UFA PREP, PART I: FORWARDS
Don’t expect a second star forward in one week
Now that John Tavares is aboard, will the Islanders stay with their rebuild and development program and maintain their commitment to suckulence?
The Penguins did it for five years, whether they knew they were or not. (Boy, did Ray Shero step in it). Washington management knew darn well what they were doing. Since the Islanders or any team could never match the Penguins glorious pain of picking in the top 2 four years in a row, the Capitals are a more realistic model.
The commitment to this tear-down/rebuild should not be difficult for the Islanders, as the last few weeks would seem to illustrate. All you have to do is be one of the worst teams in the league, keep your obvious first round pick a secret, and then revel in the praise as TSN, ESPN, most of the print media and a large percentage of your fanbase hails your brilliance. Honestly, has a sports team ever received so many hosannas for coming in last and for the no-brainer drafting of a franchise player? I have been brought to my knees in awe.
So what does this all mean for the Islanders and unrestricted free agency when the doors to the store open tomorrow? Let’s take a look, starting with the men and boys up front.
FORWARDS
Qualifying offers (2): The Islanders will QO restricted free agents Blake Comeau and Nate Thompson. With no leverage, both will eventually sign two-way deals. Both will likely make the team out of camp. (Jack Hillen is the one D of note to be QOed).
Signed and Set (9, maybe 10): Under one-way contracts for next season and on the team are Sean Bergenheim, Trent Hunter, Tim Jackman, Frans Nielsen, Richard Park, Jeff Tambellini and Doug Weight. Under a one-way contract for next season and not set is Jon Sim, who it doesn’t appear will be bought out - although I can’t find Jon on the Islanders or the NHLPA websites. Kyle Okposo and Josh Bailey have two years left on their Entry Level deals.
And There’s…(1): John Tavares will be signed to an Entry Level 3-year deal. He is a lock to play for the Islanders from beginning to end this season.
All But Gone: Andy Hilbert, Dean McAmmond, Mike Sillinger (take care, young friend). Jeremy Colliton and Kurtis McLean off to Europe, Mike Iggulden supposedly right behind them. Ben Walter and Mitch Fritz will be looking elsewhere.
July 1: With 13 forwards under contract - 9 on one-way deals, plus Tavares, Okposo, Comeau and Thompson - by the opening of camp and a few kids (Trevor Smith, Jesse Joenssu) knocking on the door, Garth Snow has kept expectations low for a big free agent haul. I believe him.
He’ll take a serious look at a fulltime enforcer, because it’s the right move and so he doesn’t have to hear about it anymore.
He’ll make a run at a B-level free agent with untapped upside and say his pro scouts think the new guy can develop into a top-6 forward in the right situation. If the agent for a big-time talent - Alex Tanguay and Maxim Afinogenov come to mind - want to go short-term in the hopes of a career turnaround (a la Victor Kozlov and Tom Poti), Snow would have to listen. Maybe Brian Gionta, if Lou Lamoriello walks away from him.
The best opportunity for an Islanders surprise comes if a Mike Cammalleri (39 goals) falls through the cracks in July and the Islanders are one of the few teams with the cap space and interest to sign him.
But will there be a big splash at forward? Feel free to hit this blog as much as you can on Wednesday and Thursday. However, it would be disingenous for me to lead you to believe a star forward is about to join Tavares. With another high draft pick, several contracts expiring and possibly a Lighthouse shovel in the ground, next summer would be a better time for some headline-grabbing signings.
Comments on forwards and this story only. Goaltending and defense are up next.
147 Responses to “UFA PREP, PART I: FORWARDS
Don’t expect a second star forward in one week”
Please Wait
After reading this blog, I highly doubt it, but why cant the Islanders go hard after Kessel? He’ll be 22 next year. Wouldnt that be a “commitment” to the young players? A 1st 2nd and 3rd next year? In a heartbeat.
first sign a goalie and enforcer and i would take at least another scoring forward
I would love for the Islanders to get much bigger. I think we should trade Park for a prospect and sign an enforcer. We will see what happens.. I am definitely looking forward to this summer.
If the Isles have the opportunity to make an offer to Cammalleri, they absolutely should.
CB - You have bigger eyes than I. I was thinking Laperriere or Neil and maybe a guy like Mikael Sameulsson.
I thought Okposo has two years left on his deal? Didn’t they bring him up for the last 9 games two years ago, so it wouldn’t count as a full year? I could be wrong but I’m prety sure that’s what they did.
Good catch, Mick. Fixed. Thanks…CB
I wouldn’t trade Park. He’s too valuble on the PK and has the speed and instincts that can’t be taught. As far as an enforcer, I would take Colton Orr in a heartbeat.
I’d like to hear about expectations for point totals this year. Sounds like the Isles will have a shot at the first overall pick again next year (bottom 5 in the league). If they get it, and take Taylor Hall, we will have all the offense we need for the rebuild. Then we target free agent defensemen. I realize that is a lot of “ifs” but you have to have a plan and everyone has their own expectations.
I was thinking that some Forwards I see us having a realistic opportunity at signing could include:
Knuble - seems like our type, verteran, gritty, leader, still puts up respectable numbers.
Sullivan - came back well from his nearly 2 years off because of injuries, nearly a point a game, seems like our type since hes older, speedy, often injured
Tanguay - I mentioned him earlier, hes a good setup man as a winger
Antropov - simply because I feel like he’s been rumored to us for about 10 years so its bound to happen eventually. would also add some size to the team, albeit wasted size since hes not an overly physical player
Afinogenov - I wouldn’t really want him, he’s one dimensional and has been on the decline. However I could see GMG trying him as a change of scenery reclamation type project for cheap.
