PB Q & A: SEAN BERGENHEIM: “It’s been too long since our last game” (and about that depth chart)
Sean Bergenheim is arguably the best of the under-the-radar, young home-grown Islanders. I’ve felt for a while that if his development didn’t work out here, there would be a long line of NHL GMs looking to steal him from the Islanders in a bad trade. It could still happen.
He’s had a contract battle that cost him a year in the NHL and rough adjustment periods (putting it mildly) with new coaches Ted Nolan and Scott Gordon. His relationship with Gordon, solid by the mid-way mark last season, still bears watching. Bergenheim will likely never be a 30-goal man, but if he can cut his minor penalties in half, he can be very effective.
After our interview, I noticed something on the official team site. You can write it off as the work of a non-hockey staffer, but it might be a sign that Bergenheim still has a way to go in management’s eyes. He is listed in the incorrectly labeled “2008-09 Depth Chart” (fixed since this story was first posted) as a fourth line left wing, centered by Nate Thompson and with Tim Jackman on their right side. The first line is Tavares-Weight-Okposo. Listed as the third line left wing, Jeff Tambellini ranks higher than Bergenheim. Rick DiPietro is the No. 1 goalie. If you subscribe to the theory that you don’t lose your job because of an injury, that’s okay.
Again, maybe it’s nothing. But my experience tells me stuff like that doesn’t get there – and stay there – by accident. A check of the other teams in the Islanders’ division reveals that the Flyers, Penguins, Devils and Rangers do not post “depth charts” on their team sites. If the Islanders’ depth chart on their official team site – for the last year, 80% commerce, 20% hockey information – should not be taken seriously, then why does it exist?
I spoke with Bergenheim over the phone last night while he was watching the U.S. Open on television.
I get the feeling you’re one of the Islanders the fans don’t know much about. Tell me something we don’t know about you.
Well, my answer for this question used to be that I was a figure skater before I played hockey.
Really?
Yes, when I was very little – like from about 3 years old to maybe 7 or 8.
Did it help your hockey?
Definitely. Skating is such a big part of the game. I was young, but I’m sure I picked up some things that helped my hockey. If nothing else, I skated and skated all the time.
For someone who loves playing the game as much as you, the long offseason must be excruciating.
It was long. Sometimes I’ve had the World Championships to extend the season for a month when we missed the playoffs, but I sat out the tournament this spring to be careful with my injury.
Is the groin injury completely healed?
Hasn’t been a problem at all. I worked out a lot this summer and have been skating a while. I’ve been back on Long Island for a week and skating almost every day. So far it’s been strong. The Islanders kept me out of the World Championships. They made the decision for me so my body could heal. It definitely was the right decision.
Did you hear much from Garth Snow and Scott Gordon over the summer?
Not at all. I know what I have to do. I’m excited about getting back. As you mentioned, it’s been too long since our last game. The games are the best part. I hope we don’t have an offseason as long as that one ever again. I’m really excited to start every season, but I loved the way we played for stretches after mid-January. Many of our young players showed a lot of talent and we came together as a team. I think we can continue from where we left off.
Did you think your play in the second half was the best stretch of your young career?
I don’t know. There were some others, but I was pretty happy with my play. For me, it’s about feeling confident in myself and my play within our team’s system. I play well when I trust myself.
Any idea what Scott has in mind for you this season? Know who your linemates will be?
(Laughs) No, but I’m sure everything will be for the right reasons and work out fine. This system can work for me. It’s up to me.
Have you welcomed John Tavares yet?
Just briefly on Monday after he skated. I have to say I’m really looking forward to him being a big part of our team for a long time. He’s a very skilled player.
Where are you living on Long Island?
In Glen Cove with my girlfriend. I love it here. Long Island is perfect for me because I love being near the sea.
Favorite places?
The beaches. I’ve been to the Hamptons a few times and enjoyed it there. Once the season starts, I don’t go out much except to dinner. I like to be ready for hockey. I guess I’m a bit of a movie fan, because I see many of the movies that come out.
Favorite one this summer?
The Hangover. Very funny.
The time I’ve known you, you’ve always had this very obvious appreciation for playing in the NHL. Although you lost the one season, you’ve always made it clear this is the only league you want to play in.
