space. Matter of fact Montreal, Rangers, and the Capitals would all have to move bodies around in order to absorb the remaining Guerin contract.
    FWIW the Islanders are in first place with over 13 million available cap space! :D

  460. 460 Will

    455
    Go to that link from hockeybuzz with salary numbers on it.. Thats been updated as of today, on nhl numbers briere is still on ltir! so he’s not going to philly unless they clear cap space!

  461. 461 Obs

    I’m sure a trade with any of the teams we’ve been talking about will require the Isles taking back a player/salary.

  462. 462 Brooks Simpson

    I’m way past worrying about Guerin’s going. He’s gone, one way or another, and the only question is the assets gained in return. Now, as to Witt and Weight, and anyone else … that’s more interesting. How would have thought Hilbert would be on CB’s list of attractive targets?

    After this season Snow and Gordon will have to face the fact that they have built the team they wanted, and we should not hear anything more about past mistakes … although I guess we’ll always hear about DiPietro’s contract.

  463. 463 Lenny

    Guerin for Alzner

    :D

    only kidding, but imagine? mmmm

  464. 464 Chris M

    I’m officially preparing myself to be let down. It’s the Islanders and they always let me down. Why should today be any different. We take one step forward and two steps back. Looking forward to CB’s comments on the Gordon vs Vets controversy. This cannot be good for our chances of signing FA’s.

  465. 465 Obs

    @463
    We could only wish. But how about BG and the SJ 1st round pick we have for Alzner?

  466. 466 Will

    agreed with Chris M, lets all close our eyes next time we hit refresh and hope that the trade we see doesnt let us down like it most likely will…

    sigh.. well it was fun for like 5 minutes, then it just got annoying..

  467. 467 isles316

    Post #460… and Kevin Fitz

    Guerins pro rated salary of 1,207,316 based on 22 remaining games for the Flyers (which now they have less I believe) fits under the 3 mill left on nhl numbers and 1,272,000 on the other link.

    The Flyers have room.

  468. 468 Bobby

    According to XM Radio the Bruins just acquired pronger. I would assume that rules them out.

  469. 469 Ron from Lindenhurst

    i’m expecting the Isles to get screwed out of this one. it sounds like a comlicated 3 way deal and all we’re going to get out of this is a few picks in ‘09 and ‘10

  470. 470 Kevin Fitz

    I am not gonna argue this. They do not have the cap space right now. And remaining salary is based on days not games.

  471. 471 jisles

    Guerin to the rangers or Pens. Watch. The best fit for Guerin is Pitt. He would score alot of goals playing along side crosby and give that team a jolt of vet leadership and energy.

  472. 472 Bob Bassen

    #467 Why is Glen Metropolit, who was playing for the Flyers last week,a member of the Montreal Canadiens?

  473. 473 David

    is anyone else thinking snow made this whole thing up to generate interest for guerin?

  474. 474 isles316

    I believe you Kevin, and I’m approximating everything but I don’t see anywhere how they don’t is all I’m saying.

  475. 475 Greg

    Philly waived him to make cap room for Brier;s return

  476. 476 Shawn33

    Bob, They put him on waivers and the habs took him.

  477. 477 Will

    467

    nhl numbers is not updated!!!

  478. 478 TimQ

    Ron #451 - Funny! Maybe we can get News 12 on the story and follow Guerin’s white Bronco/Escalade down Sunrise Hway and give us updates

  479. 479 ary no details given though.

    three way deal in the works involving isles montreal and calgary no details given though.

  480. 480 Akeem

    For all the fans EXPECTING to be let down, let’s remember how most of us lauded the Smyth trade at the time, as did most of the hockey world. For the most part, with the exception of the Zednik move, Garth has made sound moves…

  481. 481 Kevin Fitz

    whats ur source 479?

  482. 482 Akeem

    479, source?

  483. 483 Obs

    479 not passing the “smell” test

  484. 484 Will

    Akeem:
    I agree that Garth has made solid moves, I’m not disputing that.. I’m just saying, let’s be realistic.. Billy G is not what he used to be, I dont think he will bring in the return acceptable enough to be considered a great trade,

    IMO a great trade would be getting a 1st rd pick for BG.. add in a prospect ill say GS fleeced the opposing gm.

  485. 485 TimQ

    Breaking News - Guerin just bought a cheesteak at Subway. No doubt this means he’s going to Philly

  486. 486 ISLESFAN999

    Maybe we should take hilbert outta the game and martinek and then start a bidding war for them!!!

  487. 487 Rob

    479’s source is some guy named RICH lol

  488. 488 sleazetack

    ckac730 sport in montreal radio station web site

  489. 489 Obs

    @487
    HAHAHAHAAH

  490. 490 Will

    LMFAO @ Rob and TimQ

  491. 491 4195mary

    Akeem, I guess you’re right about Zednik( I think he cost a second round pick( too much)), but he was one of the team’s best forwards in that brief playoff series even though he didn’t dress for a couple of games. That’s about all you can realistically hope for in a rental player.

  492. 492 Will

    I think if we get Rob’s joke, that means we’ve been on here we too long eh guys?

  493. 493 Coral Springs Isle Fan

    My wife just served me with divorce papers on grounds of sitting in front of a computer for more than 24 hours without any inkling of the so called trade I have been telling her about since last night.

    I will argue it was only 23 hours and 59 minutes.

  494. 494 TimQ

    My source tells me that Guerin is insisting that unlimited pierogies are included in his deal to Pittsburgh. No pierogies…no deal

  495. 495 Obs

    @493
    Better than World of Warcraft, no?

  496. 496 Moose

    Why can’t we just get Matt Cooke and a pick and call it a day?

  497. 497 bill

    Bobby #468, any other confirmation of Pronger going to the Bruins?

