“PRACTICE”: ICEWORKS - 10.13.09: DP, Bergenheim, Nielsen, Rechlicz and the waiver debate
12:50 pm - Rick DiPietro said today’s session was his longest and most active since beginning his “rehab protocol” (everyone in the organeyezation chants that phrase like monks).
Any skepticism aside, the smile is back and DiPietro is clearly optimistic. “I feel like I can finally see some light at the end of the tunnel,” he said. “I hope it continues.” When asked if there is a date circled for an NHL return for DiPietro, both the player and Scott Gordon say it’s still too early. I’ll stand by my longtime projection of Thanksgiving if all goes well.
Some notes from a sit-down with Gordon (and Newsday columnist Mark Herrmann) in the upstairs coaches office:
- Reviewing the tape of yesterday’s game, Gordon counted two odd-man rushes and six offsides that negated odd-man rushes.
- The next video session will be at Wednesday’s practice.
- In the best-case scenario, Frans Nielsen could play a game next week. He would not play back-to-backs.
- Joel Rechlicz, sent to Bridgeport today, could be back before you know it.
- Sean Bergenheim was offered a chance to play the right side and perhaps increase his minutes. He declined. (Point Blank prediction: that could always change).
- Asked to confirm that a shakeup was not coming before this weekend’s games, Gordon admitted that the Islanders’ current contract situation makes it difficult.
Although I believe it would be not be a major loss if the Islanders put a player or two through waivers - and lost them - Gordon is not ready to give up on anyone. At this time, he believes every player up with the big club deserves the chance to prove they are worthy parts of the program. I wonder if the Islanders should take a cue from Edmonton, which lost Rob Schremp for nothing and haven’t spent a second fretting about it.
*
11:50 am - On the morning after, a quiet one at Iceworks. The coaching staff decided to make off-ice workouts mandatory, but on-ice practice optional.
Only six skaters are on the ice: Josh Bailey, Sean Bergenheim, Frans Nielsen, Nate Thompson, Jeff Tambellini and Jack Hillen. When you think about it, there really was no option for the latter four.
Dwayne Roloson and a fella named DiPietro played goal. In his final act on ice, Rick faced a series of breakaways that ended in wrist shots from each skater. He stopped each one, but it was notable that no one could deke or really test his side-to-side movements.
After playing a total of six minutes over the last two games, Joel Rechlicz was sent to Bridgeport. The winless Islanders’ next game is Friday in Buffalo. On Saturday they host San Jose.
115 Responses to ““PRACTICE”: ICEWORKS - 10.13.09: DP, Bergenheim, Nielsen, Rechlicz and the waiver debate”
Please Wait
Bye bye “wrecker”. Adds nothing to this team. I wish him well… maybe he will resurface another time.
Did no one test Ricky’s side to side because of his rehabilitation process? That sounds like a good sign that Ricky is taking this rehab slowly rather that the rush jobs last season.
We have a bunch of Smerfs’ we need a Bobby Nystom/ Howatt type to stick with the Bigs’
Lines for Friday:
Moulson Tavares Okposo
Schremp Weight Bergenheim
Tambellini Bailey Comeau
Sim Park Jackman
Yup, its the lack of size that’s the problem…
Gordon should of gave them a hard workout.
I really hope that son of an Islander (Tambo) gets another shot and starts puttin pucks in the net!
As for the Wrecker, he needs to show he can play the game in the ahl before he gets called back up, I mean if u just want a fighter ill go out there for the isles anytime anywhere v anyone! we want complete players.
Speaking of complete players, any word on when the gr8dane (Frans) may return? he will be a very nice addition to the lineup!
The Isles aren’t doing that bad. Los Angeles is a very good team. We are a couple bounces/posts away from being 4-0. No reason to freak out. Glad to see the wrecker go, waste of a roster seat. No need to see a boxing match between two benchwarmers every game. I don’t buy the protection nonsense. When you are playing the game intensely you don’t care who you check. You are not worried about some goon coming after you.
Don’t be shocked if Wrecker is back Friday or Saturday. Sending him down saves the teama few pennies.
I think Matt Martin might be what this team needs. I have not seen how he is doing at the bridge but he did look good in the pre-season.
Bailey is a victim of our lack of talent. Look at his wingers…sheesh Poor SOB hopefully he is around as we continue to draft more talent in the coming years
Bailey needs to be in the minors for a year. Should have been done last season.
