ANY QUESTIONS? ASK THE EDITOR
Submit your Qs to Point Blank on all things Islanders
FanHouse: CB on Lundqvist saving the Rangers
Bruce Ciskie on Nate Thompson’s wide right
Adam Gretz on Matt Moulson and Rich Peverley
The Islanders are off today. Good time for our first round of Q & A of the season. If you have anything you want to ask me, please post it in this Comment thread. How this best works: one question per comment. Please limit each question to under 75 words (makes it a lot easier to make a post, makes it a better read). Especially nice if you want to include your real first name, approximate age and town (all optional). I’ll answer as many as I can starting today and through the holidays. Thanks…CB
176 Responses to ANY QUESTIONS? ASK THE EDITOR
Submit your Qs to Point Blank on all things Islanders
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Jim, 33, Centereach says:
if we are close to a playoff spot @ the deadline, what are the chances we can pickup a player or 2 that could provide legit help. and who are examples of guys we could actually get. and how close do we have to be to 8th (or would we have to actually be in a playoff spot). thanks
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Chris…
The most glaring need for this team to make the playoffs is a player with size that can contribute offensively. Is there anyone out there that is available that won’t hurt the current roster (we can’t give anyone of value up) and is still young enough to be part of a ‘rebuild’?Biggest problem I see is that there are so many teams sniffing 8 seeds that no one will be looking to dump a big salary guy that is productive.
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Alex says:
hi chris…
if you could tell us ur estimated percentage on what the odds of the lighthouse becoming a reality is, what would it be as of today? -
Mike from Sarasota says:
The three Islander/Ranger games this season have lacked the emotion/passion we’ve come to expect. Both the players on the ice and the fans in the stands. Why do you think that is?
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Danbury Islanders Fan says:
In your opinion what is the most likey outcome for the New York Islanders new arena? Is it the Lighthouse, Brooklyn, Queens, or somewhere outside of New York?
Christian, 24, Danbury CT
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Danny - 34 - New Jersey says:
chris – it seems like the islanders are very well off in the prospect department in juniors, canada and in Europe. where do they stand league wide in terms of prospects in their system. are they one of the top teams?
THANKS FOR ALL YOUR WORK
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CB, how come there was never any formal ceremony to pay tribute to the 10 or 15 year anniversaries of the 1992-93 team? I know they didn’t win the Cup, but as the last Isles team that truly made noise in the postseason, I was surprised that nothing was ever done to honor the team as a whole.
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Alex says:
Chris,
I think you were around in the organization when Ziggy Palffy got traded, and we all know it was because Milbury was forced to do it for money, but any stories about what happened behind the scenes when it went down, or reactions to it?
Thanks for all the great work over the past year+!
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Jim Clark says: Do you feel Scott Gordon’s (and Garth Snow)’s jobs are safe if the Islanders made moderate improvement but miss the playoffs (say finish 12th)? How patient is Wang?
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Joe says:
CB, Do you think that Garth will try to improve the D at some point? Clearly guys like Meyer and Gervais aren’t going to cut it if we make the playoffs.
-Joe 21 Huntington
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CJ says:
CB,
Plain and simple, when do the Isles begin to spend? Is their budget (or lack thereof) tied directly to the success/failure/progress of the Lighthouse Project? -
Mike T. - 43 - NY, NY says:
CB, do you think that MacDonald will stick with the big club for the rest of the season, and if so, what becomes of Bruno?
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Jeff says:
Do you think that any of the pending free agents will be resigned?
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Al L says:
Chris! What is your opinion of the total ‘Lighthouse’ media blackout imposed by Charles regarding fairness toward his many dedicated followers and the darkness they now agonize over. Personally I think it it high time some hint of the potential geographic future of our beloved franchise is courteously extended. I can understand the fear of hindering any potential ongoing negotiations,but keeping us abreast of a sliver of information couldn’t hurt! What is your opinion and if you at least have a feel of which way this is going to go,please contribute.
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Ben says:
hey chris… assuming ricky can come back sometime in the near future, can we get anything for biron at this point? he hasn’t played much, and when he has, he’s been pretty awful. thanks for all your work. i couldn’t like without the site.
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JPinVA says:
With the team in [supposedly] year two of their “rebuild” there must be a depth chart in Snow’s office (or maybe just his head) of what this team should look like 2011-12. From what you’ve seen and what you’ve heard from scouts can you humor us and fill in the blanks with your BEST GUESS as to what the team might look like.
()-Tavares-Okposo
()-Bailey-()
()-Nielsen-Hunter
()-()-()
(Molson, Bergenhiem, Comeau, Joensuu, Martin, Schremp, Petrov, Ullstrom, Rahkshani)Streit- ()
deHaan-()
()- ()
(Hillen, MacDonald, Hamonic, Katic, Ness, Kohn)DiPietro(?)
()
(Koskinen, Poulson, Nilsson, Lawson) -
Dan - 46 - Dubai says:
Chris – I hear very little (good or bad) regarding Freddy Meyer. All of the other D seem to get commented on (Witt, Bruno – bad and Sutton, Hillen – good) even MacDonald gets alot of commentary. There seems to ‘radio silence’ on Meyer. What is his status?
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Bjorn Holland says:
Hi Chris,
Januari 22th I will visit NY and watch the Capitals game. How big is the chance I could one or more of the Icegirls?
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Alex Kinkead says:
CB
We are currently in what I call an “NFL” like cluster in the standings. It is anyones bet who will make the playoffs.
How will this change the trade market this season?
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Also
Are we the Marlins of the NHL?
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IronIslander77 says:
Is Tyler Hall projected to be as good/better then Tavares?
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Alex Rosenfeld says:
With less than two weeks now until the official roster is announced, what are Okposo’s chances looking like for making Team USA?
Alex
28
Manhasset, NY (Original)
Brookline, MA (Current) -
Does Tavares have a chance for the Canadian Olympic Team?
