AT THE GARDEN, IT’S KNOCKOUT NIGHT
Practice notes…Rest in Peace, Lou Jankowski
1:50 pm, Iceworks: When the next opponent on the schedule is your biggest rival, talk of The Fall for Seguin and Hall is put off for at least a few more days. When the Islanders face the Rangers at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday, both teams will be in position to knock each other out.
“It’s a big game for a lot of reasons,” said Islanders defenseman Jack Hillen. “It’s always exciting to play in the Garden. We’re playing the Rangers, our biggest rival. There are a crucial two points on the line to stay in the playoff race. But even if you throw out all the math and all that has to happen for us to get into the playoffs, this is a game for pride. I doubt it’s going to be difficult to get us ready to play Wednesday.”
The Islanders, of course, fell almost completely out of the playoff picture by not scoring in their last four periods (plus overtime) out West while Boston beat the Rangers and Atlanta defeated Philadelphia twice. They are now eight points behind eighth-place Boston, and the Bruins have a game in hand. The Thrashers, winners of four straight, are seven points up on the Islanders. Boston and Atlanta play each other on Tuesday.
In other words, if the Islanders do not win on Wednesday, it will be the last big game for competitive purposes left on their schedule – and The Fall talk can begin in earnest. (The Rangers visit the Coliseum on March 30 for their final meeting of the season). The Blueshirts are five points back and will lose more ground when the Bruins and Thrashers play the night before they host the Islanders in the 3-D game.
“I’m looking forward to Wednesday,” said Scott Gordon after his team’s hour-long workout at Iceworks. “These are almost always great games, and this one is important for both teams. The guys aren’t going to have any trouble getting geared up for this one.”
Local Schedules
Rangers, 71 points (3 home/7 road): March 24 vs. Islanders; 25 at New Jersey; 27 at Toronto; 30 at Islanders; April 2 at Tampa Bay; 3 at Florida; 6 at Buffalo; 7 vs. Toronto; 9 vs. Philadelphia; 11 at Philadelphia.
Islanders, 68 points, (6 home/4 road): March 24 at Rangers; 25 vs. Calgary; 27 at Columbus; 30 vs. Rangers; April 1 vs. Philadelphia; 3 vs. Ottawa; 6 vs. Montreal; 8 at Pittsburgh; 10 at New Jersey; 11 vs. Pittsburgh.
*
Notes: Kyle Okposo, Mark Streit, Bruno Gervais, Dylan Reese and Martin Biron were given the day off the ice. Richard Park filled in on defense.
Three lines: Tambellini-Nielsen-Sim; Moulson-Tavares-Comeau; Bergenheim-Bailey-Hunter; Jackman-Gillies.
More than 45 minutes after practice ended, as many players had already left Iceworks, Trevor Gillies was still on the ice with assistant coach Scott Allen.
In case you missed it below, John Tavares was named the No. 2 Star of the Week in the NHL. His seven points (five in Vancouver) led all scorers.
In Bridgeport, Trevor Smith is out with an “upper body injury” after getting run over in a game against Springfield yesterday. Smith is out for the Sound Tigers’ next game on Wednesday and, according to coach Jack Capuano, “It could be a while.” Bookmark Mike Fornabaio of the Connecticut Post.
The nav bar on the Islanders’ team website says “Schremp Signs.” Turns out Rob is just signing autographs at the Broadway Mall on Tuesday at 6:30 pm.
My deepest sympathies to Islanders scouting boss Ryan Jankowski, on the passing of his father, Lou, early Sunday morning. Mr. Jankowski is a former NHL player (mostly with the Blackhawks) and a longtime scout in the NHL.
He also was obviously a heckuva dad. His kid Ryan turned out better than all right.
Comments on this post.
59 Responses to AT THE GARDEN, IT’S KNOCKOUT NIGHT
Practice notes…Rest in Peace, Lou Jankowski
-
WM says:
Yup, wouldn’t be upset in the least if we lose. This game will be forgotten quickly. Even if the Rangers sneak in as an 8 seed, they will get destroyed by the Capitals.
-
MorDraftPicks says:
lose this game – win at the coliseum – the rags wont make the playoffs anyway, and if we win once in the last 9, let it be next week
-
Strummer's Army says:
I am saddened to hear about Lou’s passing. Best to the entire family.
Thrilled to hear about Mikko’s great weekend. He’s been excellent in any game action he’s had this year. Looks like an excellent pick.
Props to Tavares on his well earned honors. The first of many to be sure.
As for the Rangers game I want Gillies in and Martin up at least.
-
Faye from Brooklyn says:
Can Isles afford to win both games vs ranjerks without damaging their draft chances?
