FLORIDA at ISLANDERS, 7:05 pm: Nate to Tampa Bay
Rolo Starts…Kohn Arrives…DeBoer on Tavares
CB on FanHouse: On the George Laraque news
CB on FanHouse: The Canucks’ 14-game road trip
UPDATED at 12:15 pm – Nate Thompson was picked up on waivers by Tampa Bay. He will play for the Lightning tonight. Good for him.
The only explanation for Thompson being waived over everyday-scratch Jeff Tambellini is that Garth Snow must think Tambellini has solid trade value. Scott Gordon has played Jeff in two games since Dec. 9. Remember the Islanders’ win in the Garden the day after Christmas? Gordon gave Thompson more than 16 minutes.
I asked Gordon if it was difficult to place Thompson on waivers, considering how much the coach played Thompson in critical situations this season. In a very nice way, Gordon said that when it came to “the administrative stuff,” I should speak with Garth Snow. “A move had to be made,” said Gordon.
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11:50 am - Dwayne Roloson starts tonight for the Islanders against the Panthers. Phew…for a moment there, looked like the Islanders were going to hand Rick DiPietro the No. 1 job on a platter. Roloson has been the biggest reason why the Islanders are in the playoff hunt today and deserves starts while he and the comebacking DiPietro battle it out.
Scott Gordon said after the morning skate that he has spoken with Roloson and DiPietro about what they can expect from the rotation between now and the Olympic break. The coach pretty much intimated that DiPietro will start Saturday against New Jersey.
The Islanders skated this morning with the usual line combinations.
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Dustin Kohn arrived at the old barn on Hempstead Turnpike at 11:30 am and will take his place on the blue line tonight for the suspended Andy Sutton. Kohn said he was told of his recall yesterday, so “hopefully I’ve had some time to get the butterflies out.”
Gordon on Kohn: “I saw him play in Bridgeport last week. He’s made some strides. He’s at his best when he keeps it simple.” The coach praised Kohn’s skating ability.
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DeBoer Knew Tavares When: Florida head coach Peter DeBoer coached John Tavares with the Canadian national team at the Super Series all the way back in September of 2007. Speaking with Point Blank, DeBoer had a lot of praise for the youngest member of the gold medal-winning team – John Tavares.
“He’s a special kid,” said DeBoer, whose Panthers face the Islanders at the Coliseum tonight. “John was our youngest player, just 17, but you knew he was the real deal. And he’s humble, respectful. No boasting and no ego. Sometimes with kids that young and talented, they can be a handful. Not John.
“Because he’s so gifted, I think people on the outside understand how much character he has, how much passion for the game he has. There’s no question in my mind that John was over-analyzed to death because he played four full years of junior hockey.
“He’s had some spurts and slumps, like you’d expect from any teenager at this level. But I’ve already seen enough to know what he’s going to be, as I’m sure everyone in the NHL has. In a matter of time, John will be a consistent 40-50 goal scorer. The Islanders are really fortunate to have him because he’s going to be the kind of star player that always wants to be on the ice in critical situations. Not everyone does.”
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Jiggs is Back…Kind of: With Randy Moller under the weather, Jiggs McDonald is back in the Coliseum press box tonight as the radio voice of the Florida Panthers.
Coach’s Handbook, Rule 37: If one of your players throws a hit that could lead to a suspension, always tell the media after the game, “I haven’t seen the video.” (By the way, how honest and classy for Andy Sutton to say, “Obviously, it wasn’t clean.”)
Live Chat: Stay tuned for details for a live mid-day chat in the near future on Point Blank. I’m open to suggestions on the best time for the biggest audience, which I believe would be around 1:00 pm EST, right? Maybe Friday.
Comments. Comment Guidelines.
120 Responses to FLORIDA at ISLANDERS, 7:05 pm: Nate to Tampa Bay
Rolo Starts…Kohn Arrives…DeBoer on Tavares
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Brian G says:
1pm would be a good time – did Thompson clear waivers?
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UIF says:
Huge game tonight…I guess they’re all pretty big from here on out, but this one is one of those “four point games” considering where both teams are in the standings. We need to see that relentless forecheck from the Detroit-NJ games to take some pressure off of the undermanned D.
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Numbers65 in Ohio says:
Even though it is excellent to have DP back, I am glad he is not even getting 1/2 the load yet. Easy does it. Never want to hear “F- I blew out my hip again” on live TV! LOL! Also do glad to hear “no ego” about JT, that makes a true star that helps the team and doesn’t just think of himself. I always felt JT was a good team player. I think it’s great now, we have alot of guys proud to be Islanders, even before the winning started.
