RANGERS 6 ISLANDERS 5
A classic at the old barn on Hempstead Turnpike
CB at FanHouse: On Rangers 6, Islanders 5
FanHouse Video: Boogaard vs. Gillies
9:50 pm: Random thoughts while watching tonight’s 6-5 victory over the Islanders in an old barn-burner…
The Islanders’ performance could sum up a lot of the losses in the first quarter of this season. They looked out of their league – out-sized and out-manned – in the first period, but played their tails off until the final buzzer. The combination of Marian Gaborik and Sean Avery was the difference.
While the Islanders may not have an answer for Gaborik, the positive from tonight’s game is that they should have picked up a major jolt of confidence in the offensive zone that should give them a lift going into the rematch Friday at Madison Square Garden. Martin Biron helped, but the Islanders did put two past Henrik Lundqvist, too.
Blake Comeau and P.A. Parenteau – among others – must find a way to play with more consistent energy, passion and focus. One period, maybe a period and a half, against the crosstown rival after producing little for weeks should be unacceptable to the coaching staff.
The Columbus Day matinee, with many people working, was one thing. Arthur Staple of Newsday tweeted early in the game that the crowd appeared to be less than 11,000 tonight. If that’s true, it’s devastating. For the record, the announced attendance was 13,742.
As Brian Compton of nhl.com pointed out in our “Islanders Interactive” segment the other day, Jack Capuano’s Islanders are flirting with something that resembles a trap.
Trevor Gillies has guts. Standing in there with Derek Boogaard, who has a size advantage over anyone, is not fun. That was a strong display of courage and selflessness by Gillies, as impressive as any victorious bouts he has engaged in. The video is up at FanHouse.
On the shift before the Rangers made it 1-0, the Islanders were pinned in their own zone – and it wasn’t by the Rangers’ bigger names. On the ice were Mike Sauer and Steve Eminger on defense, Brian Boyle, Ruslan Fedotenko and Brandon Prust up front.
If the Islanders continue to do the right things for his long-term development, Travis Hamonic will be a top-four defenseman for the franchise for at least the next decade. You can see how good he is, how dedicated he is. Hamonic just needs more time, more coaching, more experience.
No matter whom he’s playing with, Matt Martin almost always is the best forward on his line. Or at the very least, the most noticeable, which is a good thing for such a young player.
It will be fun to have a pair of talented and passionate wings like Ryan Callahan and Kyle Okposo in these parts for a while, and together on the U.S. Olympic team in a few years.
Crazy as it sounds, Rick DiPietro deserves another start Friday at MSG. Other than possibly Erik Christensen’s roofer to open the scoring, DiPietro was offered little help and had no chance on the Rangers’ other five goals. If he’s feeling good, DiPietro – who relishes playing in the Garden – should get the shot.
With franchises struggling and under pressure in hockey-mad Toronto, Ottawa and Calgary, Islanders GM Garth Snow should get on the horn and try to make a deal. If he isn’t already.
Of course, there’s plenty more to talk about when it comes to this game. You’re welcome to take it from here.
126 Responses to RANGERS 6 ISLANDERS 5
A classic at the old barn on Hempstead Turnpike
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dahammer says:
A goalie with a .874% on the season deserves nothing.
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Hollywood says:
Hard to imagine They can score 5 goals and not get a point.DP was very good, his Defense played horrific. It’s time for PAP to move on and as for Comeau, I just don’t know what his issue is. Lets see what happens tomorrow.
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JTizzle91 says:
CB, Defense was not good by any means! I am mist upset with that puppet that the Islanders call a head coach! If he had any guts he would have pulled that pile of garbage out of he net! 2 times in one game he gives up a goal in less than a minute after the isles score! When is enough enough? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. There is a definition for that! It’s called INSANITY! DP SUCKSSSSSSS!
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mlem88 says:
Defense was terrible. Wiznewksi let Gaborik get behind him on the last goal, and thats a BIG no-no. He knew it immediately, you can see him shaking his head right after the goal.
Also its past* Lundqvist not passed
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Exilesurfskim56 says:
I HATE MARK EATON WITH A PASSION
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Garthsnow says:
First off, I will say the first goal and the last one for the Rangers, DP looked bad. Other than that it was horrible and sloppy play by the Isles. 1st period so boring becasue Isles are playing a trapish kind of game. As soon as they opened it up and played tough things starting going their way. Martin and Hamonic should be on this team for a long time. I am sold on Hamonic. Martin seems like he is comfortable as agitator/fighter/grinder. Martinek, worst game of season by far. DP should start, he needs big games like this to get flow. Just dont know if his knees can handle it. Lets see.
