BRENDAN WITT PLACED ON WAIVERS…Josh Bailey out 6 games until the Olympic Break…NO-valchuk
“Upper-body injury” for Bailey, as reported by Katie Strang. Witt handles his waiving like a pro, telling Point Blank, “No worries. All good. Just the nature of the beast.” He has next year left on his contract at $3 million and has little value in the trade market. He will be assigned to Bridgeport when he clears. Only way I see Brendan being moved is if the Islanders take the sizable salary of an okay-at-best player back. Ilya Kovalchuk? No. Comments.
199 Responses to “BRENDAN WITT PLACED ON WAIVERS…Josh Bailey out 6 games until the Olympic Break…NO-valchuk”
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Why not play him a few games before putting him on waivers - what is the rush. Its not like we are stacked with Defenseman right now
That’s sort of tragic. I know Witt’s not tearing it up or anything, but it’s kind of tough to treat a vet who leaves it all on the ice like that. And he’s not even the worst of the lot either. Oh well…curious to see what the bigger picture is here.
Wow… I just dont get it.
This moved I believe only happened because something might be waiting in the wings….15 minutes over 2 games for Kohn does not show they want to give more time to the younger guys
Ok, Snow is talking out of his butt. Hillen and Martinek are injured, Gervais has regressed, Kohn needs more seasoning, etc. so I don’t see his reasoning behind waiving Witt. He probably doesn’t want to talk about how Witt has struggled mightily the past two seasons under Gordon. And its not like Snow is trying to patch up the D for a stretch run or he may have nabbed Boynton off waivers. I have a feeling the team will be sellers this year and Snow is looking to stock the cupboard with picks for at least one more year.
There has to be a “personality conflict” between him and Gordon, otherwise why make this move when you are already short on defense? Maybe they are trying to transform some of the leadership to the younger players?
This is what I love about Islander Country. You never know what Garth has up his sleeve. I do believe this was the right move for the team. Witt like Gervais always seems to be out there when they get scored on. Thank you for your time and service B.Witt but the team must look for new options.
About time Garth did this- last time I saw Witt play he got turned around so fast in the neutral zone trying to pivot backwards that h nearly fell over. Like Hunter- too slow.
The move was made today ahead of the trade deadline- teams might make a desperate pick-up now- in the summer, they can always sign a free agent…
This also gives the Islanders time to recall him where he could be picked up by a team at half price- like they did with Sim last year.
Witt will be bought out if he isn’t claimed- he is done on the island- book it.
I find it intresting that so many of our players seem to have problems with Gordon..ex. Campoli, now Witt
Witt on Waivers makes no sense at all, unless there is an under the table deal where a team would be willing to take Witt on re-entry waivers. I think in that situation the new team is only responsible for a portion of the contract. Is that correct, does any one know? If that’s the case, I’m sure Witt is worth 1 year at about 2 Million to a team in the hunt.
our d is a lot better w/o witt than with him. i think it’s as simple as that. i hope that somebody picks him up but i doubt that happens.
I bet he plays 100 times better under a different coach. I hope he gets picked up only for the fact that he is not a good fit for this version of the Islanders. I enjoyed his seasons here. GOOD LUCK BRENDON!
Post updated with Witt’s reaction to Point Blank…CB
I want to say that I think Witt brought a lot to this team. Gordon was not right for Witt’s style. Hopefully a team like the Pens or Caps could use him. It would be great to see him have a good Playoff. I’ve always loved him, just a bad fit with this current Islander team.
Move has to be made. I know we are thin on D right now and I love his heart but Witt has shown all season that he is too slow to play in this system and is no longer strong enough to compensate for that fact.
Give more minutes to Kohn and maybe we see Katic before too long. Perhaps there is someone else Snow is targeting. But all I know is Witt was not cutting it this season and would be a good bet to continue that weak performance in the 2nd half and next year as well.
Hope someone picks him up.
#9 - “…so many of our players…”?
That’s 2 out of the entire roster.
Unless Snow already has a team waiting to pick him up, what is the point? We only have 5 other “NHL” defensemen….why not just keep him on the Roster.
and if he needs to skate…..why not a conditioning stint?
If Isles had addressed the Nolan situation immediately and had a coach in place….they may have avoided the contract extension all-together.
Someone please take Witt.
Just when you think the Islanders have turned the corner on stupid moves, they go and do this. Are they throwing the towel in on the season?? Our defense is atrocious and the fact that they keep throwing gervais and meyer out there is disgusting. Hopefully they can trade him to a situation that works out best for Witt and his family. So is this an indictment on Snow’s contract extension to Witt?? Snow admitting he made a mistake?
I don’t think it’s a personality conflict so much as a talent conflict. Witt, while a real heart and soul guy and someone you have to root for, just isn’t getting there as a top-six d-man anymore. If he were he’d be in the lineup.
I agree with CB - they will probably have to eat some salary next year to get a deal done and I wouldn’t expect anything back unless someone else has an overpaid player with a year left.
#16 - I think #9 is also referring to Comrie and Guerin also. Either way, I’m glad they’re gone because I love the youth movement.
Good. He didn’t belong on this team. Maybe a nice guy, but everyone knew that he shouldn’t be here, especially next year. 3 million dollars more to spend for next year. I hope this doesn’t mean they plan on rushing De Haan or Hamonic to the NHL.
Up next: Radek Martinek?
One thing I will say though is that I hope he finds a new home and gets his game back on another team. He was a good Islander. Best of luck Brendan! And always look both ways before crossing the street.
Great career, rock on the blue line for the last few years. However, all good things must come to an end….and Witter just can’t keep up anymore. It’s not the system. Good luck, Brendon, and thanks for the memories and effort.
Why do people think that Witt and Gordon don’t get along? How would you know this to be true?
Bottom line…..Brenden Witt no longer fits the plans of the Islanders. Fact of the matter is that MANY players need to be re-evealuated.