  498. 498 Heineken

    strickland is reporting its to the flyers.
    supposivly he’s close w/ guerin from st. louis days

    who knows….

  499. 499 Kevin Schultz

    @ Will 492: Yeah, that’s about right. But hey, I’m with you on that

  500. 500 Heineken

    world of warcraft is the ultimate divorce! :)

  501. 501 Danny in Section 306

    Why is it that whenever some random guy posts a rumor there is never any source, formal introduction, or even grammatical input? It’s always as if they’re running around and feel obligated to stop on the computer to write something.

  502. 502 Scott

    the hold up is that Guerin will be named the new GM of the Islanders so Snow can come out of retirement. jk

  503. 503 Bobby

    The report was Pronger to the Bruins for Mark Stuart, Joe Colbourne and a 1st in ‘10

  504. 504 Will77

    well guys, I can tell you one thing, its not for Higgins. As I’ve said on CB’s post about Higgins a week or so ago, I’m friends with Chris’s younger brother and just talked to him. I didn’t ask for anything other then if Chris was heading this way and the answer was no

  505. 505 bruinsfanatik

    There is no truth in the Pronger trade anywhere…let alone why anyone would believe XM radio BS over TSN or NHL or anything else…

  506. 506 Akeem

    Danny,
    How’s the view from Sec 306? You get WiFi from there???

  507. 507 Will

    Im curious on both of the other posts about Pronger to Beantown and the 3 way with nyi and mtl and whoever else …

    anyone confirm or give more details?

  508. 508 admin

    updated with my latest guess and a response to something a few of you have written here…CB

  509. 509 B.P.

    Come on Botts, give it up. You know.

    :p

  510. 510 bruinsfanatik

    The rumor of Pronger was from 3 days ago. Not a bad trade but there is not enough cap room for an old washed up defenseman when there are young talented kids to sign next year!

  511. 511 Islanders1984

    either Wash or philly have some nice prospects so either would be good

  512. 512 Akeem

    Wow! CB bucking the trend! Does that make you an “unreliable media type”???

  513. 513 Chickendirt

    CB;

    Do you have a count on how many hits this blog has generated today?

    Looks like all eyes are on you to break this.

  514. 514 Danny in Section 306

    The view is great my seats are in the second row so I get a good view of the whole ice - I have basic internet on my blackberry I just use it for aim and google as for WiFi I don’t know

  515. 515 jisles

    The longer this goes on I think MTL is not the team. Guerin does not want to move far away from his family. This is why it has to be a team very close to LI. ie rangers, philly.

    For those who are saying Garth is making this up to spur interest are wrong. You dont do that because you risk breaking relationships with other gns around the league. GM’s need strong relationships with each other so that they can work out future deals and not blackballed by other GMS if you try silly stunts. Also, if Garth was making it up to drive interest he is all but stuck with Guerin because if no one bites he will not be able to trade him and he cant put him back in the lineup. After the article in todays newsday Billy is getting traded 100%. there is a legitimate deal in the works and we will just have to wait and see what it is.

  516. 516 Akeem

    Danny,
    I was just kidding, bro. As if you were sitting in 306 right now…

  517. 517 Will

    Good call CB

    but…

    to quote Sean Connery from celebrity jeopardy.. Until i know for sure..

    “I’ll play your game you rogue”

  518. 518 Chris Wassel

    This is just plain bizarre. It is like grammar school all over again trying to play guessing games. Hopefully we will know soon.

  519. 519 Danny from Section 306

    Changed “in” to “from” to avoid further confusion.

  520. 520 jisles

    LIke i posted earlier this is for a vet player with a contract coming back in return. Scotty Upshall? Gagne? Hartnell? I dont understand why this would take so long just for draft picks and prospects. WTF. A big player is coming back.

  521. 521 Coach B

    I’m sure when and if something does happen, Chris will get it to us quickly as possible.

  522. 522 Heineken

    once theres 10″ on the ground we will hear breaking news

  523. 523 7th Woman

    I just hope the actual information is as good as the build up to it. This has certainly been wildly entertaining!

  524. 524 Heineken

    maybe briere? cant see gagne upshall or hartnell being moved, but they might not like how danny briere fits on the team now.

  525. 525 David

    Im SURE we will all have a big laugh about this at IslandersPointBlank night next week! haha

  526. 526 doug

    Didnt CB just say wsh or am i mistaken?

  527. 527 4195mary

    Briere might not be perfect, but he would look sweet in an Islanders uni.

  528. 528 Chris Wassel

    It all gets more and more strange…I can tell you out here on the West Coast…this is quite entertaining.

  529. 529 bruinsfanatik

    Well if u think about this…what Philly player will be willing to move his NTC to go to the last place Isles when the Flyers have a chance at the Cup??

  530. 530 dmen77

    Maybe the deal is to Philly and Gagne is coming our way.

    The holdup is over Gagne’s birthday celebration. His birthdate is 2/29, leap day. Snow and Holmgren are arguing when Gagne should be celebrating it.

    Snow argued it should have been last night and he can be traded today. Holmgren is arguing his celebration should be today and he cannot trade him on his “birthday”.

    The deal will probably go down at midnight.

    LOL

  531. 531 Kevin Schultz

    You know what would be terrible… If the trade didn’t go down tonight and I got snowed out of work tomorrow, so we could do this all again tomorrow… Oh who am I kidding that would be awesome!

  532. 532 PFR

    Wont the Flyers need to move a player to free up cap space if they bring in Guerin? Maybe the hold up is that Philly cant find a team to dump salary on.