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Aaron says:
Players like Gillies who have no business being in a NHL game…
A coach who has no business being an NHL coach…
a roster that can’t compete with 2/3 of the league…i love this team. i really do. But i need a break from the New York Islanders. Theyre breaking my heart
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caber09 says:
DP was good? Wow, no wonder why he is still here 10 yrs later and for another 10. He would not start on any other team, he stinks…DP SUCKS chanted by Ranger fans AND Islander fans..and not the first time.
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German Islesfan says:
DiPietro is the last who lost this game. How about Wiz, Eaton and Martinek they are a big reason for this loss. MacDonald and Konopka with some bad luck with their “goals” in the own net…but thats typical for a last place team like we are
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Original Rob says:
PAP, only you and Butch Goring think DP was good tonight. And Trevor Gillies is a joke. That was the most boring 90 second fight I’ve ever seen, he barely threw a punch. And he got schooled like an amateur by Avery for the game-winner.
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znatokhokkeya says:
Chris, did you buy the ticket to get in?
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Jim Clark says: I had a ticket and decided not to go. A barn burner but a loss. Interesting how Tortorella and MacLean in New Jersey yanked their starting goalie early on to try to spark their team. Capusano didn’t.
Wang should ask himself if he deserves to make money with the bonehead moves he’s made. A decade ago we thought he saved the team but in reality he postponed its end.
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Jay L says:
JJ plays with so much heart, you can see how bad he wants to play here.
You can see the potential in Hamonic and grabner..
Blake Comeau had the most ice time than any forward????? I get so frustrated watching him play.. -
IslesinOside says:
DP played no worse than Lundquist and Lundquist hasn’t been out for 2 years. DP whiners out in full force early. A half good (not great) defense could have prevented those goals. It’s not always the Goalies fault.
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giz says:
Wiznewski an Eaton were awful tonight! Wiznewski is to small an gets bullied in the defensive end and is Offense is not much better now I know why the Ducks let him go Isles should do the same! 3 of the goals were not DP’s fault an the other 3 nobody was saving. Rollie should start maybe the Isles d will show up friday.
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Drive 4 Five says:
I used to get so into these matchups with the Rangers, I would feel like I was out there playing with the guys, my blood pressure was probably through the roof, but tonight when we tied it up late in third at 5-5 I was almost annoyed that they even bothered. At this point I’d rather have it all come crashing down.(like it hasn’t already-thanks to the MGMT)
-Way to come up with a big save DP.
-How can you justify sending Sim to Bridgeport, but when he comes up to big club he plays on 2nd line and on the PP. Dont get me wrong he has more heart than most, but this is the best we can do?
-How can you justify me and all the other fans caring anymore -
Terry says:
DP was not the reason the team lost he played well enough to win if he had a few nhl defensemen on his team.Comeau must be off this team he brings nothing to the game except the pull up on the left boards.I disagree with #8 Gillies has his place on this young team i dont think JT or the other younger players are pushed around as much when he plays. They just need a few quality players.
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Chris A says:
Games like this make me proud to be an islander fan…regardless of the barn’s condition, the issues behind the scenes, the injuries, and the coach they’ll always play their rear-ends off for 60 minutes and in the end you could take pride after the game.
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Set says:
14 out of the last 15 games have resulted in losses.
things will never change. sell the team and move the team if the new owner pleases.
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Ethan K says:
I don’t at all blame Dipietro for this game, because he was not the problem. He wasn’t great, but this game wasn’t his fault. Give Roloson the shot because he hasn’t in a while, and he is capable of holding us in games.
The problem was, and has been Radek Martinek. He just doesn’t clear the zone!!! I don’t understand what people see in him. Hamonic was probably the best defenseman in this game. He’s going to be a superb defenseman for us. Mark Eaton didn’t do much, Macdonald isn’t in full form again just yet, and Dylan Reese is decent, but he is a depth defenseman. Wisniewski needs to guard the front of the net (That’s what Hamonic is very good at – maybe put them together).
What upset me most was that Jon Sim was getting critical powerplay time, and this idea that PA Parenteau belongs on the first line. Schremp and Grabner doing better each game, and they keep getting moved down to lower lines.