Bertuzzi - Only because he would add some size and toughness and chip about 40 points or so
Neil - Would add toughness and atleast he can skate worth a damn
Again these are not guys that I would personally want them to sign, just players I could see them signing
Yea i agree with #1 why cant we get kessel he is 21 years old
probably reasonable. the really good free agents like kessel would want to go to a contender. next year, like CB says, if there is an improvement and the lighthouse gets underway, the top free agents would be more attractive to coming here.
Because we are around 7 million under the cap I see us spending around 1.5-2.5 million on a goalie than around 3-4 million on d-man than we should have around 1-2 million left for a forward.
I feel we need more help on defense than up front due to the lack of young d-men in our system. We have some good young forwards on our team and more are on the way.
i’d love to see tanguay or even the sedins if that is somehow possible. sillinger won’t be back and i think nate thompson is expendable. i also expect jesse joensusu to surprise a lot of people next season. he’s got a lot of potential.
For forwards I would target:
1) Colton Orr - his history with Gordon will help - maybe a 2 year deal for $1million per?
2) If Orr is not available, make go after Mike Rupp, perhaps go for a 3 yr deal for $750 per
3) Don’t see Cammalleri coming here but that would be great. Unless we can get a real bargain on a Tanguay type, I’d rather see us spend our FA budget on defense and goalie at this point.
#1 I couldn’t agree more. Kessel would be a perfect fit for a young,rebuilding team. Not sure what the Isles could offer, or if they could sign him to a deal that Bruins cannot match. Then all the Isles would give up are draft picks.
Any non-goaltending Islanders activity will fall into one of two categories: They’ll either look for a Streit-type signing of a player who’s looking for playing time and a chance, or they’ll buy low on a depreciated asset like, as CB said, Tanguay or Afinogenov. However, the point about cap space is also important, and a top player may fall through the cracks in this way.
I agree with what was said about needing an enforcer and goaltender moreso than another forward
I guess we will see, Garth said he wouldnt go crazy, doesnt mean he wont spend money on a bargain player.
CB,
I would love to see the Islanders sign Neil, Anderson and Komisarek. Then trade Witt or Sutton for a forward that can score 20-25 goals…
Why would the Islanders bring back Nate Thompson. I hate when he is in the lineup. I’d rather give Iggulden some minutes to see if can contribute. Thompson has proven he cannot.
1. Goalie to play with DP, if healthy:
Anderson
2. Enforcer to step up:
A) Neil
B) Orr
3. Forward to add:
A) Camallieri, a paisan
B) Tanguay
4. Any D-men to add for depth?
But, they probably aren’t going to spend too much. Maybe another non-playoff year and a high draft pick.
I would ove to see these free agents on the isles for a few years:
Cammallerri: Solid offensively, fast, would be great for Gordons system.Not a big guy though and we need size.
Tanguay: Also solid offensively and brings the leadership factor to the youngsters. Won a cup so he knows what it takes ot win. He is also a bigger guy at 6-1.
Gionta: I always liked him as a Devil. Had that great season and dropped off a bit but I think he would also thrive in the Go Go style of hockey. However, also tiny like Cammy.
If i had to choose 1, it would be Tanguay. If I could choose two, Tanguay and Cammy.
Look, I know Snow said we wouldnt be making major splashes in free agency, but we still need legitimate NHL bodies on this team. We really need to go for at least one of these guys IMO.
Nate Thompson is not an NHL-er. Why exactly is he a lock to be in the line-up? I would also trade either Witt or Sutton and look to land a 20-25 goal FA winger.
Komisarek please… thanks. That’s all.
Garth has a plan, to rush it would be stupid
Dont expect any big name guys coming here, that will happen next summer.
My Free Agent wish list (realistic):
F- Chad LaRose: Great fit for system & had great playoff.
F- 1 of Orr, Neil or Peters: I don’t think i need to explain this!
D- Nathan Oystrick- solid, reliable defenseman.
D Francois Beauchemin- Could be the steal of this FA class!
G- Ty Conklin- Proven he can step into #1 role if neccessary. (obviously a trait we must not ignore)
Can you elaborate on Jack Hillen why no QO?
No antropov, he’s another kavasha, would much rather see JJ in his spot
Any word on what Freddy Meyer is doing? He quietly sat out the end of the season with his groin
Ditto on Nate Thompson - why is he penciled in the lineup? The guy’s a waste.
No I think CB is saying Hillen was QOed
For another D-man, nobody is mentioning Beauchemin from Anaheim ? Isn’t he a UFA,
6 foot 207 , and could be had for a more reasonable price than Komi !
I would prefer one more season like last year (with continued growth from the young core) and a chance at Taylor Hall to wasting $$ on guys like Tanguay or Afinogenov. This rebuild will take patience, some luck with the draft lottery and wise draft picks. We have a little bit of all three thus far, but it will take a little more of each before we can say this team is on track to reach its goal of being a perennial playoff team and Cup contender.
pete its too unrealistice what you want, plus I wouldnt trade park at all, I love what he does for the Isles.
I don’t think the Isles are going to make any splashes in this years UFA Forward Pool. There might be some in the D-end, though. I think the forwards come via trade. 1 player that I’d love to see (although I hated the thought only 2 months ago) is Scott Hartnell. The Flyers are in a tough spot and the Isles may be one of the only teams willing to work out a deal for his contract. He’s a tough guy that would look great on a line with Tavares & Weight. Next year, the Isles go for the big UFA Forward, Ilya anyone?
Sign Mike Rupp.Period.
Would also like to sign a good goalie but wonder if TOO good of a goalie wins us too many games and we finish in between another high/great draft pick and just missing the playoffs, etc.
Obviously if the insiders know that DP’s days are numbered than yes, they might as well lock-up someone decent for 2 or 3 years.
Go Isles!
Colton Orr is a NO brainer. Ex-Ranger who can fight, plenty of incentive to sign without having to uproot his personal belongings and comes to be a part of a young, up and coming team. Would love to see Komisarek, I have had ENOUGH of Martinek and his propensity to get injured every time he steps on the ice. A solid backup - why not Dubie??