  533. 533 Will

    LMAO @ Kevin

  534. 534 bruinsfanatik

    LMAO #530 and 531!!! Thanks! :)

  535. 535 SinCityHockeyFan

    wow #515.. while some things you bring up are valid… but wow dude what world do you live in.. gm’s dont do stunts.. they dont try to maximize interest in their assets to get the best return.. wow dude and i bet you believe every hand of poker is won by the person with the best hand. and again think of the smith trade… the islanders trader a number 1 pick in a draft not considered as deep as 08 and 09… traded neilson and omarra… the islanders didnt think either player would amount to didly squat. so if garth told edmontons gm yeah we think both o’marra and neilson suck. i think not. you are clueless when it comes to how the game is played. the problem is most people think because they participate fantasy hockey leagues… just because some of us are into the fantasy hockey leagues don’t make you a GM.

    Great sight CB congrads on providing a quality place for intelligent hockey talk… even the ones who TALK LOUD but SAY NOTHING.. those are always good for a few laughs.. so cb how hard to you laugh at some of these posts mine included.

    Last note for people who personally attack CB. while hes more then capable of defending himself i only offer this… think about it this way.. CB is not going to your web sights to rip you apart for providing a free alternative place for islanders fans to post and get great info.

    coming here to post negative comments that are not warranted about CB is as offensive as coming over to someones home and verbally berating them in their own house.

    I guess some people were not brought up correctly, and have no etiquette.

  536. 536 4195mary

    Dump salary on?? How about, oh I don’t knowww, maybe the ISLANDERS!!!

  537. 537 Chickendirt

    I may as well just say it.

    This trade is not going to break today.

    (Now watch it announced in the next 15 minutes)

  538. 538 jisles

    I am pondering whether to call in or not. I gotta get on the road at 6am and there is suppossed to be a foot of snow on the ground by then. sounds like I will be doing this all day tommorrow.

  539. 539 Will

    GAHHH I just missed “a day in the life of mike green” on the NHL network because of this damn website!!!

    CURSE YOU GARTH SNOW CURSE YOU!!!

  540. 540 first place isles

    philly has no chance at the cup with or with or without are last captain and his vet buddies

  541. 541 Bobby

    528…write the names of possible destinations on a bunch of tennis balls…throw them on your roof…whichever hits the ground first is the destination. THIS WILL HAVE MORE ACCURACY!!!!……
    Bruinsfanatik…Chiarelli said in an interview with the Boston herald that he will worry about next year next year, right now, his job is to win a cup. That would lead me to believe he will go after whomever he believes will help attain this goal.

  542. 542 mapisles2025

    Garth, this wait better be worth it.

  543. 543 Brian from Massapequa

    If it is Philly, they’ll probably flip him for Brayden Coburn II on Wednesday.

  544. 544 sleazetack

    eklund on hockey buzz .com reportts possible trade involving montreal and calgary. same day as gueringate. hmmm….

  545. 545 miket

    i can not imagine why this is taking so long.
    We are not brokering a peace plan for the entire planet.

    Thank you to the islanders for keeping me wrapped up in this fiasco.

  546. 546 Moose

    Bill Guerin has been traded to the Hartford Whalers for a Pat Verbeek jersey and the right to use ‘Brass Bonanza’ as our goal song.

  547. 547 Will

    HAHAHA @545 perhaps a peace plan will be needed if garth doesnt let us know what the hell is going on soon..

  548. 548 jisles

    #535, I am not saying that gms dont maximize thier assets but you dont pull a stunt like taking Guerin out of the lineup. If gms are as shrewd as you say they are would you fall for it? I sure wouldn’t news would get out in heartbeat that Garth has nothing and now Garth is holding the bag. And gms who do try to play silly games usually dont last that long in this league. BTW ryan smythe was an UFA and he and edm could not reach an agreement. Snow offered prospects and draft picks there was nothing shady about that.

  549. 549 Heineken

    garth trades the isles for the capitals! the things i’d do to 1 day see ovechkin in isles uniform! cant we dream :)
    I just hope we can draft someone who shows up every night and loves the game of hockey like ovechkin.

    Anyone read that saga with don cherry ripping ovechkin when he scores. Boudreau or however caps coaches name is spelt fired back at Don cherry! :)

  550. 550 isles22

    I’ll say it.

    The Bill Guerin trade is turning into Kirk Muller 2 electric buggaloo.

    This is a debacle. Either someone is balking at coming here (Nylander?) or now Guerin, the trade fallen through and at odds with the coach is being asked to stay away for the team.

    THIS IS STAGE THREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  551. 551 Will

    @Moose

    Where have you been!?!?!
    We already had a discussion of whether BG would be going to the whalers to play WITH pat verbeek or Ron Francis, cmon man where’ve you been!!!

    :D

  552. 552 Akeem

    SinCity, it appears you’re new to the blog. Thae VAST majority of people who read and post on this blog love CB and all he does for Islander hockey. There aren’t too many ad hominem attacks on CB. Anyhting negative people say, it’s just disagreeing with his opinions, which, I believe, CB encourages…

  553. 553 4195mary

    Is Fedorov still with Anna? Let’s get them. I miss Hilary.

  554. 554 AJ

    Eklund is reporting that Guerin has been traded to the Gaza Strip for 10 kassam rockets.

  555. 555 Brooks Simpson

    Someone may or not be traded today or tomorrow although no one knows for sure.

    I, however, have decided to trade Guerin on my NHL 09 game. However, as my season’s already over on NHK 2K9, Guerin (and Campoli and Comrie) stayed with me to the victorious end.

    Who will be the next captain?

  556. 556 Islebethere4u

    Don’t sweat it CB, you know who your fans are. Silly talk is just that. BTW, great response to this Billy G saga. It seems no one is losing interest just yet. Keep the faith, and keep it going!!!

  557. 557 Mike

    this is getting ridiculous… can they just say what this trade is already and if Snow is just messing with everyone he better hope it works

  558. 558 Brooks Simpson

    Update: Guerin for Obama trade confirmed (see, it was Washington!).