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admin says:
Nothing is happening or will happen with Georges Laraque and the Islanders. Georges has become an enforcer who does not fight. Next! CB
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James says:
Good choice by Gordon to start Roloson tonight.
First you don’t want Roloson to get cold, he looked decent against the Pens, most of those goals he gave up were just good shots than many goalies would have given up.
At the same time, if you sit him tonight, you know DP was playing against NJ; then you have Roloson only playing 1 game in a 2 week span, not the way to treat the guy who is the main reason we are in 8th as of now.
Of course we knew DP was playing against the Devils again, smart choices for both games.
I also love that Gordon has already sat down with both Rollie and DP and told them what to expect; no surprises.
Hope Kohn sees this as an opportunity to show he can play. Isles need to use the home crowd and not let what happened Tuesday affect them. That is the next test for this young team.
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Spartiarti-RVC says:
please refer to my comments on enforcer last post.
I like the decesion to give Roloson the start again against Fla. going to be interest to see how isles play with Sutton.
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a REAL hockey fan says:
- I want to see what Kohn has to offer, the kid is supposed to have some upside and a nice presnce on the blue line – hes young but im curious.
Hey CB *HA HA HA HA* i was going to post about George Laraque coming to the Island (i think he would fit well on the team i REALLY do) but hes a guy who ya have to question if his heart is in it, we have seen it time and again with Laraque. good player, good size, can play the game but damnit hes just almost 2 nice – get ANGRY LARAQUE it could help your career
Whats the deal with Jackman? Nice job Chris
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Marc from Troy says:
Thompson claimed by Tampa Bay.
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Okie Okie Okie says:
sucks about thompson…. i was hoping he could bring some life to BPORT
great guy with lots of energy -
I see Thompson got claimed by the Lightning, well hopefully he gets more time there. Good for him
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Post updated with Thompson thoughts…CB
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I was hoping Nate would make it to the Bridge. Oh well… he is a good 4th line guy, but mathematically someone did have to go and there was no getting around that for much longer.
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Islander says:
So happy Thompson got claimed by Tampa; the guy has given up every part of his body for this team.
He has played with every ache and pain known to man, getting repaired in the locker room and going back out to play. So what did he get in return? “A kick in the ass” that old saying that hard work is rewarded is a bunch of bs. Thompson I wish you the best! God Bless You and the best of wishes for you in Tampa. Hey you are moving on to sunshine leaving the nasty NY weather behind. I will be watching and rooting for you! GO TAMPA! -
Hollywood says:
Good for Nate!
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Thomas says:
Thank You Tampa Bay!
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PotvinRocks says:
would have been better to lose Tamby. He is in-efficent 5 on 5. Thompson was going to be a valuable replacement for Park next year.
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neologizer says:
Good for Nate bad for Islanders
Word was Bruins weren’t happy when Isles picked THompson up and I would say the same for the Isles now. It seemed few in the anti-thompson camp here actually understood Thompson’s role was and how he played.Good for him bad for Islanders
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Staten Islander says:
Too bad, I didn’t like him last year, but this year, he grew on me.
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Priest says:
I think Sutton owes Thompson a beer. While it is never easy to change teams, this could end up being very good for Thompson. It could end up being a much bigger penalty to the Islanders than missing Sutton for a couple of games.
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Thompson is not in the long term plans.
Also if one of our scorers get hurt, tambellini fits in immediate on one of scoring lines. Tambellini is also much more tradeable asset.
PLayers like Thompson are a dime a dozen. It wont by long before you see Jackman back in lineup again.
Also would you have like to see Thompson take up a slot on team rather than bringing Matt Martin up. he is tougher, and can score.
Do you reall miss Hilbert eating up ice time. Thompson is same player. Hilbert also not even in NHL anymore. Thompson will be playing for Tampa affiliate in no time.
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Eric Cup says:
Thanks to Nate for giving his all. In my opinion, it really wasn’t enough. As I have said in earlier posts, if his main job was as a penalty killer and you’re not doing that well, then something has to give. He brought to the table what many players can bring to this team – making him expendable. I wish him well in Tampa, but I won’t be crying in my peanuts at the game tonight when he’s not there. It seems from Gordo’s response to you, CB, that he wasn’t thrilled by the waiver move though. By referring “adminstrative” questions to Garth seems to be saying it wasn’t his call and he doesn’t agree. That’s not a good sign to me as I think it’s important the coach and GM be on the same page – at least publically.
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. why thank you Tampa Bay? That makes no sense, 0, nada, zilch! The Isles are probably the softest and least physical team in the east and they got even softer!
Who REALLY hits on this team? who REALLY bangs the body? who forechecks? Who scraps when needed? This team is soft and MUST add some beef/size before the deadline!