IF we could get scoring on the wing, it would be nice - but I suspect that would be too expensive at the moment, but we’ll see. We don’t yet know the ramifications of the economy on FA’s just yet - but we’ll know in a day or so.
suckulence..heh…..i agree dont see much of a splash with the forward signings..interested to see your take on defensemen…will scuderi be a FA?
Cammy would be first choice with tanguy close second, scuderi is a possibility, Komaseric is a stretch (too expensive) Orr would be ideal, and Anderson has to be the top goalie skill wise to fill in 40 games. If DP is healthy, the Islanders will absolutley have a respectable season, so I don’t think we will have a shot at Hall next year. Huge DP fan, but that is a huge “If”. I can’t believe the bruins would even let Kessel put on another jersey, 21 years old and putting up the numbers he puts up in his short career, unfortunatley I don’t think the Islanders have any interest from boston making a deal with us.
Maybe it’s me as a fan embracing mediocrity, but I’ll be sad to see Andy Hilbert go. To me, he was the epitome of hustle, hard work, and grit. Too bad his hands were stone.
Chris, why don’t the Isles have any interest in resigning Iggulden, or vice versa? I thought he played great for them in his limited time up. At the very least, he would be a good depth player. Maybe I’m biased as a Big Red alumni, but can you explain?
wow if we could get Cammalleri and afinogenov that would be great. Orr would be a good enforcer to tavares. wouldnt trade Park though. going to be cool hearing all about the free agent signings tomorrow and ill be sure to check pointblank more than i already do for all the Islannders news haha
i thought gionta would never be an option, as he wants to probably stay close to 4 mil per season, but it may not be a bad get, he has been well schooled in covering his defensive responsibilities, and would likely keep Tavares at C, instead of the possibility of him playing W… plus, playing on the isle means he doesnt have to relocate his life… interesting…
Anyone who is talking about tanking AGAING for NEXT YEAR’S DRAFT in June needs to punch themselves in the face.
Nate Thompson sucks
I wouldn’t be so quick with that shovel in the ground talk. It looks like Kate Murray is still searching high and low for a way to stop this thing from happening. Kate recently said to the media, after standing with Wang,Suozzi,and Schumer for a photo-op, that the stimulus funds for road renovations will be great for the area “whether or not the lighthouse gets built”. Now we have senators supporting the project and she still won’t back it, thanks for the support Kate, we’ll make sure to show you much of the same in November.
DP will be FINNNNEE. If an old man like Steve Sullivan can bounce back, who’s to say DP can’t. With the trainers and doctors these players work with…there is no reason DP can not fully recover. Give him the time he needs….pulling him last season was the best move they could have made.
nate thompson and jeff tambellini have no business being on a NHL roster. for that matter, i would not be sad to see hunter and hillen and myer traded either…..this team needs skill, not career minor leaguers and 4th liners or guys who skate like they’re stuck in cement
I would have liked to see Dean stay. I like the way he played. Shame, but oh well. Next!
Good value UFA’s isles can sign in no preferred order.
Forwards – Eric Perrin (atl), Neil, Orr, Jason Williams, Kopecky, Kotalik, Marcel Goc, Mike Grier, Travis Moen,
Defense – Seidenberg, Beauchemin, Matt Walker (chi)
I have no clue on Goalies – I would say Anderson, Biron, Garon, or Gerber.
I could not be happier to see Hilbert go. Like him but way too much ice time and no production. I would love to have Tanguay, Cammelleri or Kessel but its not happening. Komiserek price tag is not worth it.
Seems realistic, would you agree CB?
I pray each night that DP is healthy, our season depends on it.
As for forwards: Antropov or Knuble. Knuble adds some scoring touch as well as grit and leadership. I think Antropov still has upside and we could use a bigger body up front. I think either of those 2 would add a different element to the lineup that we do not have.
As for the enforcer: I would love Neil, but as it has been said b4, i feel hes more of an agitator than an enforcer. We need a Brashear/Laraque type guy. I may be mistaken, but i thought i read somewhere that Derek Boogard was a FA. Could be getting NHL 09 mixed up with real life on that one.
Here’s the thing people don’t realize about Hilbert. With all of his great defensive play, grit, determination, and hustle he gets himself in a position more often to score eventhough he should be a 4th line guy. That’s why we get to see that he doesn’t have a scoring touch. The next guy who replaces him will score fewer goals than Andy did but be praised for being a great defensive forward. He may not have the all around hustle or smarts that Andy does therefore he won’t be in a position to score as much. Yet everyone will praise his grit and determination while ignoring the fact that he too doesn’t score goals. Here’s to hoping we find a fourth line player who can do all the things Andy did defensively but also add 15 or more goals per season. Good luck with that.
If the Islanders sign no FA forwards they will still be a better team than last year. Bailey and Okposo will be better, whoever is in goal can’t be any worse than what we had in goal last year and having John Tavares makes this team better. I say let the kids play (JJ,Trevor Smith, Tambellini,etc) and continue with the rebuild. Having a top 5 pick in next years draft is not a bad thing. I want this team to be great again. Patience,drafting and player development are the keys.
I want Colton Orr. Since he was originally from the Bruins organization, I wonder if he ever played for Gordon at Providence and, if so, whether they had a good relationship. Either Tanguay or Cole would be fine to play with JT. But how about (drumroll for fans who like to talk about getting back ex-Islanders) Taylor Pyatt? Has some size and offensive skills. He seems like the kind of signing Garth would goo for, you know, a bit of a reach, but under the right circumstances. . . .
how much would Camallieri cost? and i rather scuderi then Komisarek imho hes better all around n cheaper.
Maydog (40): You said it, Maydog. I personally dont want to hear a thing about Taylor flippin Hall. The idea that if we get a couple of players then we are too good to finish last honestly makes me sad. Of course we would be too good to finish last- that is the whole point!!!!
