POINT BLANK Q & A: KYLE OKPOSO – On Tavares, Bailey, contracts and excitement for 2010-11
FanHouse: Kyle Okposo’s offseason training with Parise, Stafford and pals
While writing my offseason piece for FanHouse on Kyle Okposo, I held back a few of his quotes I knew would be of particular interest to Point Blank readers.
Is there added excitement for the upcoming decision because Garth Snow is giving you and the rest of the young core an opportunity to grow together?
That’s exactly what it is. I don’t know if you’ve talked to John (Tavares) recently, but I have to tell you – he sounds like a different person. I mean it all in a positive way. I’ve talked with him a lot since the end of the season. It’s only natural that he’s grown a lot over the last year, when you think about everything that he’s gone through. John is so excited about the season and sounds so confident, in a good way. He expects big things from himself, as I’m sure everyone else does. He’s a great player.
Then you think about Bails (Josh Bailey). Look at the strides he has made. Have you seen him lately? He’s bigger, stronger. That guy has worked his tail off to become better. He’s going to take another step this season. So you put together all these young players and see that almost everyone is returning next season and we have some great veterans leading us…yes, I’m very excited.
You’re entering the last year of your Entry Level contract. Any thoughts on working on a new deal before this one runs out?
There hasn’t been any discussion as far as I know, and that’s not where my focus is. I haven’t thought about it. My approach is to just play hockey and let’s see how everything plays out. I love Long Island, I love New York, I love being part of this team and the support we get from our fans. The Islanders know that. I don’t have any thoughts on playing anywhere else, so the rest should take care of itself.
As much as I know you like spending the offseason in Minnesota, do you know when you’ll head back to the Island to get ready for camp?
Yeah. I’ll be there at least a few weeks before camp opens. I want to start skating and working out with the guys. I’m sure a lot of players will be in early. There’s also always personal stuff you want to take care of and get out of the way so all you have to think about is hockey when camp opens. I want to get my own place. Now that it’s almost August, I can’t wait for the season to start.
Comments on Kyle Okposo and this post. If you’re not familiar with them, please take a moment to read the Comment Guidelines.
70 Responses to POINT BLANK Q & A: KYLE OKPOSO – On Tavares, Bailey, contracts and excitement for 2010-11
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Jzimm says:
I do expect significant steps from the under 25s in 2010-11. I’m excited for the season, too!
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nyislanders93 says:
Okposo is a great young part of this franchise. His work ethic should translate to many successful seasons here. If he starts this season playing like a leader and standing up for his teammates, we may have found our future captain.
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Jeff in Oyster Bay says:
Looking forward to a big offensive year from KO.
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Scotty B says:
Thanks Chris, it maybe want to stand up and scream “Let’s go Islanders!!!!” after it. haha, it’s just so contagious!
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Frank nyc says:
KO sounds like he is really excited.
He has quickly become a fan favorite and its easy to see why.
He is future captain material.
Looking forward to see how KO, JT, Bailey and the rest of the young core perform this season. Its on their shoulders.
GO ISLES! -
Willy P says:
if K.O plays as good or better(which i hope better should be the option for a young player gaining ground would be) he will put up some good points. Hopefully he can get some good bounces this year unlike last and if hes working on his one timers and getting the puck off quick like he said he would he can land anywhere from 25-30 goals this year and added another 25-30 assist. If the puck was bouncing his way last season he probably could have netted 25 maybe a little more. Im looking for him to finally break the 20 goal mark and for him to land some where between 20-30 goals and 50-60 points. I think those numbers a fair for a player with K.O’s talent, power, and skill.
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Oxposo says:
And to think, everyone on the draft show was saying how we would almost certainly be taking Peter Mueller. Boy am I glad things turned out the way they have
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Andre Legault says:
Go K.O. Go. Favorite player of my 3 years old french canadian son. And by far. Don’t ask me why. I really believe he is a significant piece of the puzzle. So hard to find a player with such size and offensive firepower. And on top of that, looks like he is a bright young kid that will lead not only on the ice but also by example.
Way to go K.O.
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Michael Delman says:
I’m excited…bring on the season!
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Steve M says: Great to hear, CB. Kyle is a great player on the ice, but also a great kid off the ice. I have stayed after for a couple of games last season to get autographs and he is definitely a wonderful person to talk to. Very nice to know that we have great player like him, hopefully locked in for a long time.
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This is why I have an Okposo jersey, and this is why I visit this site religiously!
Great stuff!
Forget T.O. And C.O.,….all about K.O.!!!! -
battfist says:
KO is tough as nails.
One can only think how much better of a season he would of had if he didnt get “vaporize” in a preseason game.
Lets go Islanders!