Hunter-Park-Tambellini-Sim-Comeau-Bergenheim-Gervais-….to name some. This is a bottom 5 team right now. Building around the likes of Okposo, Tavares, Schremp, Hillen…maybe even MacDonald…the rebuild goes on…and players such as Witt (who by far put it all out there each and every night) cannot be included in the plan.
This move was so obvious. I was hoping they would do this for a while. The reason being, it was quite clear when MacDonald came up that he was a much better fit for the Islanders. The numbers show it too. Great move. Sorry Witter. I liked you when you were here, but like you said its a business… and a business of winning. Let’s go Islanders!
Weird. I’m not overly worried either way, but I wish the Isles would just trade players for players, instead of bleeding them out over the waiver wire.
There’s obviously something bigger to this other than what snow has said. Maybe snow is willing to take another teams salary dump and needs to dump some of his own first.
I am not totally sure why we would waive him. He is a tough stay at home dmen. It does not make sense to me that we could not get a decent player for him.
Just a thought… Could Snow be placing Witt on Waivers pretty much to test the market, expecting that no one will pick up his salary without the Islanders taking something back in return via trade? Snow’s adverstising system so to speak?
By how much are we over the the league minimum salary cap CB? I thought it was only a couple of million?? If some team picks him up at full price are we under the league min?
Could this be a move so Witt gets playing time during the Olympic break or is the AHL off also.
It may not even be a talent thing and just a style thing. A heavy forechecking system puts pressure on the D to be able to get back and cover when the other team breaks out with the forwards deep in the zone, and Witter’s not the fleetest of foot. There were a couple of times when the Isles were scored on and Witt looked like he was just standing around. This has happened a couple of times this season with other teams. My guess is that if Witt is picked up by another team it would be on re-entry waivers, nothing like a 50% off discount on a veteran defenseman. Otherwise he can work on his skating in the Bridge.
Also, CB, thanks for answering my question on the other thread.
Doubt he gets picked up. Even if he has little trade value, it will be value to keep him to trade because he is NOT making an impact on the team. He could easily be thrown in as a sweetner. Still is a warrior, no doubt about it, just half the warrior he was two years ago.
While Brendan is certainly no shutdown defenseman these days, the waiving of Thompson and now Witt seems to have this team going in the wrong direction in terms of toughness. Hard to imagine who would step up now if someone took a run at Okposo or Tavares.
The org. continues to shed payroll.
I don’t think we should expect Andy Sutton
back after this season.
Is the team on sale ?
Something’s up. Don’t the Isles need Witt’s $3 million just to reach the cap floor? I’m guessing they do, which would mean a trade is in the works.
Why would you put Witt on waivers when Tamby has been nothing but a heathly scratch for 3 months. What is the logic here? I just don’t get it.
Absolutely the right move! CB, you wanted tough decisions made about the roster, so here it is. I liked Witt, but he has been nothing short of awful the last 2 years. You can blame the system and Gordon if you want but there’s a reason every other team will also pass on him. He lloks like he is stuck in mud ou there. He is an anchor. I’d rather watch Kohn play 30 minutes a night and then watch poor Witt have to take another holding penalty as players go right around him. Great, gutsy move by the Islanders.
Why now in particular? Thats what I cant help but wonder. Why did this have to happen right now? Whats the rush when Jack is down for 6-8?
Not the player he once was. Hope someone picks him up
This move does not put the Islanders below the cap floor - not this far into the season. If it did, the Islanders could not make the move. That could be the biggest reason it wasn’t done a while ago…CB
…not surprised at all by this move. Truthfully Witt has been a liablity on the ice the past 2 years and doesnt fit in well with Gordons system. I like his toughness but he was minus like what? It is no mistake that Gervais seemd to up his game when he had a new D-man partner.
Not to rag on Witt but seriously.
Witt on waivers, Biron in Bridgeport…Snow is going to make a move this weekend!
Thanks, CB. It was worth a shot LOL
I smell a big move coming… between thomspson and this, theres something brewing in Ol’ Garth’s head. With Biron “conditioning” that preps us for a move. Love the young guys. I’ll deal with it if we miss the playoffs,(though I think 1-2 solid 5-6 game runs by us gets us in) knowing that we’re setting up for a strong season next year with key pieces in place.
Save $$$ on aging Dman.
Spend it on airfare to China!
That’s quite a move by Garth. Hopefully something good is brewing.
I love Witt! Best of luck Brendan you were a class act. Go get a Cup! Snow not really a fan of the Snowman! Meyer and Gervais along with Sim should be gone too. But nope!
While Witt doesn’t provide numbers that reflect his importance on the ice, I wonder how important he is to the team psyche off the ice?
Witt doesn’t get the credit he deserves for being a puck blocking, big checking and intimidating force to the opponents that he should.
I understand that we want to make room for players on B’Port, but I don’t think they have been good enough to warrant the team to waive Witt. If they had the type of depth at D, like Washington for example in their farm system, where a guy like Alsner could be called up then I the Isles should waive him.
Unless people see something in these B’Port D-men that I don’t, I am pretty disappointed by this.
A true team guy and warrior.
Gotta love Brendan Witt. He was good for a few years on the Island, but is clearly in decline.
I wish you all the best Witter. If you want to come back up to put Malkin on his a** one more time, please do.
“not entirely believable”… if that isn’t the understatement of the century. Honestly, there are a lot of times where Garth Snow says things when I think to myself if they are believable.
Ultimately, I think this was the right decision. Witter lost 2-3 steps faster than anyone I’ve ever seen. He went from a shutdown defender two seasons ago to a stationary pylon this year. Disappointing, but that’s life in the NHL
I love Witt. He is one of my favorite players, but the game has changed. It is too fast for him now. He’s been a warrior his whole career and it’s taken its toll.
I think that at another time this would be the right move. But with the D banged up the way it is this kinda makes me scratch my head. We are obviously not in on all the details but this really doesnt make sense to me right now. There has to be something else to this, a trade or something is in the mix. He is signed for another year if memory serves. I don’t buy the youth excuse. If they had that much promise, bruno would have been waived when guys were healthy. It’s not like they are sending him down to get his legs under him after the injury or they would have said that. There has to be more to this.