Nate Thompson brought some intangables to the team that are NOT measured in the statsheet, you need ALL types of player to make a team!!
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Mike P says:
Cmon we lost Nate Thompson on waivers, not Tavares. He did not fit in lineup as is right now and with Jackman returning in a few weeks he would probably get in before Thompson would anyway. It’s good for Nate as he gets another place to play in NHL. I think one side thing to this is Snow really is in charge of player moves as it should be as he got rid of personel fav or Gordon.
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MJS says:
Nate only really threw down a little bit, I think you’d hardly be able to call him an enforcer. That being said, he’s off to sunny Florida unless the Lightning waive him, in which case the Isles will probably pick him up again, a la Freddy Meyer.
Also, with the ego thing, it really always seems like Tavares is a pretty humble guy. He at least seems to understand that he’s new here, probably too well, and he acts accordingly. Of course, when he scores goals a little bit of swagger comes out of him. One kid that I thought had an ego problem, and who has since learned to be a bit of a professional, is Steve Stamkos. The kid is certainly good enough now, but he had a rough time, especially at the beginning of last season, and he was commenting on how he should’ve gotten more playing time from Barry Melrose, and basically saying that it was good that Melrose was gone. I hate to say it rookie, but the coach is the one that tells you when you play, even if he has a mullet. I’m sure he was ultimately goaded into giving the response by a reporter, but he could’ve handled that a little better and not sounded like a stuck up little kid. That team has superstars on it that warranted more playing time than him and even he probably knew it.
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22- Gordon more than likely wasn’t thrilled as he probably would have preferred Tambellini to be the one on waivers, i am mildly suprised that someone took Thompson and especially Tampa since they have a player(Konopka) who is basically the same type of player in the same role.
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All of a sudden everyone here is a Thompson fan? Wow. We go which ever way the wind blows huh? This guy had 1 goal in like 70 games. We didn’t exactly lose Mike Bossy here. Jackman and Sim can fill his role just fine.
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Mike P – Gordon also wasn’t thrilled because Nate was one of HIS guys. He brought him here from Providence. I think this sometimes clouded his judgment with Thompson. Nate should have been scratched much sooner. I agree with another post that said we need character guys along with skilled talent, but Nate had a specific job and he wasn’t doing it well.
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Jason says:
A week ago, all I saw was comments about how Nate Thompson should not be on an NHL team. Now all of you are crying and whining about losing him.
Good riddance to him, he is useless and easily replaceable. -
mtrico says:
I am surprised that Thompson did not clear waivers, but I don’t think this should be viewed as a big loss. No doubt he played hard, but he simply was not that good.
Thank you for the effort Nate, it did not go unappreciated. Good luck in Tampa.
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Eric says:
Clearly Tamby will be traded in a deal with Biron. Priest, let’s not overstate Thompson’s value. For the record, I’ve defended Thompson’s spot in the lineup on this site in the past. I’ve always appreciated his hard work, his willingness to drop the gloves when needed and his effort. A solid 4th liner. But let’s be realistic here. He won’t suddenly transform TB into cup favorites. Most people on this site have been wanting him gone for quite some time. Had he cleared waivers everybody would be saying they knew he was nothing more than an AHLer and that no other team would give him NHL ice time but the Isles. Now that another team claimed him he’s the second coming and we’re going to sorely miss him? #15 Islander….”GO TAMPA”? Really? You realize they’re 4 pts behind us for the 8th seed with one game in hand right?
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Joey303 says:
Agree with #27 Completely!
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jt says:
Next injury to a bottom 6 forward, maybe we will get to see Matt Martin on LI?
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Alex says:
I think Tampa fans are having the same reactions Isles fans had when they signed Moulson last summer; Who?!?!
Good to see Nate get an opportunity elsewhere. He was great on the PK and in the face-off circle, but the fact that he is now dispensable by Islanders is only a good thing; the team’s prospects and young guns have finally become full time NHLers. When you have guys like Weight, Bergenheim, Park, Sim, and Comeau playing on the fourth line, there is no need to carry any “typical” fourth line guys. It is great to see the players buying into Gordon’s system, allowing the coach to roll 4 lines that can both score and play responsible defense, breaking out of the convention of using a typical “4th line” made up of grinders and players that Nolan loves.
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WM says:
Losing Thompson is fine by me. Now, if we can only find a way to rid ourselves of Witt…..
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Hockey1919 says:
Several impressions on the Islanders:
1. Nice to see that the GM makes personnel decisions, his job is to evaluate each players worth. Coach’s job is to work with the roster given and win every game. 2 different organizational roles.