He should considering his stats,his age and Canada loves him. -
Oh Age is 19
Town Holbrook, NY
Please include one of my questions CB -
jelly says:
Chris…Thanks!!, for all you do for us Islander fans…what a great place to read about the team, an sometimes throw in a comment. Happy new year to you and yours!!!
Question…What is wrong with Mark Steit….he is such a different player this year than last. Last year his decisions with the puck were so smart….now he seems to lack confidence with even the smallest puck movements??!!?? Is he hurt??!!??
Chris
Brookhaven NY
45 -
Petrov?
Can you interview Snow and dig a little deeper please?
Is the plan to sign the kid over the holidays here, and get him to stay?
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bossy22 says:
Hey Chris,
With all the questions surrounding the lighthouse, do you feel the Islanders will be in a position to make even a ripple in the free agent market this coming offseason. Assuming the Isles continue to play .500 hockey.
Greg, 36
Charlottetown, PEI -
Jerry says:
Chris:
Would love to see Okposo and Taveras stay together, but understand Gordon’s attempts to get more lines going. Why has he not tried Moulson on another line yet? The one thing Taveras lacks (and needs a linemate to bring) is speed. Would love to see him give Bergy a shot with JT and KO, then try MM with Josh and Frans.
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Moulson26 says:
CB- Is this kind of win, loose, win, loose stuff typical of young squads or are we just not mentally prepared?
O’Neill-25 West Hempstead
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billy says:
CB,
obviously having de haan and hamonic on team canada for wjc is huge. Hamonic seems to be having a monster year, do you think Hamonic is becoming an even better player than expected?
billy, 29, winnipeg
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pete says:
At this point in the season would still pick Tavares first and do you really think he is going to be the best player from that draft? (I vote Duchesne after watching him play a few times despite tavares’ point total)
Pete, Newburyport, Mass -
Irish Isle says:
The Isles are in a spot where they are a few points out of a playoff spot, and are a few points out of a Top 5 Pick. Lets say the the Isles fail to make the playoffs, and get the #1 pick (mind you the dont need to have the worse record to get the first pick), where do the Isles go? Do they go forward? Do they go D? Are, (getting ready to duck), do they draft another goalie?
Thanks for the passionate Islander Coverage.
Merry Christmas
Chris Hynes, 31
Lynbrook, NY -
uconn husky says:
Hi chris
Any chance at the end of the season we might see De haan or Hamonic on one of those 9 game lets see how they play deals like KO did last year?
Zach 19 storrs Ct
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Themass says:
Is it a concern that JT almost never wears Islanders issued gear in interviews? (usually wears CCM GEAR). Even when the team was shopping for Xmas gifts for kids he was the only one without a 3rd jersey on.
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Mikey says:
Chris,
Do you think Charles Wang will accept being Ratner & Prokhorov’s tenant in the Barclay’s Center if they give him a decent lease that could make the Isles profitable? Or do you think he would rather sell the team if he cannot get his own real estate deal and complete control of a new arena? Thanks.
Mike, 26, Cambridge, MA
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John says:
CB, first off Thanks you for the great job that you do. Without you we Islander fans would have no place to turn.
My question is with this being a rebuild year how can they not commit playing time to Jeff Tambellini? Have they given up with him? I personally think he can be a good NHL scorer given the chance. -
Oops, forgot the info.
John
36
Staten Island, Ny -
Kaszycki's Krew says:
Chris,
Has the team ever considered honoring the 1975 team that went on such a run in the 3rd season of the team’s history? I understand that the 4 Cup runs overwhelms the legend of that team – but 75 was my favorite year of being a fan for this team – I of course was a young fella back then – but 11 Seconds of OT, the series vs. the Pens coming back from 0-3 and the Kate Smith series……made me a fan for life. Would be nice to honor THAT team for once. ITs the 35th anniversary (I think) of that event.
Pat – old enough to have watched that team play – West Islip
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Jamie says:
It seems that the addition of the extra referee has created a lot more on-ice clutter without noticeably improving the overall level of officiating. Are any players or coaches bothered by this, or is it just me?
Jamie, 35, Delaware
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Pat from West Islip
What is up with Wayne Merrick ? Have never seen him around the team in recent years.
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Joe 24 from Bayside says:
CB,
What do you feel is the better option for the islanders, long term. Making a push for the playoffs or another top 5 pick? I wouldnt mind Hall (Preferably), Fowler, or Kabanov on the islanders for the next 10 years.
And as always thanks for everything that you do! -
streit02 says:
Hey CB, ilya kovalchuk. Barring teams making a major trade to free cap space, if he does go to free agency there are only a handful of teams that can afford him. I know you made a somewhat sarcastic comment a couple weeks ago regarding it, but do the isles have any shot if he doesn’t sign in Atlanta?
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The New Isles GM says:
CB,
With Chicago, Washington and LA further in their “rebuild”…what do you think Garth Snow should do for the next five years to make the Islanders a serious contender? Assuming we are all aware of some the free agents soon to be available, and each draft being deep, what can you expect from Garth between 2010 – 2015?
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Steve, 26 Farmingdale
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JimfromStjames says:
Would Snow even make an attempt at signing Kovalckuk?
Jim, 39 Shirley, NY
Also, I was at the game last night, Am i crazy, or does the NVMC even raise the price of a beer at the “premium” games? 8.50??
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MT says:
I kind of have a light hearted one, I remember last season you had a segment on roommates on the road, and I was curious as to how they are selected? Is there a system were veteran gets paired with rookie (ala JT and Weight)? Friends get paired with friends? (Nielsen and Tamby)? Or do they do something simple like pick names out of a hat?
23, Islip
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Joey303 says:
CB- In your heart of hearts…the future of the team, both in the home front, and on the ice.
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mt275 says:
I know that OK does many things well, but don’t you think Gordon is giving him too many roles (besides putting him on the point during powerplay)?