We’ve got a ton of injuries, and a ton of problems – but we’re not putting together what we do have, because we could still be winning at least some games.
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Don’t let the final score fool you. There were huge chunks of this game where the Isles looked lost and tired, which is hard to believe after 5 days off. Martinek was embarassing tonite with his turnovers. Wiz continues to be clueless in his own zone. Try not to get sucked in by the Isles spin on the game.
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Bishopville Red says:
Chris,
DiPietro would have had a better chance on at least two of them if he wasn’t throwing rebounds around like candy canes at a Christmas parade. So, in total, that’s three of six goals he could have easily prevented.
Goal 1 – WEAK – his terrible habit of not squaring to the puck rears its ugly head.
2 – could have done better, but can’t complain too much.
3 – some unfortunate circumstances, but he’s pushing rebounds into the middle again.
6 – didn’t hold the puck, Gaborik gets his ‘trick.On another note, this team is still scrambling in its own end. Martinek looked weak as hell on that goal Knopka put in. Overall, I still am not convinced these guys are giving 100%.
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greatest1 says:
Dipietro should start another one over ROLESON? Was Dipietro EVER better then Rollie? What about this year? The last 5 years. Dipietro should sit..in Wangs press box.
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JT says:
After the 4th, 5th, and 6th goals, I wondered aloud why Capuano didn’t pull DP. Deems to me that they hired Capuano with orders to make DP the #1 goalie. I know he’s missed a ton of time, but what are they going to do if he’s still not right 20 games fom now? How long can they continue to ride DP?
CB, I am not going to any Isles games until you’re media credentials are reinstated. Is the PHWA still working on this for you (and us)?
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we fought back i’ll take that every night good game i was there but a win would be nice. Well get em tomorrow in there house
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Bob Bassen says:
DP didn’t play that bad, imo…game was sloppy on both sides. JT’s pass on Moulson’s goal was sweet buuuuutt…I dunno…….
Yeah, Parenteau on the A-Line and Comeau who seems indifferent or *deer-in-the-head-lights*…good stuff.How Snow and Wang can have any pride whatsoever, (especially at this *stage*) when there are more Ranger fans in the house and listening to the “DP SUCKS” chant…..wow.
Howie and Butchie singing how “extremely happy the coaching staff must be with the effort” crap and the *Atta boyz…we’ll get ‘em next time* attitude at the end of the game. Condescending to say the least.
Starts at the top and our Front Office is a complete joke so it’s pretty hard for to rail on the players much. -
This season is more or less lost. Might as well give DP the NHL reps while they don’t matter. Comeau showed some sparks,but he needs to be better. I’d like to see him take some time with Moulson and Tavares just as a change of pace. Also, after listening to Butch discuss Weight’s involvement on trying to improve the Islanders power play…i.e. coach…I got this weird gut foreshadowing feeling.
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Shred Instead says:
Look, CB, I understand the Team stinks, but unless we are saying that this Team is a complete bunch of Minor Leaguers that the NHL shouldn’t even allow in the NHL (Hmmm). We can’t keep sticking up for DP, when its another game when all the Team needed to do was score 7 Goals to win the game.
Hockey by definition means teamates are going to be faked out of their u know what strap, and the Goalies are there for the Saves. That is their J.O.B. When the Team has to score 7 Goals to win (and they actually scored 5), nothing good can be said about the goalies game.
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Fumanchu ME says:
You guys ragging on Gillies have no hockey sense what so ever. With Gillies in the lineup, the kids know they can play their game without having someone head hunting every shift. Yes the fight with the boogie man was boring but so what? What would you do fighting a guy who your giving up 5 inches to and more than 45 lbs? I know he gave up the last goal on a steal by Avery, he probably shouldn’t have been on the ice a shift so close to the end of the game with the game so close. Thats on the coach not on the players. Gillies needs to be dressed every night otherwies Martin will take too much responsibility on himself to police the game and turn into the one-way player we don’t want him to be.
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Marc says:
I watched on tv and can honestly say that for the first time in 35 years as a die-hard Islanders’ fan, I am unfazed by their losses.
The draft lottery can’t come soon enough. Perhaps next year’s Garth Snow find, the unsigned Sumo goalie, will announce the first round draft pick. Maybe Cody Rosen has a younger sister who has five minutes of knock hockey experience worthy of being chosen first or second overall. Nah, our Director of Scouting wouldn’t allow that. Uh, wait, what Director of Scouting?