2. Roloson with the start, he’s earned the number 1 and would hate to see DP rushed back. Looks like coach decides the lineup.
3. Thompson earned a pick-up by TB, hard work kept him in the NHL as opposed to AHL at a lower wage. The Isles roster is becoming more competitive. The waiver wire gives (Schremp) and takes (Nate). -
Benvi says:
I feel bad that Nate’s last time in an Islander’s Jersey was answering phones for the Telecare Telethon. Good old Nate, always a giver. Best of luck to you. I agree with whoever said that Sutton owes him a beer. Grinders like Nate may be a dime a dozen, but Nate gave alot to the organization.
Damn the curse of Andy Hilbert’s Number.
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Sorry to see Thompson go. As much as some say that he’s just a fourth liner, he was the prototypical 4th liner. He could skate, throw his body around and in front of the puck, he was good at faceoffs, and he would throw down when need be. I’m kind of disappointed to see him go, he seemed to be a very good fit with this group of players. I’m sure a lot of his teammates were upset to see him go. I would’ve much rather keep Thompson and put Jackman on waivers. He would’ve definitely cleared, not many teams need a $550,000 punching bag.
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hockeytime says:
Wish him luck in Tampa Bay and its nice to see another team wanted his services. He didn’t fit on this team anymore.
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pete debenedetto says:
Nate is a nice role player………but there is more on they way for this team as far as size goes….Jesse J, Martin….etc. Also another roster spot and contract off the board. But that move had to be done…no choice.
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JD says:
I am curious to see what happens with the roster when Jackman and Witt come back. Good luck to Nate but not to Tampa.
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JPinVA says:
Good luck to Fotonat in Tampa. Nate showed that he made an NHL effort, but he was over used, and he under achieved. It would be funny if his rabbi was holding him back, and he becomes a 20 goal guy in Tampa… ha!
More luck to AHL All-star, Kohn. Those are some pretty BIG shoes to fill, but a good showing for a few games puts him on the shuttle next year.
I doubt that Tambellini, Park or Sim will be NY Islanders next year. Amazingly, the best case can be made for John Sim. With all the crud he takes here he may be the best player at executing his ROLE on the club. -
Chris in DC says:
Thanks Tampa Bay!! Good for everyone all around — Thompson, TB and the Isles.
Thompson had plenty of opportunities here. Tambellini had a hat trick earlier this season against Edmonton, if you recall. The talent is there; we’ve just got to tap it on a consistent basis, and I believe that can still happen. As Botta pointed out, he’s played twice since Dec. 9. The guy needs a chance!!
Thompson had 3 goals his entire time here with the Isles, and he’s not the great middleweight some have made him out to be. I wish him luck with TB; but I’m glad he’s no longer here to muck up the numbers at the forward position. -
hale78 says:
since when did nate thompson become joel otto??? he was what he was and can clearly be replaced…good guy worked hard..but he is not a regular nhl’er
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JimfromStjames says:
JPinVA so true, Sim takes a lot of guff, but he fills his role better that anyone on the team ( save maybe Roli & KO ) I think he will be back next year, but will stay on the 4th line.
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Bryan says:
good for Thompson, now he gets to extend his stay in the nhl. As far as the Islanders not a huge loss. We still have Jackman coming back, Tambellini making popcorn and guys like Smith and Joensuu in CT.
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jesse says:
Good Luck to Nate! He was a class act while he was with the Islanders as shown by his last comments to Katie Strang yesterday thanking Snow and Gordon for the opportunity before he was picked up. Not everything can be shown on a stat sheet.
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goislesgo105 says:
Bye bye Nate. Now you can miss open nets for the Lighting!
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cgs878 says:
See ya soon, Mr. Thompson – hope you do well in Tampa Bay!
Good luck tonight, Mr. Kohn. Watch your back & keep your head up! Welcome to the NHL.
It makes sense to start Roli tonight and DP on Saturday. DP played really well on Monday vs. NJ, and he likes to go up against Marty Brodeur. Let’s hope that both Roli and DP are sharp & on their games! -
Smitty031 says:
Glad to see Thompson got another job.
He was a good enough guy.
At least I can say i was there the game he scored his lone goal for us this year.
Looking forward to Kohn’s debut tonight. -
pat says:
When i first heard i was pretty dissapointed but after reading the comments here and getting different perspectives its an understandable move. But if it was to make tamby trade bait hes gunna need to play a few games and do more that get a shootout point.
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Strummer's Army says:
Best of luck to Nate in Tampa. I easily could have seen a few other guys getting traded/waived first but OK.
I have to call Garth Snow out for dropping the ball. Thompson was one of the few guys (2) on the Isles who would occassionaly drop the gloves.