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mark p says:
We need at least 30 from JT 25 from KO and 20 from Bailey to prove these guys are really making progress….though we still do not have realistic playoff hopes as currently constructed.
The good news for Garth is that the off entry level contract reups have calmed down. They could lock up KO for 4 yr 12 million now or give him a chance to earn 4 yr 16 like pavalski if he hits 25. Hopefully the 7-8 year strictly potential contracts have stopped. -
Isles Fanatic says:
Is it September yet…???
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IsleFan73 says:
CB, thanks for the great story. It’ really nice to get a positive feel on the team, especially from one of our young core players.
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dose says:
i like everything about this kid and i’ll be real surprised if he doesn’t figure out how to finish more of his scoring chances this year. this team has never found another john tonelli, but okposo can be exactly that if he gets back to that “raging bull” (as gary greene described tonelli) way of playing.
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The new isles gm says:
No doubt our young core will take another step forward in their development. Imagine if we had these guys surrounded with some decent vets…(28-33 years old). I fully expect Okposo n Tavares to put bigger numbers up but I am most excited to see Comeau play next year. He really play well at the end of the season and just looked like he really started to “get it”. Here’s to our young core! Cheers!!!
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It’s funny, as fans we see several bad things with the OrganIzation and think that guys like KO and Tavares are out of here the first chance they get. But if they are being treated right and fairly, which by all accounts is happening, why wouldn’t they want to stay. They are being relied on and are given a chance other young players only dream of. Great article CB.
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cgs878 says:
As Green Day said, wake me up when September ends… ’cause it’s hockey season then! Kyle sounds genuinely excited for the season, which is great to hear. Here’s to an injury-free season for the “young kids” who need a full season to grow into better players.
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The Real JD says:
There is no question when the Isles drafted KO/JT/Bailey they got 3 quality people. Sounds like all 3 worked their tails off this offseason which is nice hear and also reinforces that these 3 are strong character guys.
Looking forward to KO/JT/Bailey taking steps forward this year. Even if these 3 make some serious headway in their developement this season I dont see how the Isles are making the playoffs with the D-Men they have on their roster nevertheless I will be at games and watching the boys on the big screen. -
bcarey says:
Can’t wait to get my new Isles away sweater with KO’s 21 and captain’s C.
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JerseyBoy says:
I saw KO only snarl once at a ref last year after a bad call. More snarl and presence on the ice this year, with some additional scoring, and hello future capitan. He is the key. If he pulls it all together this year, then look for the Isles to surprise. Playoffs here we come!
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Hishutzi Skorz says:
This is how the dynasty was built. Solid draft picks. Add a veteran D-man (Bert Marshall) to teach the Potvins and Lewis (parallel: Eaton to Hamonic, DeHaan, etc.)
Get a little better each season as the young guys grow, and when you have a legitimate shot, you add a guy like Goring. I’d much rather see these 3, plus Comeau, Nielson, maybe Petrov or Nino get the quality ice time than some $3-4M mercenaray! -
Big Dog says:
I gotta say this kid is starting to become my favorite player. He has some touch to his game and if it rounds out this year he is going to make some heads turn at his progress in nhl.
Im looking forward to seeing JT, KO, JB, and some of young dmen step it up.
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Rob (in Pgh) says:
Thanks for writing about this angle, CB. I’ve been thinking (hopefully) about the potential progress of the young guys when I read people complaining that we didn’t sign some star.
Still, this article reminds us of an upside and a positive but we’ve (unfortunately) learned to wait for the roller coaster to go back down with this team. I’m a bit concerned about his answer to re-signing with the Isles. It sounded a bit too much like saying the right thing and not necessarily like having a true interest/passion for staying on Long Island. Perhaps that’s just the pessimism I’ve learned since ’93. -
geduffer says:
Great kid. Having met him a couple of times, he’s one of the nicest kids you’d ever want to meet. While he’s not a great player yet, he’s certainly on the arc to be a great player as he matures. I hope he stays around here a long time.
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Islanders1932 says:
“I love Long Island, I love New York, I love being part of this team and the support we get from our fans. The Islanders know that. I don’t have any thoughts on playing anywhere else, so the rest should take care of itself.”
That is amazing to hear. Love when people say good things about Long Island and playing here. I may have to get myself an Okposo away jersey now.
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john says:
Love the kids in our system, and I hope JT, KO and JB take that next step this season, but I am worried that this organization is relying solely on these kids. I was hoping that we couldve added a top 6 forward and a top 4 dman, but I am worried that we haven’t done so. I believe that KO will be a consistent 60-70 point scorer in this league, and I would love to see him play with JB for many years to come.