    Obama directs that FMIV give up uniform number 44, then diverts stimulus money to Lighthouse project, deeming it “shovel ready.”

  559. 559 Outside

    No official Guerin news tonight

    An Islanders official just informed me the team plans no announcements tonight. Nor is there a timeline in which to expect a future announcement. In other words, everything is “status limbo.”

    If I get more later, I’ll post it here first.

    Posted by Greg Logan on March 1, 2009 7:32 PM

  560. 560 Asitiswhenitwas

    Next Cap: Park?

    Cheers on the fantastic work CB.

  561. 561 Stephen Herrmann

    You guys gotta understand. Snow is recieving a bunch of offers right now. Im sure everytime hes ready to close a deal, another is coming in on his desk. Give the guy some time to make the best possible deal. Im sure Guerin made his list on where he will sign-off to go. Which snow is probably negotiating the best possible trades. Give it time. Their is no rush! We arent fighting for a playoff spot, here. Just let him do his job.

  562. 562 MT

    Oh you’ve got to be kidding me

  563. 563 miket

    CB…great job sticking with this!
    so lets say the trade falls through do we keep running guerin out there for the last 20 games or do we just waive him, bench him
    With him being captain and that newsday article this morning i can see this only getting worse and worse.

  564. 564 Mikey

    Bill Guerin was traded to the Yankees for A-Roid and Jeter.

  565. 565 4195mary

    Well said #561

  566. 566 Will

    In completely unrelated sports news…

    Did anyone else see the suit rick pitino was wearing tonight???
    :D LOL

  567. 567 Obs

    Ok that it, I’m not going to refresh now for at least 10 min. I’ll show you…

  568. 568 dmen77

    See I knew it….it’s Gagne’s birthday. Nothing will be announced tonight.

    Snow just told Holmgren if Simon has too much to drink tonight and cannot play tomorrow night, the deal is off.

    It’s all in Gagne’s hands now.

    LOL

  569. 569 Stephen Herrmann

    Thanks #565

  570. 570 Will

    Washingtion would be a good fit for Guerin and if we take back a guy like Nylander (awful contract with 8.5 M over the next 2), that will maximize what comes along with Nylander. A player like Fleischmann or possibly Alzner if we throw a draft pick back to Wash

  571. 571 Larry Ziegler

    Logan just posted, there will be no announcemnnt tonight or have one planned for the future,good night

  572. 572 gary

    i think you know who shot Kennedy, fess up Greg….

  573. 573 Will

    @570

    Hey, i’m the resident Will here, you confused me into thinking I wrote something i didnt, I demand a name change!!!

    :D

  574. 574 admin

    updated, with my take…CB

  575. 575 Spencer

    This team is going to be the death of me!!!!!!

  576. 576 Will OC

    lol my bad although I assume your joking, but I just noticed that too so I’ve added something to it to avoid confusion

  577. 577 David

    honestly uve ALL BEEN TRICKED! Snow is using this hyped up interest in the islanders to announce his TRUE intentions to the hockey world….HES COMING BACK OUT OF RETIREMENT to compete with DP and the others for the starting gig…the guerin stuff was all an excuse to get everyone looking our direction on LI…

  578. 578 Islesphan25

    It won’t be for Gagne… He got hurt today against the Devils…..Brian R. slapshot off the hand..look bad..

  579. 579 Sean

    If Garth Snow is creating a slight bidding war I’m going to be very impressed.

    I heard Philly wants to move Dan Briere. He is 2 years into an 8 year deal paying him $52 mil. If we trade Billy for him (plus other draft picks/prospects in the deal) it would be awesome. This would allow Philly a little more wiggle under the cap because they need another defenseman. Just a hope. Bad news is he might win us a few games and take us out of the bottom of the league.

  580. 580 Obs

    Thanks Cris, Good night all.

  581. 581 jisles

    In light of Logans recent post I am now at the “uh oh stage”. No news tonight?!this deal broke down and now we will be lucky to get a bag of pucks for Guerin. This sounds like the player coming back wanted no part of the islanders. Snow has really screwed this up. What is going on.

  582. 582 Will

    @576
    Completely Joking :D

    But thanks!

  583. 583 miket

    unreal…

  584. 584 JayK

    In the Islanders’ defense, they never said they had a trade. WE said there was a trade. They clearly had something cooking for Guerin, and didn’t want to risk injury (which given that he’s an Islander and had not been hurt already, he was probably destined). So they took him off the ice. Really, as far as the Islanders, that’s really all that happened. We are the ones who turned this into a frenzy.

  585. 585 Bob

    What the heck, it must have been a premature pulling from the game Garth thought he had a deal in principal and the other side must have spit the bit or the deal was contingent on Guerin signing an extension. Will see who plays tomorrow night or just shows up.

  586. 586 first place isles

    when will the pain end

  587. 587 Will

    Well I think our prediction of disappointment was minorly correct eh? haha

  588. 588 David

    ok im pissed off so much….guys we will see guerin in action this week. maybe draft day will bring better news :(

  589. 589 Chris Wassel

    Thanks CB once again!

  590. 590 NYICHAMP39

    You have got to be kidding me. This franchise and this team have driven me crazy for about ten years now. This is just another one of the ridiculous situations that only the Islanders franchise could create.
    I will always love my isles but i wouldnt disagree with anyone right now who says that this organization is a joke. So sad.
    When will we get back to the glory days???

  591. 591 IslesFanInBkNY

    That’s realy blows… I guess puting Logang’s and CB info together I would say BG has been kicked off the team like Derek Morris of Phoenix. Unreal… Isles turned into zoo zgain? Please, don’t let it happaned, Allmighty. :)

  592. 592 miket

    584..sorry dont agree. we created nothing the islanders pulled him, made no “official annoucement” they created this mess we are just trying to figure it out.