-
Eric Cup says:
Hope for whatever you want but the players play to win so I say – Let’s Go Islanders! We will get whatever draft pick we’ve earned so why waste time hoping to lose? It is what it is. The players don’t care what draft pick the team gets and the coach coaches to win every time they take the ice.
-
Staten Islander says:
I’m ok with them tanking the rest of the games, EXCEPT for the 2 against the Rags, ESPECIALLY this week on 3D. Kramden and Harvey dropping the gloves with Norton telling Ralph to “coverup your face”
-
EJ-1since40 says:
Thoughts and prayers to Ryan Jankowski and his family on the passing of his father Lou Jankowski. RIP Mr. Jankowski..
As CB posted, ain’t looking too good. BUT, we have the chance to put a dagger in the hearts of Rag’$ land in their own building for their playoff chances.
I hope Gillies is in the line-up as well as Rolo in between the pipes. He deserves to the chance to finish off the Rag$, as MVP of this team.
All the BS that will soon consume Isles fans over the summer, let’s focus on the Chicken Dance and………..
ONE SINCE FORTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-
SCLI says:
Isles should pick up 6-8 points in their last 10 games, Rangers will do a bit better 8-10 points. Finishing around 75 points the Isles should land a top 6 pick. There are at least 6 kids in this draft that can help the Isles immensely.
-
(Sim)ple says:
NEVER will root for the Rangers to beat the Islanders. Those of you suggesting we roll over for them, I must question your pride and passion for this organization. I’m all for getting the best available player in the draft to help steer this team further in the right direction of rebuilding but watching us cost the Ranjerks a potential 4 points is more important that one slot or 2 in the draft order.
Remember, we would only increase our chances of a better pick by losing, not garanteeing a better pick.
-
Brian G says:
Bring on the fall for Hall…hopefully the Isles get a top 3 pick this year…they are probably already working up the “Draft Party Invites again” another gimic
-
Hurting says:
The greater good for the Isles is the legitimate Talent to be obtained in the draft.
LOSE > LOSE > LOSE
I would even go as far as sending all of the younger talent (Tavares, Bailey, Okposo, Hillen, MacDonald) down to the AHL. The already have plenty of NHL experience and the remaining games are mostly meaningless. Most opponents will send their backup goalies against the Isles with players in front of them looking pass the Isles anyway.
Rather than have the Isles core score gift goals against lackluster effort from teams that are play-off bound, have them compete and feel successful in a play-off race in the AHL. Let the big team tank and secure a spot to get a legitimate player to add to the already solid core.
I am sorry for all you season-ticket holders.
-
AngryPete says:
“I’m looking forward to Wednesday,” said Scott Gordon after his team’s hour-long workout at Iceworks. “These are almost always great games…” YOU KNOW WHAT OTHER GAMES ARE GREAT GAMES??? PLAYOFF GAMES!
-
Toby says:
Agree with 5 and 7. I have only been a fan of the Isles since January but historically I’m an avid and astute sports participant and fan. So here’s a little ‘new fan’ perspective. Never followed hockey before. You play to win. Tanking, playing to lose . . . it’s all a terrible perpetual cycle that breeds weakness and a penchant for negativity. What kind of message is that for your peers / teammates / coaches / and FANS? This team shows heart and character and needs to cultivate confidence, especially with all the young talent they have. Plenty of room under the cap to fill in the holes in the offseason. Play to win.
-
4theisles says:
Regardless of the arguements on both sides whether it is better to go for wins against the NYR – or go for a top Pik, the answer is simple and it goes beyond pride. It has to do with players going all out to get better statistics for future contract with the team. In some cases it could mean staying with the Isles and in others just remaining in the NHL. Bottom line is money and that trumps everything else.
-
kenb says:
Rivalry what rivalry?
Nowadays the rosters change so much who on both squads are even rivals?
Those days are far gone!
It’s all media hype!
-
Marc W. says:
All the best to Ryan and his family.
-
Joe says:
My condolences goes out to Ryan and his family
-
Lorne says:
Tough call for Wednesday, beat the Rangers and really damage their playoff chances, but if we lose, our draft position helps a little. As long as we get a top 5(since 1st overall will not happen)that would be great.
-
Jon in Chicago says:
I have enough problems with rooting for my team to lose against any team, but against the Rangers?! No way, can’t be done. There are plenty games left for the Isles to lose (Phi, Cgy, NJ, Pit), this is not one of them.
-
Hockey1919 says:
I always hope the Islanders win, but I will also keep cheering for the Blue Jackets, Hurricanes, Bolts, Panthers, Rangers and Leafs to win when they are not playing the Ilses (don’t worry about Edmonton they are a lock for last). That’s at least an honest way to get a better draft pick.