If Witt has played his last game as an Islander, I thank him for all the work he put into this team.
I bet Washington picks him up off re-entry waivers!
While Witt certainly has lost a step I would rather he plays with the Isles than in Bridgeport. He isn’t great but is a useful player and provides the entire ounce of toughness this team had (with Jackman out). We’ll see how they play but this move doesn’t make the team better for tomorrow’s game in Tampa.
I bet the Rangers will pick him up, they seem to love to recycle ex-Islanders and ex-Devils
Witt is a true warrior.
Proud to have a guy like him on the Isles.
Its amusing to read that the Isles lack toughness. And then the toughest guy on the team is on waivers and those calling for toughness are glad to see him gone. Lol…
Go Isles.
It’s no impact to the team since he is really not an impact player. From the business sense it’s like a boss saying “I screwed up and gave you too much.” 3 years was too much given his situation, but hey, it’s a great for Witt at this stage in his career. He took advantage and that is why he gets it. The winner here is Brendan. Heck of a career on the ice, glad to see it work out for him financially, hope it ends well from a hockey sense too.
That’s a bummer, kind of. I really like Witt and what he has done for us over the years, I hope someone picks him up. It just doesn’t seem right, him playing in the bridge.
It doesn’t make sense if this is all we’re doing and don’t have anything ready to go to fill in on our back end. I get it if we need to put this year’s remainder of Witt’s salary in to a different player we’re about to get. I guess you can say my curiosity is perked up a bit.
Certainly adds some meat to the theory that Witt’s “injury” was just a way of massaging the system while we carried three goaltenders on the roster.
I like brendan Witt but lets face it, he’s a -18. That says he is not suited for Gordon’s system. Brendan has struggled the last 2 seasons. Thanks Brendan for the great years on the Island. Some team, hopefully a playoff bound team, will pick you up. Best wishes
i loved witts dedication to the islanders and all he did for us he’s bin a true heart and soul guy but it was time for this move and i wish him well now it’s time to aquire a d-man
Great guy but he has been a real liability this season. I think he is too slow in any teams system. Has no trade value. Since Boyton was not picked up, I do not think Witt will be picked up.
Good luck Brendan!!
I don’t know about this one. Yes, Witt’s plus-minus is a big issue, and yes his style of play clashes with Coach Gordon’s go-go system, but Witt adds some toughness to a team that right now looks like they could get beaten up by a bunch of 5th grade girls. With Tim Jackman out of the lineup, and Sean Bergenheim and Blake Comeau unwilling to take the body, this team really lacks any sort of physical toughness (outside of Andy Sutton of course). In an Eastern Conference world that already features tough guys Chris Pronger, Dan Carcillo, Zdeno Chara, and Anton Volchenkov, and now with newly-minted Leaf Dion Phanuef around, lack of toughness is the worst thing the islanders can have, especially when you are trying to protect young guns Tavares, Okposo, and Bailey.
Thanks for all that you’ve done for us WITTER!
I remember how intense us Islanders Fans were when just a few years ago there was all sorts of talk of how we needed someone like Witt to clear the crease and play tough for us on the backline. Well we got our man and this is where we are. While, yes, it’s probably best that this has happened for the team’s sake it’s really sad and Ironic that now we’re all on here kind of giving him his send off. Oh how times have changed and we’re still on the outside looking in.
I wasn’t too fond of Witt’s attitude during that post game interview as some earlier commenator noted, when he scored those two goals but I thought it was only due to him not wanting to be the center of attention but maybe there was indeed more to it.
Thanks Witter for all of your hard work and hopefully you have success wherever life might lead you!
They are making room for Eric Nystrom
and I mean for gosh sakes, the man GOT HIT BY A CAR AND GOT RIGHT BACK UP AND SAID “IM OKAY!” how many people on earth (besides jack bauer) can do that?
I would not mind seeing Eric Nystrom in an Islander uniform. He’s a gritty, tough, speedy player. Does Toneli have a son/relative in the NHL? Haha.
Horrible attitude + no longer fights + skates like he’s got a load in his pants…
= Great move, Garth! Good riddance, Brendan!
I haven’t been impressed of Witt’s play since Gordon took over. He’s slow, has a well below average shot, and can’t make plays in the offensive zone.
thats odd I my last post was in the thread and then disappeared. Oh well Ill post it again.
I remember early in the season when he scored two goals (the only 2 he has) and during the interview between periods he was very disenchanted and disconnected from the team. His response to Carlin question about the goals was “yeah whatever”. It was obvious he didnt want to be here. So it is no surprise he is gone. I dont think this will motivate a trade but I do think it makes room for younger players in bridge.
In the Battle of Man vs. SUV: Man Won!
But seriously, I rather have a over-the-hill has-been with the mobility of a traffic pylon like Witt than human speed bumps like Chef Bruno Gervais and Freddy Meyer. I guess too many times, Witt got burned by his lack of foot and general lack of speed for Gordo’s liking.
But, Witt is well compensated, maybe he can run for the Town of Hempstead’s Tax Collector.
Watch and see the rangers will pick him up,
The Witt move doesn’t save the Islanders any money since I doubt he was on a two-way contract. Maybe he was sent down to protect Biron during his re-conditioning stint, but seriously this looks like they are just clearing roster space. For who is anybodies guess, but they are in serious need of a defenseman. Hopefully, the waiver to Bridgeport is not how Witt’s career ends, he’s given too much to just be discarded.
To all those saying the move makes no sense, I am just happy you all aren’t in Snow’s position. The guy is great in the lockeroom and is a solid guy but he does not fit this team, plain and simple.
Weird move, though he was slow he was the only player besides Sutton who would hit people around the net. Unless they are bringing someone else in Rolo and DP better get used to getting run over.