  593. 593 AB30

    I have been sitting around all day since watching the Devils telecast and nothing has changed with Guerin. Could there be a Multi-team trade? Maybe thats why its taking such a long time.

  594. 594 jisles

    If Guerin was pulled out of the lineup with no real trade in the works then Garth should be fired immediatley by Wang. That is BUSHLEAGE BULL. Now Guerin has absolutely no VALUE whatsoever. if there is no trade how can Guerin come back when the coach said guerin leaving was “inevitable.” How can you put Guerin back in the lineup? Just insane and total Bush. Bobbles at it again. shame

  595. 595 Stephen Herrmann

    I trust snow.

  596. 596 Chickendirt

    So much for that.

    I suppose what ever he had going on just fell through or he’s just beginning to get offers.

    Oh well.

    two and a half more days.

  597. 597 Stephen Herrmann

    #594. You have to understand, trades fall through sometimes.

    “You guys gotta understand. Snow is recieving a bunch of offers right now. Im sure everytime hes ready to close a deal, another is coming in on his desk. Give the guy some time to make the best possible deal. Im sure Guerin made his list on where he will sign-off to go. Which snow is probably negotiating the best possible trades. Give it time. Their is no rush! We arent fighting for a playoff spot, here. Just let him do his job.” -My Post Earlier.

  598. 598 Stevie10703

    I hope that Wayne Gretzky didn’t copywrite this but, 3 words:

    Mickey Mouse Operation

  599. 599 Steve S

    No doubt, Stevie. This is the most pathetic organization in all of sports. So sad what this franchise has become.

  600. 600 Mikey

    itss hard to root for this team when they do this

  601. 601 stumpy32

    That is it! Snow doesn’t have the balls to give more information. What a crock.

    I think us diehards deserve better, don’t you? Trade or no trade, we deserve an explanation!

  602. 602 upstatenyifan

    Was someone waiting for Kate Murray to pull the trigger on this deal?

  603. 603 Don't Mind the Haters

    If it’s Philly may be they still need to make some moves to accommodate Billy G.

    There’s still plenty of time to work a deal. The sky isn’t falling…. yet.

  604. 604 Pritchett54

    Does this stuff happen with any other franchise in sports?

  605. 605 miket

    597 i agree that snow might be getting some offers, is he being knocked over with them not so sure. What can the market bring back for brendan witt and maybe a trent hunter. the way bergenheim is playing right now he might be the best player we have available.

    Regardless i think Snow tried to create a market, and it failed. If this was a “ploy” i am not sure how his fellow GM’s will react to this.

  606. 606 Doug F.

    The deal fell through. Whoever was coming to the Islanders would rather play in the KHL…

    What a joke!!!

  607. 607 guerin13

    lol, this is so bizarre. no trade, unbelievable.

  608. 608 Will

    come on guys lighten up…

    whens the last time our isles got some recognition??

    This is waht the trade deadline is all about, it’s a cat and mouse game…

    dont say that “This is the worst orginization in all of sports” Thats BS

    Be happy we have a team and shut your mouth! I’d rather have to deal with this than having to watch my team move to kc or hamilton or winnepeg or whatever..

    Deal with it!

  609. 609 Pete DeBenedetto

    maybe this is guerin’s way of saying “I’m not playing for Gordon anymore.

  610. 610 isles316

    the “mystery team” probably backed out of the deal. It’s that simple.

  611. 611 miket

    if there is no real trade, wonder what howie and bill say in regards to this tomorrow night.

  612. 612 Matt

    Obviously this fell through. Sucks because what probably happened was the other team coming to their senses which will pretty much destroy Guerins value. You almost get the feeling it was going to be a decent deal for some reason. If this did happen Snow is going to be in a horrible position with Gordon’s quotes. What the heck is he going to do if he doesn’t get traded? Obviously the rest of the league is going to be very aware of this and know we have to dump him, hence destroying his value. In other words we are screwed which is something as an Islanders fan I should be used to but for some reason never gets any easier.

  613. 613 Vukota

    All you crying need to get a life. You are bashing the team because a deal fell through??????? You guys are pathetic. You guys are the ones who should look in the mirror. For every 1 passionate islander fan there are 10 Idiot ones as the blog has clearly exposed

  614. 614 Kevin Schultz

    The folks at Versus are REALLY happy right now.

  615. 615 Pnut

    thanks Chris, it has been nice reading the updates all and just know that there are plenty of Islanders fans here still that won’t pull ths “I have sources ” garbage and wont disrespect you or other fans by blasting your blog in this comments section. Or think that they are owed an explination on why it hasn’t or never will go down (i guess you can’t please everybody) Thank you for your dedication

    the ‘Nut

  616. 616 Matt

    So at least we know there are 11 Islander fans!

  617. 617 doug

    or maybe Weight didnt pass a phsycial

  618. 618 mtrico

    My only question: Now what happens? Does Billy play tomorrow?

  619. 619 Outside

    really happy b/c they think the snowstorm will force the game to be PPD so they wont have to air it?, and not have to show 500 ppl in the stands who were nuts enough to go out in a foot of snow?

  620. 620 doc

    Please. The Islanders never announced they had a trade. They did the right thing and pulled a player from the ice… and maybe at the request of the “OTHER” team.

    Things fall through.

    Melky Cabrera was traded for Mike Cameron… he’s still playing for the Yankees.

    It happens. Deals fall through. Guerin would be welcomed back I’m sure, if the deal colapses completely. Just my opinion.

    DOC

  621. 621 Brian from Massapequa

    CB - Nice gratuitous Ice Girl pic on the trade blog. And I thought you only used those goodies on game nights!