Just called miss Cleo….she predicted a bunch of numbers for the weekend and that’s it…0-5-1.
looking at our team yesterday other than Streit Okposo and Tavares is there anyone else that would be better than a 3rd or 4th line forward or 3rd pair defensemen at best on any other NHL team? we have ZERO talent on this squad.
thats like an ‘insert your own joke here’ ricky stops all the breakaways, but they couldnt deek at all, and they were taken by 6 guys who have a combined total of 63 goals in 585 games in the nhl…
wait a minute?!!?! he calls the team lazy after the loss, then they only have mandatory off ice workouts? and then only 6 guys volunteer for on ice?
is it just me or is that messed up?
I KNEW wrecker would be sent down, and I agree with whoever said he’d be back for San Jose. The guy needs to play and get some sort of a game besides fighting someone. Jerking him back and forth does no good.
Limbaugh, Garry Howatt was 5′9″ 170, not exactly a GIANT. But he played big.
Speaking of guys that play big, Brian, Bergenheim is a LW, and I hope he doesn’t have to play on his off wing so we can see if Tambellini can score with third line minutes.
They probably can’t afford to send Bailey down because there isn’t a RW in the whole organization to replace Park if they had to move him to center.
It’s also great that Schremp has had a nice start, but now we may not be able to see Smith until two LW’s go down. Our weakest position last year is now one of our deepest… how sad is that… Moulson, Schremp, Bergenheim, Smith and Joensuu form our DEEPEST position.
Call me now…I always a appreciate a Miss Cleo joke.
CB:
How are the Sarnia trio (Katis, Dibo and Martin) doing down on the Bridge? Why isn’t Trevor Smith up here and Who are top 4 Dmen and Top 6 forwards in this organization?
Can you really build a team with only one top 4 D-man and 2 potential top six forwards? I’d say not, especially if you’re unwilling to sign any vets, play a system designed for the minors and have a GM who is unwilling to admit his mistakes.
When can we expect Frans back in action? And did we ever get more insight into his injury - was it the same injury from last year flaring up again or something different?
Wang knew what he was buying when got the team a decade ago. Now all of the sudden he is shocked it is losing money? Give me a break.
Put $56 million worth of talent on the ice like the league allows you to, make a concerted effort to win hockey games, and you’ll find that the tickets start telling themselves.
Stop worrying about if the county is going to hand you its most valuable piece of land for free and start worrying about the hockey team you bought.
Just looked up the Bridgeport Stats.
Team is 4-0
Smith is 3-1-4
Martin is 0-3-3 with 6 pim
Katic is 1-0-1
Benti is 2-2-4
Beatle - I hope you’re right about Josh Bailey. He’s been invisible this year. I was expecting more considering he’s a year older and bulked up in the offseason.
did josh bailey practice SHOOTING the puck? because from my calculations he has ZERO shots on goal this year. I dont mind if he hasn’t scored but not even SHOOTING the puck? whats going on chris?
#20- I agree 100% with your comment. What does Snow think that the Bergenheims and the Moulsons are going to turn into 40 goal scorers?? The only 2 forwards that will develop are Tavares and Okposo. If Snow is not going to sign any quality veterans then the draft is where you build your team. Snows last 2 drafts were horrible in my opinion except with the obvious selection of Tavares that my 2 year old would have made. The way the Islanders are going they will end up being the Oakland Raiders of hockey.Except, Al Davis probably would have passed on Tavares. lol
Bailey is too….darn…….slooooooowww
hope so too Pole…if i remember correctly Josh played most of the time next to KO last year. I think KO makes his linemates that much better. Bailey will progress..it is 4 games and he is on a line with AHL players. I hope they just let him play…I would be very happy with a 40 pt season from him showing steady improvement over the year
I am trying to balance the negative and positive - only one loss through 4 games. One of those was a colossal melt down. If we hung on at Boston does everyone feel different today at 1-1-2??? I was at the game yesterday and I think my 6 year old daughter summed it up best…..in the 3rd she looked at me and said she wanted to leave. When I asked why she said she was bored. I said we are at your first isles game and its better than sitting home. Her response - “i dont care—-im still bored.” Nothing like a kid to say it as it is. I am typically optimisitic so have to have hope that things get better. I think they played some solid hockey up until yesterday’s game. I for one like Gordo’s system, I just feel that we dont have the personnel to play it. Not sure we ever will unless we get a new building. Stars done want to play here and righfully so. I think if we were winning they would come but without them here we cant win. Its the chasing the tail phenom. Im a bit surprised by Bailey who I had high hopes for but so far he has been quiet. He is a center and good players make others around them better. Im not saying he should be blamed for all but he is not creating anything….nada….zilch. He is basically invisible out there. What the thoughts on moving him to a wing with Weight and Bergs? Wouldnt mind seeing Bailey even play on a wing with Neilsen when he returns. We need to figure out a way to create 3 lines
Baily played a lot of last year with KO and Comeau
Comeau had an awesome game. Skating, forechecking, and even some confidence w/ the puck. He was a big “plus” in a mostly “minus” game….I’m a little concerned about, in my opinion, the overuse of JT thus far, I don’t feel like he’s completely “there” physically yet. He might get tired as the season wears on.
that should be 60 games a year…
I don’t get the shots taken at Moulson, I don’t expect 40 but I can see more than Tamby, Sim, Thompson, Jackman combined.