Is Scott Gordon growing a playoff beard? He certainly couldn’t have done that as Isles’ coach.
Can Butch Goring be any worse as color man? Thankfully my wife was making potato latkes in the food processor for a good portion of the game, drowning out the audio.
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When Islanders-Rangers goes one-third empty, at any price, something is very wrong. Maybe some fans are avoiding the fistfights which too often have threatened the safety of other fans.
DP does deserve the Friday start. These six goals were scored no more than 30 feet from the goal — that’s 30 feet, combined. That speaks to the D. Clearly the worst D-zone coverage all season, and I think Martinek, Hamonic, A-Mac and Reese (who has NHL poise) actually played very well. That means Wis and Eaton played horribly!
It’s also time to rethink whether some prospects are suspects, because you can’t make good trades without first properly assessing your own talent.
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Steven says:
The Wiz and Radek looked horrible tonight. We need some serious size on D. I could care less if they cannot skate at this point. I want to see the front of the net cleared. JJ looked good and Comeau again only shows up against the Rangers. It’s hard to take.
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BB says:
Just back from the game, sorry Chris but DP did not look good at all, When is everyone going to say, the RUST is off? “ARE YOU TRYING TO GET ON WANG’S GOOD SIDE?” Attendance was down again. Rollie should be starting tomorrow.
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PotvinRocks says:
Well the game was very entertaining. Better than any trap game I’ve ever seen. but the Islanders don’t have the firepower to keep up the Rags. And it was really hard to hear that Gaborik was the foward that the Islanders would have drafted had wonder boy not had 77 saves in a lossing effort to St Lawrence Skating Saints. That really hurt after the hat trick goal.
Martinek was bad tonight. Hamonic was great. Good to see him jumping into the offense for the 5th goal. He seems to be gaining confidence. And it was great to have AMac back, he looked like he hadn’t lost a step. -
Craiggers says:
CB,
Love ya man, but got to disagree on this one. DP deserves another start??? Yes, he may have been left out to dry on a couple of goals. However, all night he had no rebound control and horrifying puck control. In addition, on the last Isles PP in the third, we watched Henrik make a great save by sliding across the crease, anticipating a pass. DP did not anticipate one pass all night, and although it may not have made too much of a difference, he might have been able to keep one or two more out…..enough for a win at least.
It’s a bad sign when Isles fans are also chanting “DP sucks” along with Ranger fans. Yet while this is going on, Kevin Poulin in Bridgeport is making 40 saves for his second shutout in a week. But instead of having him up playing with Roli, and giving DP true practice time in the minors, we’re stuck, thanks to Mr. Wang and Mr. Snow, watching DP be our under .900 save percentage goalie, costing our team game after game.
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Dave says:
DP: Tried to handle puck a few times and got burned. First goal was his fault, but the third goal off Joey Mac and 4th off Konopka were certainly not to blame. The fifth and sixth were nice plays by Gaborik. He did make nice saves. Capuano said Roli will start tomorrow though.
Wisniewski: Nice shot from the point to set up Konopka’s goal but that last goal by Gaborik was on him.
Eaton: Not noticeable like he was in game versus NJ. Decent. Wish he was more physical, but it looks like he will never change his game.
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whea24 says:
mlem88 (#5) please don’t make incorrect grammar corrections
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Tim F. says:
DP wasn’t great, but he didn’t have much help. His teammates handled the puck in their own end of the ice like it was radioactive, and leaving Gaborik unattended in front of the net *twice* is inexcusable. Sure, Gillies is brave for taking on Boogaard, but it was painful to see Avery take the puck right off of his stick just before Gaborik’s second goal. If they’re going to play a trap, they have to be able to break the puck out of their own end cleanly. Back to the drawing board, Cappy.
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Ant says:
Our defense is so soft and small,we are manhandled in our zone.How about putting Martin on one of the top three lines instead of our fourth line and take Sim and put him on the fourth,better yet dump him.We continue to put the same team on the ice with the same results.How about making a move Snow.
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Reese: Somehow ended up with a +2. But he looked unsure at times and had a few gaffes in front. Roli even had to talk with him.