  622. 622 Bri on Li

    CB, what would happen if no deal is found? Does Bill sit the year out? If the deal falls through what are the choices of Mr. Snow? Does he look for a last minute replacement and hope the Captain says ok? Does Bill sit for the rest of the year? Had this kind of situation happened while you were an inside man?

    One last thing: What do you need to see happen for you to keep this blog alive until we win a Cup? You keep hinting at this blog possibly being a one shot deal. Why, and what can we loyal (read: addicted) readers do to convince you to keep on keepin’ on?

  623. 623 NYICHAMP39

    Will - 608

    I will always be an Islanders fan. But you are crazy if you think that we should just sit around at take the crap that has come out of this organization in the past 10 years. Im sorry I have to totally disagree with you. I dont think anyone should just “be happy that we have a team” and shut up. If we think this team is run like crap then we should talk about it like we do on this blog…then maybe things will change.

    Voicing disapproval is the only way to see what you want fixed actually getting done.

  624. 624 jonw

    Love to see people calling themselves diehards then blasting the orginzation in the same sentence . looks like the deal fell thru from the other side with no fault to the Islanders. How about giving them credit for having enough respect for Bill G and the other team/s involved by pulling him early and keeping it as hush as its been. Little respect for Garth too fry trying to better the team rather then just giving Bill G his old friend just a home and a good pacheck to finish his career with.

  625. 625 Michael Schuerlein

    Sick and tired of everyone saying this is a PR stunt and is all the fault of the Islanders if the deal falls through.

    Pathetic.

  626. 626 isles72

    I think a deal is in place but for cap reasons the other team might want to wait til wed so that less salary is on their books

  627. 627 NYICHAMP39

    Vukota 613

    Its frustration dude. I dont think you would disagree with that fact that this organization handles about 75% of its operations in the complete wrong way. Especially within the past three years. Neil smith firing, lafontaine quitting shortly after, Garth snow as GM, the Nolan firing, the constant exposure of lockeroom and organizational fueding and now this Guerin trade. Its a freaking circus. Get a grip on reality.

  628. 628 Will

    @623

    I completely agree that we should be allowed to voice our disaproval and have nothing wrong with that especially those who pay money to see these games..

    My issue is the fact that because the guy is scratched and no reason is given people say that this is “the worst orginization in all of sports” thats rediculous.. this is not the worst orginization in all of sports.. thats what i was saying shut up too..

  629. 629 DanNOLA

    Well, I’m off to go cry. Looks like that late second round pick that we might have gotten doesn’t want to sign here. Or was it Nylander? Or Higgins? I forget. Anyway, oh well.

  630. 630 NYICHAMP39

    point well taken will. I would agree with you there too. The worst organization in all of sports in my opinion through last year was the new york knicks haha NEW YORK REPRESENT!!

  631. 631 Mike

    I just want to know what team the trade was with and why it crashed.

  632. 632 Vukota

    I’m not the one who needs a grip on reality. I never said the Isles didn’t mess things up, my beef is with people crying because they wasted their whole day waiting for a trade that never happend. So they bash the Isles because the little babies didn’t get what they wanted. Yet I’m the one who needs a reality check. Ok….

  633. 633 season tix holder

    typical islanders. now we’ve alienated guerin who will never play again for us. the other teams now know this so we’ll be lucky to get a few pucks and a roll of tape for him. Get real folks, no FA coming our way until we get a lighthouse committment, the “kids” grow up and show they can play or the team moves to KC.

    Given the situation the Isles & Gordon are doing the right thing but Guerin deserves respect and another shot at the cup if thats what he wants. He was no Kirk Muller.

  634. 634 Youth Isle

    On the Islanders site under recent news they are advertising breaking news alerts on your mobile phone like something is coming in the near future.

  635. 635 Vukota

    For the first time in over 10 years they are rebuilding the right way and people are still complaining. Some people just feel they need to complain all the time. It’s old already…..

  636. 636 IslesFanInBkNY

    I don’t care anymore. Was there a trade or not but why would Isles official website removed Billy’s picture off the main banner. It was tgere just before Buffalo game…

  637. 637 Pete M

    I just can’t believe how much this teams own fan base is down on it. Its not bad enough that the team and organization are ridiculed and disrespected by the fans of other teams but the venom I’ve been reading about this trade thing from Islander “fans” borders on the disturbing. What makes any of you nay sayers think that if it did indeed fall through that it was Snow’s fault? NO ONE - not the Islanders, not the other team, not Guerin - has said ANYTHING so how do come to that conclusion? I know this team has been down for a while but geez. Why don’t we leave the Islander bashing to someone else.

  638. 638 DanNOLA

    Will ~628, thank you. I was thinking the same thing. Fans of half of the teams in professional sports think that about their franchise.

  639. 639 Chickendirt

    Sometimes you guys have to realize that this is the internet.

    There are trolls. There has been a troll on this site for the last two days pumping out tons of BS.

    Take the complaining with a grain of salt and the world doesn’t hinge on what some loser says on the internet.

  640. 640 coral springs isle fan

    CB needs for all the knuckleheads to abide by the rules and he probably needs a sponsor to throw him some guaranteed dough so he can tell his wife and kids that there is a reason he stays up all night on the weekend before trade deadline staring at his blackberry. A day like today in terms of hits and posts goes a long way to his sales pitch in the off season to possible sponsors/advertisers or whatever makes money in the virtual world.

    Maybe no news is good news. I can’t say this surprises me. I’m sure there will be moves come Wednesday and plenty to chat about.

    Let’s see how the team plays against a struggling Colorado team. Reaction to Smyth? (if he is there)? Go Isles.

    Danis starts? I can’t see why not…Can you? Bergy on the PP? Why not?