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Jethro09 says:
I just want to know if the Islanders have any intention on trying to acquire a legitimate enforcer, someone to go out and protect these young players. Last night, JT took a shot from behind from Staal and Hillen got a forearm shiver into the glass, again from behind, from another Ranger defenseman. Both guys turned out to be okay, but this is starting to become a recurring trend. Opponents are taking liberties with the Islanders smaller and younger players and nobody is there to hold the opponents accountable.
And when I mean “enforcer”, I don’t mean a human punching bag like Jackman or an AHL guy that can’t play hockey like Rechlicz. I mean a legitimate NHL enforcer who can take a regular NHL shift and be at least serviceable doing it. Thanks.
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Phil says:
CB,
Who sits when Weight, Jackman and Bergenhiem return? My vote is to send Joensuu and Bailey to Bridgeport and shuffle in Jackman with the 4th line. I know Bailey and Joensuu are making progress but let them improve their game in the AHL. My gut says that Schremp and Jackman are scratched and JJ goes back to Bridgeport.
Phil
Syracuse
25 -
Josh says:
Charles Wang has argued that the entire Lighthouse Project is necessary for the Islanders to stay where they are. Why wouldn’t a winning team in a new arena alone be profitable itself?
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bcarroll25 says:
chris,
what do you see as okposko’s ceiling? i see a well rounded above avg. nhl winger, 25 goal/season not a star or difference maker.
mike east northport -
Brian G says:
CB – With all of the great work Billy Jaffe does with Islanders Games on MSG+, NHL LIVE, & Versus….I hope he doesn’t leave to pursue a different TV gig after a season or two…Would you know how long he has on his contract and/if the Islanders/MSG will sign him to an extention? I have the NHL package and watch many different broadcasts of games and Jaffe has to be one of the better NHL TV Analysts, and has good chemistry with Howie Rose (who also does a good job)
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VanVoorhees says:
Chris,
I’ve stated here before that we’re missing a Clark Gillies. Watching the game against the Flyers the other night when Pronger face planted Tavares into the boards and nothing was done about it just makes me crazy. Sure John showed his toughness and came back from that hit and scored, but we need some of that grit to gain some respect. I’m not talking Dr. Hook McCracken, I’m talking a leader, maybe a Captain type – Vet, savy, skilled who can take the youngsters under his wing and show them how to win while keeping the balance on the ice in the physical area. Maybe there’s not a player like this available, It could fall on two players – that have 7-8 good years left in their careers. (Miss Billy Geurin), I just think we need someone to protect our investment in some of the young players and someone to lead them that knows how to win – Is Messier available – Ranger’s be dammned, but he’d be perfect 12 years ago.Scott VanVoorhees from Sayville, LI and now in Williamsburg,VA
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Tom says:
What are the chances the Islanders will ever be good again?
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Paul says:
Chris,
Are any of the “Jason Blake is a cancer in the locker room” rumors true? Seemed like all he did was work his butt off every shift. Not sure why the fans despise him so much (even when he was still w/ the Isles).
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Chris says:
CB, what’s Jeremy Reich’s status? He reminds me a bit of Asham, and I thought he had an outside chance of making the club before he broke his wrist. Also, I know you go to bat for Thompson, Park, Sim, etc., but what are the chances we replace one or two with a power-play specialist, a true fighter, or some other element?
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Eric Nystrom says:
Hey CB.. Any chance of getting Eric Nystrom from the Flames? How sweet would it be seeing #23 again and he would fit in nicely with the young team and provide that much much much needed toughness..
David
Westchester, NY -
anthony says:
What are they doing with Bailey? Last year he was the prized center for Okposo. This year with Tavares, he’s been buried. Neilson is “decent”, but Bailey should be centering 2nd line; he was supposed to be a foundation player to build around. I don’t see it happening right now…
Anthony
Huntington -
Joe in Massapequa says:
Hey Chris,
What do you think would be better for the long term growth of the Islanders – finishing the season and getting another high draft pick or making a little run into the playoffs and giving the current group that experience? -
RichM says:
What are your thoughts about the state of hockey in the NY/NJ area? Are you concerned about the lack of interest provided by the media to hockey?
Thanks for all your hard work.
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Mike says:
With the tough year Doug Weight has had with injuries, do you think the Islanders will bring him back for another year?
Mike 32 Calgary, Alberta
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Cary says:
Chris,
I believe in Sutton, Streit, and Hillen as core players on D.
What would our D have to look like for the team to win the Cup in the future and what do we do this season to start to get there?
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Oh – and I’m 31 years old in New Mexico via LI.
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Mike in CT says:
With Weight out this year, who has stepped up as the team leader in the locker room? Who gets the C next year?
Mike, CT, 48
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Rich from RVC says:
Seems like all my questions have been asked. But I was wondering if they will be wearing a 3rd jersey next year. If so, what is your guess as to what it might be? The current dark blue home?
Thanks for all your hard work Chris!
Can’t live without this site!
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Hey Chris,
Tavares is amazing. There is one major flaw to his game that I have noticed. His skating. I have watched the other rookies and their skating seems more fluid. I know he is more of a “top of the circle in” type man, but his skating through the neutral zone isn’t the strongest. Do you think this will be a major focus on his off-season training this year? How much improvement do you see from him next year?
Sean 26 Patchogue, NY
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Mike from Oceanside says:
CB-
Many of the questions I wanted to ask regarding the current team and the Lighthouse have been asked, so I’ll go in a different direction.
What transpired with Neil Smith?
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Anthony says:
CB,
I know you probably have a lot of good stories to tell from your time with the Islanders, and maybe some you always want cherish privately, but is there a “behind-the-scene” story or event that is one of your favorites (like the story you wrote about Big Z’s training bike and the impossible resistance)?
Anthony, 22, Red Hook (Dutchess County), NY
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4peatsake says:
CB- looking at 2010-11 roster, what will be biggest surpise- both for new player and for player no longer on Isles?
And why did Pat Lafontaine leave after Neil Smith (see Q #64)?
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Eastonhockey says:
Will the isles have the lowest payroll next year n the year after also?