I love the old Brendan Witt but I feel like he has lost a lot since he was first brought here. He definitely does not fit into Gordon’s system. I hope he gets pick up elsewhere and he can be a contributing player - just not against the Isles.
To anyone who is saying this is a stupid move, have you watched him play this season. Way too slow, gets beat all the time and can’t play in this up-tempo system. Just hope someone picks him up so we can free up 3 million in cap space which is so important these days.
Witt was a real solid Islander and I’m happy he was with us the past few years.
I don’t understand why we wouldn’t try to trade him for even a late round pick.
Maybe his value as an injury call-up is greater than a 6th round pick, but this begs the question: if our D is so thin we need him as a possible call-up why would we put him on waivers at all?
I was saying yesterday I think Witt would pass through waivers. Good riddance… We can come in last place in the division with or without him.
Witt isn’t a very good player at this point in this system but I hope the Islanders have someone who is better than what he gave them. The Islanders are losing money. I expect to go into the Coliseum on Saturday and see half the lights turned off to save a few dollars.
Nothing is going down , Garth is not capable of a block buster trade. What happens when no one picks up Witt we can add the 3 million next year onto the 5 or 6 we are still paying Yahin.
i’m really bummed out by this. Witt was my favorite Islander. the guy played tough for us every game. at one point was considered for the “C”. i hope the best for him.
THANKS WITT. YOU WERE A WARRIOR.
Great Islander. Put it out there night after night. That Phoenix game though, it cost the team a win. And there were a lot more mistakes then benefits. I’ll miss the old Brendan Witt but the time has come for the next phase of the rebuild where pieces that don’t fit the puzzle have to be removed. this is what’s called a not so tough, tough decision.
I am stunned by this move. I know he, and Gordon, had problems, and he was a minus-18, and he had not been very good this year, but he was a warrior who showed a ton of heart and effort. The type of effort that I would hope to see out of all the young kids. Plus, its not like we are so stacked on D that we can afford to waive a veteran defensive defenseman playing 15 minutes a game. I know noone wanted him now, but come the trade deadline when teams see their needs for the stretch, I bet someone would have come calling for a guy with his experience.
It makes no sense to do this now.
CB, am I right that if Witt clears waivers, we still have to pay his NHL salary in the minors? There is no monetary savings by sending him down. I’m not sure about this but I thought that is what one way contract meant.
Weird, could be part of something bigger.
I respect Witt and his heart but we all know this is the right move.
NESN on the Bruins postgame said we are the front runners for Micheal Ryder if that is worth anything.
poor brendan, the style change of the league took his acumen away.
He was great, but just too slow which is not his fault. But watching the games this year, it seemed like he checked out a long time ago.
all the best witt, no hard feelings.
I love Witt and everything he’s given this team since the day he stepped through the door but it is definitely time to move on.
Witt’s lack of mobility just doesn’t fit in the system the isles are playing now, which also puts a strain on all the other players on the ice.
I wish him all the best and I hope some team picks him up. It would be a shame for him to end up in the AHL at this point in his career.
Witt will definately play better under a different regime. Since Flash started here Witt just wasn’t himself and although his comment about Waivers was noble I think he is a bit relieved. Thanks for the time here Brendan…go give him Hell!!!A true Vet!
I don’t follow the logic here. I understand that he is making more than he is worth, but we aren’t up against the cap at all, and we are short defencemen. It doesn’t appear as though there is anyone better in Bridgeport, and even if they are setting up for a trade, we still wouldn’t be overly crowded at the D-end of the bench.
what does “big” mean exactly? we trade witt and biron?…that may be big to us but it is a big nothing to the rest of the league
Hey Witter, thank you for all you have done with the Islanders, loved the way you played the game & best of luck on your new team (unless its the rangers).
Witt has been placed on waivers…so therefore he is not going to be traded…it means either Snow exhausted all possible trade options or he feels Witt will pass through, either way he is expendable and his lack of value to the Islanders has been made known
best thing that could happen to our defense is if Witt is picked up off waivers. That contract is a large chunk of money we could use on a younger, more mobile free agent.
Having watch Witt play, he’s definitely not someone who takes shifts off, he’s just incredibly vulnerable to any kind of turnover or rush due to the fact he’s such a slow skater. He’s unable to pinch effectively because he can’t get back into the play if needed.
He’s got heart and he’s never let me down as far as his effort, but he’s just simply not able to move fast enough to play in the NHL anymore. If someone picks him up and takes the contract off our hands it’ll be good for us.
As far as the Chelios talk that comes up now and then…he’s slow than Witter and he’s got a mouth on him. No thank you.
I remember wanting Witt from 10 years ago. A hit he put on Peca one nite, while with the Caps, Ill never forget. Loved the first few years he was here too. However, he definately is way past his prime, and I only wish him the best. A true warrior with class!! Ill miss ya Witter
Can’t be too surprised at this move. Taking in a significant amount of cap space for a player who may be too slow in today’s NHL.
a true warrior! He will be picked up!!!!
Best of luck Brendan!
Witt has been one of my favorites since he smashed [then LA King] Sean Avery for jacking his jewels. These last two years have been hard to watch between “the system” and his battle worn body catching up… but his spirit will be greatly missed.
So does Witter head to Bridgeport, Hawaii or Valhala? If he’s expected to spend a year and a half in Bridgeport do we interpret it as a “player/coach” or are bus rides to Lowell Wang’s way of forcing a guy to cash in his annuity?
Thanks Brendan…you will be MISSED!
I want to add to what many have said above! If we have seen the last of Witter as an Islander….thank you Brendan!!! I think Brendan Witt has more heart and guts than most players I have seen come and go. Good luck and I wish you and your family the best! Thanks for all you did for the kids with Witter’s Hitters. Best wishes for a continud NHL career!
Why does this organization continue to cut ties with anyone respectable? Placed on waivers? Really? Clearly, this is because they’re winning so many games without him. It’s sad that this organization thinks more of Jeff Tambellini than they do Brendan Witt and I like Tamby.