Isles go into tonight with not one guy on the roster who will fight. Also, with no Witt and Sutton look how freakin’ small this defense is?????????????? I had nightmares during Snow’s drafts that he was trying to go with 6 small puck movers and tonight it become reality. It’s not right, it’s not fair, and it’s not wise and it’s not something I want to watch. This happened much like having to waive a guy because Snow wasn’t prepared. He signed too many guys to NHL contracts and put himself in that situation. He drafted or signed too many small d-men.
Despite all his talk of getting bigger and tougher, some how as the season has gone on they’ve gotten smaller and softer. I didn’t think it was possible.
Worse he can’t even call up and enforcer like Riechlecz because he’d have to waive someone else. Not good management Garth.
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Hishutzi Skorz says:
If I’m not mistaken, didn’t our PK numbers get better (with the exception of last game) with Thompson in the press box?
Give the PK time to Comeau, Bergy, Franz & KO, as they are part of the FUTURE of this team. Let them learn the art.
Also, with Nate and Jackman out, Park’s play has picked up immensely. He’s once again an asset playing with Bergy & Weight. We now have the potential to score with all four lines, which couldn’t be said up until now. -
My note on the Live Chat was misleading. I meant for another day. Maybe tomorrow. Katie Strang has one later today at Newsday so you should check that out if you can. When I nail down a day and a time, there will be plenty of notice at the top of the blog. Thanks…CB
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Mike_Bossy says:
Thanks CB!
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To the negative bloggers show some class and wish Thompson the best! He has always been a character player. To those who wish him well you show class.
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TimQ says:
This says to me that the Isles are making strides. A guy who couldn’t make our team is good enough to catch on with another team. Last year that wouldn’t have happened. It might not sound like much but it is another indications that we’re going in the right direction. Stay the course.
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Hoser14 says:
While I’ll miss Nate “The Not-So-Great” Thompson’s work ethic, but not his tool set (or lack there of, hint: 3 goals 7 assists in 82 games and a plus/minus of minus 25).
Good Luck in Tampa-Hoser, Brooklyn, NY
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isleBwatchingU says:
Strummers – Snow is smarter than you’re giving him credit for.
He can call up Rechlicz once Sutton comes back because he will immediately return Kohn to Birdgeport. And you may be the only person knocking Snow and what he has accomplished in his past 2 Drafts.
Everyone on this board is talking as if Nate Thompson was Mike Vukota or someone like that. He fought, he is not a fighter. There are big differences there.
And you know what? This team has been excelling without dropping the gloves. I can’t even remember our last fight, but I can remember sweet, sweet victories.
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Hey Strummer’s Army
I like your post #53 on the Isles lack of toughness and how willing Nate Thompson was willing to play physical.
Maybe Thompson should consider moving to Defenseman where offensive stats are not
as important to justify playing on the NHL level.-Hoser from Brooklyn -
#57 I think you’re mistaking “negative” posts on Thompson for some of us just being realistic.
I’m glad Snow stepped in and made this decision. I’ve been calling for it for awhile, but I have also gone out of my way to note that Thompson works hard, and has heart and character.
But in my opinion, he simply does not have the talent to play in the NHL — at least not with the Islanders anymore with their growing talent base.
It amazes me that some have made him out to be the second coming of Butch Goring or even Claude LaPointe.
I hope this is respectful enough for you regarding Thompson, but there’s not other way to sugarcoat it — it came down to numbers and Snow did the absolute right thing. -
GREAT POST #53 Strummer!! A+++
Its amazing how some hockey fans think a team is built like a fantasy league, lol
The NY Isles are very small and limp wristed right now – in fact ill say this is the SOFTEST Islander team i can remember (maybe ever) and now people want Witt gone as well whos 1 of the few physical players left
As the season wear down in March/April the bigger/more physocal teams will – GARTH our beloved GM – CAN YOU PLEASE PLEASE add some size and physicalness on this hockey team and get some NOW please!
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Le Dude says:
Thompson was a class act and hard worker. Best of luck to him.
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The Truth says:
Nice Thompson is gone. YES!!! He might have played the tough guy role but he wasn’t good at it. These kids are getting tougher together. Tougher by coming back from 3 goals down against the Stanley Cup Champs twice shows how tough they are, even in a lose. Pitt had to play their best to just barely beat the Isles. Plus our captain or trent will throw down if they need to put the other team in their place. Weight is the real enforcer of this team.
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Jim Clark says: Jiggs McDonald will be at NCVMC as the radio voice of the Panthers. Amazing how Florida can afford a radio crew and the Islanders can’t.
Good luck to Nate Thompson but truth be told he’s just another player. Whether Tambellini is any better remains to be seen.