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Bob Beers says:
CB: Plain and simple, what is the deal, no pun intended, with DP? While I hope it’s not true, I have a bad feeling that his career may be over, and the only reason I think that is because of the way the organization is handling the situation in terms of the language they use related to both his injuries and setbacks.
Thank you and keep up the excellent work. PB is an absolute pleasure to read.
Bryan, 32, NJ
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Islesfan99 says:
What are the chances Snow and Gordon can wake up and get us some much needed size and strength. We need an enforcer plus 2 Asham/ Rupp types that can play 3/4th line and fight when needed. We are way to small and would win much more if we were a tougher team to play against. Can we expect any size anytime soon?
Alan 28 years old Great Neck NY
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Bryan (32) from Plainview says:
Chris, do you see the Islanders trading some prospects near the deadline to make a playoff push this season, or do you think they’ll go primarily with their current roster and hope for the best?
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ogam5 says:
Hi, Chris – Jim in Western MA here again. Thank you one more time for everything you’ve done to maintain the vitality of our little – but growing – community of Islanders fans nationwide; wish I could’ve been at your ‘social’ last week…..
All things considered, I have a lot of hope for this team, truly frustrating as it’s been at times this season. My question is this: as you yourself have previously been a vocal advocate for an Islanders-Rangers Winter Classic, what do you believe can be done to improve the chances (and more importantly, in light of the Puck Daddy comments, team’s profile) of getting one? My feeling is that both Bettman and Bill Daly want to see it happen but are waiting for the Islanders’ future to become more stable before permitting it. As to someone’s suggestion that it be played at Citi Field rather the new Yankee Stadium (and as a longtime Red Sox fan – sorry!) I couldn’t agree more; always felt that the Mets were more our team’s spiritual brethren – not to mention that they might be headed there for a new arena anyhow if not Brooklyn or Uniondale…..
As you yourself have also alluded to, the Islanders have not done a particularly good job in some ways of marketing the team outside LI, not strengthened a really prestigious profile that played upon their considerable hockey heritage (as proof that it could happen, I strongly feel that the Penguins playing in Buffalo raised the national profiles of both teams higher than ever before…..) while we’re on the subject, might Denis Potvin be more amenable to taking an expanded role with his former team if the Islanders are finally delivered to firmer ground on all fronts? I get the feeling that there is a distrust factor with him (not just his practical allegiance to the Panthers) similar to what was the case with Bryan Trottier and now Pat LaFontaine….thanks!
Jim Cayon
Easthampton MA
Loyal (and patient!)
Islanders fan since 1975 -
Thomas says:
Chris,
Can someone ask Gordon (or can you explain) why in his “go-go” system the defense is the most passive of any NHL team? I do not understand the logic of not pressing the puck in your end, yet running around like crazy in the offensive zone. You can see when the other team is about to score especially on the PK. Thanks
Thomas 37 Mount Kisco, NY -
Viper says:
Chris, toughness remains a glaring issue. Are there any rumblings this may be addressed and how?
Steve, 39, North Bay, Ontario
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MN says:
Chris – Our favorite newspaper who is owned by the company which in turn owns some teams, stated that the Islanders would have to pay additional territorial fees if they moved to Queens or Brooklyn. You’ve in the past stated that this is not the case. Can confirm your past statements and let us know what you are basing it on?
Thanks,
Marc from Deer Park
Approximately 35 years, 7 months 8 days. -
Bryan says:
Chris, as we know the Islanders fell victim to many bad trades over the past couple decades. I am curious at the time of the trade which one made you cringe the most when you needed to write a positive press release about it?
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Josh (36) from Va. says:
An off-beat question from the “What If” department:
What did Sam Pollock offer Bill Torrey for Denis Potvin at the ’73 draft?
Unless you ask the Architect, the world may never know. And we’ll never get the story anyplace else.
Many thanks to you and AOL Fanhouse for keeping IPB going.
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Hey Chris,
Whatever happened to the Islanders Hall of Fame? After the Bob Bourne induction, nothing else has been mentioned. Are there plans to have a Hall of Fame room in the Lighthouse? One of the best, if not the best, aspects of the Bell Centre is how the Canadiens honor former players and teams throughout the concourse. Would love to see the Isles follow suit.
Steve, 28
Queens -
Chris – Travis Hamonic is currently unsigned and looks to be a possible piece of the puzzle we don’t have – a big shutdown defenseman. What is been the hold up in signing him to a contract and do you think the Islanders will sign him before they lose his rights this June?
Thanks,
Marc, 35, Deer Park
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BillyIsle says:
Here’s one that will get some fans heated…Was Milbury really a terrible GM. Howie Rose once said on WFAN with Francessa that he felt Milbury got a bad rap for things outside of his control and that a lot of moves were based on finances.
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TimQ says:
If you were the GM what would be your 3 highest priorities to upgrade in order to make this team a viable contender by 2012? Would appreciate your thoughts on who you would target to bring in and which current assets would be untouchable
Tim East Northport, NY
PS – Agree with Pat and ogam5 on the value of the ’75 team in establishing the fan base. Definitely worth celebrating.
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Pat says:
Hey CB,
Great site you have here, but I was just wondering if the Isles hang around in the race is it guaranteed Gordon gets a Jack Adams nomination. I think his job is pretty safe and I love what he does with the young guys.
-Pat, Seaford -
Jason says:
Any news on DiPi?
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CB: IPB is now a partof AOL and you have a title of Senior Writer. Does this give IPB security for years to come??
Mike, old enough to be an Isles fan in 1972, Richmond, Va.(formerly Farmingdale, N.Y.)
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mikef says:
Hey CB,
I saw Arron Ward was on the waiver wire; is he a possibility? Who else is on the Isles radar to help bolster the Blue Line?
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Vukota76 says:
Hey Chris,
This question might be off the beaten path but…….
Of the 6 numbers retired by the Islanders, which was your favorite ceremony, which was your least favorite and why? And is there anyway to get those ceremonies on DVD? I was present for three of the six, but I would love to have them all on DVD. Thanks Chris. -
19 Isle in NJ 22 says:
From the home office in Jackson NJ …
CB ~ I think I already know your answer … this is an opinion question.