Wish Witt all the best. Excellent leader, excellent teammate. Will always remember how hard he always played. Hope someone picks him up and he goes deep in the playoffs as he deserves it.
I always liked him but he just doesn’t fit today’s style of play. He’s tough but he’s immobile. Can’t disagree with this one. For those bashing Snow, do you honestly believe he put him on waivers before he made every attempt to move him? Let’s be real.
I wish hm the best, but his move is to be expcted, if the team is to continue on the rebuilding path that it is on…. Not a suprise that this happened in my eyes, and long term, this was a good move by the organzation.
I love Witter just as much as the next guy and agree with all the positves mentioned, but any GM that has watched him lately will not take him on with such a big hit to the cap. Hopefully he reports to Bport, gets back in game shape and heals. We could see him back after the Olympic break- given our severe lack of depth at D.
…I have a funny feeling Garth is up to something
With the current Islander injuries on D, the fact that we have lots of cap space I would 100% say that the Isles are clearing Witt’s salary because they are taking on significant salary. Not sure I like the thought of this but Witt hasn’t been so horrible that they needed to waive him, he brings more to the table right now then Kohn.
Good dude.
Tough Guy.
Played Hard.
The Isles would be lucky to find another guy just like him…just the younger, more mobile version.
Witt is a class act all the way… but i really can’t remember him hitting someone in front of the net or playing all that physical over the last 2 years.
I wish him well and I hope someone picks him up either this or next year.
Good luck to you Braveheart Witt.
DOC
there could be some interest in Witter on re-entry wire
I’m with Blizzard #104.
Just heard and am holding my breath for something, anything. No way Kohn > Witt, and with Hillen out for a few weeks the move’s timing should be related to bigger (or at least other, if not bigger) things. I loved watching his grit and will miss him a ton…. One of the few Isles I would (will?) really hate to see go.
Don’t get toooo excited about Snow doing ANYTHING.. Reality is - and we ALL know it - nothing will major will happen..
The Isles have lost 5 in a row, a trade, even a small one. Say they move Comeau for example. That could wake up the younger players or simply just shake things up.
Could we see Mark Katic soon? He was injuried and couldn’t go to the AHL al-state game. Kohn replaced him. But, Katic is back playing with the Sound tigers.
Well if Snow is really trying to give the kids some more time on the Ice to develop why doesn’t he also do similar things with Sim? Doesn’t make sense since we’re short on dmen at the moment. He better have something up his sleeve… I still like him better than Milbury and Maloney.
I really hope Snow is up to something bigger.While your at it get rid of some others like Park,Sim,Weight.Hopefully Snow is up to something if not waive those guys also and bring up some kids with size or energy.This team need some sort of spark.
Are you people serious? Witts old and slow. The guy hardly hit anyone and was on the ice every single time the other team scored. Hes not the same guy he was in Washington. Its not Gordon, its Witt. Its not Gordon, it was Campoli. It won’t be Gordon, it’ll be Jackman, Park, Weight.
This teams going young. We’ll get bigger and stronger. Imagine Hall, Tavares, Okposo, Bailey, DiPietro, Streit. That right there is half a Stanley Cup team. Bring a few players and the Cups ours in 3-5 years.
Farewell Braveheart…Cast aside by Sir Garth, Earl of Uniondale.
He was the noblest of warriors during the darkest of days. We hardly knew him.
Thanks for everything Witter! Best of luck! Hopefully you can get picked up by the Caps for a tribute tour, complete with a RING!!!
Lets go Islanders!
Brendan Witt wasn’t really doing anything. Don’t expect them to make a crazy offer for Kovalchuk tonight.
CB-I have to defend Witt.
Witt-slow-yes…especially when the forecheck isnt working and when the Isles are chasing the puck.
Witt-doenst hit anybody…come on now.
Off the top of my head…he crushed Fedotenko opening night. He fought McKee the same night…I remember him fighting Walker from Carolina (both of them took some shots) and I believe he took on Ian Laperrire of Flyers. 3 tough customers.
I’ll be anything we nab something from dallas.
Sad to see Witt go. A hockey player for hockey players.
Good guy on and off the ice. I’m sure he will make an impact whichever new team he goes to. Just didn’t fit the system.
Thanks for you heart and service.
What could people on here be complaining about. We all were calling for Witt being moved. The guy has been terrible. Let Kohn play and maybe he can be part of a blockbuster to acquire Kovolchuk.I expect Snow to make an extremly hard push for Kovolchuk. This is a good thing.
Very relieved about this, his play is just awful. Can’t do anything right.
Hopefully this will land us Kovalchuck. I can dream can’t I? C’mon Garth getting one good guy is not going to hurt this youth movement. We are in the playoff hunt and now we need a trade a good one to shake us out of our slump. I hear besides the flyers interest, the rangers are interested in Ilya, just shoot me!!!
Good career up till last season and has steadily declined as age has crept up and the system changed. It’s an understandable move although I agree that the timing is suspect unless something else is on the horizon. Where I have doubts is whether I’d rather see Witt out there (-18) who is CAPABLE of playing physical and clearing the front of the net vs. Gervais (-12) who has absolutely zero upside despite his better skating abilities. I would’ve rather seen the latter waived; the major difference between the two is salary and not overall performance.
Good luck Brendan. Appreciated having you on the team and hope you end up playing elsewhere in the league or whatever else you may desire.
From the marathon Q & A:
Ilya Kovalchuk will be traded, but Garth Snow has already made it rather clear that it won’t be to the Islanders. It would be so tempting for me to milk another day of Kovalchuk, but I’d rather not. At least not in a big way…CB
Hail to Brendan Witt!!!!
No doubt he is not the same, but do the Islanders really have better options in the cupboard for the remainder of 09-10 than Witt and/or Boynton?
seems like kovalchuk will be heading to LA.