Players that lay down like dogs and accept losing will never help this organization win so I hope they put up a fight every game. Play honest and hope that by doing the right thing you get some positive karma and win the lottery.
-
AJAX says:
“Leave the gun, take the cannolis”
-
IslesRock says:
My condolences to the Jankowski family.
Regardng draft picks and standings, what ever will be, will be. We should get a decent player. Lets hope for some talented and bigger players next year via free agency or trades.
-
the bomber says:
lets go rangers. we need to sink to last in east. down like a rock please….
-
Arbour Day says:
These rivalry has lost a lot over the years. Game will be better when both teams are in playoff spots. Excuse me while I Yawn!
-
Hollywood says:
You play to WIN the game! Beat the piss out of the Rags and Calgary and whomever gets in our way! Winning is more important to our young Core then losing! Even if they don’t make the Playoffs the hunger from winning will carry over for our future. It’s time for these kids to see what the future holds!!!!!
-
Brian B says:
Why the hell is gervais getting days off?
-
Marc in Troy says:
Leave it to a new fan to come in here and provide some much-needed perspective. Thank you, Toby (13). Hockey1919 (20) seems to get it, too.
Sincere condolences to the Jankowski family.
-
Quagmire says:
DP still not practicing? I assume the team has not given any updates. Kind of obvious, I guess, but that can’t be a good sign.
-
JSExpress says:
Any “fans” rooting for the Rags to beat the Isles for a slightly higher percentage at a top five pick isn’t a real fan. End of story.
-
Glad you mentioned it CB, because that “Schremp Signs” headline totally suckered me in. Once I clicked on it and saw what it was actually about, the only thing I could wonder is whether the website editors chose to phrase it like that just to have a nice laugh at the readers expense? Doesnt seem to be any other explanation to me.
-
ACIsles says:
Well said JSExpress.
-
Knowing the Islanders luck – they will win 6 in a row..but miss the playoffs by a point and end up with a draft pick out of the top 10.. then the first 5 players drafted all become studs in the NHL.
-
Joe says:
What happens if the Rangers draft Hall to go along with their Number 5 rating in THN Future Watch?
-
Boss15 says:
If we won both games and the Rangers somehow ended up with Seguin or Hall we would be the real losers, for a long time. I would rather the Isles get Seguin or Hall…How about bringing MM up so he can pound Avery, that is a win win win situation.
-
We should tank every season until Nate Mackinnon is draft eligible. Then we’d finally have a good team.?!?
The whole tank the season comments are just as crazy.
-
Ethan K says:
Yes, I want to see the Rangers lose… but I’d be willing to sacrifice one loss to them in exchange for the satisfaction of beating them for years to come and winning a Cup. We need another high pick. If our pick is after 5, Nino Neiderreiter gets my vote!
-
If the Rangers draft Seguin or Hall then they will become Hughe Jessiman or Alexandre Daigle.
-
Are some of you actually worried the Isles will beat the Rangers causing such a free fall that they are going to slip so far down (pass 6 teams) and be in the Hall and Seguin talks? Only way that happens is through trading down and giving up some of their current players/prospects.
Can we worry about our team first before worrying about a team almost double our payroll and only 3 points better?
-
TM says:
NYI was realistically out of it when they choked to Ottowa before Olympics. Some would say they were out of it for 2010 when Snow did NOTHING in the offseason to get competent skaters.
NYR has an easy schedule so NYI don’t need to lose to them for a better draft spot. I’ve never rooted for NYI to lose to NYR and never will.
Have SOME pride people even if Wang, Snow & Dey have taken away most of it.
-
Hoguefanclub says:
RIP Mr. Jankowski.
I would just like to ask you how would winning a meaningless game against the rangers benefit the Islanders. Besides the fact that it will push them down the draft ladder? If you care about the long-term success of the NY Islanders you want them to lose the rest of their games. How does Richard Park or Sim scoring a goal and playing hard now help us now? -
>>Are some of you actually worried the Isles will beat the Rangers causing such a free fall that they are going to slip so far down (pass 6 teams) and be in the Hall and Seguin talks?<<
Yes, I am. If the Rangers draft Hall….. and according to THN they have better prospects/21 yr olds than us, then yeah, I am worried. I would personally like to see them in the playoffs and lose in round 1.
If the Isles beat the Rangers, the Rangers have as good a chance as the Isles at landing Hall or Seguin.
-
I cannot believe this. Not only do Isles fans have to deal with the opposition but we now have to deal with our own rooting for the enemy. This is disgusting.