This is true. I’m very proud to be in the NHL. It’s the best league in the world. Don’t get me wrong; there are other great leagues. I was in Russia and Sweden and there are so many great players there, too. But nothing beats the National Hockey League. Playing in the NHL has been my dream since…well, since I can ever remember. It wouldn’t be the end of the world if I someday play somewhere else again, but my goal is to play in the NHL, win in the NHL and enjoy it for as long as possible.
Your parents are here to watch you play a few times each season.
Yes, usually about three times during the year. It’s a long time for me to be away from home, so it is nice when they visit.
Tell me about your family.
My dad runs his own computer software sales company and he also does some boat designing. His schedule is flexible and he’s the boss so he’s able to make time to visit me, which is great. My mom is an air hostess for Finnair. I’m the middle child; I have an older sister and younger brother. They get here once a season if everything works out.
What else do you like to do besides hockey?
I like other sports, like Formula One racing. I enjoy tennis, but I can’t play too aggressively with the hockey career going on.
Have you ever driven a race car?
I got to drive once with a Formula One star from Finland. That was a thrill. I know Teemu Selanne has tried some driving for fun. I hope to be in a rally race someday, but I’m thinking I should wait until my NHL days are over.
Comments.
43 Responses to PB Q & A: SEAN BERGENHEIM: “It’s been too long since our last game” (and about that depth chart)
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The New Isles GM says:
Love the energy this guy brings to the table. I agree, I think most teams would love to grab a guy like this. He works hard and reminds me of a young Jason Blake in his early NYI years. Didn’t start strong, but gradually became the player he could be. This kid is young enough still where he has a bright future ahead of him and definitely adds an element to this team that we need. He works hard and has no problem going to the net. Can’t ask much from a guy who skates hard every shift.
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To answer #1 – our depth chart is filled with centers at the moment. It’s very possible management will take the same approach the Penguins did with Crosby. He started his first year off on the wing to learn how to play center from the vets on the team. It’s not like Tavares is known for his face off winning abilities. When you have a guy like Weight who passes tape to tape every time, might be the best idea to have Tavares on the wing. He should get atleast 5 shots a game that way. I like it.
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ahem, exactly what “SEA” is Sean Bergenheim referring to?
Seriously, that was very funny. I could care less if Sean knows much about geography and can identify bodies of water correctly. He’s one of my favorites. Good luck to him. -
i cant wait for October 3rd.
Guys like ean Bergenheim and Frans Neilsen are such a big part of the future for this team. It isnt just about Tavares and Okposo. Bossy and trottier didnt win cups without guys like Bob Bourne and Butch Goring and I feel that Bergy and Neilsen can be the all star supporting cast for the Islander teams of the near future. -
I think Bergenheim will be one of the bigger surprises this year. If he’s healthy, I will love watching him bang into players, and score a few more goals.
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Matt says:
Bergenheim seems like a great kid and I love his work ethic. He is more than a 4th line wing so hopefully Coach Gordon gives him his time. (if he earns it) I could see this kid scoring 20-25 goals a year if healthy.
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TuxTax says:
Bergie is definitly one of my favorite players. I love the way he gets to the slot area coming back up from the corners and gets off wristers through screens. He really picked up his game just before getting hurt(no way!). If he stays healthy and works on his puck protection, he will be a mainstay with the Isles.
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isles72 says:
the only thing preventing me from wishing for a fast forward to oct 3rd is this beautiful September weather
really looking forward to seeing Bergy become a bigger piece of the puzzle
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Dyingfour#5 says:
Time for him to start putting the pucks in the net. Hoping for a real breakout season, similar to the one Blake had with us.
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Strummer's Army says:
yes, the Isles depth chart on thier “BUY TICKETS” website sucks but I do believe it is what the Isles are thinking. Pretty scary huh? Why a guy like Bergy is demoted to the 4th line is a mystery. Worse Bruno Geravis is listed as a top 2 d-man. I say to you if Geravis is more then your 6th or 7th d-man it’s going to be a loooooonnnnng season. I know Geravis is only top 2 because they have to put him with Streit to cover up for Bruno’s horrible play but it’s a bad sign. So when I read the predictions of the Isles finishing last again I have to say it sounds right even with the improved goaltending, year of development, and Tavares.
Bergy is one of our favorite players, his hustle, hitting, defensive play, and his ability to score makes him a really nice player for the Isles. Bergy is the type of player you win cups with.
I’d like to see Islander management and coaching staff be more supportive of Bergy.