In your opinion … all things being equal … What option do you think is best for the NY Islanders’ long term future? Wang’s Lighthouse Solution? A move to Brooklyn? or a move to Willets Pt. Queens? Strictly based on the Islanders financials … not Wang’s overall financial interests.
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isles316 says:
Hey Chris,
As a season ticket holder, should I feel confident that the Isles management from Charles Wang on down, is genuinely doing their best to put hockey and on ice results first? I’m 100% on board with the rebuild but I’m worried in 2 years that I’ll watch Okposo, and Tavares get traded and the team hovers around the salary cap floor. Thanks.
Dan, 28 East Northport
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Chris from Lynbrook Again, who do you think are viable trading chips the Isles have this season? Who would they trade with?
As a corollary do you think it would be a good time to trade Sutton, as his value may never be this high again> -
Islander says:
So who do you think the Islander trades will be by the trade deadline?
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Chad says:
My question is about Scouting. Every once in a while you give props to the scouts and talk about the overhaul of the scouting system. When did that happen? How involved was Jankowski in the 2006 draft (K.O., Joensuu, Figren, Rakhshani, MacDonald, Riderwell). How long has Jankowski been with the team?
Thanks. -
Toly, Brooklyn, 39 says:
Chris,
Best wishes to you and yours during this Holiday season. Thanks for keeping the IPB going and thriving. May the upcoming year bring you continued success and prosperity.Now with the question, considering the uncertainty of the Islanders status in Uniondale, do you know if their marketing/sales department stated to work on the 2010-2011 season packages? This may give us an indication whether or not the Isles are here next season. Taking it a season at a time.
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Sean says:
Chris – I am a student at Hofstra and working for the islanders has always been a dream of mine. What advice do you have for someone like myself who is looking to break into hockey on the operations side?
Thanks
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Donald says:
Here’s one for ya – We hear so much about GoGo Gordon’s system, but to be honest, I don’t see much different in how it works. Canyou explain what it is and how it runs and how to see it in action?
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Blizzard says: CB
It has beed speculated that Charles Wang initially bought the Islanders with the intention of being able to develop the surrounding realestate.
What motivation would Charles Wang have if they where to move to Brooklynn? Would he sell? Would the Islanders become a profitable frachise if they relocated to Brooklynn and shared the new arena with the Nets?
Mike 42 Oakdale NY
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Moose says:
CB,
Favorite NYI player of all time?Doug
RVC, NY -
Frank nyc says:
Hey Chris,
My question is about the prospect of signing our core guys like JT, KO, MM and a few select others to new contracts. When will they be signed to new deals? Can they be signed? What kind of contracts will be offered?
Thanks
Frank 24 Bayside, NY -
doc says:
1. Is Streit hurt? He’s not skating very well.
2. Has Witt “lost” the passion for the game?Thanks Chris
These are somewhat rhetorical in nature because I think the answer is obvious.
DOC
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Jim M says:
Hey CB, Jim here from Levittown, I am a college student. Would it be fair to say that Mikko Koskinen will get a good look from the big club early on next season(or perhaps the end of this season) and if he can prove himself he will stay for good?
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Froggy says:
As much as I love this team it is hard when I don’t even know if they’ll be here in a few years. What does your gut tell you? Proverbial gun to your head…where do you see this team playing in 2016?
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dan says:
What are the chances that this team moves out of the area? I want an honest answer. I can take the losing but I can not take them moving. I need an honest answer cb please
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O and Dan, 22 from Massapequa
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Doug from Baltimore, MD says:
Hey Chris,
If you see the Islanders picking up one player in this summers FA market, who would it be? Thanks!
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As much as I love Katie’s coverage and appreciate it, I can’t see paying $5 a week for the coverage. I live in NC and LOVE the Islanders. I follow all the coverage (just dont comment much). I am not against subscriptions just think Newsday is a little steep on that.
Thank God for Point Blank. I read it a few times a day. Thanks so much Chris for what you do. As a transplaned Islander… I rely on your coverage. It is absolutely awesome.
-Matthew Dillner
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Brian in VA says:
#21 I am a Marlins fan… The Marlins build a better organization than the Isles… Quality farm with the Marlins… Questionable farm with the Isles…
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Scott from Newburgh says:
Chris,
What would be the better scenario for the Islanders, make the playoffs as a 7th or 8th seed and take their chances or miss the playoff but play well during the year and show growth as a franchise and get anywhere from the 10th to 3rd pick in the draft and add another solid piece to the team?
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SteveNYC says:
Chris
IS there any chance the Islanders Alumni would do an “Adult Fantasy Camp”? A lot of teams do this and I would love to attend one if they would ever do it
Steve
39 yrs old
NYC -
Michael says:
CB,
If the Islanders don’t get DP back, what are they going to do? They can’t rely on Roloson for much longer, he’s a very pedestrian goaltender. Biron is pretty bad, and chances are he’s gone at the end of this year anyways. The Islanders are developing nicely through the draft up front, but is there a prospect(goaltender) ready to make the jump next year? A sure-fire position has become a rotation of average-below average goaltending, and it’s really starting to get to me.
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CB-
You’ve got my name, and I’m 19, and when I’m not at Penn State, I’m in Setauket. My question is this: when will the Islanders start being a bona fide contender for the Stanley Cup? I’m not talking about sneaking into the playoffs as a 6 or 7 or 8 seed, but contending for the division and conference, and what needs to happen to get to that point? -
Marcos from Manhattan says:
Hopefully Rick comes back and can regain his form but if not can you explain the process? I would assume the Islanders have insurance so that would cover the finanical aspect of it but if he retires because of a medical condition does it count against the cap?
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isles74 says:
Hi Chris -
Tell us the story of the Santa Clause parade on Coliseum ice.