I like his play so far and I hope it keeps up.
I think Bailey will be fine, hope he doesn’t let the slow start get to him, wish he played with a veteran on his wing.
Glad DP’s recovery protocol is going well, hope improvement keeps up.
What’s up with a Sound Tigers Point Blank? Someone needs to do that! Haha
Chris, who could you see the Isles’ putting on waivers?
I say start by waiving Thompson and bringing up one of the BP young guys. Too bad we can’t waive Gordon.
I think when Frans comes back healthy, he’ll take the 3rd line center position. Which will in turn shift Weight up to the number one center slot with Tavares on the right wing. That will force Okposo down to second line wing with Bailey and Comeau, which should help Bailey’s game. We just need a healthy team.
For the guy asking about the Sarnia boys. Katic had a rough start but has picked up his game nicely. Martin is playing on the most effective line with Benti & Haskins, so his points are coming along. Dibo is having a rough time. He’s looking a bit lackadasical out there and is getting knocked off the puck easily. And that’s while playing on a line with Joensuu. That’s the latest from BPT.
I want to know why Newsday is guarded in their reporting about DP’s workout today. No mention of any lateral movement (not that we expect it), just stating he had “LIVE” shots. Any rebounds where he was required to push off and test that knee yet? If so, when is that scheduled for? Give us something to help feed our minds of where he actually is. Good luck DP. Take your time, get better, don’t rush.
Chris, thank you for being candid and more detail oriented with your reporting. Gives us hockey fans way more info than what Newsday could ever hope to provide. Scoop or not.
I think it could help everybody to split up T-res and K.O. on the 5on5:
Moulson Tavares Weight (would be great chemistry since T-res grew up with Moulson and lives with Weight)
Tambelini Bailey Okposo (K.O. is going to make anyone he is on a line with better, Jeff and Josh could use this help the most. this line would have speed, skil and power)
Berginheim Schremp Comeau (another line with speed, skill and power. Also Schremp has done well on faceoffs)
Sim Park Jackman (a true “grind line” with grit, speed and more grit)
1st PP unit: Okposo and Streit on the point, Tavares up front with any two of: Weight/Bailey/Schremp (whoever is hottest at the time) would give us three options on every PP faceoff to adjust for different plays from different dots.
New Isles…I wouldnt touch the Tavares line, its the only one thats clicking
odd decision by bergie to decline to play the right side. i wouldn’t be surprised if he was traded at some point to make room for guys like joensuu and martin. as for dp, when he gets back he gets back, if that ever happens. take as long as you need rick. wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world if we lost tamby or thompson to waivers.
who would we lose if we put them through waivers? Tambellini? nope Sim? ( wouldnt care and doubt it) Who else is there?
Putting some of the guys through waivers is the only way to get around all of these one way contracts. That being said I can’t think of one player that I would put on waivers that has a chance to get picked up.
I think the only people they would consider putting on waivers is Sim and Tamby. Didn’t Thompson get a 2 way deal ?
What’s with Bergenheim declining to play on the right side? Plenty of players have made a nice living playing the off wing. I agree with #39 - I think Bergie has made himself trade bait, and we will see Joensuu or Martin in the lineup by New Year’s Day.
Schremp played a great game yesterday. He was awesome on the forecheck and created some really good scoring oportunities. He looked like the best player we had and was one of the few bright spots in a very frustrating game to watch.
I only got to see the Boston game but Bailey looked pretty good in it — he was back checking smartly and actually swatted a puck out of the crease and behind the net. You guys need to ease off him just a bit.
I for one am glad to see Ricky on the road back! Was watching some of his saves on YouTube and when he is on he truly is a talented netminder, albeit he likely will not return as acrobatic. Good Luck Rick!
Guys, when talking about what players are top 2 line players, look around the rest of the league. Teams do not have 2 lines of 40 goal scorers. Moulson is definitely showing the ability to be a second line forward. Bergie and Bailey could be too. If they take the next step. There is talent on this team, but as we have seen with Tambs, some guys take the next step..some dont.