You cannot sign on the dotted line right now that losing to NYR would give us Hall or Seguin. You cannot sign on the dotted line that the NYR losing 2 games out of 10 will get the Hall or Seguin. Should I not leave work tonight because I might slip in a puddle?
You all make no sense to me. Maybe if we didn’t tank so bad in 2008 we could’ve had a lower pick and drafted someone like say, Tyler Myers. Or maybe we should’ve lost the 200 lottery and could’ve ended up with Lundqvist 7 rounds later than DP. You’re all talking like there is no NHLer in this draft outside the top 3.
I’m really starting to believe we have the worst fans in hockey.
-
Potvin5 says:
Hey kenb, you ask “what rivalry?” because of changing rosters from year to year. Are you kidding?! It’s immediately evident to anyone watching these two teams play each other how much of a rivalry exists. And it’s definitley driven by the passionate fans on both sides. New players on both teams have commented over the years that they can’t believe how deep this thing goes. Even when both teams suck the games are usually good because of the energy in the bldgs and on the ice. IMO this rivalry is only 2nd to Yanks/Red Sox. I want the 4 pts! We’ll draft who we draft.
-
I like the idea of bringing up Matt Martin for this one, Bridgeport is hot and needs the win but!
-
hlbrkmetfan says:
Hey CB, do you recall how far back the Isles were in ’07 at the 10 games remaining mark?? I remember them having a losing streak around this time that season
-
Nobody says:
Calgary vs Edmonton is pretty intense. Been there for that rivalry…it compares better to Yankees/red sox cause everyone cares about hockey there
-
JoeRiverside says:
Regardless of what anyone states above, as soon as the puck drops on Wednesday, they will be rooting for the Isles. My business sense, says “Increase your assets…get another high draft pick”…but one look at Avery & Co, and what true Isle fan can root for the NYR’s??
-
Ray's Team says:
we dont need to go and intentionally tank-we r going to lose anyway-not them tanking-just them sucking.. (that includes management big time)
-
2Bit says:
I hope the only two games the Isles win for the rest of the season are against the Rags. If we’re not going to make the playoffs I’m going to be more upset if we don’t finish bottom 3 & if Tampa Bay gets a higher draft pick than us.
-
Dan says:
I wont root for the Isles to lose vs the Rags- I won’t be upset if they lose however. We need another top 5 pick this year. If they did make the playoffs then they play the caps. No thanks..
-
First game ever in 3D. This game could become a classic. I don’t want to lose any games to the rags—es[ecially one that will be talked about for a long time!
-
va says:
it would be nice to hurt the Rangers in the next two games and dash their playoff hopes. I would also like the Isles to snap their losing streak to the Flyers and dash those playoff dreams as well. Flyers are falling like a rock! Not bad playing spoiler! Hopeful;yl we can get a top 5 pick too!
-
Blizzard says: …the goal is to win against the Rags period. For the first time in my life I actually pulled for them to lose last year to get that number one pick. Never again. Wining is to important a lesson for the kids at this point.
-
Islanders are winning this game against the rags..and they will still wind up in the bottom three.
-
a REAL hockey fan says:
.. The rivalry is dead because the NHL as a league is dead! the clowns in the front office have neutered the game to the point that theres no emotion and the players are zombies on the ice, no emotion, nothing!
.. I have been a hockey fan for over 25 yrs and the Patrick division rivalry games were AMAZING and INTENSE games! The games are ZZZZzzz boring snoozefests. Anyone remember the Theo Fluery/Sandy McCarthy games with Eric Cairns and Steve Webb?? – How GREAT were those games especially to todays games? SRSLY
.. The league has done everything to take out the emotion and passion and partially castrated this great game! Let the boyz play the rivalry/intensity will come back! (anyone remember Wings/Avs rivalry?)
.. For those who never saw the NHL before the bettman/campbell era i feel bad for you guys, it was a great game that has changed for the worse imo
-
KP says:
Sorry, it’s time to tank. 8 points and 4 teams to jump over to get there. 4 points and two teams to have leap over you to get the second worst record in the league and no lower than a #3 pick. The draft is more important than the playoffs this year.
Next year, however, I want to be playing in late April.
-
Mario says:
I cannot believe there are guys on this site hoping we lose against the rags!! Are you kidding me. Win these 2 games and be done. If they go undefeated and finsh top 8 pick I would be happy. Give me a break, I would never root for the Rags.
its better for the isles to lose this game even if its against the rangers. its imperitive that we have the best shot at hall or seguin. there is not that big a difference between fowler and gromley. we need scorers. losing this game in what is already a lost year will help us to further reach our goals. let the fall commence!