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Nova Scotia Isles Fan says:
Paul
45
Nova Scotia, ldoWith Hamonic and De Haan, fully one third of Canada’s WJC team is Islanders property (sort of). The question of why it’s taking so long to sign Hamonic is asked above, but my question is, since the (relatively near) future D-corps seems to be in decent shape, should the brain trust be focussing on up front talent who can put a puck in the net?
FTR, I vote with win as many games as you can this year, ’cause you need to bring back the excitement. This team may or may not be a 7-8 seed, but its better than at least five teams in the East and should definitely NOT be looking for a lottery pick.
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Brandon says:
Why aren’t the Islanders giving Trevor Smith a chance? I thought he played well enough to make the team out of camp. It seems to me he’d be better than Tambellini or Sim or Schremp right off the bat, and with way more up-side. Is this just a contract issue?
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Darryl says:
I love the fact that some of the young guys seem to be progressing but, given the Isles lack of organizational depth wouldn’t the team be better off long term if they ended up near the bottom of the standings again this year?
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Jim B says:
CB- 2 questions-
1. Powerplay- Why do the Islanders continue to make these slow east/west type plays through the neutral zone and then making a quick pass on the blue line that usually fails? It looks really ugly, slow, and doesn’t work most of the time.2. Where the shots are coming from- I was at the game last night, and it seems a lot of times guys with the puck take it into the zone then turn to the outside and fire a lot of shots from off the wall, instead of driving hard to the net and getting the dirty ones. Can Moulson get back to his niche and go back to scoring dirty?
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CB –
The biggest problem I see with the Isles going forward is the defense. How do you think they can rebuild the backline?
DC -
Carmine says:
Hey Chris,
My question is about the team’s defense. With Sutton being a UFA what is Garth’s plan? Does he sign Sutton to an extension? Look for a replacement through free agency or trade? Or does Andrew McDonald take his spot? My concern is that free agency market for a defense man is going to be slim this year and I don’t see extending a 34 year old as a good idea on a rebuilding team. What are your thoughts?
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Oh yea almost forgot
Carmine, 28, Tampa, FL
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Colin 27 from Levittown says:
Hey Chris,
Experienced official & lifelong Isles nitpicker. Sounds simple, but I feel the teams biggest problem is clearing the puck out of their own zone (ie up off the glass). Why do they have so much trouble weathering storms in their own zone? Always seems that teams can keep the pressure on when we have numerous chances to clear? Love the Site!
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TD says:
I emailed this to you CB but I’ll ask it here too. What is the deal with DP’s contract in terms of insurance and cap hit. What is the worst case scenario from a monetary standpoint?
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isles71 says:
Chris, if we are close now, why not make move or 2 if available. Your reporting on B-port depth leads us to believe noone is ready now or near future, so why not get players with yrs on contract to be around a few years…who do you think they would look at now not at deadline??? Thanks for the work and Merry Christmas!!
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dose says:
CB – the g.m. seems to have a knack for recognizing burgeoning talent and potential in guys that other’s overlook (ie. streit, hillen, moulson). so how is it that he hasn’t recognized or acted on the team’s most glaring of needs, a couple of BIGGER, TOUGHER d-men?
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IslesAl says:
Will the scouting dept and GM be held accountable if Bailey and deHaan are not top 6(F)/ top 4(D) players? (All that trading up and down to get Bailey and deHann, and it appears the Rangers could have gotten someone better after Bailey- in Del Zotto). (They moved up and down repeatedly over two drafts to the “their” guys).
Did they back themselves into a corner by only drafting one apparent top tier forward with all the picks this year (Tavares)? If goaltending and D (see acquisitions of Streit, Witt, Sutton, Roloson and Biron) are a relatively easy commodities (valuable, but not all world) to get by a small market team, why did they commit such valuable multiple draft picks to goaltending? (I understand the picks are much younger).
Over the past 20 years, the most difficult and expensive skill to acquire for us has been a goal scoring forward (they all seem to go to the big market teams), and considering we had so many recent picks that went to other areas, or traded away, has this backed the scouting and GM into a corner if Bailey is not the real deal? (Josh, if you are a reader, I am sorry to put this on your play, it is clearly not your doing!) Thanks, Alan from Greenlawn, see Freddy Meyer’s jersey for age.
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Alex says:
CB, can we get an inside story or two about Alexei Yashin during your time with the team? I had the chance to meet him several times and he was always a very nice guy. He was one of the most talented guys we’ve had in a long time, but unfortunately he did not have the heart/perhaps was misunderstood by many. Although it’s great watching Tavares these days, I sometimes miss Yashin curling around the left circle on the PP and firing a wicked slapshot, top shelf, that no goalie in the league seemed to be able to stop.
Alex – 24 – Manhattan
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Since72 says:
CB – Hope you will respond to JPinVA (#17) and tell us how good the team you assemble will be. Add Anders Lee to the mix, I have a feeling about him.
My own request is for you to give an honest ranking, against other teams’ prospects, of our overall prospect pool.John, old enough to have once been a Rags fan (appalling, I know, but they were the only game in town pre ’72) – NC (Yo Matthew #108), formerly Farmingdale, NY (Yo MikeinRichmondVA #88).
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Richie66 says:
CB- What was the deal with the lighting of the Menorah during the intermission of the Isles/Boston game. Is this something that they did every year? I think we should not get specific in celebrating each culture’s religion, just leave it at “Happy Holidays”, otherwise you would then need to be fair and make a special anouncement for each religion. Either do that or nothing at all.
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Tom NYC says:
Chris- Thanks for all the hard work following the isles. I’m curious what it’s like on the islanders beat these days. How many media members are at the practices? is it just you and Newsday Katie? What is the media presence like on the road from both the NY and out of town papers? Outside of Canadian cities, which city has the most interest in the sport based on the amount of media covering the games?