Martinek: 2 point night. But he had some defense mistakes including one play behind his net in which he passed it to noone and Schremp had to come back with pressure to scoop it out.
McDonald: Great to have him back. He is our #1 Dman at this point. Smart plays. Had that unlucky bounce that cost us the lead. But still solid.
Hamonic: He will be a top 4 Dman for this team. He got caught on a few goals, but had some tremendous chances in the offensive zone. Excellent play. love this kid.
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Offensively, I think this was the best game we’ve seen in a while from JT. He had that nice hustle that led to the 1st goal and that beautiful pass for the second. Showed some nice skating and speed that we haven’t seen too much of. Moulson continues to play excellent. Parenteau and Comeau need to be more consistent. Grabner, Nielson, Joensuu line was excellent. Schremp was invisible in the 3rd. Gilles did what we pay him to do. Martin, excellent as usual. Kenopka, decent game, bad bounce.
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Styles15 says:
DP played a solid game tonight. We all know what soft goals look like with DP. It goes through the legs and he looks up to the sky like he almost had it. None of those tonight. He looked mobile and strong with screens in front. All the goals were in tight and primarily revealed defensive errors. The Gaborik/Wiz goal was the worst. DP deserves another start and a defense that can support him. Macdonald and Martinek are the best D we have out there. I am happy Macdonald is back on the ice, hes a confident defenseman and makes good decisions with the puck. Hamonic also looks good. Eaton is rubbish!
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IsleFan73 says:
The defense stinks. Eaton and Martinek were the worst of the bunch tonight.
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Islebethere4u says:
In their defense, the rust of a long layoff showed in the first. By the end of the first they showed signs of life scoring a late goal. They continued through the second and powered their way to a 3-2 lead. Then the goalie change for the Rags and things turned quickly. Gaborik looked good out there (hat trick) and again the Isles faltered to a 5-3 deficit. BUT… give them credit for no giving up and coming back to score the tying goal only to give up the lead for good late. I am pleased with the effort but not the outcome. Games like these only go to prove… Snow should gotten some scoring talent when he had the chance. Games like these are the fault of management and not the players who are outgunned on a nightly basis and not entirely the fault of the coaching staff. (I did and still say a coaching change was needed) Lets see if the extra rest helps the Isles tomorrow. Nice game by Martin, Schremp, PAP(bad penalty) Molson, Tavares and Hamonic. Gillies looked small compared to Boogardt but feisty and inspiring. Joensu had a little giddyup tonight as well. Not Dp’s fault to night.
Hope your staus is resolved soon CB. We really miss your firsthand insights. You were never the story, and now Garth has succeeded in being the story with his petty nonsense. I agree with your “friends”, the league is on slippery slope in how this matter is handled. Lets hope this gets resolved soon. -
Any team that scores 5 goals should win. We have 4 issues in this order
1–Town of Hempstead, they call them that because they seem to be smoking Hemp.
2–Owner, Management–whole front office (or lack there of).
3–A goalie, whom I really admire for trying to come back, but I would admire him even more if he told management he needs to get his game back at the bridge.
4)D-E-F-E-N-S-E (No size or strength) -
And a move needs to be made. Trade a guy like Comeau or Parenteau or even Sim for someone who can play defense. If it’s gonna be a trap, then we need better Dmen, not softies like the guys we have now.
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….No worries because DP when he gets his next win in about 10-15 games will thank the fans afterwards and all the kool aid drinkers will love it and think he’s great.
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DP SUCKS DP SUCKS DP SUCKS….chanted by Ranger fans & Islanders Fans…and not the first time this has happened. Let Poulin come up and play along with Roloson, get rid of Mr 76% save percentage, the goalie who cant stop a beach ball.
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Fumancho, I’m glad you have gained so much “hockey sense” sitting on your couch watching the games… oh wait, according to Butch you must have been born with it. The point is that Gillies doesn’t belong in the NHL, period. There are probably a dozen other players the Isles could’ve signed to play a similar enforcer role, and also know how to play a shift of ice hockey. Tight wallets upstairs.
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Bill W. says:
I’m so tired of hearing how DP deserved better. He’s nothing more than a backup at this point. A so so one at that. Gorden knew this and wouldn’t play him. Thats why he’s gone.
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Jim says:
DP sucks? Shove it up your bum Islanders fans, he played well. Is it really his fault Gaborik scored a hattrick? Because I’m pretty sure Gabby was standing in front of the net unchecked and unchallenged for two of his goals. Guess the Islanders don’t know who gaborik is.