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AngryPete says:
The intangibles he brought to this team are without question, but his lack of production for such a period of time frustrated me. The Isles are a team that needs players to wear several hats. I’d love to see Matt Martin up here soon….and maybe even Zach Kassia…..OH NEVERMIND, lol
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Lenny says:
Not much of this small/soft talk the other day after beating a couple of good teams. We’re talking about Nate freakin Thompson, not Clark Gillies!!! The size will come, they are putting the pieces together. Have a tough guy playing 4 minutes is not the answer, plus everyone will start screaming that he would be taking a roster spot up!!!
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Today’s Digital Game Day Isle publication lists tonight’s lineup with Thompson and Tambs. CB they need you back in that office!
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peace to nasty nate. i enjoyed watching him beat the hell out of jordan staal.
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Hector Marini says:
RIP JOHN HALLIGAN.
HE WAS ESSENTIAL TO THE GROWTH OF THE GAME THAT WE ALL LOVE HERE IN THE NYC AREA.
THANK YOU, CB. AS SOMEONE WHO LIKELY KNEW HIM WELL, WE MOURN YOUR LOSS.
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Eastonhockey says:
Good riddance
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Cary says:
Good luck Nate!
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Jerky says:
Happy to see the Isles cut ties with Thompson and move forward with the rebuild. Nothing personal against Thompson but he is not an outstanding 4th liner nor a part of the long-term plans for this team. Easily replaced but I agree with others that we need to bring in someone with some physical presence ASAP.
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Schultz39 says:
I liked Nate and sorry to see him go. Good luck to him.
A small, non-physical type of team just got smaller and even less physical.
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Joe B says:
#54 Park Sucks!!!! Do not blame Thompson and Jackman for his lack of talent!
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JtorBust says:
Wish Nate the best as long as he doesn’t play hard against us -
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Thompson was not the solution to us being more physical! I can’t believe you people who are lamenting how much “softer” we are with Thompson gone! Wake up already, the guy was average or below-average at everything, and that included fighting. He was not an intimidating presence to other teams. With him gone, a Mike Haley or even a Matt Martin can now be called up, or maybe we can pick up a more imposing player. Thompson was not imposing.
The point is, with him gone the team has more flexibility to add a different element to the team, whether it’s more scoring, a more physical presence, or a BETTER fourth-line type who’s better on the forecheck and PK.
I’m getting irritated with people crying about the loss of Thompson.
It’s not a loss, and he’s gone, so let’s move on. -
Bring back Nyles says:
Good luck Nasty Nate. Played hard every game but is now obsolete on this team. See a lot of people upset to be losing that ‘physical presence’ he had. Once Jackman returns to the line-up he will be completely forgotten.
This team seems to be doing just fine with dropping the gloves anyway.
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** meant withOUT dropping the gloves, obviously. That’s what happens when you rush a post while at work.
I actually can’t recall the last fight anyone on this team had.
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Healy says:
I liked Thompson but these tough decisions are going to keep coming up as the Islanders move forward with the rebuild. You can’t keep everybody, and some players are going to develop better elsewhere. Having to choose between personnel is a good problem for a team. Just think about if the Islanders land a proven goal scorer and defenseman through free agency as another step forward…who is sat/traded/waived then? This is the another step in the process. Good luck Nate!
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dominla says:
i’m still confused about a decision to allow someone (good bad or mediocre… take your pick) who had a role on the team to leave… but keep someone who they clearly despise and don’t play. i get it that they must be using tambs to trade him but he doesn’t play. cb… have you ever seen a situation like this before? someone basically cast off the team and being held for the sole purpose of being traded… and what i mean is someone as low on the hockey totem pole as tambs is? in hockey terms he’s basically a middle aged prospect.
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Joe B.(#78)
In the last 3 games, Park has scored a goal and had 2 called back by questionable calls. This would never happen with those other 2 guys. I’m not annointing him an All-Star, just stating that there is now a chance of a goal coming from the 4th line, where there once was none! -
I actually give Strummers’ post an F – - –
How in the world can you come on here, after the success the team is having, after the turnaround they have had this season and call out Garth for not having enough size and toughness?
As a few guys on NHL Live have said, those things are OVERRATED in the new NHL and it is better to have guys who can shoot, pass and carry the puck; then guys who can fight.
Garth has done a fantastic job these last 2 seasons, and nearly every single move he has made is working out. Can we not forget that he took a chance on Moulson this summer, the guy who leads our team in goals.
Also do not forget that we have Matt Martin in the system, don’t be shocked if he has a slot with the team next season.