Id be happy if the Isles signed a promising winger. But to me that is just icing on a cake while the goalie and tough guy are meat and potatoes. Id like one, but we absolutely need the others.
Let chemistry develop between Tavares and his teammates first. Then determine what you need. A couple of big bodies is a must, that’s why I’m pissed they didn’t draft Kassian.
Thank you Paul (#22). You took the words out of my mouth. Why is Nate Thompson a lock? The only reason he made the team was because he was Gordon’s boy from Providence. Ok, ok, he can win faceoffs. However, I see him as the same type of player as Tim Jackman, except Jackman is a better hitter, fighter, scorer, passer, etc.
To Devon: I will throw a party in celebration of Andy Hilbert’s departure. Everyone talked about his hustle. However, he was dumbest hockey player in the league, how many times did he run into his own guy this year? If you paid me 600,000 dollars, I would hustle my ass off. Doesn’t mean that I would be any good.
The Islanders should try and get more draft picks. After the first ten picks or so the draft becomes a crap shoot. You do not know if you are getting a solid NHLer or not. It becomes even more difficult to find NHL talent in later rounds. I believe the Islanders should sign a few veteran players to one or two year deals, this way they can be shipped off at the deadline to contenders for young talent or/and draft picks. A few veterans are not going to propel this team to the playoffs…
Ironic isn’t it that the team and management does get so much praise heaped upon them for finishing last and making the obvious selection of Tavares. (myself included)
However, I do believe the way in which it was handled (purposely) by Wang, Snow and Co. and of course by Islanderspointblank.com added the fuel to the fire so to speak.
The selection of Tavares in a shroud of secrecy created enough uncertainty in the minds, hearts and souls of the fans that when the selection is finally made… it was a sigh of relief, elation and gave the impression that they “FINALLY” did the right thing.
DOC
I agree on the forward front, stick with icetime for the young guys (althought I’m not sure there is much more there past Okposo, Bailey and Tavares). However, and I know I’m jumping to your next piece CB, how about a run at the 25 year old Bouwmeester (if he is still available)? He is plenty young to be a foundation at the back for many years. Isles say Calgary is able to sign him, but if not, he is the one guy this year (forward, defenseman or goalie) worth taking a big run at for this rebuild.
Why exactly do we need Nate Thompson? We have youth in Bailey, Bergy, Nielsen, Tambellini, Okposo, Tavares, and Comeau. We have vet leadership with Weight, Hunter, and Park. Jackman is our all-around character guy. That is 11 forwards. Why not use the last 2 spots for someone like Chris Neil and Mike Cammalleri? Many teams dont have cap room like we do. We can an upgrade a little. We do have 7 young forwards 25 or under. Park and Weight are the only forwards over 30.
NO Orr - NO Peters…They need guys who can also play hockey, not play 3 shifts a game. How about Travis Moen or Mike Grier.
Nate Thompson & Hillen should have 2 way deals. Trevor Smith should be given more of a chance next year.
Like someone said earlier - Trading Park might be an option…the islanders can use someone else in his role, he would look very good on a better team…for example: Calgary, San Jose, Philly.
Another option could be trading a guy like Martinek…another Guy who would look beeter on a good team.
2009 wish list:
- sign Chris Neil
- make Tambellini disappear
- sign Komisarek
- sign a decent goalie to be 1B to Dipietro.
To me you have to be realistic
I agree 100% about a goalie 1A, I think they will be aggressive there and in getting an enforcer, but if they can get an enforcer who can score some goals and give us a lot more than just protection, that is almost like killing two birds with one stone. With all the injuries on D last year, I think getting a dman is not an option, we have to see what we have and we cant do that until everyone is healthy again.
I like the idea of Moen or Grier, guys who could fit the role of enforcer but still give us some offense as well.
John (49) THANK YOU. You eloquated exactly what I was trying to say. Andy worked his ass off, and if he had good hands, might well have led the team in goals. It’s a shame he didn’t.
As for the comments regarding Tanguay, Afinogenov and Cammalleri. I dont feel the Isles should be signing anyone who isnt going to be part of the solution. I dont want to sign guys who will take time away from the younger guys, give the isles around 10 more wins a season, just to be let go by the time the team is ready to contend. It will only slow down the process. It will steal valuable playing time from the young guys and knock the isles down in the draft order each year only to still be missing the playoffs. Theres no need for 30 year old fill-ins. Just to support my reasoning behind Knuble or Antropov as i stated above: Knuble does not provide enough firepower to improve the isles that much. He does bring some much needed grit and leadership to the lineup and the guy can still play. Antropov is a late bloomer, but to me keeps getting better every year. Hes a big man at 6′6″ and would give the Isles some much needed size and has skill to go along with it. I also think he still has potential to become more effective.
I would hope that Garth is looking to sign an enforcer in order to protect our young talented prospects/stars and not so “he doesn’t need to hear it anymore”. That comment about “not wanting to hear it”, raised my eyebrows but I have a feeling that was CB’s own words, please clarify, TIA.
Hopefully you won’t delete this, its a ligitimit concern.
Agreed 100% about everyone’s Nate Thompson comments. He sucks the big one. No reason he is a “lock” for even BPT. I have nothing wrong with a guy like Nate Thompson cracking the lineup during game 47 of the regular season following some injuries (bound to happen..), but to start the season? This seem will succeed at suckulence if Thompson starts the season with us, the possibility of it hurts my brain.
Also, yes we have some extra spots at forward. And we need them. Given the amount of injuries last year and the year before, we realistically need 15-18 forwards who will see ice time with the Islanders this year. Sign one or two, give guys like JJ a shot when someone goes down with an injury- that is a rebuild.
Nate Thompson has NO BUSINESS near this lineup. Period.