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mtrico says:
Bergy is a keeper. Hopefully Garth and Scott Gordon have figured that out by now.
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HilbertSnipe says:
#10… Blake? As in Jason? You expect Sean to score 40 goals? Unless you are talking about another season, that is what I consider JB’s breakout season (the last one he played with us.)
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mw147 says:
It seemed like a light bulb went on over Bergy’s head around January last season. He was a different player. All of a sudden he got what Gordon was trying to do and was VERY effective. I hope he continues it this season; if so he could be a very important player here.
I would like to see him on a line with Tavares and Weight.
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#3 Tavares has always taken the “big” face-offs and been very good in the circle his entire career. Juniors or on the world stage.
I’d like to see Bergy on a line with Bailey and Weight.
I watched highlights from the Travers City Tourney and boy it looks like a lost opportunity for Islander prospects. Sad to see so many empty seats though. Charles Wang seems to love to organize and host kids hockey tourney’s and starting next season he needs to start hosting a similar event to the Travers City tourney for the better development of the Isles prospects.
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MT says:
I hope this year he starts and ends the season strong. His hat trick last season was my highlight of the season. I’ll always root for Bergie, thanks for the interview CB
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Tavares says:
Thanks B.
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Mike L says:
So Bergy was a figure skater. I guess we now know who the real Kenny Wu is on this team
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dp says:
Sean is one of my favorite Islanders. He always seems to be trying his best. His hat trick last year was definitely one of the seasons highlights. He really deserves more credit and recognition for his work ethic, drive and good attitude from management.
I am really looking forward to seeing him and Frans N. play this season.
Isles website seems like an afterthought, not really concerned with factual content or staying up to date, like you wrote more of an e-commerce site. Not a place I go for Islanders info. -
J (e_godard) says:
Agree with most that was stated above.. Seans a great kid and has a bright future ahead of him. Im hoping that future stays put on this island.
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#13… Yes I’m talking about Jason Blake. I’m not expecting 40 goals out of Sean, however, his type of play always reminds me of Jason. Sean always uses his speed to generate chances but more time than none, seems to come up short. I still believe he has the potential to pull through and be a solid top 6 forward.
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Blizzard says: Yeah like really, JT on left wing? Sorry I dont think its a good idea I think he should start and learn the ropes at his natural position. I really like Bergy, love his energy and physical play. Must stop bad penalties in third period.
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UIF says:
I’ve wanted to get a Bergy jersey, but I always have a sneaking suspicion that Garth is going to trade him away. I really hope not; I think he could be a 25 goal scorer if he just gets a better shot…he’s always skating to the right areas, and he’s tough to knock off the puck. He’s got that balanced, low-to-the-ice, Jokinen style of skating. But I think Streit’s passes have more velocity than Bergy’s shots. Still, even if he turns into a third line checking/energy player, he’d be very effective at that too.
Put me down in the “bad idea for Tavares to be on left wing” crowd.
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Viper says:
Bergenheim is truly a very important piece to a winning puzzle. As is Point Blank, glad to see you back at full force, Chris! I look forward to your posts each day.
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Isles fan in CA says:
This kid is gonna surprise a lot of people this year with his play. I bet he is coming in stronger and hungrier this season to prove he belongs here. And yes, “The Hangover” was a great Summer flick!!
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fafa says:
Love Bergie! I too wouldn’t mind picking up his jersey but I am afraid of Garth getting rid of him.
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19 ISLE in NJ 22 says:
Great Story CB!!!!
I think Bergy has the ability to be one of those solid supporting members of the Isles for years to come once the team gets itself together. Bergy knows he still has things to work on and he can be the Bobby Bourne / John Tonelli secondary star player.
Looking forward to this weekend as much as the players for sure.
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Travelchic59 says:
Bergy is one of my favorites. If Garth does move him, I can almost guarantee Chicago will grag him. Scotty Bowman loves the way he plays. Some time ago I remember reading how impressed Bowman was with Sean’s play and commented on his potential.
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Michael says:
I imagine this is one of Bergenheim’s last chance to provide a lasting impression why he should be apart of this rebuild. I know we all see potential and growth, but is Bergy a 3rd line energetic player or is he a 2nd line scoring RW?
There needs to be answers. We can deal him for more assets/draft picks and open the door for other youngsters to prove they belong. I love Bergy as much as the next, but we don’t need another 3rd line energy player. We need talent to provide some offense.