Take a look at how the Laraque and Brashear signings went for MTL and the Rangers. Laraque is being bought out and Brashear is a shell of his former self. I am seeing more and more evidence every day that we do not need an enforcer, this team is doing fine without one and I really wish we could see and end to these complaints, because right now they are unfounded.
The tone of some of the negative comments towards Garth to me is mind-boggling at this point
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Adam says:
Why is everyone complaining about lack of toughness?!?! Funny, nobody was complaining when we beat Detroit 6-0, beat Buffalo, beat Jersey, and came back from three down against the pens (and could have won if the hit hadn’t happened). Thompson had no real purpose on this team. The only reason he was on the team last year was because he was one of Gordo’s boys and he just stayed on this year. Agree with the poster who said he will be on Tampa’s minor league affiliate in no time.
In addition, STOP HATING ON TAMBILLINI! I am sick of these stupid fans complaining about him. He has played in just below half of the games (24 out of 50). Do you people realize that if you extend his stats he would be third on the team in goals (14) and 5th in points (26). If he was allowed to have a fair shot (meaning get consistent playing time for at least 10-15 games in a row) he would be fine. Instead he gets benched when he doesn’t score a goal. The whole process is ridiculous! -
It’s all about rolling 4 lines going 100% every shift that produce goals or don’t give any up. Look at how many Isles are scoring on this current streak. The reason why we are rolling 4 lines this helps the energy level through the whole game. The Isles will come at you for 60 minutes non stop. Now that is tough to beat go ask Detroit.
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# 68 (AngryPete): guess you didn’t hear the news about Kassian – he’s been suspended indefinitely by the OHL for a charging major + game misconduct committed last week.
FYI, in 34 games this season, he has 9 goals and 19 assists. Although I strongly opposed the de Haan pick (especially at #12 and at such a high price), Kassian struck me as a 3rd line grinder type, definitely not worthy of taking 13th.
Also, Kassian is described as a defenseman in the Canadian articles, although he was drafted as a RW. Don’t know if that’s an error, or he’s been shifted due to his limited offensive ability. CB, maybe you could shed some light on this?
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see ya Nate the Great
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The Truth, you have an appropriate moniker. I would be willing to bet that we roll out the most skilled 4th line in the league. The honest truth is that we don’t have enough tough/big guys who can play at the NHL level. Adding a thompson or a jackman will not even make a dent. I like that we are going in the total opposite direction and throwing all skill out there. Plus did you ever think that now opposing coaches will have to adjust to us. They can’t throw out their 4th line because ours, being essentially a third line, would skate circles around the other team. So now we are forcing the opposing team to play 3 lines against our 4. Can you say late game advantage?
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Two last things about the enforcer issue:
The new NHL is not built for those kinds of players. Guys who just fight are no longer needed, you have to have talent as the ability to play offense as well. We have that guy in Matt Martin.
Finally, I do not believe that having an enforcer on our team, necessarily lessens the chance of one of our key guys getting injured during a hit. Have you seen some of the viscous hits in the NHL this season? Some of which have resulted in injuries and occurred on teams that do have guys who will fight. All I am saying is that it clearly seems that in the new NHL, having an “enforcer” means very little, because the hits and injuries will occur either way.
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Coral Springs Isle Fan says:
Best wishes to Nate Thompson. A good guy, just a victim of a business decision. When you look at the numbers there was just not enough there.
The decision on Laraque and the limited play of Brashear and Orr really does signal change in the league’s thinking. Perhaps the Islanders were ahead of the curve on this one. You know when you look at who Garth signed in the off-season and also look at who he did NOT sign it all adds up to a high grade for Snow. It also emphasizes the importance of the development of Matt Martin. I wonder if Martin gets a 10 game taste at the end of the season?
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Matt S. says:
i gotta find someone to trade my Nate Thompson Autographed puck to. i might just use it at open ice next time..
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Nate was a spare part – A good one but not difficult to replace. Tamby is talent – talent that isn’t playing to potential but talent nonetheless. Talent isn’t easily replaced.
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therain93 -- terriers fan says:
Best of luck Nate, thank you for all of your hard work.
Dustin — congratulations and good luck!
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Islesin2010 says:
I must say I am surprised how many people are making a big deal out of Nate Thompson leaving. Good guy, not a great hockey player in any aspect. Move on… big game tonight, as they seemingly all are. Vokoun played last night and was very impressive. I like the decision to go back to Roli tonight. He was not good the other night, but then again Sid and Malkin can do that to a goalie.