Either way, this was a good game. The Rangers have talent and effort. We only have effort. 9 times out of 10, this will be the result. Gotta be proud of what we did tonight though.
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Isles fan in Fla says:
I’ve been down on DP as anyone but you have to blame the D a lot tonight. Ive been saying all along Wiz is terrible defensively. Martinek was real bad on D tonight. And Im also real disappointed with Eaton all season. I loved Butchie as a player but my god is he horrible as a commentator. Him saying the Isles played a great game is a joke. Did he watch the 1st period? And they were spotty in the 2nd & 3rd. Why is Sim here? PAP has some moments but to make him an automatic 1st liner game in and game out is wrong.
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27Tonelli says:
Only one PP for the Isles and Jon Sim is on it for the last 30 seconds of it ? Unbelievable ! The fact that he was resigned is a disgrace he wouldn’t make any other team’s roster ! Sean Couturier is hoping we lose the Draft Lottery ! Team is an absolute joke, bring up Rahshani or Ullstrom let this disgrace of a “hockey player” walk ! JON SIM SUCKS !
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Not sure about anyone else but I’m not even excited about having the first pick in draft, we still won’t be good as long as these guys are in charge.
How can Wang and Snow look themselves in the mirror. -
Michael says:
What is the deal with Bailey? I know he is hurt at the moment. But what is their plan with him? Leave him in the minors all year? Recall him? I feel he is better off on the Island then in Bridgeport.
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lol….the trap? They can’t even get that right…they let in 6 goals! I told my six year old last week to choose a new team to root for, this is pathetic. Wang is the Devil!
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AJAX says:
I just want to add that JT had only 1 SOG. Sure, 2 assists is good, however he needs to get more aggressive to the net. 18 mins warrants more than 1 shot.
Own up JT, shoot the puck.
That being said, its again not 1 or 2 players fault for the loss, its the whole team.
Win together, lost together. As a team. -
Pretty good effort even with the break downs. Nice job Martin , Avery didn’t have too much to say when you talked to him about a bout. Tough kid, hits hard and answers the bell. Sauer looked a little sour after ya gave him the seat. Lead the team again with 6 hits, 80 in 15 games, unheard of.
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csk says:
DiPietro seems to have limited mobility these days – quit immobile in fact
Give Roloson the next start he deserves
With Poulin in the wings, the team should not let The Contract get in the way of playing the best players on the ice
No team ever should
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would also like to mention that I feel that tonight’s game was a major step forward for the team – a loss, but a very competitive one, and something to build on – finally
we do need a bit more firepower up front (duh) and to play the Wiz a bit more selectively (PP mostly) – he appears to be a bit of a defensive liability at times
Martinek, Eaton, Hamonic, MacDonald – that’s our top 4 – and a decent top 4
at that – add the Wiz used only selectively, and we have something solid to build on -
MARK EATON NEEDS TO GO. failed to clear the puck half the time and on gaboriks first goal he layed down and swam
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claude says:
Capusano fault .
Why was Gilles even on the ice after the Islanders tied it at five? Gaborik took the puck from him like a child and scored the leading goal.
Parenteau seems like the only Islander who knows how to carry a puck into the offense zone.
I like Schremps patience and confidence with the puck, guy’s a stud, all the more reason to keep Hunter at bay
If I see Comeau pass the puck to himself, only to lose it to the opposing defenseman one more time, I am going to scream. -
Oh another thing. That was a great no look pass to Gaborik for the Callahan goal, MARTINEK geez……
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Brian G says:
good comeback but this team still looks very unorganized under Capuano.
During the whole telecast from Pre game til the end, every time they mentioned Andrew McDonald coming back, they were making it sound like he was the 2nd coming of Niklas Lidstrom…they missed him so bad….calm down MSG, he is a #3 or #4 D-man on the Isles, what has he ever done…I like him but,give me a break.
Goring is terrible…can we just fast forward to June
CB – again tonight I spoke to Bettman on XM 204 and he said he will have Wang in studio in 2 weeks to address the fans and even take questions from fans…I will believe it when I see it…someone needs to attach that poscast…Bettman said he was happy to hear passion from Islander fans….Bettman needs to have a little talk with Wang on how he is handling this team, its a disgrace to the fans! thanks again Chris for all of the work you do with this blog….its the only place for REAL Islanders news
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Chris, in all due respect, Garth should be working the phones, but I do not understand how he can make a trade. Wang will not let him take back any big contracts, and who has any value on the Isles that you would trade? I think more than half the players on this team would clear waivers. I do think Frans Nielsen is someone who could be traded for some type of return.