#119 I do not agree at all! As much as I am a big Islanders fan, I do not see a cup in the near future. I do not even see playoffs until 2014… Hey I probably will be wrong BUT…
Does this mean we see Katic?
I always thought that this injury was mostly bs and witt had played his last game as an islander. I envision snow told him as much, allowed him to get his house in order and tried to make a deal. Only problem I have is that imho dustin kohn has been only slightly better than awful. I saw him turn the puck over 4 times in his own zone on one shift last game. This team needs a major shakeup if they want to salvage the season and cutting ties with Brendan ain’t it…..
The game has clearly passed Witt by….yes it is sad, but it’s “part of the business”.
He was the 1 bright spot on the team, 4 a couple of very dark years……
Thank You Brendan 4 your service, good luck brother!
4 all those who say the Snowman doesn’t make big moves may I remind u of Mr. Canada….aka Ryan Smyth……roll the dice, take a chance and see what happens!
and as allways…..Lets Go Islanders!
It ain’t easy, but keep the faith!
I don’t care what Snow says. If he doesn’t even take a chance then he’s doing us the fans a disservice. All I want to atleast hear is that he tried.
#1 Witt seemed liked a very good person. He was an excellent d-man until he played in Gordon’s system. Then he became a terrible d-man.
This had to happen but it is another Islander head scratcher in terms of timing etc.
Also, as bad as Witt played this season he still played better then Geravis. Why hasn’t Bruno been waived?
also…..we need a toughguy…..someone 2 stick up 4 our core of young players….
SNOWMAN…..CAN U HEAR ME NOW?
Not picking up Boynton for free, talking about China, bringing up young D-men not ready for prime time, Witt to waivers etc…, sounds like they’re just re arranging the chairs on the Titanic.
If the Rags get Kovy we will all be sick.
the flyers will get kovy before the rags they have more assetts end of story
Josh Bailey will miss the final six games until the Olympic break…CB
1. I would LOVE to see the Rag$ pick up Kovalchuk and lock him up for 12 years. They will still suck.
2. Snow had already stated he will not be pursuing and big names until july, why would he think different now?
Witt has been my favorite Islander the last few years, and the thought of him playing minor league games is depressing. He’s a proud vet, a true warrior and a great teammate and locker room presence. I will truly miss him if this is his last moments with the Islanders. A true class act.
The timing of this move is odd though, with the D being thin as is and with Witt being one of the few physical and intimidating presences we have on the team.
I usually like Snow’s moves, but not this one — at all.
Just a hunch but I think we oughta say goodbye to Rollie. Hey CB whats he worth to, say, Detroit or the Chicago?
OK, Bailey out. I say we sit JT a few games, let him watch from the press box, learn a few things from there, and rather than go after players in the trade market, we go after the draft pick.
Another year of no playoffs.
makes no sense..we are dying at D..and we couldnt get anything for him…a 5th..whatever witt is a stud hell go on to sign with the CAPS and get his CUP..watch 4 it
I used to love Witt, and still have fond memories of him. If we are going to stick with Gordon’s system, there is just no place for him. He looks pretty bad right now and I think he is a prime example of what can happen to a physical player in the post lock out nhl.
a true pro
Chuck Gormley of Courier post Online notes that his top three destinations for Kovie include the NY Isles…PLUS he writes that Waddell scouted the Flyers and Isles last week. CB, I don’t think it’s as far fetched as you do. I also think Snow is very savvy and keeps things close to the vest, even if he misleads publicly a little bit. Based on what I read elsewhere the Isles are in the hunt. I think they have a 1 in 3 chance to land Kovie.
no need for an old school,tough as nails veteran on the island,,we’ll stick with a soft as jello,non hitting,no dropping those gloves type,,the days of the warrior type is gone,,
I’d like to hope Witt wasn’t let go because of a “system” of a coach who’s done nothing in the NHL but male Rick bowness look succesful. I think witt was to slow period n they are hope someone grabs him on re entry waivers.
it would make absolutely zero sense for us to aquire kovy now. it would set us back years considering what we’d have to send back. i take snow at his word on this one. kovy will not be an islander.
i wonder if the people who say that Witt plays physically and with visible effort actually watch games nowadays. he doesn’t hit anyone anymore. Meyer is more physical then him. Witt cruises around like he doesn’t care. guys skate around him like he is an orange cone being used during drills. i always wanted him pre-lockout. post lockout, he was like a dinosaur out there. no ability to skate, pass, shoot, and no longer hits or fights. i admit its a weird time to do this with Hillen being out, but he is useless on our team now. that’s why his minutes were going down and down. we are better without him in the lineup. i’d rather see Kohn get the minutes. hopefully someone grabs him and we can be done with him and his inflated salary.
.. This is a lil strange 2 say the least
.. Ok so we know Witt is not in his prime, but to simply cut him/waive him is a lil puzzling..
…And this team just continues to get “softer, softer, softer, softer, softer, softer, softer, softer” - They are as tough and gritty as day old jello, what a wimpy team!! yukkkk
..Wow, just wow
Witt was not a part of the rebuild, that was clear, he was a liability many times on defense this year and last but so have Gervais and Meyer, but you have to wonder why a team with a lack of depth on D would let a Dman, no matter how skilled, go. The only reason for the timing on this move is that Snow has a deal in the works that leaves Witt the odd man out, but what could that move be if we aren’t going for Kovalchuck? CB this is where you jump in and give us some realistic possibilities, Please!
It was hard to watch Witt these last few months. Guy gave everything he had for a long time and it seems like the tank is nearing empty. Perhaps in the right situation playing 12 minutes a night he could be useful. Hopefully things work out for him. Class act all the way.
Sucks about Bailey. Well at least it took until January for the Isles to hit that patch of injuries we’ve come to expect from this team.