DP could take this entire year off for all I care. We are not going anywhere. Come back in 2010-11 in top shape!..or retire so we can move on.
Geez!Not ready for waivers?? This is what kills me! Hello! We were the worst team in the league last year! After 4 games this year we rank 27!!Outside of the first PP unit and 1 or 2 others, would we miss anybody that got picked up?? Tamby, Thompson,bye-bye! Re-build means re-build! Bring up Smith, Martin and Joensuu and leave them here!!I’d rather see these guys here. Can’t be any worse!!Free up space and salary on this team that is going no where fast!!As far as Ricky, I would’nt doubt that the reason there were no dekes is because our forwards can’t deke!!
4 games into a season (and 3 for a couple players) you guys are not just going to miraculously see guys take the next step up. Now if we’re 40 games into the season and these guys havent progressed at all from last year then we have an issue. Give these guys some time. You are the most impatient bunch Ive ever seen.
I like what Ive seen from a lot of these guys and yes theyre inconsistent at times but thats what you get from young guys. I think the fact that the worst team in the NHL last year has hung in til the final buzzer in very single game theyve played IS progress for this team.
And CB I agree and disagree with you about Comeau. I like the fact that he takes the puck and leads breaks bc what he lacks in hands he makes up for with great vision. But I do agree that after he drops the puck off to someone he does need to go to the front of the net and clean up the rebounds and get some cheap goals.
Is it the fear that they’ll waive some one and they will go on to great success some where else? Who cares? They have had a long enough look at everyone now (except Shcremp) to know who and what they are. If you waive Jon Sim and someone claims him and he has a good year who cares if it free’s up a contract so a player who can positivley impact the Isles is added to the roster.
I can’t believe Montreal wouldn’t take Geravis with his local connections. There was a big article how they only had 3 French speakers on their team, we can help you out.
Witt would fit better in a system like Tor or Minn etc. It is clear he does not fit this system.
Martinek just take what you can get and clear the contract.
Maybe it is time for Tambs to get a fresh start but I think they are waiting to see what Schremp does on Tambs.
I honestly think Hunter is not the player he was and it would be wise to trade him before his value plummets.
Move Kohn’s contract off the books in a trade.
If it is the amount of contracts they have (Snow couldn’t resist all the reclamation projects) there are easy ways to fix it and as Botta stated pretty painless.
@318J1 #38
WIN. That is exactly the lines I want to see.
Put Witt on waivers!
Richelcz should be back for Friday (remember the history with Buf and SJ plays it big and tough). I don’t think they’d need him against Car. I can’t think of who Car has except the guy that was throwing elbows at Streit and other Isles before Riechlez got him but not sure if he made the team.
I want to see Tambellini back in the line-up..You know worst case scenario he gets minutes and showcases himself so that a trade can be worked out of some kind. I hate to say it because I’m a huge Tamby fan but his days are numbered on Long Island.
if that’s true about Bergenheim, it really disappoints me. i’ve always liked him a lot but that shows a poor attitude. he should be willing to do whatever the team needs from him, not to mention the chance at more ice time is something every player should jump at. definitely wouldn’t be surprised if he wasn’t here at the end of the season, which is a shame since i like the physical play he can add at times to his skill game. plus it would be the end of another failed 1st round pick.
Strummers army I usually agree with you, and I do in a way-the people you want to move are not part of the present or the future. However we would have to play with Bridge players and there aren’t enough of them and some of them are really never going to be NHL types. So please reply with more details.
I like it #38!!
Surprised only Bailey and Bergie skated today. I’m just gonna keep my mouth shut and be patient for a while longer.
MArty,
I agree Schremp looked like the best player on our team skill wise. he is easilly the most fluid, very good stickhandler, good passer. i was more impressed with him than anyone else. he has very good instincts too.
conboy for carolina, i believe.
SEE POST # 38
Right on the $$!
Hey #58, some of the guys would get waived and others traded. What Gordon indicated to Botta was they’d like to bring in some new players but because they have so many organizational contracts it’s not easy. If they could get free of Sim’s contrac that’s more new guy you can bring in. If you can trade some of the folks who don’t fit and bring in guys who do your set. Your right at the present time the Isles couldn’t rely on Bridge. End of the year and perhaps Martin and Joensuu.