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bayduvinislander says:
A vomit inducing debacle.
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Jon in Chicago says:
No trades will be made. Our GM hasn’t made a significant trade or even a small one really since Ryan Smyth. I’m excluding trading a body for a late-round pick like they do every deadline.
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Doug Weight for a 6th round pick sounds about right
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Ted S says:
The Sean Couturier countdown has begun.
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19 Isle in NJ 22 says:
CB – You’re analysis is pretty much on the mark… The callups like Martin, Hamonic and even Joensuu stuck out for me. Jesse has some nice outside moves, but just couldn’t finish. Also … Moulson and Tavares had some good chances too.
I think one of the reasons the Isles fail as a team is one major thing …that is doing the small things. It’s the small things they start doing wrong and then they end up running around.
I don’t see them passing the puck with authority … it’s these lazy passes that get intercepted and find the back of the net. Hard crisp passes with follow through. Example: Martinek made a very poor weak back hand pass while the Isles were shorthanded and Gaborik gobbled it up and it was in the net. He had time and space to take a stride or two, look up and flip it high out of the zone.
Also you can see the confidence wain at times … When having possession of the puck at times an Islander would make a panic “forced pass” to nobody and a Ranger supporting the forechecker would be there to win the loose puck.
My old coach used to say … if you don’t have a clear pass then force the opposition to take it from you… just don’t give up the puck like a jump ball.
Fundamentals are killing this team. How does this happen to disciplined pros???
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Darren says:
Chris, again thank you for soldiering on. Great stuff.
Very concerning to me is the play of Tavares, he is trying but is still to slow and being pushed around. He needs to improve his skating and strength. Of course a little more talent around him would help.
We lost this game on the boards and in the corners, we rarely came out with the puck. Avery is an ass, but plays his role well, you need to have someone strong on him, not a Schremp.
Great game to watch, but this team is in trouble. -
whea24(#38)- It was a correct correction before CB corrected it;-)
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Spittin'chicklets says:
1st goal DP was on his knees?? Stand up man! HE HAS TO BE BETTER, but, playing sooooo little while rehabbing major injuries for the better part of 3 seasons.. it isn’t right to think we will know anything about what his potential for any kind of return to form “Might” be until he gets at least a full season under his belt. Nuff said. Martinek had a horrible game..and the FREAKIN BLOOM is off the rose with the Wiz.. he was absolutely horrible, I’m talking stunk up the joint. Say what you want, this is still an underpowered team with not enough horses in the stable night in and night out to truly compete offensively. Its a Rangers game so, it doesn’t show a true representation scoring 5 goals because…well.. Its the cross town rivals,..anything can happen.
All in all, having said all that, they hung in there, didn’t quit, kept pressing the play and generally look better then they did trying to figure out what the heck Gordo wanted out of them.. Oh yeah, GILLIES FOR PRESIDENT! One more shot at the Rags tomorrow night boys, see ya then, Go Isles -
I apologize for going off topic. I have my own mini protest going. I am not visitng the Isle website nor, for the 1st time buying any Isles gear at Christmas for my kids or any other financial support of the team. They agree, they are 12 and 9 and very confused by the Isles antics and frustrated with the losses. We all deserve more and better.
Thanks again for supporting and advocating a team that cannot get out of its own way.
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Jeff says:
Does anybody think that JT looks like a franchise player?
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The Pork Chop Express says:
The most annoying part of this game was listening to Howie/Butch saying how proud the isles should be. If I was in that locker room I would be mad as anything. Losing is horrible and this was a loss. Hopefully, they are angry and use if for motivation because they need more of it. Time to take out your frustration out on the other team!!! The team needs needs to be stronger on defense too many times they let the opponent get behind them and in front if the goalie. Isn’t the first thing taught on defesive coverage (doesn’t matter if you are foward or a dman) is to position your self between the goal and the opponent. For years this had been the case. We need some big strong dman who can move guys!!! Hamonic can be one of those guys!! When does Grabner get PP time?