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EAF says:
Kyle, do you love playing for the organization with the loosing record, are you blind? you don’t see what is going on? this organization is in free fall. you are a very good player and the person – for your own sake – run after this season
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4theisles says:
I believe that cheap shot in exhibition last year took a piece out of KO – that being said, I belive that his numbers this year will jump beyond the current expectations now being circulated.
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UIF says:
How can you not like KO? I think that’s one of the rare things all Isles fans agree on…this guy, in whatever role he eventually settles into (hopefully one that includes 25g/yr), is a positive influence on this team.
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Melvin says:
Kyle Okposo’s max potential has been linked to a player like Jarome Iginla. I don’t think his current career track is far off from this, which is great to see unfold. If you look at Iginla’s first few years in the league, it’s looks like what Okposo’s been doing his first few years. Add in the other stuff like leadership skills and off-ice image and that comparison is looking more and more apt as the years go by. Which is, of course, very exciting for us fans.
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gary9-19-22 says:
I LOVE LOVE LOVE KO, my favorite Islander… but dont make him captain…YET..
Let him worry about himself and getting his game to the next level. He should not have the burder that comes with being a Captain yet. He deserves the “A” because he is a natural leader and he needs to be mentored by the elder statesmen.
I’d raher have Streit wear the “C”, nothing against Weight. I think its better for Streit’s head and game. I’m fully convinced that he suffered for the first 40-50 games because he wasn’t made Captain. Watch how he led the Swiss in the Olympics and how much better his game was.
KO will be Captain one day… when his game is at a level that goes hand in hand with his natural leadership abilities.
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Healy says:
Love the K.O. (platonically!) This is a kid who beat back a Phaneuf concussion and swine flu to battle on the ice. He had an okay year and I think he’ll be making some strides this year.
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msolo says:
met JT and KO after the Canadiens had just destroyed us in our own building and these two who showed their passion for the game by being upset as they were leaving the coliseum ,still managed to give me a autograph when i asked
showed maturity and dedication on thier parts ,definitely big pieces in this rebulid but looking at KO , MY CHOICE for
the Captain of this team
good luck boys this year -
Spartiarti RVC says:
Its a contract year guys. KO is working his butt off. could we see a KO 30+ Goal Campaign?
Bailey might become most wellrounded player we have. He was one of the only guys with Plus rating on isles team. KO was -22.
I have bet with friend that Tavares scores 35 or more. -
Jim says:
Will be interesting to see how Garth screws this up one year from now. That being said, I hope this is the year the real Kyle Okposo emerges, the next great American superstar!
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Hockey1919 says:
Great insight into one of the Islanders building blocks. Nice to read a good old fashioned hockey story in mid-summer after all of the front office drama. Good to see that the younger guys are keeping in touch in the off-season and really coming together as a group. Hard to imagine that Okposo is the elder statesman at such a young age.
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barry from L.I. says:
While Captain Kyle has a nice ring, and hopefully he will be wearing one, I too (see #26 above) would go with Streit first. I think K.O. got burnt out after being the hardest working Islander for the first 60 games and he doesn’t need any additional pressure. When we look back at this offseason, we’re going to be happy we didn’t lock up long term money on Kovy.
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Irish Isle says:
So Bailey got bigger last offseason, and he has gotten even bigger since. Gotta love the dedication. Hopefully Tavares was working out with him.
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Vive la Poutine! says:
Nice piece CB. The upcoming season is a big one for KO and not only because it’s the final year of his entry-level contract. I would like to see him net 25-30 goals and improve drastically on that nasty plus/minus.
On a side note, any updates on JT’s broken foot and, dare I mention, DP’s progress?
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19 Isle in NJ 22 says:
This is a Huge Year for KO!
He knows it, and his enthusiasm for the season is very good to see.
KO’s comments about Bails is interesting. I noticed Josh bulked up the last off season. I’m curious. Kyle asked if you’d seen Josh lately. He’s bigger and stronger?
Maybe Garth / Janks got a good read off of Josh’s work ethic in ’08 and that’s why they moved down to get him.
Kyle getting his own place. Looks like he’s looking to settle in a bit more. You can love being around your friends and teammates, but sometimes the serenity of solitude is what you need to recharge your batteries. Party at Kyle’s place!!
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Joe says:
Good stuff Chris. Thanks for adding this in. Nice to hear all the positives from KO. Fans gotta love his positive attitude.
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Always loved Kyle. He did so many things right last year, it just seemed like he would whiff or fan on the shot when he was right in front of the net, and what I really love about him is that he admitted so much and is working on that part of his game with a little inspiration from his friend Zach Parisi. Hmm, isn’t Zach a free agent next year? Just imagine those two on aline together! I can dream, can’t I? GO KYLE!