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** I think you guys are missing the BIGGER picture **
Its that the Islanders who are already a small non physical team and are getting even SOFTER! No 1 is saying Nate Thompson is a monster power foward – but he does play a someowhat physical game and he played hard! The Islanders do need some size/beef in the lineup, maybe Laraque (just released) could help (If his *head* is on right)
Im all for adding skill players and i like the skill level that were getting but geeeez can we just add a couple of 210+ lbs winger to the lineup, we DO NEED IT!
– thats all im saying guys —
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Vlad from Brooklyn says:
It would not happen if Nate did not miss that empty Lanquist’s net
Good luck to Nate.
And for everyone calling present Isles the softest team in Organization’s history – this “Softest” Team is playing pretty good and entertaining hockey now, defence included. I prefer to watch great plays than fights. With respect to fights lovers. -
Madchef says:
this is the new nhl, scoring and speed, the days of fighting all but over. this team is small but soft, the last team that pushed us around was the flyers and I can’t think of any others. THis team is becoming just that, a team. they check, and put constant pressure on the puck. teams cant push us around because they need to keep up with our tempo. Yes I am aware they are in year 2 of the rebuild, and will probably be an 7 or 8 seed. But they can make some noise, they held there own with the pens. Thompson thanks good luck and see ya. some people cant be satisfied on this blog. I for one am enjoying some of the best isles hockey and a long time.
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Seriously, losing Thompson hurts team size and toughness? First off, Andy Sutton is out two games, not the rest of the season. Brendan Witt can barely keep up with what’s Gordon’s system and his defensive play is hurting for it. Even with Thompson, Sutton, and Witt in the lineup people are taking advantage of the Isles younger guys. I mean, who exactly did anything after Ed Jovanovski elbowed Tavares in the face? No one. For sure Thompson was at least a little sizable and played a little tough, but overall the team isn’t going to miss his presence a great deal and overall hasn’t really been missing having a tough guy. Perhaps Snow can pickup a Travis Moen or Mike Rupp type of player when he trades Biron, but don’t count on it. This time around the Isles are focusing on youth and skill and this is probably about as big and tough as the Isles will get, barring a call up from the Bridge, as long as they keep winning more than losing.
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joe fred va says:
This is a good problem to have, too many good young players and not enough of spots on the team. Interesting to see how Kohn does, he had soem high expectations when he was drafted.
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jason says:
Nate was worthless…come on people,
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Wayne Gretzky needed someone to protect him from vicious hits so he could be the player he was throughout his career. Mike Bossy needed the same. I read arguments saying the new NHL doesn’t require the same protection for Tavares because its a different league now but I respectfully disagree. I believe having Laraque on this team (in place of Jackman for instance) would be a huge upgrade and provide some room for JT, KO, etc.
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Mikey says:
I was really down on Nate last season, but you have to give him credit. He improved a lot this year and proved himself to be a serviceable 4th liner in the NHL. That being said, his loss is not a big deal to the Isles. I think Nate brought more to the team than Tamby, but I get the feeling that Garth is holding onto Tamby in order to package him in a trade. Maybe he will add Tamby as sweetener to a Biron deal in an effort to pry away a slightly higher draft pick. With Nate gone and Park and Sim likely let go this summer, I would love to see the Isles sign Eric Nystrom as a 4th line/pk guy. He is still improving and would provide leadership to this team.
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CrackheadTheo says:
Jason #104, agreed. Nate Thompson was completely useless. I cant understand why anyone would be sad to see him go.
Beat it Nate, enjoy the sunshine, palm trees, beautiful beaches and hot woman in Tampa.
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Mike from VA says:
Oh man Frederick Meyer III, way to blow that play. Isle’s need to come alive this period. Not gonna win the game on Special teams as it looks like penalties will be a premium in this game. Tavares breaks out of his slump tonight? One can only hope.
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Nathan Horton continues to crush the Isles every single game. I absolutly hate that guy.
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There we go Isle’s. Hard work pays off with the goal.
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Welcome to the NHL! Assist for Dustin Kohn! Comeau GOAL!
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TuxTax says:
Glad they woke up there, Sim has really been a pest this year! By the way does anyone know what I can do with all my extra scrap metal?
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OT Go Figure!?!
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cusi says:
we need the 2pts! hope we get them.
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Good Job Boys. Hard Fought win.
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Too bad it wasn’t in regulation, but I’ll take it. Nicely done
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Islesphan25 says:
Great win…
Man is it fun watching our your “D” maturing right in front of us…
Jack Hillen has Brian Rafalski written all over him…Give him a few more years..WOW
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Andy McDonald – heck of a game
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I am going out on a limb and saying……..Jack Hillen is a star in the making!!
Roloson didn’t seem as sharp last game in Pittsburgh, hopefully he will get back on track tonight.
Any line changes or and who is Kohn playing with?