Thompson’s biggest plus is his faceoffs, which we SUCKED at last year. If we could shuffle him back and forth to BPT that would be ideal.
I see lot’s of comments about wanting to sign centerman players….in case we need to keep score, the Islanders already have 4 to 5 guys for next season… Weight, Tavares, Bailey, and Nielsen, not to mention Thompson… The team needs to look for wingers, toughness and a goalie….
I cannot see the team signing more than 1 forward (hoping for Neil)…a goalie and maybe 1 D-man….but we shall soon see.
The reason the islanders will not sign a top forward even though they need one so badly is because Wang wants to stay right at the cap floor. Clearly the isle are in desperate need of offense even with JT. Signing a good scorer does not at all contradict with the rebuild. (We would not be giving anything up) The idea of having guys like Park, Jackman and Sim on the roster makes no sense. (Please no talk of Park and his PK abilities. There are tons of guys in the league who can do that) Garth and co owe it to us fans who sat through a miserable season, make that a miserable decade, to sign a top forward to pair with JT. Otherwise we will be spending 1/2 the season talking about the lottery again this year.
I think that whoever the Islanders sign will be a after the July 1 land grab. It seems the best values occur after teams grab the big guys and pay big $$$. After that the cost gets much more reasonable, so depending on who is left from say July 10th on will go along way to determining how the roster shapes. Also after teams go after their targeted players, they may then look to dump some of their salaried roster players for the mere contract and the Isles could snap up some value there with their cap space.
first and foremost for this year is simple - protect the prized kids. if anything else comes along and fits the plan, great. but for this year, snow’s job is easy (orr, neil)
how about Scott Clemenson in goal to back up DP.
I read that Edmonton is looking to deal a defensemen, either Souray or Visnofsky.You know who the GM is in EDM don’t you? Yep, Steve Tambellini, are you getting my drift here.
I really don’t understand the hate-on some people have for Nate Thompson. He is what he is - a solid, defensive 4th line centre who is good in the circle, has some toughness, and is an excellent skater on a team that will need to roll four lines in order to be successful. I think he’ll have a decent season provided he can stay off the injured list.
I know it’s been mentioned, but why in the world would they make an offer to Thompson? There’s no reason for it…where exactly does he play and what role does he fill that is not already filled by a guy like Jackman and the soon-to-be addressed enforcer that can hopefully skate and take a regular shift?
Hopefully he’s just depth at Bridgeport in case someone goes down.
Let’s go for broke!
Sedin, Sedin, Komi, Scuderi, bulin wall
Sedin Sedin Weight
Okposo Bailey Tavares
Hunter Nielson Begry
Comeau Park Jackman
Streit Komi
Scuderi Sutton
Witt Gervais
Hillen
DP
Bulin wallllllll
Bye bye Tambs, Martinek, hilbert, mccamond, sim, sillinger, thompson, Meyer, Pock
Joensuu should be the first player called up barring any injuries!
That would only be 6 players on the roster over 30. It’s not as unfeasible as it may look and it is a pretty damn good team. We definitely have the cap room.
#25 if we get ty conklin we’ll DEFINITELY get in the winter classic
Jerry # 74 - Do you really think thats a possibility? I can hear the talk now from Steve tambellini - “Hey, why dont I trade for my SON and give up a quality defenseman for him. He does have all of 11 goals in 141 NHL games, but is quicker than quick”. Aint happenin……..
My list. Brian Gionta, Chris Neil, Mike Rupp, and of course I’d still love Komisarek or Kessel of course… any one of the above and I’m a happy man.
ALSO - I don’t see any value in Thompson and Sim. Do I think they’re bad…no, but I didn’t see them offer much to the lineup at all. Would prefer to go a different route.
After we sign a goalie, a number 1 goalie, toughness is in order. Orr, Neil would get the job done. I wouldnt be at all surprised if the Islanders sign a higher profile forward. Lots of teams in cap trouble. the Islanders are an up and coming team now and not “Siberia” as the Canadien media asserts. Gonna be interesting.
Whats up guy cant wait for this season but im really surprised nobody has even mentioned the sedins!!!!!!!! Even though they are 28 there looking for a long term contract which means that they can be part of the rebuild. Easily still in there primes and there experience will just teach the younger players. Just think if our pp is the sedins, tavaers, streit, and ko!!!!! That’s pretty ridiculous. i would love just the sedins and thats it maybe Beauchemin but we have way too many dmen under contract so they might have to stick with that for another year or soo. Think about the sedins!!!!!!
isn’t oduya a free agent? what about him?
Would love to have Kessel. A first and second from next year is not too much to have to give up, although I’m sure it will take a heck of a lot more than that.
I don’t get the infatuation with Nate Thompson..let him go. We have plenty of other non-producing forwards why waste a spot with him.
And PLEASE PLEASE tell me your right about Andy “no talent” Hilbert who got an INSANE amount of ice time last year and produced nothing as usual. Good riddance..my least favorite player on the team by far last year. To look at the box score night and and night out and seeing him get 6-8 minutes more than Bergenheim and Comeau was ridiculous.
Looking at the forwards it’s not impressive, looks like another long year unfortunately.
I’m sorry to see Silly go. Mitch Fritz, no so much. Snow’s shopping list - 1 enforcer who can skate since Jackman isn’t a true enforcer and it seems like Rechlitz needs more time to develop. 1 quality backup/ starter netminder until our gargantuan Finn is ready for the big show. Some scoring on the wings. Am I missing anything?
The fact that Kessel is even being discussed has to make you wonder about any lingering health issues.
I can’t believe how people talk about lack of size and then mention Gionta and Cammalieri as potential acquisitions. I also think that Antropov or Afineganov do not belong in this system, because they’re too one dimensional. Stay the course - acquire size and toughness.