  641. 641 Will

    @636

    I saw that as well, however, usually if something was too happen, the player would completely be taken off of the roster page… last i checked he’s still there…

    Until he is taken off the roster page i wouldnt worry about the banner..

  642. 642 BringtheReign

    Well Billy’s off the Islanders front page, now Kyle runs it. Something def has to go down

  643. 643 isles316

    I get it that people are down on the franchise. They haven’t won anything in forever and let’s face it, there always seems to be a dark cloud over the franchise.

    Vukota is right though, this is the first time that I remember the team doing and commiting to a true rebuild and they ARENT blowing smoke up our rears. They are telling the truth.

    Im this trade fell through on the other teams behalf.

  644. 644 Vukota

    The sad thing is since all those other sites used point blank as a source all the trolls and idiots have come over here and polluted what was once a nice quiet site for the die hards. CB hope you can weed them all out. Keep up the good work. The REAL fans appreciate it.

  645. 645 Bob Bassen

    OK…so the deal is held-up or lost. Appears that it’s with *the other team*. No worries. More than half of the available *Eastern Conference teams* have potential Cap/contract related issues…probably where the problem is. Can’t blame them for sitting out Guerin…he and Witt are the only real commodities that will bring back the highest return. the Isles. Tick-tock-tick-tick-tock. Was fun checking in on progress throughout the day. Could be worse. We could be waiting for Sean Avery to come save us (Rangers) or we could be just out of a play-off spot and looking to dump Ryan Smyth’s bloated salary (Avalanche).

  646. 646 Brian B

    No one should be annoyed at the Islanders…they did nothing wrong. If Guerin plays yesterday…whether there was a trade on the table or not, and he got hurt…everyone would kill them then. Therefore it was the right move. The Isles never said there was a trade…Guerin was supposedly quiet the entire time. And NO ONE knew anything. Just look at the last 24 hours. There could be so many reasons why there isn’t going to be any news tonight. Maybe another team wants one more day. Maybe Snow has multiple offers and wants to go through all of them one more time. Maybe the deal did indeed fall through for some reason. Well…so be it. I know everyone is upset cause we’ve been watching this all day. But no one should be killing Snow or the Isles organization.

  647. 647 Vukota

    Isles 316- As always got my back. Much appreciated brother

  648. 648 Adam M.

    CB,

    “There is no trade” or there will BE no trade?

    Have to clarify. =P

  649. 649 Pete M

    NYIChamp (623): I agree that as fans we have a right to voice our disapproval of team actions, but how can you fairly voice your disapproval about a situation in which you have absolutely NO information? Not very fair in my mind.

  650. 650 Booten

    just throwing this out there but i went to iceworks today around 5 to pick up a streit jersey and there were at least 3 police cars with officers outside the entrance talking. Anyone know what was up?

  651. 651 Chris TMC

    Hey Pete, Im with you on (637). Some go so overboard on the drama its unreal… like if we dont get some 2nd round pick and a prospect that means (insert 34985734987529 complaints about it being Garths fault, Wangs fault, NVMCs fault, etc etc etc etc etc.) The only other fanbase Ive ever seen that bashes its own team as much as the Isles do is Toronto! What does that say?

  652. 652 Brian B

    By the way…I’m still pretty sure Guerin will be traded before the 4th. So why are we worrying?

  653. 653 stopthepain

    Here’s the problem with what went (or didn’t go) down. It’s all about the way it was handled by the organization. If there was no trade actually in place, why pull Guerin before the game? That is what created the speculation and excitement among the fan base. It’s amateur hour, or amateur decade…but who’s counting?
    CB - it’s events like those that occurred over the past few days that give the fans pause about the eventual success of the rebuild. If they can’t handle the everyday events for a professional organization (invite everyone to Iceworks and have the wifi go down; create excitement among the fanbase by holding Guerin out and then have nothing occur, etc…), why should the fans have faith in the rebuild.
    Yes, I (along with most of the fan base) supports a rebuild, but the goodwill the average fan feels toward this club has been diminished over the years of ineptitude. It’s tough to believe…

  654. 654 Refhater99

    If I had two cents to bet these days I’d say that Guerin rejected the trade. I can’t imagine Snowball being that picky about what he gets in return. The fans however should be picky. Because draft picks don’t impress me anymore. This team needs players who can contribute now, not five years from now. Flash Gordon is not impressing me either by the way he somewhat alienates certain veterans. No quality veteran will want to sign here if they think the coach will put unproven talent ahead of paid and proven stars.

  655. 655 Lenny

    @ Booten

    There are always cops around there as its a popular meeting spot for catching speeders on the road. They sometimes go in for coffee as well. I always used to wonder when I went in there but its been going on for a few years now. People just love to speed on that road lol.

  656. 656 Moose

    Does anyone really think Guerin won’t be traded before the deadline?

    We’re getting something out of this, it’s fairly obvious.

  657. 657 Chickendirt

    This ain’t the first time you are gonna see a trade fall apart in the next few days.

    It’s a seller’s market and prices are high. You’re gonna see a lot of false alarms.

  658. 658 Lawrence Teller

    A POSITIVE SIGN?

    According to http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2009/03/01/islanders_guerin/ - its the Islanders who slowed this process as they have more than one interested party.

    Interesting thought - Garth Snow, SUPERGENIUS?

  659. 659 AZS

    A little perspective people …

    a) We don’t know why this trade fell through - why are we assuming it was Snow’s fault?

    b) We’re assuming the Islanders we’re getting some tremendous prospect back when it could have really not been much at all

    c) There could be another deal in the works for Guerin (who could have said “no thanks” to the 1st “Trade”)

    If this would-be-trade falling through ruined your weekend then you need some perspective on life …this was fun and I was hoping (and still am) that he’ll be dealt, but let’s all step in from the ledge and wait to hear an explanation or see what happens before the deadline ends …keep the windows open for ledge jumping if we pass on Tavares or don’t get the Lighthouse done …

  660. 660 Adam M.