Normally I would be angry over a 2 week NHL layoff, but if there was ever a team that needed one……
Witt will be better under a different system
I appreciated Witt’s contributions earlier in his time, but I can bet that he wasn’t necessarily a fan of the direction the team was going in since Scott Gordon got here. Witt left Washington to get away from a rebuild, then he signed with the Isles, they extended him, and then started a rebuild. Not to mention, everyone talking about team toughness should realize that Witt wasn’t really all that tough this season. There were a few games where he mixed things up, but his contributions were really limited this season. I mean, he played 20 minutes in the first game of the season, hit 19 minutes a few times, but was generally getting between 10 and 14 minutes per game, and could barely keep up with play in those limited minutes. As a person I wish him well, but I’m also glad his cap hit is gone for now and I hope he gets picked up on re-entry waivers so he can be away from the rebuild and in a different system.
witts been a good soldier but he’s clearly done, and has been for a while
he should just retire and stop embarrasing himself on the ice, because thats what he’s doing
Good move by Snow. If there was a team that actually traded to take on Gomez’s contract, there may be a team willing to pick up Witt for half price. On the other hand, Boynton cleared waivers and is a better defenseman than Witt. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
I think the fans here are very practical on the assesment of Witt. Everyone loves a guy who gives it his all, cause we all see so many in sports that do not. Witt was that kind of guy, who put his body and heart on the line for the team. I do think it is probably the right move, especially financially if he is taken, but we are a little thin on D at moment, so I do question the timing somewhat.
Sucks about Bailey, espcially since he is really starting to develop, but it’s nothing major. And I said before, i won’t crazy if we sputter down the stretch, cause I want another quality draft pick. I know it is way to early, but when asked if he would trade his pick to improve team, Boston GM said he liked this years top 3 better than last years top 3. That could be gamesmanship bluster, or an inaccurate analysis. But even if it is not quite as good, I would still take a high draft pick for the long-term good of the team
here it comes, the annual injury fueled stretch drive fade. at least they gave us 50 games of mostly watchable hockey. i suppose as far as a meaningful rebuild goes a lottery pick would be better than being a bubble team. garth stay the course at the deadline, don’t set us years back,just to sqeak into the playoffs.
I might sound like a broken record, but can someone tell me the last time we saw the toughness from Witt. He was a good player a couple of years ago and when we first got him he was the warrior. That time has past. He is a soft as the rest of them. Remember when Roli got crushed by Avery, look in the background and you’ll see Witt standing right there watching Roli take a penalty to protect himself. That is the moment I new he was done. Good luck Witter.
Witt is probably thrilled at the prospect of not having to go to training camp in Shanghai next season.
God forbid we trade him and get something back. Does Garth watch the damn games! Yes, Witt was exposed in this system but he was a warrior. He did help this team on and off the ice. Put Bruno Gervais on waivers! Someone who actually deserves to go on waivers. Someone who is completely lost night after night! A guy who always seems to be in front of the net when the Islander netminder is digging the puck out of the twind!
I dont understand how Wang is talking about China and outside games when his team that was a playoff contender is falling apart at the seams. ?????
witt has not had a good season. but the guy has been someone you can root for, respect and in the end, he got hit by an SUV and played that nite. so you can question has talent and his foot speed, but never question his heart or desire. i guess maybe hes reached the point where the desire to play, and the ability to play, and grown too wide apart. but dont insult the guy, or celebrate the fact he may not be able to “do it” anymore.
Thanks Brendan! One of my faves. I hope a playoff bound team looking for some grit picks you up. Although, as a fan, I was disappointed by not going the trade route. Bridgeport doesn’t have a decent NHL call up among them. Kohn is the best d-man down there? Sorry, but that is worrisome. A 4th or 5th rounder next year? A late bloomer in the AHL having trouble cracking the roster? A bag of pucks? Witt may not set the scoresheet on fire, but, he is definitely not worthless! Oh well. I still wonder why we didn’t pick up Sykora when Minny dumped him on the wire. Couldn’t possibly play worse than Tamby does from the press box!
You left it all on the ice Witter, every shift. One of the few players not afraid to stand up for his mates.
Wish you the best and hope you get picked up by a contender.
AMEN!!
Dave #119..we are not getting Hall.
Brian at #133..Waiving Witt means no playoffs til 2014? Really?
Witt was a solid pro,a warrior in his Capital years.
Admire & respect the game he played, yet reality is coach gordon or not,it was clear to me, Witt slowed down and has become much less the physical threat he once was, and much more a liability in a skating mans game
Hey given he battled in this league for many years he has and should show no shame, he was a pro’s pro .
Best of luck Witt… Family Life & Surfing, may it Give you many years of happiness starting this summer.
As For The Gervais Comments….lol.. I will not even waste my time anymore.. he has been the worst kept secret of inaptitude on The Islanders defence for years!!
I love this team,though Yet again, it appears we have not only slipped into a tailspin on the Ice, we have also become a victim of Wangs frustrations with his Lighthouse project!
Why are we such a soft team?? They continue to do a disservice to the team & the Fans in this aspect!
Is it Garth? nah, Is It Wang.. maybe?
Or could it be an even higher power at work that keeps the Islanders from claiming the 8th seed this year?
Strange how just a move or two…
( not an earth shaking one)..could be the differencein taking the next obvious small step, rentry into the Playoffs
Yet Our Organization does nothing?
Lets Go Isles… Lets Go Islanders!!
STAY THE COURSE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hate getting rid of Witt but honestly the guy was useless.
the plan is probably put him on re-entry waivers and hopefully someone scoops him up for half the salary and cap hit. 1.5mil/1yr left. its .5 mil cheaper than a buyout based on just next year. yashins cap hit next yr is up 2mil so the floor is lower
Witt was done but god this tea, just keeps getting softer and softer!! They should sign up for an iceworks league. Easily the softest team in team history, maybe NHL history. Oh well pitchers and catchers in like 2 weeks!!!
^^^ lol ‘iceworks’ team
.. Brendan Witt was not the same player, we all know that but some fans on this site want to run this team like a fanstasy team. There are alot of factors when putting a team together but some fans looks STRICTLY at stats..