If he can’t put up this year, I think he needs to go. He’s had more than a fair shake here, just my .02 to be honest.
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neologizer says:
Am I missing something here?
of all the regular Isles last year Bergy was 2nd +/- with a (-2)
Tamby was -20 (2nd worse)
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DyingFour: Good, haha! I was hoping thats what you expected from him and I agree.
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Brother Rat says:
Great interview, CB. I’ve really liked Bergy’s play and energy, and have high hopes for him this year. Good to see another guy really enjoy living on LI! I like how his dad designs boats on the side…that just sounds neat. These little interviews always make me root for the guys that much more.
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Justin says:
I love Bergy’s style of play, something the Isles sorely lack, but I think his ceiling is a 20-goal scorer and I’d be thrilled to get that out of him in 2009-10. He needs to stay healthy, though. He only played 59 games last season.
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rb says:
Just my opinion, but I think Bergy can be a VERY valuable piece on a winning team if: (1) he plays abrasive on your third line, against other teams’ top players, and gets you 20 goals; and (2) he kills penalties for you and isn’t afraid to take the odd shorthanded chance.
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Same as a few comments above – Bergie would have been my jersey if I wasn’t so nervous that he would mistakenly get traded. He’s definitely a piece of our puzzle in my opinion and way more than a 4th liner. I hope he stays healthy because I expect more noise from him this year….as an Islander!
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Blizzard (22): I agree that players should be in their natural positions. However, does anyone really know that JTs natural posiiton is C? In the lower leagues they put their top forward at C no matter what. (Remember they were doing that to Kyle Okposo?) I think that time is gonna tell what JT’s natural positon is going to be. And honestly, I would not be surtprised at all if he winds up as a winger.
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doc says:
I might be concerned about the depth chart issue also if there was any validity to it… but when there is a picture of Nate Thompson still wearing a Bruins jersey on the Islanders OFFICIAL website then I start believing that it is NOT GARTH and GORDON making up the depth chart… and instead is a mis-informed back office marketing guy doing it.
Nate’s been with the team over a year now… they must have a picture of him by now… or maybe they still think (LIKE I DO) that he plays for the Providence Bruins???
DOC
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battfist says:
CB-totally agree…it wouldnt surprise me – he’ll be the type of player if the Islanders traded who would succeed somewhere else.
Was it me or didnt the line of Frans, Hunter and Bergy gel pretty well late in the season?
I will never forget what Weight said during game when he was injured…as a guest commentator. Weight was describing Bergy’s play…and said in so many words no one knows what Bergy is going to do next.
Like many of you-I believe the guy has a place on the Islanders. If anything he always hustles…
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KO21 says:
I wonder what Bergy has to say about Bottas prediction that “he will not be a 30 goal scorer”. I think I dissagree and so would he, I’m sure.
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Spartiarti - RVC says:
the depth chart on team site is not what the lines going to be. It will be updated once the season starts. Isles dont disclose anything. Actual lines before camps starts. Come on.
Bergie has offensive tools very much to be 25+ goal scorer. He needs the ice time and he has to be careful of taken bad Penalties. Bad Penalties drive coaches nutz and usually results in significantly lower ice time. Ask Jon Sim. He even got sent to Bridgeport for taken so many bad penalties.
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Vlad from Brooklyn says:
It will only get better with Bergy. I don’t think he is going anywere. He belongs on the Island with other young guns. And about his penalties – in Europe they usualy don’t penalize for what he does. I’ts a matter of changing a bad strong habbit. It’s hard, but I think he’ll find a way.
P.S. CB, it is a good feeling to find new stories on PB. Thanks. -
will s says:
Bergie’s hat trick last season was basically the most exciting thing that happened to this team the whole last season
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Bergenheim is best LW we have on our team. Comeau is a 4th liner.
Bergie will have big seasont this year.
I have said before. Only way isles will contend is if we have at least 4 scorers with more than 20G+ this year.
they are Tavares, Bergenheim, Okposo, and Hunter.I would love to say Tambellini im beginning to lose hope for him. he plays like a life AHLer superstar Still.
I saw the depth chart yesterday and had the same reaction to it regarding where it placed Bergenheim. Evemn m ore alarming is the fact it places Taveras on left wing to Weight at center.
Why in the world would you draft a kid number one overall and then move him from his position right out of the blocks? Are they trying to ruin the kid?