Post # 52 just put the entire team on waivers. Who on the Sound Tigers are knocking the door down to play in the NHL? We need to ride with this bunch until the trade deadline and see if we can get any draft picks for the Hunters, Witts etc. If not, then the waiver wire. Meyer has been our best D man behind Streit, OUCH. I think Geravis has been really bad. He brings nothing to the table. Would trade him in a second.
You know when they got Moulson there were people on the left coast who were very upset They feelt it was a numbers game and he did not get a real chance. He is buds with JT and for youngsters like that they feed off each other.And no one has ever questioned Schremp’s talent, just “attitude” If this is the jolt he needed then this could be the steal of the year.
Why does everyone feel with icetime Tambellini will produce? I would much rather have the effort Sim gives every night than scratch my head wondering why Tambellini produces nothing. He is just not hungry enough. For all of the abuse Sim gets, I think he fits his role perfectly.
To me, 2 guys stand out and seem to escape alot of critism. Sutton and Bailey. Sutton has been msitake prone since he got here. Not to mention the countless injuries. He only steps up when we are losing. Yesterday, he played his usual soft game until we went down 2-0. if he played with that intensity all year, he could be a solid player. Bailey has been invisible. Its early, but we may have to consider a bridgeport stint.
Scott W you are correct about Bailey and Sutton. In the old days, Arbour would sit a young player like Bailey for a game or two to get him going. I remember Potvin missing shifts and other future stars, from the good days, watching from the press box. Someone in the organization does need to wake up Sutton. With his size he could be a real force. Again, a game off may be a good wake up call.
Another point to Islander management. I am am a long time season tix holder. I felt ripped off by the Isles play on Sunday. I knew going into the season we would stink again, but at least play with some heart. I can take losing with a young, hard working team. I will not take a “lazy” effort. A few more games like that one and I will try to dump my tix on stub hub.
My early observations:
1.Josh Bailey couldve used another year in juniors then a year in the ahl.
2.Joel rechlicz can have a positive impact. He brings energy on every shift, its not his fault he only gets 3 a game.
3. This team is very slow and that sacrafices gordons system. Ie: watch the rangers.
4. Not a discredit to roli or biron at all but watching them opens your eyes to just how good Rick dipetro is.
5. 2 many playmakers with virtually no finishers
6. Its sad to watch the team compete like crazy the first 3 games and lose due to a few crucial missing ingredients on the team
I we all need to take a big step back and relax here…I mean its only 4 games, did we think we would be in 1st place???? Let wait 25 games to get an accurate picture. Like CB said when the schedule came out, we will see where the Isles stand after November-December…
How does Bergy have a “bad attitude”? He’s always busting his butt out there, he’s probably one of the most consistent players on the Isles wrt effort, and today he’s one of only two regular players on the entire team taking part in an optional practice. Maybe he’s simply not comfortable playing on the right side. If he agreed to do it and struggled, the same ppl would probably be saying, “he stinks now! Trade him!”
this bailey bashing NEEDS TO STOP - plain and simple - what can realistically be expected of him? he only had 25 points last year remember?
i can go into more reasons, but the KID, just turned 20 years old 11 days ago
lets give him another 8-10 games before we go crazy (notice that gordo did cut his ice time down to 11 and change last game though)
both tsn and espn moved the isles up 5+ in their powerrankings
guess they aren’t as pessimistic as the reader’s on here lol
If the team is LAZY, shouldn’t the coach break that habit instead of giving their legs a break??????
C’mon CB, keep giving us the scoop whle Katie writes her fluff
There has to be a major problem here with Bergenheim. Who leaked that info? If it came from Gordo, then he’s throwing Bergie under the bus. If it came from the player, then he’s not to fond of the coaches ideas. I’m not defending either here.
If I’m Bergie, I’d play the off wing if it gave me a chance to play with Okposo. I don’t know if it’s worth it to play a side that’s less comfortable. The bottom line is Bergenheim has looked good, but got benched after LA’s second goal.
I can see him going in a deal. I don’t know if it’s worth it, unless we get a good value in return. I think we’d all pack his bags for a defensve prospect of Sean’s ability, age etc…
Afternoon games are usually sluggish and boring, why is everyone reading so much into it. This weekend is a perfect test. The Sabres are a team that will be fighting for a playoff spot and a good opponent to see where we stand. The Sharks are a great regular season team. Let’s see how the Isles play these 2 teams, games 5 and 6 of the season, btw.
Question: Is there anyone on this team other than JT, Okposo, Streit, Weight, Moulson, Roloson and Biron that you would want to see on the Isles next year?
why do people love wieght so much?
he’s a 40 year old has been who isnt part of this teams future. and he’s fragile as a china doll
send him packing too
Agree with B on (#31)- Comeau had a good game. Had good jump in the 2nd & 3rd periods yesterday. Would like to see him rewarded with move up to better line.