..Ok wanna see a sad stat? - this team has had 2 fighting majors since mid December, thats right 2!!! Tehere not engaging other teams + not playing with a spark/edge, yukkk!
.. Easily the all time WUSS Islander team and ooooo 1 more stat? look at regulation time wins!.. 2 weeks to pitchers + catchers, here we come..
#180 Amen brother… This Isles TEAM ouch BAD!
I doubt anyone’s going to scoop up Witt on waivers if no one even put a claim on Nick Boynton.
I’d say we caught a (small) break with the Olympic break this year. Not only will is cut down the number of games Bailey loses, but it will give Tavares a break that it seems he needs. With no one making their Olympic teams (Streit?), the whole team will get a chance to relax for 10 days and come back fresh for the stretch drive. I’m not trying say the break is going to give us a playoff spot that we wouldn’t otherwise have, just that doesn’t appear that it can hurt the team, but it may help some.
Chris Mc, better chance of someone picking up Boynton then Witt. Boynton is a UFA this summer and can be had for close to no salary near the deadline. Witt still has another a year and a half
Un related kind of… Some are talking here about not winning and getting a good draft pick..
Look at Boston. If they lose and miss playoffs( mostly because of injury) they get their own pick and Toronto’s pick. And this team was the #1 seed last year!
Can you say jackpot!
I have to believe Snow has something in the works to waive Witt.
Isles need the win tonight. A few more wins before all star break is much needed. The good news is Rags, Montreal, and others in running did not gain ground on us.
Sad about this, but understand. Witt has been my fave Islander up until this year. Couldn’t help but gravitate to Okposo, but I love Witt and think he’s had a stellar career. I wish him the best no matter what. I wish he could have been a part of this transformation longer. I think any team - especially this one could use 1 or 2 Witt’s (in his prime)…
I am even more down about our defense now.
Don’t shoot me on this, but I can’t shake the feeling that the Isles will get Kovalchuk. I’m not sure that I would agree with the move, unless they lock him up for at least 5 years. Think about it- the Thrashers have been scouting the Isles, and suddenly Bailey is out with an “upper-body injury”. Bailey could wind up being the centerpeice of a package for Kovi. This would be typical smoke and mirror, cloak & dagger Garth Snow movement. Obviously the Isles would likely give up a Hamonic as well, but with the waiving of Witt, there may also be a d-man coming back. Again, I’m not sure that I would like this, but my gut is telling me it could happen. Disclaimer: my gut has no connections with anyone in the know.
If the Lighthouse Project (yea, remember that old thing?) was in full swing, I could honestly see Garth making a bold splash for Kovalchuk. Right now, with so much uncertainty, I can only imagine a minor move or 2 at deadline.
with a team that plays a different style witt could be his old self again.. im surprised no one is picking him up..
Real Hockey Fan - 2 fighting majors is not a newsflash here. Everyone knows this team doesn’t fight. But if the team was still rattling off wins liek they were last month, I wouldn’t care one bit. Unfortunately they are losing a lot now and it really comes to the forefront.
But I am a Mets fan, so the last thing I want to hear is that baseball is around the corner. Mets are a bigger joke of a franchise than the Islanders. Which believe me is no easy task.
Trading for Kovalchuk makes no sense at all…not that they are going to anyway. Check the comments back to last year before we won the draft lottery when I was calling for a blank check to be handed to Gaborik. That is what they should have done and it would make no sense to disturb the rebuild when they could sign him after the season without giving up players.
Marty- It doesn’t make any sense to me either. I think they’re about another season or 2 from prime time. This is the Isles we’re talking about, and past as well as recent history shows that they have no problem doing what doesn’t make sense.
I appreciate Witter for his toughness and willingness to play thru injuries but this was the right decision. Witt hasn’t been good under Gordons system. Time to move on, thanks Witter for your heart.
What have they done recently that didnt make sense?
Snow has done a great job right now, this isn’t Milbury anymore, get that lunatic out of your minds.
Tough thing with Witt but he is a true professional and has a great heart. Hope all goes well with him no matter what happens.
Now about tonight, lets get a win for goodness sakes
The move for Kovalchuck would only make sense if the Islanders can lock him up. Why jeopardize the future for a rental?? Have we not learned our lesson?? (Ryan Smyth) This team is clearly not a Stanley Cup contender. I also feel like teams are keying in on the Tavares Okposo tandem and adding a sniper like Kovalchuk would help Tavares and Okposo produce more. Tough Call… but thats why Garth is paid the BIG bucks!!!
What have they done that doesn’t make sense? Handling of Tambellini, DeHaan pick at 12 when they probably could have gotten him later, Koskinen pick to start the second round, handling of DiPietro injury situation- I could keep going here for a while. Don’t get me wrong, Snow is light years better that MIlbury, but Wang does have some say (if not most say), and I could see him wanting the star player to pack the house and push Hempstead’s politicians to OK the Lighthouse, even if it is not in-line with a proper re-build.
I am not one of those who bashes Gervais but I come to the conclusion he’s not gonna be the guy we need. He’s never gonna be a top dman unless he finally gets his confidence and keeps it. Everytime Bruno puts it together he looks like he’s gonna break out but he always regresses back to being ineffective and a liability on D. Its time to do poop of get of the pot with Bruno.
I’m praying the Isles are not Stupid enough to trade for an unsigned Kovalchuck, especially w/ the KHL offering I.K. 20 mil/year. I like the decision to send Witt to the AHL. He was terrible this year, he doesn’t play tough anymore. Now we can see what we have in Dustin Kohn. Does Gervais step up or continue his erratic & of lately crappy play? W/ Bailey injured maybe Tambellini gets a fair chance, some PP time. Richard Park has been terrible this year. We need to get rid of Witt, Biron, Park & Weight & bring in some new veterans. I would’ve loved to bring back D.McAmmond. Maybe were better off falling out of the playoff race & into the Top 3 for the Draft(Hall, Seguin & Fowler will all go straight into the NHL)