So it sems like Nate Thompson is going to be this years bashing favorite? He is just a kid, has shown some promise in faceoffs and hustle, and he is still developing. Why are you all so eager to give up on him? Is it because the Isles didnt draft him or what?
Good call #78.
For those of you asking for Antropov, he is seeking $5mil. That is way too much for the 2nd coming of Kvasha!!
Just a quick thought about the Washington model that’s relevant as we approach D-Day 12 hours from now. If Washington’s model is the one we want to follow, there’s one significant step to avoid–signing Michael Nylander. The Islanders need to watch out for thinking an overpriced free agent is going to put them “over the top” when their own talent might just do it anyway.
You need to think economically here - the returns the islanders would get from signing any top or mid-level FA’s is not with the cost. Payroll increases, player development at the NHL level decreases and the results in the standings are virtually the same. Not to mention my enjoyment of watching the team will change in no way if we play Joensuu or sign Antropov/Cammalieri/etc. Continue player development and stay the course. One player doth not a contender make.
either a higher end winger or higher end defenders. defenders are more difficult to “get” as free agents or develop. dont blame me, i think scotty bowman said that a post or 3 ago. a higher end winger because even with rose colored glasses on, KO and JT are the real threats to bang in 35+ goals. i think we have a handful of 20+ guys(JB,Bergy,Trent). a third guy with 30+ ability may open up ice for another foward to reach 20+. after the initial surge of signings, i think theres gonna be some fairly priced free agents. i like the isles plan, but its not written in stone. if an opportunity appears, you adjust on the fly, and take it.
I wouldn’t mine Kotalik and Orr. That would give us two bigger forwards. We primarily need a goalie and enforcer.
Cammalieri + Brashear would be fantastic. Give Cammalieri a contract similar to Streit’s and I think you got another great bargain.
Well, I know he’s sort of one-dimensional, so that’s probably a deal-killer right there, but if you want to talk about a probable affordable option at wing that instantly improves the power play, I’d look at Ales Kotalik. He has a sweet, hard shot, and was a good PP option for Buffalo for years before being traded (b/c of his upcoming free agency).
Sure, there are holes in his defensive game, and he’s on the wrong side of 30, but you’re probably not going to get a complete package, young forward at the bargain basement prices that Garth is committing to. Wouldn’t be bad to get to the cap and fill a hole at wing short term, imo. 1 or 2 year deal.
Only a few teams can fit the Sedin Twins under the cap - why cant we make a run for them - they would definitly be a part of the long term solution
I never even considered Rupp to act as some muscle
good call on that
# 81 - Devils re-signed Oduya
#81..I heard the Devs are going to resign Oduya, but cut bait with Madden and Gionta. As for Tambellini, if he was a baseball player he’d be Fernando Martinez!
(or Alex Ochoa, or Alex Escobar, etc. etc. etc.)
I liked Kurtis Foster’s game before he got hurt. If healthy could be a great pick up on defense.
Priority 1 is protecting Tavares with skill and brawn. Another skilled winger that suits JT’s skill set (Gionta) and bodyguard(s) (Neil,Orr).
i will be very disappointed if they sign Afinigenov. he cannot finish to save his life. Tanguay would be nice. hey Chris, what did you hear about what Lecavilier was gonna cost us?
CB or somebody can you please list the 2010 free agents? Thanks
I understand the comparisons to Pitt and Wash… but isn’t this realistically already the 3rd or even 4th year of rebuild?
Okposo, Joensuu, Figren etc. 2006
Katic, Kessel, Gregoire - 2007
Bailey et al. 2008
Tavares - 2009
I think the Isles would be insane to do anything that would require the handing over of draft picks. All this talk of Tanguay is nice but I can’t imagine him signing for less than what Satan got a few years back — $4 million per. That’s too rich. Same with Cammalleri. Gionta is more realistic, but he’s another smurf and God knows we don’t need anymore 5-foot-something forwards. Do not trade Park under any circumstances. He may be the best two-way player we have and was signed to a “big” extension for a reason a while back. He’s got heart and is a leader, two things that you just can’t sign in free agency. Martin Biron would be my choice to play alongside DP, but he’ll probably want to be a No. 1 somewhere. Actually, I would leave the D alone. To reiterate for the thousandth time — D is not our problem. Hasn’t been for years.
Chris Neil is not much of an enforcer. He rarely drops the gloves.
I would hope for Orr and Neil. That first Ranger islander game Avery is going after Tavares. I am hoping that Gordon will not be skating never will be’s such as Fritz and Rech and have someone legitimate on the ice. There would be a need for several enforcer/protector type players with Tavares, Okposo and Bailey in the fold.
The idea of Kessel is really funny to me. This guy is on the verge of NHL stardom. How do you sign him? And if you do, how do you then address goalie, enforcer, maybe another forward, etc.? It’s a nice thought but Kessel is going to get huge dollars from someone. Not us. Though that would be something, wouldn’t it?
Dalcy–
Have you seen Tanguay play? If you thought Yashin or Satan were soft this guy takes the cake
Kessell? He is an RFA. He was floated for a top 10 first round pick. He is arbitration eligible. Boston is not giving him up. There is as good of a shot as getting Crosby as Kessel. Cmon
Kessel reportedly has some personal issues to deqal with, which is why the Bruins are talking of getting rid of him. He missed games this year after being seen out all night in Boston, out of his bird. This would definately explain why you would give up on that kind of talent and move on.
The last thing we need is a young stud teaching the younger guys how to party and live it up.
Congrats to kyle okposo for making the USA 2010 olympic camp roster.
Joey303#79
I know it isn’t gonna happen but we can dream can’t we?
The Bruins are shopping Kessel because they can’t afford him. The have 15 players signed at $51m, and Kessel is looking for around $5m.
Komisarek would be such a mistake. Hes obviously looking for a big contract and hes far from being an elite defenseman. His positioning and defensive play is inconsistent at best..he reminds me of Kasparaitis during the Ranger years, able to make big hits but just running around all over the place like an idiot. He also loves to try play an ‘enforcer’ role yet gets beat to a pulp anytime he fights anyone that knows how to.