Also feel at Bergy is always held to a tougher standard than any other Islander. He hustles every shift and always seems on the verge of losing ice time. He’s been in the doghouse since he went back to Sweden.
I was at the matinee and there is definitely a problem here. Moulson was out of the lockerroom 5 minutes after the horn sounded. U would think the coach or capt would have some post game discussion after a noticeable half effort like that. I was close enuff to see bergs was noticeably upset when he was pulled off a shift. The bench was as dead as the play. Arbour would have had those guys skating till they puked but instead we have an optional skate w a handful of attendees the next day. Individuals trying to do too much(see park on three one on threes). Mostly because others r completely out of the offensive zone play. (See bailey) a defense that can’t hit the net. all the good will from the first three games out the window. I disagree w botta. Comeau had his best game this young year and was a presence. Gordon reminds me of mangini.mangini has his football process and gordon his hockey system. Neither r leaders of men.
Folks, read carefully before leaping to conclusions.
Bergie was OFFERED the chance to play RW.
That is different than being asked to play there, or assigned to play there.
He was given the choice if he wants it. He declined. No big problem there.
Do you remember under nolan how comeau was praised for his hockey sense? There is no reward for cerebral players in this system. That’s why bergs works so hard and gets nothing done. There is no neutral zone play development. Once we get inside the blue line the puck carrier never stops to develop a play once just inside the blue line. I see no coaching adjustments for personnel or opponent. That’s why guys like bergenheim when he goes to the red wings and when comeau is a devil, will be consistent 25 60 guys and valuable pkers. Gordon lost these guys before the season even started. When was the last time u heard of a midling producer like bergs decline an assignment to the off wing? Because he saw comeau do the same thing last year and get rewarded w a ticket to bridgeport. Bergs knows he is well respected in the league and can land elsewhere…I expect that he will soon. If snow really believes in the talent of all of these kids gordon must go.
I think everyone needs to slow it down. It’s four games into a season everyone should have known months ago was going to be long, with a lot of loses. Snow said it before the draft, they are not in the market for free agents. They are building through the draft. This will take time. Right now, they have two (JT & KO) players to start to build around. Maybe Bailey turns into another before the year ends. Then their 1st pick in 2010 (hopefully Hall) is another. Maybe de Hann is a fifth. Maybe DP is healthy come Oct. 2010. Plus Streit. Everyone else on the roster is just holding down roster spots until they can draft more talent. This team has very little talent. They just started the 2nd year of a 3-4 year rebuild. It would be a mistake to try to bring any Vets in to win a few meaningless games this year. Why so they can pick 8th or 10th in the draft instead of 1st or 2nd?
Last comment…what kind of coach 81 offers an assignment like that???if he felt it was necessary he would do it and make the system adjustments to ensure his player was successful. To me its more of an act of desperation by gordon who is incapable of helping his players achieve Rather he’ll keep testing guys within his overspeed system until someone fits. And if u saw monday then u can see overspeed looks great in the first, loses effectiveness by the second and results in turnovers and offsides by the third.
….. don’t know. If the coaching staff asks if your willing to switch your position its in the interest of what they feel might help his game and the team. I say, hey what ever helps the team I’ll give it a try. Just my opinion.
I like Bergenheim but Bergenheim has not done enough at the NHL level to say no to RW. It’s not like he was asked to play D or Goalie. So are we suppose to get rid of Gordon already now? I think it’s a little early to pull the plug on Gordon. Is his system really that bad?
What bothers me about the Bergenheim thing is that he was offered the switch to get increased ice time. There must be something seriously wrong behind the scenes there if any NHL player declines an opportunity to get added ice time in a game.
They system seems too rigid. A good system allows players to switch off. To me a good coach can modify a system to best fit the abilities of the team. To do otherwise leads to failure. Hockey is a game of quick reactions, not a preplanned, only one way to do things game. Talent was thin way back in i975 when Arbor took a team to the playofs and won a few rounds. Those teams hustled and HIT, and scored enough goals to get the job done. A game like Monday’s was a bore and an embarrassment. Adjustments are needed by player and coach.
look guys i was just as upset as anyone after the isles game vs kings. But fire gordon, waive bergie. come on.
i admit gordon is a bit too stubborn and has to realize that his ahl overspeed really doesnt translate as well to NHL. Now yes it could be used. But adapt a bit.
Is it me or you everyone like when guy like comeau comes into zone than drops puck back have the guy behind him fire net while he bounces on rebound. we saw none of that.