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Staten Islander says:
Good piece. I still think they’re a year away from making the playoffs, or at least doing any damage in them anyway. I hope KO figures out how to finish more of his chances, Bailey too for that matter. Question, have they figured out if Bailey is going back to center or is he going to stay on the wing, where he really seemed to thrive last year?
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Alex says:
Kyle is a BEAST.
..That’s all
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Quez says:
Kinda echoes what Jersey Boy said, I love that K.O. is a great kid, but we need a little more snarl, and a little less smile. Hopefully, he is starting to understand his strength and what he can do with it. As for J.T., I’m expecting a nice jump next year followed by an explosion in ’11 !
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MorDraftPicks says:
Breakout year for KO, I can feel it
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isles71 says:
Very nice piece…can’t wait to see what these guys will do this season…but really curious to see what Rob Schremp does as well. Don’t forget his 1st round status and a set of stick-skills, the likes of which I have never seen before(check them out on Youtube)…should be very interesting…wish them all the best on the ice this year!!!! Hopefully success on the ice will reduce alot of the off-ice distractions we have all been subjected to…go Isles!!!
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IslesFanInTN says:
CB, that tweet about your niece cracked me up. Funny stuff.
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Nick says:
Pumped for hockey!
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Newf says:
I just went and put on my Kyle jersey after I read this. Thanks CB for some promising and good news. And yes Scotty B, I to screamed “LETS GO ISLES!”. Bring on the season!
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ralf says:
What Kyle Okposo are you guys raving about? the guy’s a hard worker no doubt, but he doesn’t play physical and has one move, not captain material IMO. Perennial 50 point grinder, yes. “beast”, hardly.
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cm says:
love all these kids..i hope they have been hitting the weight room..
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The Isles definately have alot of young talent at the forward position, I would be surprised if they don’t make the playoffs this year & really make some noise in the future. And whoever peed in reply #31′s cornflakes, thats just wrong.
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islesfan999 says:
I think our young guys will all have better years now that we have some protection for them. Cant wait to watch Konokopa and Gillies do some damage. Hell I dont care if we get another top 5 pick. We will be good in 2 yrs and tough next year!
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David Volek says:
Kyle Okposo is such a great talent. Its not just about goals…..look at how he works his bag off every shift. The kids a bull who plays hard………thats the kinda player i want wearing an isles sweater. He’s soooo young, and he’s only gonna get better.
Wish it was October already……….IM READY FOR HOCKEY
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cant wait says:
the wait for next season will be unbearable. maybe boot camp will pass the time
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Blizzard says: KO is a beast. I predict a monster season for him. And Baily too. Im not bummed we didnt sign a top six forward, Im very much looking forward to watching the kids next year……dont want to wish away the summer but I cant wait for hockey!!!
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Darren says:
Hey guys this KO for C stuff has got to stop.He is no where near ready to be a C.Let him try to figure the game(and skating)out 1st.He has done absolutely nothing to deserve the C.I like him as a player but lets keep things in perspective.If he ever becomes the player Ignilia is that would be a success story.Me personally just don’t see the mean,nasty side that KO is going to need to find w/in himself to become a top level talent in this league.Albeit he is young and has shown some improvement but nothing drastic.He needs to turn the corner on @ least 1 of his shortcomings ie…skating,finishing,defense(+/-),physical play(fighting).It doesn’t hurt to pick your spot and drop’em every now and then.Streit should be C period!Go Isles.
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Dan - isles fan in NJ says:
I would be excited if we could sign some type of free agent with some offense. Just something that I can brag about. Does not need to be anything special, just something. What was the last time this team signed a free agent that made you really really excited. my point, exactly.
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IslesPassion21 says:
KO is my favorite Islander…Ive enjoyed watching him develop…This is only his 3rd full season…Keep in ind he only payed 9 games in his rookie yr
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Viper says:
Great read, Chris. I too am excited about the upcoming season. It is, for the most part because you manage to keep us tuned in and charged up all summer long! Great work, as always!
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Jeff says:
40 goals for Okposo and JT this year.
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NYICHAMP39 says:
KO is the man! This kid is all heart. One of the best on the team right now. He just needs to find the back of the net more. He is EASILY capable of popping in 25-30 this year. Lets hope he gets the job done and we get out of the basement this year! GO ISLANDERS!
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Jeff says:
Big worry is that KO has breakout year and someone else signs him to an offer sheet knowing that Isles will never match.
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Brian in VA says:
KO is awesome… But will little help for KO and JT we will be horrible this season. I actually can wait for the season because no matter if KO gets 30 and JT gets 30 the team did not get any better this offseason and I think the team actually regressed. Just my two cents… The test for Snow and he has a D- in my opinion as GM is next year extending KO and gearing up to extend JT. Janokowski gets the credit in my book for the young core. Snow has done nothing!
Good to hear