I am also a Hilbert supporter. I feel like the guy works his tail off… and does 99% of everything well.
He just can’t seem to bury the puck in the back of the net.
But why wouldn’t you want him on the 4th line, special teams PK?
DOC
This idea of going after Kessel dumbfounds me. First do we need to piss off GM’s by making a Kevin Lowe attack on another team? Yes can’t wait for the return Okposo offer when he becomes a RFA. Second, Guys lets get real, we were the worse team in the league last year for a reason. We have a bunch of injury prone defensemen, a ? at goal, and some young hopefuls on offense. I know we have sucked for a while and some of you want to make the playoffs right away. But they have been telling you they are going with youth for a reason. Don’t get your hopes up so you can say how cheap an ineffective the Isles are while teams like the Rag$ get FA’s. Wang is not spending big bucks until he knows the lighthouse has been approved (stop spending his $ the guy has lost enough $ on the Isles) so for us to in any way give up a possible lottery pick (if we don’t make the playoffs, and realistically we probably wont) to sign Kessel or give the Sedins 10 yr contracts or anything like that is a pipe dream. Let’s look for realistic signings. Hopefully we will get good health, and we will be semi competitive for a playoff spot. Let’s get a goalie and a forward with some scoring potential as well as maybe some depth on defense cause with our history we will need it.
I say make serious offers to the Sedins and if they say no thanks, then don’t go after anyone up front other than a full-time enforcer (Orr?) and a couple of B-level vets to fill out the roster that are signed to one-year deals that can be moved at the deadline if the Isles are out of it.
I don’t like the idea of Cammilleri on the Isles. Something about him and the fact that both L.A. and now Calgary want nothing to do with a 30+ goal, 70+ point per season player makes me think that he’s just not worth the investment.
Next year I really hope Snow dives in big time. If he doesn’t this year, I understand. However, he does need to sign a goalie (preferably Anderson or Conklin). Biron would be nice, but if Dippy is healthy, Marty wouldn’t want to be a backup. I would like to see Snow sign Komisarek, if not, perhaps McKee to get some more size and toughness in the lineup. Hell if we’re not going to be big upfront, let’s be big on the back end. I’m not to keen on any of the FA enforcers and I have my reservations about getting Orr as he can be a liability on the ice. A young scoring winger FA would be nice but it’ll probably be too costly for Snow, although trading for Kessel would be sweet, but highly unlikely. Anyway, it’ll be interesting to see what happens tomorrow. Oh and please get rid of Nate Thompson. We need more skill and size and he doesn’t bring much of either. Sorry Nate, nothing personal.
could it be a Boston College reunion year at NVMC - Gionta, Scuderi, Clemmensen? Could have gone for a fourth if Ottawa didn’t immediately resign Ryan Shannon to a 1-year deal.
just a thought CB, but can you speculate on the farmhands who may have a shot at breaking camp with the club (i’m sick of all this pointless FA chatter when we’re only getting a goalie and then waiting to see who seeps through the cracks)
Why is Thompson a lock to make the team, can someone please explain?? He sucks. Why not give that spot to JJ, a young guy who actually has a lot of potential.
Also, Im looking forward to the development of Robin Figren, I feel like after the trade deadline next year, he could come up and make an impact like JJ did last year.
The team also needs a lot of size, they have none! Sure, there is Sutton and Witt, but they are either mediocre or on the decline! How about some youth with size??
Hey CB
isn’t Bailey on year 2 of his entry level deal? Wouldn’t it be 2 way? He’s going to be 20 by the time the season starts, so he should be eligible for the AHL.
That should allow him the flexibility to be sent down. I seriously doubt he would be, either way.
i cant help but complain about the possibility of nate thompson coming back. i think we should thank him for his service and send him on his way. jeff tambellini should have to prove himself to get a stop in the top 12 of our forward group. because i really dont look forward to another season of him shooting the puck at the crest of opposing jerseys.
Sign Chad La Rose and either Montador or Bauchemin on Defense. Sign 1 enforcer and try as hard as hell to sign Anderson in net.
Nate Thompson stinks! He is not an nhl player.
I am going to miss Andy Hilbert on the power play… NOT
Mike Cammalleri would be a sweet pick up
Komisarek is a bit over rated.
Garth, please get rid of Nate Thompson. He is absolutely horrendous and useless.
I can see the headlines 3 years from now
Nate Thompson becomes an important role player for the stanley cup run of the Capitals. Thomspson, who was released by the Isles before the 09-10, was shaped into an all-star player by George McPhee and Buce Boudreau.
Not much out there that looks exciting. I’d rather then make a small trade with Boston for Bryon Bitz. Huge winger who can skate, excellent fighter, and score. Pair him with Reichecz and the Isles will be set, especially if they add more toughness/skill on the defense. I think the Isles need two forwards both wingers, 3 d-men and 1 goalie.
We are one of the few teams that could give the Sedin twins 6 year deals. That gives Okposo, Bailey and Tavares plenty of time to develop. Do it!!! Also, sign Orr.
CB I have written this before maybe you can counter this post. Ihink the shovel in the ground next summer is more likely if Wang opems his wallet this summer. A winning exciting seat filling, media filling playoff team will get the attention of not only fans but tax payers and voters. The result will be approval of the LH this year. Conversely another AHL+ team this season will only get us another #1 pik next season and a team playing in KC the following year. Hope I’m wrong.
For the 1B goalies I would love to see Clemenson or Conklin. For the enforcer, there is only one name comes to my mind: Chuk “The Iceman” Liddell, if he only can skate.