Also why not be creative with PP. if you notice the Kings were pushing against the point guys. why no work the puck down low?
As far as Bergie, That kid has so much talent to unlock. Selanne even said Bergenheim going to be great player.
So stop being so milburish and looking to get rid of everyone. Look how many isles draft pick are superstars in NHL right now.
LA kings are good example of team now on roll with its 2000-2008 draft picks.
Isles dont need Taylor Hall. Chances of getting him are slim too.
Hate to break it to you but unless injury bug hits, just with roloson and Biron alone. isles are not finishing last. Imagine with a bit more confidence this team will get on a roll.
They can start with Buffalo on Friday.
I have no problem with the idea of Gordon having to adjust the system. I have a problem with players getting a free pass. Guys like Bergenheim and Comeau need to produce more offense. The team should also not be too tired to play the system. Maybe the players need to be in better shape and maybe take shorter shifts. I just do not want to see another coach get thrown under the bus like Peter L and the players are given a pass.
#87 I couldn’t agree more, seems like the system requires way to much thinking and not enough feel for the game. I agree as well with Gordon i think he is a little to Mangini like, i think this team could use a shot of Rex Ryan. I mean really they are young and it almost seems like they could enjoy the game a little more. Bring back Rechlitz!!!
Post 76, give me a break. I too was at the game Sunday. I paid $337 for three tickets, parking and food. Not sure if you were a paying customer, but I was and I want to see a 100% effort, win or lose, every game. Not lame excuses about being lazy from the coach. Mr Wang, its time to put a team with heart on the ice. There was no excuse for Sunday’s game. I don’t care if its the first, fourth, or 50th game of the season or if its played day or night. I am out over $300 bucks watching a team play 20 minutes of hockey. Other posters hit the nail on the head. Arbour would still have them skating, without pucks. Not the day off.
I’m not going to rag on Bergie. He may not be comfortable playing on his off-wing. I see it as non-issue right now.
On another note, I think Gordon should be asked if he wants to switch to stickboy.
I cant beleive the over reaction (and there are many) to the optional skate today. They have 2 days off before there next game and I bet they practice incredibly hard tomorrow. Cut the boys some slack. It is only 4 games and if I asked you how many points they would have had to this point facing The Champs, @ Ottawa, @ Bruins, and Kings at home how many would have said 1 or 2?
#86… I’ve played hockey and switching wings isn’t as easy as you think it is. It’s not just doing the same assignment on the opposite wing, you know have to deal with a major change in your positioning because you don’t want everything on your backhand. And Im not upset one bit with him declining the offer, he got benched on Monday after Doughty’s goal, which I think wasn’t even his fault.
Bergie is an energy guy that has the potential for 20+ goals but like every player you are going to make mistakes, even tho I didn’t see one there.
What I don’t understand is that Gervais is constantly getting beat… In the corners, to loose pucks, getting out muscled, and out of position… But Gordon hasn’t done a single thing. Why don’t give him a game or two off and dress Hillen who has looked good when he actually gets to play. Not to mention I think it was Gervais who got beat down the wing, was chasing and that forced Witt over to the king player who then hit Doughty for goal. And Bergie gets blamed.
shakeup? you kiddin me??
you can’t blame these guys for what this team is right now. much as i can’t stand the expression - it is what it is. they are what they are.
pretending to expect more is bogus.
and weak.
#94, With this team we need 100% every shift, not every other period. There is no over reaction on my part. I am spending thousands on season tix. Are you? Win or lose, I just want my team to leave it all on the ice and not play “lazy”. How does a coach make a “lazy” quote in the paper and then give them a day off? They were not lazy enough to take my money. Shame on the Isles to play a home game like that considering they have yet to win a game!!! How about winning a few in a row before playing a “lazy” game.
This Bergenheim this is out of control. It is a complete non-issue. I cant stand when guys like Bergenheim and Hunter (even Sim for that matter) get criticized bc they arent producing enough. Theres 3 guys who give it 100% every shift of every game. Its not their job to produce. They are players who serve as a compliment to the higher caliber guys on their line who are supposed to put up the numbers. Problem is, there are no higher caliber players on their line. Dont knock anyone who pours their heart into the game b/c theyre not scoring goals. This team has 3 players who have the ability to bury the puck. One is 19, the other is 21, adn the other is a defenseman. Dont criticize someone elses game for the lack of firepower on this team.