    There is probably a bidding war.

  661. 661 isles316

    I know we are all used to being let down in the most painful of ways.

    I get it. It has been tough to be a fan of this team. We have been through it more than any other team in sports. Hell, even the Clippers won a playoff series 2 seasons ago.

    We have a good thing here with Garth Snow. The guy is smart and he is sticking to this plan. Let’s give him more than 3/4 of a season during a rebuild to throw him under the bus too.

    We actually have a coach that says what he thinks, doesnt BS anyone and sticks to his guns and most of the young players have gotten better this season. Even Tambs had a good game last night doing little things that made him affective and useful without touching the score sheet.

    Come on guys, get behind this thing. We can all complain and whine but if we get behind and it turns out the way we all hope it does, how great will that be?

    What fanbase deserves it more? Hang in everyone, good things are coming in time.

  662. 662 Schultz39

    Not sure if it matters much if we trade him today or by Wed, truth is that we played well on Sat night without him and the guys that should be getting the playing time (Bergy) did and performed well. It sucks a deal hasn’t been announced yet but it’s not the end of the world that people have been jumping up and down about.

    CB - great job on all this stuff. Appreciate your honesty and forthrightness. (is that a word??) :)

  663. 663 4195mary

    Patience people. Garth has proven he’s no dummy. I’m sure their is a good reason nothing happened today(at least nothing we know about.) Nobody is embarrassing anybody. Guerin is definately not Muller, thank god. Probably something out of Garth’s hands anyway. Just chill. We’ve got 3 more days to do the deals.

  664. 664 first place isles

    bidding war,if we are lucky,
    for a second rounder

  665. 665 Moose

    #664, The Habs, Sabres and Flyers all DO NOT HAVE a second Rounder. We may steal a first out of this.

  666. 666 Richie66

    We are in such a great cap position to take on some high priced pending UFA from other teams, hope garth is looking into that. We take their high priced player for a couple of weeks + 2nd or 3rd rounder for our 5th or 6th rounder

  667. 667 Pete M

    Sounds to me like as soon as word got out that Guerin was pulled from the line up last night Snow’s phone started ringing off the hook.

  668. 668 IslesFanInBkNY

    This situation is very typical for Isles. Forget it then. Billy played rather crappy sins Doug went down anyway, so if he isn’t in a line up, who cares. Go-Go is doing his job better than I expected, lately… Bergy and Sim are completely new players since sitting out. McAmmond is a poor man Silly but not bad on face-off, s what else can we ask for? All I want is someone to put two-three hits on Smyth tomorrow, so i can see his smashed crying face glued to Colli glass on a permanent display. Let’s get two tomorrow, boys. Go Isles.

  669. 669 first place isles

    1st rounder would be a steal for rent a ——

  670. 670 Isle Be Damned

    What a strange situation this is. What a strange organization we root for.

  671. 671 mike

    This Franchise has become such a JOKE it is really sad.Leave it to the Isles to turn a simple trade into ANOTHER MESS!

  672. 672 The Real Truthster

    So let me get this straight once AGAIN for you pessimistic types; The islanders pulled guerin from pregame, reports this morning was guerin was very happy and accepted, the isles didnt leak ANY information (wow, what novelty, not leaking information as opposed to airing dirty laundry *cough some vets*)
    and the isles have said there will be no information tonight

    So again, what did the isles do wrong here?
    Would it have satisfied all of you guys if they had come out and said

    “YEAH WE GOT A DEAL IN PLACE FOR BILLY G AND THE TEAM IS X AND YEAH WE ARE WAITING FOR THE PROCESS TO GO THROUGH”

    Great..so then all of you could bitch and moan and complain once AGAIN once the deal fell through, only this time you would have ammunition of saying “AHA SEE..THEY ANNOUNCED THE DEAL AND THE OTHER PARTY GOT COLD FEET..DAMN YA MICKEY Mouse organization”

    Damned if you do..damned if you dont

    Again.. dont bring up muller and stuff from 20 years ago, this is not regressional therapy session

    Exactly WHAT did the ISLANDERS do wrong here? Someone with HALF a brain tell me?

  673. 673 The Real Truthster

    bueller…anyone..bueller

  674. 674 Bob Bassen

    FWIW, Dreger on TSN seems to think that the delay is with *The Other Team.* signing off. Relax, chill put things into perspective and if it is really that bad being an Islander fan just cheer for another team. Life is too short to get all wigged-out about something that is entertainment. Can’t wait for Thursday’s game!
    Go Isles!

  675. 675 first place isles

    nothing

    yet

  676. 676 ISLESFAN999

    Should we expect guerin to be traded to the same team that he was supposed to or another team?

  677. 677 guerin13

    if sportsnet is right, then this whole insane situation may have created a bidding war for guerin - thus driving up his value. i really hope they are right.

  678. 678 jeff

    So let me get this straight. Obviously, the Isles have no deal finalized to trade Guerin, but will not play him Monday night. CB, please explain to me how it is that the Isles can continue to dress less than the best team possible and still expect fans to come to the games. Why on earth would any free agent ever come here? I love the Isles more than any team in any sport, but it is getting really tough to continue to be emotionally invested in this charade.

  679. 679 BringBackNyles

    national TV game, 15 inches of snow coming our way to hold the crowd down to hundreds, an AWOL captain….as always we put our best foot forward for the national stage :)

    Why not just have a KC style BBQ in the tent at intermission?

  680. 680 Sec 215

    Lets all take a breath…feel better? (Think I should change my screen name to Dr. Phil) We’re all frustrated, a million different things could have happened. Not that i believe it, but maybe there never was a trade in