I do understand that the Isles seem pretty much set on defense and wouldn’t want to over pay for another blueliner, but not making an offer to Mike Komisarek, is in my mind, a mistake. To start, he is a very good player, and secondly, he is long island raised. Garth Snow talks a lot about how it’s important that players want to be here, and live on the island during the off season. Not only does Komisarek live on long island in the summer, he has said numerous times that Bobby Nystrom is his idol. There is no better time for the Isles to brig Komisarek aboard. The PR for this team is the best it’s been in years right now (thanks to the Tavares pick, and the optimistic view on the Lighthouse Project), and the Islanders should absolutely bring him here.
Anderson or Niitymaki or Gerber or Conklin… in that order.
1 top 4 Dman.
Marcel Goc and a real fighter.
Bridgeport: with the apparent loss of Iggulden, McLean, Colliton and Walter (plus Pitton) up front, Callahan and Lee on the blueline and Mannino in goal, there are holes to fill there. Up front, the Isles/Tigers will have to sign several impact forwards who could conceivably be in season call-ups. It’ll be interesting to see who they bring in.
i am better than Nate Thompson
Boo, suitcase is packing up.
Agreed CB … I can’t see Snow in this situation making a big splash for a forward in free agency … with the limit on signed players and a few kids knocking on the door it’s time to stay pat and look for an enforcer.
I think next year’s the time to top off with a star free agent.
However … what say you in the unlikely event that a Marion Hossa or as you mentioned Cammalleri knock on the door? With the positive press and talk of the Isles doing the right thing they may be looking to get in while the going’s good and look for a team on the rise with cap room.
The New Jersey Devils today acquired center Ben Walter, and a cond 2012 draft pick, from the New York Islanders in exchange for the rights to center Tony Romano .
I would agree that the Isles are set up front. And that the one addition may be an enforcer to help protect JT. Considering that there will be injuries this will give, Jounssu, T. Smith, R. Figren and other players from Bridgeport games to file in and develop. Unlike most who comment here, I am still in favor of giving Tambellini plenty of ice time. He’s under contract so play him. Winning this year is not a priority. Play Tavares with Doug Weight. Play Thompson and Jackman to find out if its worth offering them a contract for 2010/11. Buy out Sim. But, I guess this can wait as long as possbile. Injuries happen even before opening night.
I love that you mentioned his name!!!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again….
MAXIM AFINOGENOV!!!!!!!!
Please Garth do me a favor and sign him, I think you could get a real steal here!
If it happens remember where you heard it first…jonsson3 at PB
Marcel Goc has never reached his potential for what ever reason in SJ.he is still young enough(25)aswell as being very gifted in the skating aspect of the game.He can play any foward position and contrary to his career numbers has ability.
Lukas Kaspar is even younger(23)then Goc and proabliiy as gifted if not more.Altough he doesn’t play all 3 FW positions he gan go on either side of center and make plays.
If the Isles are looking for reclamtion project/s then i would’t mind seeing either one of these guys given a 1 or 2 yr deal.
I just want to thank Mike Sillinger for his contribution to the Isles the last few years. I think he was a great influenece on our young talent. I am not sure what Scott Gordon thought of him but I would LOVE to see him remian in the organization in some aspect. I think he would make a great assistant coach.
Oddly enough I agree with #140. Maxin Afinogenov is someone I watched a lot when I was in school in Buffalo. I like him a lot for the Isles system, although he is frustrating and maybe our system is similar to Sabres now? Not sure. I think a change of scenery would do just the trick.
Sure, we need a wing but I don’t see Garth going after anyone here. These are names, all worth at least $3.5-$4 million per. I mean if you’re really serious about free agency you have to go hard after the ones you want, not pray someone falls through the cracks. If Garth Vader can do it through trades, that would be an intriguing notion.
Goalie, enforcer … be happy if we get either.
Also, I think if Bergenheim was ever to have the true NHL breakout season it will be this upcoming season. He showed flashes last year before getting hurt.
First off, the Isles need scoring more than they need a real heavyweight enforcer. Orr is an excellent fighter, but that is about it. Seems a lot of people here dislike Nate Thompson and say he’s a waste of a roster spot. At least he can win a draw and be a responsible penalty killer. For a team loaded with 3rd and 4th liners already, why get a player who will sit in the box more than skate? I am very much a fan of getting the Sedin twins. They are young enough to be a part of the rebuild. Their immaturity in demanding to be on the same team will only dwindle their options down to low payroll teams like us. So be it and good for us. The 12yr contract? I’d give them 6-8 years at a guaranteed rate and leave the remaining 6 or 4 heavily incentive laden dependent on previous seasons performance. I doubt it will happen and believe we will get Max Afinogenov. Like many Russian players, he can be great or lazy as hell. Maybe Gordo can whip his work ethic into shape. Plus, he’s a lefty shot on the right wing. As far as toughness, sure it would be great. But, after watching towards the end of last year, these guys showed a glimpse of team toughness. Guys like Weight, Tamby, Gervais and Comeau showing some grit to their game. It didn’t matter who was on the ice at the time, it was a team scrum. Guys sticking up for one another regardless of the opposition. That is a sign of good team unity and fighting spirit, especially when there was nothing to play for but their own pride as hockey players. Anyone who says Park is trade bait are nuts. He’s one of the best penalty killers in the game. NHL.com had a PK story last season on the top 5 PK guys in the league. Yes, he was on that list. I’m willing to bet Snow was hearing offers for him by playoff bound teams this past season. I am betting on Joensuu to be the dark horse for our lineup this year. CB - Sorry for such a long post!!!
realistic -we sign Chris Neil(2 mill for 1 year), Komiserik (2 year 4 mill a season), and take a chance on Gaborik… i know hes injury prone but why not offer him a safe multi year deal at a discount and get a top skater/goal scorer… we shouldve taken him over DP in the 1st place an kept Luongo but thats another story
There is no chance we will pay Komiserek more than 2.5 per year which means we won’t get him.