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Ed says:
Chris,
Every game we see quite a few $200-300 composite sticks snapping. Do teams get a steep discount from the manufacturers and do sponsored players get theirs for free? How about other equipment such as skates and gloves? Just looking for some insight into how teams handle all the rising costs of gear these days. With all the recent interest in game used items, at least they are able to get some of their money back with sales at the store. Thanks for a great site!Ed, 41 Glen Cove
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Adam says:
Hey CB,
Can I finally buy the “new” “retro” jersey and not have to worry about buying another one for a very long time? Keeping up with buying new jerseys is more expensive than tickets.
Thanks,
–Adam, NYC -
Helene says:
Chris – haven’t gleaned any info on DP. Last heard he was going to be re-evaluated by a “specialist” and true to form, not a word since. Thanks. By, the by, hope your holidays are great – you are certainly deserving.
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Bigboo says:
Hey Chris,
I know that many feel that the Isles need to bolster the D with a trade, but I’ve noticed that we are once again near the bottom of the league in Goals For. While Tavares and Moulsson have been great no one can hit the back of the net with regularity. Any chance of them making a move for a top line winger over a Dman?
Brendan, 23, melville
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Hey CB,
What do you feel the 20-man roster will look like in the 2010-11 season?
Jason, 34, Hicksville
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Danny C, 35, New Jersey says:
Why isnt Pat Lafontaine’s number retired?
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Lance79 says:
Chris,
You recently projected some of the Islanders best junior/college prospects out to their possible max potential roles. Having seen some of the Islanders’ best current young players what players from the current/recent past of the NHL do some of our current young Islanders (i.e. Tavares, Bailey, Comeau, Okposo, etc.) project out to be (or remind you of most) at their max potential?
Lance
Woodbridge, NJ -
Chris A says:
A question with more immediate effect…if its a real bad tomorrow would the game be postponed?
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domenic longo says:
Domenic
40 Middle Village NY CB,
Any chance the NHL goes back to the home teams wearing white at home? I miss seeing the home whites. Thanks. -
In your opinion, which what will have a bigger impact on the Islanders long term credibility and thus ability to sign big time free agents – making the playoffs this year or missing and getting another top 10 draft pick? Or does the uncertainty regarding the Lighthouse Project override everything?
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Eric Nelson says:
Hey CB,
How different do you see the Islanders roster looking at this time next year? Do you think any of the prospects might take the leap to the NHL directly from their clubs or do you think that their system will promote some of the Soundtigers to the Isles while rotating the 08/09 draft picks into the ST roster?
Thanks for all the hard work.
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therain93 -- terriers fan says:
CB, happy holidays!
could you please translate the portion of the CBA that covers loaning injured players to minor league affiliates and how that affects DP’s rehabilitation and conditioning assigments?
Thank you!
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Joe NYC says:
CB -
whats with the lack of quality reporting in the media for the isles? not mentioning the rest of the NY media but how about everyone else? after this last isles/rangers game – no question regarding officials questionable calls, no question of macdondalds great plays…what gives, where’s the journalism?
Joe
29 – NY,NY -
Crackhead Theo says:
Hey Chris,
What “streit-esque” free agents or trades do you think Garth will pursue this offseason? It would be nice to see Kovalchuk here but I dont see that happening so ill just clear my mind of that.
Thanks!
-Paul, NYC NY -
Hextall72 says:
Hey CB, how much of a imput (excluding contract talk) do you believe Charles Wang has in the drafting,scouting and signing of players if any? Thanks
Mike 33 Bklyn
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raul17 says:
Why isn’t Stefan Persson’s sweater retired? Teams couldn’t key on Denis on the PP because of his point play and he was good defensively. It seems that most of the younger Islander fans know about Billy, Bryan, Mike, etc, but Persson doesn’t ring a bell!!!
The 1974-75 team has not received any recognition for the organization when they basicly set the standard for the Islander franchise.
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islebethere4u says:
CB, with everyone guessing about the Lighthouse is it or isn’t it, whats really the bottom line. Whats the process? What will/could happen to the team and how fast? Or is that also too much to speculate at this time?
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Isles fan in CA says:
Hi Chris,
I would love to hear a status and maybe schedule a Q+A with Jim Pickard. He lived in my neighborhood and I was a lucky enough elementary school child to have the Cup brought into my class. Last I heard he moved out to Washington State.
Best,
Tom Kasper -
campion101 says:
Hey CB,
I know the 93 team pales in comparison to the Dynasty, but they were recognized with a “Patrick Playoff Champions” banner. I have a photo of the Coliseum with it hanging from the rafters. It was white with an orange border. Do you know why/when it was taken down? (and what happened to it?)
Thanks for all you do, you’ve added a whole new element to being an Isles fan.Kevin, 38
Cliffside Park, NJ
(grew up in Merrick & still haven’t gotten over the “Drive for 5″ ending when I was in the 7th grade) -
StevieL says:
CB along with ED #132. I have a question about the sticks!I have played this game my whole life and can’t believe how these new sticks break, especially at the crucial times. Are players required to go with the new composite sticks? Is it a league or team contract thing? can a player still go with a wooden stick if they choose? Seems that someone would still go with wood, especially on D. Any insight? Also do players earn frequent flyer mileage or Marriott reward points for their travel
? Middle aged in Sayville!! -
Neil says:
What are the odds the Isles decide to take a chance and waive DP to see if someone does a Bob Gainey and takes the deal and headache off their hands? At worst, they would be able to send DP to the BP for as many rehab starts as needed.
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battfist says:
Should the Isles go after Jack Johnson of the LA Kings? (I read he was on the trading block) If so, whats the price?
Thanks….
BattFist
BrooklynGo Isles!
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domenic
40
middle village nyCb
any chance the nhl will go back to the home team wearing white at home, i must admit i miss seeing my isles in white -
DAN says:
Hi CB
Would you say the team would be better off in the long run making the playoffs or missing the playoffs and getting a top five pick and is this years draft a deep and talented draft. -
Will C. says:
Any good Gino Odjick stories? And since you are now on the inside with the media, what is there lovefest about with lundquist? Even when DP was putting up better numbers they wouldn’t shut up about him.