I wouldnt go blaming the system either. The Islanders controlled big portions of the first 3 games using their system and outworking their opponents. Realistically a lot of those goals that were scored against them in the boston and ottawa game were crap. If the system can work for 50 minutes it sure as hell can last another 10. With the team we have, I dont see us sitting on a lead and playing defensive style hockey. We are too young, inexperienced and weak and it will eventually bite us in the a$$. If you look around the league a lot of teams are switching to the run and gun style of play. Sorry to say it, but the best team in teh NHL right now (Rangers) seem to have perfected it early on. Hell, even Jacque Lemaire said he was going to a more offensive minded system.
Guys, let’s face it. The Isles are in year 2 of a 4-5 year build. Half the guys (or more) on this team are just taking up space until we draft more talent / and bring in free agents. Hard to get Great Free Agents to come to this team this early in the re-build. My game plan? Sit back and watch some of the young talen develop (JT, KO, etc). Don’t expect playoffs this year (if it happens, consider it a bonus, but bad for their draft)
#101 knows exactly what he is saying. Players like Hunter, Sim, bergenheim are suppose to be complimentary players. Hunter is a solid 3rd liner, sim either a 3rd liner or 4th liner, and bergenheim has the talent to be a solid 2nd liner. I really like bergenheim in boston, he was the best player on the ice. He needs to get the ice time to be able to play like that on a more consistant basis. He was all over the place that game hustling! We honestly need him to get 18 minutes a night. What his 11 minutes garbage? he’s one of the best players on the team. yes that is a problem right now, but give him some more minutes…jeez, he has talent. We could have really used Tangauy this season to help Tavares. I think we needed a solid veteran to go up against teams first line. Okposo and especially Tavares are very young and inexperienced and I dont see Weight as a 1st liner, plus hes always hurt.
excuse me #99 hit it right on the head, only 3 players on this team can bury the puck and two of them are under 22.
#95
watched the replay on doughtys goal
Gervais fault 100%
He needs to benched by Gordon like Gordon
does with Tambellini
Bruno is a disappointment so far and i dont care if it s 4 games he been here a few years .let hime take a seat
Hillen desrves a shot and is it me but
Brendan Witt has slowed down, not his fault , we need young Dcorp
Last game we were all over Bailey. Now we’re all over Gordon. Jeez…
Post 83 says it best.
Bergie made a bad choice. If your boss asks you to take on an increased role, you take it. Pretty idiot proof. Even if you are unhappy for some time, it will pay off in the long run.
Anyone watch the Leafs tonight? I feel a lot better about the Isles.
I agree with the statement that this team needs less Eric Magini and much more Rex Ryan.
107, Toronto looks horrible, at least we have some pluses, hope Komisarek has a fun season, after seeing him so far I’m glad we didn’t overpay.
#101
You’re wrong, the team is not in year 2 of the rebuilding. What do you call all the years before 2007?
Those weren’t attempts at winning, they were also rebuilding years.
I love how some people on this board say, well why try to bring in this player or that player, just to draft 8th instead of 1st next year. It really is absurd. These guys are professional athletes, coaches, GM’s they play to win. Do you not want to see your own team win? I for one DO NOT want to even hear about taylor hall because that simply means another miserable season. If this team cannot improve with this goalie tandem,a healthy D and guys like Okposo,bailey,comeau,bergenheim,neilsen with experience under their belts and to add to that JT, streit, hunter, douggy Weight well then are we really heading in the right direction?
#110 how was signing Yashin to 10 years, 90 million and trading for peca and giving him 20 million rebuilding? 01-07 were not rebuilding years. 95-01 should have been but Milbury trading the “rebuilding” blocks…luongo(drafting dp instead of Heatley) Jokinnen, Bertuzzi, Brewer, Straka, Berard, etc.
#83 you can add Jesse Joensuu and Justin Dibendetto to that list. Joensuu will be a fine player and Dibendetto was 3rd in scoring in the ohl last season and supposively one of the surprises of last years draft. Hopefully Martin,Petrov,and Trivino can join that group and maybe 1 more player from the 2009 draft. Lets forget about Dipietro. Lets leave him with the Milbury era. If hes healthy, fine, until then lets move on. We have much bigger needs than goaltending anyway. The islanders need 2 new top 4 dmen for next season and no I am not countin de haan because he is very young.
Would someone send #38’s post to Gordon please.
I am disappointed to hear what Ray (#36) said about Dibo, but not surprised. I saw quite a few games of Sarnia’s last season. Dibo gets into these funks where he is lazy and selfish. Never helps his team or himself to play like that. I hope Capuano can keep his head in the game more consistently because it’s the only way he’ll make and stay with the big club.