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Peter says:
Any ideas on any plans to do SOMETHING about the Power Play? Generally, the team is actually performing better than I expected, but the PP is brutal. It seems inexcusable for it to be this bad for this many consecutive games.
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Pete DeBenedetto says:
Pete from Jersey Shore via Hicksvilleasks –
Will the team look for more chemistry with Tavaras by looking at players he has played with in the past. (ala Moulson, de Haan)…..could that come via draft, FA, or trades????
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John from N. Babylon says:
CB, I remember when I was a season ticket holder, our seats were right next to where the Islander’s wives sat. I was lucky enought to meet Rich Pilon’s wife which lead to my chance to meet Pilon. Do you have any good stories regarding a spouse of an Islander?
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AJ, Great Neck says:
Chris, why did the Islanders not bring back Glenn Healy after ’93? I remember as a 12 year old watching his heroics in that post-season, and was heartbroken when the Islanders acquired Hextall that offseason. Granted Healy was old, but Hextall wasn’t exactly a spring chicken. Until DP got here, the goaltending situation was never as good as it was with Healy between the pipes in ’93
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cgs878 says:
Q: what types of non-hockey-related activity does a hockey player’s contract forbid during the season (for instance, “strenuous everyday tasks” like shoveling snow at home or lifting suitcases full of clothes/gear while traveling with the team) because such activity might accidentally injure the player?
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Sorry, forgot this for the above question: Chris, 41, from Bellmore. Thanks!
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Chris says:
Hi Chris,
Someone else also asked this, but is this franchise still possibly moving? If the lighthouse project doesn’t move forward, will we lose them?
Thanks for your great coverage, I love this blog. -
Hello, daily reader here.
I know it’s a far shot, but if the Isles did move to Brooklyn, would they still be the Islanders? I find it hard to believe that they would make the move to Brooklyn and not be the Brooklyn Islanders. If they’re the Brooklyn Islanders then does the logo still make sense, which then makes me think that they would just change the name completely(Brooklyn Americans?). Just wondering, but yet hoping for a Brooklyn move.
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Jim S says:
Chris,
I’ve read that the 2010 draft is very top heavy. How deep do the high end prospects go before any significant dropoff? Also, would it be better for the long term if the Isles are sellers at the deadline and draft in the top 10 or should they make a run at the playoffs now even if they get their clocks cleaned in the first round?
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Jonah says:
Jonah from Jericho –
Chris, I remember before Jakowski, in the Milbury years, the head of scouting was Tony Feltrin. Was he primarily to blame for all the horrible Islander drafts and their empty prospect pool, or was it more Milbury’s doing? What kind of guy is he? Was he simply a decent talent evaluator who just ran into some bad luck? Thanks for all that you do for us Islander fans… -
Lou Z says:
Hi Chris, we all debate when the turning point was when the franchise began a downward turn. Is there any one trade within the last 15 years that you can pinpoint as the downward slide.
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JT says:
Hi Chris. Why won’t the Isles make DP rehab in Bridgeport before rejoining the team? Seems way too soon to rejoin the Isles so many surgeries and such a long time off from hockey. Thanks and happy holidays.
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Any best/worst things for the decade? Like best year worst year best play worst play etc.
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Chris,
I respect the rebuild, and think Garth and Scott are doing a great job! Recently in your answers you said the Isles wouldn’t sign Kovalchuck. My question isn’t whether or not we can get him, my question is, in a perfect world if he wanted to come here, and we have the money to bring him here… do you think having a superstar like that hurts the rebuild and the development of our young players?
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mrlbem says:
Chris,
I’d like to know more about why the Islanders traded Osgood for Papineau in 03, leaving the team with only Snow and Ricky for the playoffs that year. That trade never made any sense. And on the subject of 03, can you shed more light on why Laviolette was fired? If it was a divided locker room, who was for Peter and who was against? There’s also a (sub)urban legend that Peter told the owner that the club as constituted had no shot to beat Ottawa in the playoffs and this led to his dismissal. Any truth to that?
Thanks,
Larry
Great Neck, NY -
TM says:
The Hockey Night in Canada crew said that Wang has had it and will probably put the Isles up for sale. Is there any truth to this?
Tom, 48, Islander Country
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Rich says:
CB, I was reading a blog, maybe off of the TSN.ca site that mentioned Bossy. Unfortunately, they compared Bossy to a present day Eric Lindros, who complained and whined his way around the league and within the Islander organization. Although I was 12 years old when Bossy played his last season, I don’t remember any scuttlebutt about him as a player and a teammate. Can you comment on this and help lend some perspective to a post which has bothered me since I read it?
I’d consider Bossy my child hood hero until LaFontaine came around. -
CB, thanks for the terrific coverage and hard work. I guess you are going to cover all Q&A draft questions with the Ryan did a great job with low round picks? I recall reading your original story from Dec 10th that you re-linked, and being very depressed about the topic that day after reading the article. With all the recent high picks and extra picks, the maximum upside is two second line wingers? (granted that was a partial list in the article, but I am not aware of other prospects that are expected to light it up?)
My question focused on given the Islanders long term inability to bring in scoring forwards via free agency, would that make it even more imperative (more so than say the Devs or NYR or Philly) for the NYI to Draft scoring forwards. If deHaan develops into a scoring d-man, then that would be very helpful. Our draft team focused on an obvious shortage, goaltending, but then three weeks later, showed how relatively easy it is for us to acquire goaltending on the open market. Is it important for our draft team to recognize how the Islanders have been able to acquire talent, and adjust their drafting accordingly? Given that question, what happened this past June after JT was picked was alarming. (We practically had to hold our breath that our drafter would take the consensus #1 star this past June). Again, thanks for the great work!
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Chris: Any good Islanders Chrismas Party stories you can share with us?
Justin, 38, CT
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I’m not sure if you’re still taking these, but since I’ve been reading a few articles about it, who is the Isles’ player rep for the NHLPA?
Hi Chris-
What are the chances of either Kiril Petrov or Aaron Ness getting out of their current commitments and going to the Bridge?
Mike,
33, Wantagh