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first of all i dont know why all you fans are upset with d.p. he ONLY gave up 6 goals. he usually gives up 7. second of all regarding the isles making a deal to improve the team since they have all the cap space, lets face it, the only thing wang increases are ticket prices. the n.y. times article on the isles is right on. i like the part where scouting director wang picked in the 7 th. round, a goalie who played a total of one period of hockey in college where he gave up 3 goals and even the goalie couldnt believe he was taken in the draft. need i say any more…
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purify says:
#76 jt is only a franchise he had suppourt. look at world championships over the summer. He was the leading scorer for team canada. this is because he had support. jt will be greatdown low only. Its obvious he will not at skate someone on the outside and crash the net and score. He needsto set up low and have the winges do the dirty work. (just my observation). Snow screwed up so bad by not getting bufylien (spelling) from chicagoand having him play wing for jt. that was our answer to help jt out. Hell I wish we where as smart as atlanta and made that same trade (eager,ladd). That one move would have solved alot of wholes with this team. Iam prepared to give up four 1st round picks for Parise (rfa). No way the devils can afford him unless they trade marty.
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dan says:
Well lets start the draft talk. 15 our of 16 games we have lost. Makes me sick.
Moulson, Rolli and Wiz should be traded at the deadline if they do not sign extensions.
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Numbers65 in Ohio says:
I could hear let’s go rangers more often than let’s go Islanders. Should have done a better job protecting the lead.
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stats don’t lie
1) Wiz is STILL the team’s leading scorer while also being a team leading -17
play him on the PP and otherwise limit his minutes
2) Tavares has a whopping 6 assists in 20 games played – that’s just not enough – the second coming of Bryan Trottier he is not – a solid 2nd line center, perhaps
- mind you, Tavares/Moulson/Parenteau were effective tonight – combined for an excellent goal, but JT is not going to be one of the league’s best players at this rate – get used to it – JT is also -13, second worst plus minus – not great3) Travis Hamonic will be one of the teams all time great defensemen – give him top 4 minutes and let him learn – MacDonald too
4) DP wasn’t the problem – he also wasn’t the answer – start Roloson tomorrow – please – DP’s Save% now places him 63rd out of 67th – Roloson is 33rd – play him 2 games out of 3 if we really want to be as competitive as we can, 1 game out of 3 is enough for DP for now – until he shows more
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Staten Islander says:
You all are missing the big question. Why exactly did Scott Gordon grow that beard?
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Strummmer's Army says:
DP played very well. Would have been worse without him. Neither he or Rollie are the problem. It is the defense! Martinek, Eaton,are just not up for it. Hamonic played well. MacDonald looked like a guy playing his first game back. Despite all the media hype he hasn’t played as well this year as he did last year.
There are some people here that want to bash DP for everything. They either no nada about goaltending and hockey, or they just hate DP for some unkown reason and are blinded by it, or they are the types that think every goal is the goalies fault and don’t know how to watch the play, or they are Rags fans trying to upset Isles fans.
Snow should fix the defense it would take pressure off the forwards and the goalies but he refuses to in all his years. One character trait Snow posseses is stubborness and it is not a good one. He also is constantly trying to show everyone he is smarter then they are.
Hamonic, Martin, Gillies, Konopka etc.
How is Jon Sim on line 2 or the PP or the NHL? Now that Gordon is fired, it is crystal clear Sim is Snow’s sick obsession and it needs to end.
How about being wise and letting JJ and Martin play ahead of Sim and PA? They are better and have produced when given the opportunity.
Rob Schremp, you are terrible on defense! Too many mental lapses and missed assignements.
Guys Isles could use as trade bait are Comeau, Schremp, Martinek, Geravis, Eaton, Hillen, Parenteau, etc. I’d say Sim and Hunter but………..
No more putting Sim and PA in important roles.
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Shawn says:
My question is with the lack of solid play every shift hard wingers why not pick up Petr Prucha off wavers for free and see what he does for the rest of the year? Worse comes to worse you let him walk as a free agent…I personally love the guy he is always the hardest worker and can still put the puck in the net.
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Al L says:
Geez!! Wiz’s play in the defensive zone is rolling down hill faster than Jack and Jill. Radek’s subpar performance and Neilson’s surprisingly poor effort in the defensive zone didn’t help matters tonight. The passing in the ‘D’ zone was softer than an Auntie Anns pretzel and as a result at times it seemed like the Rangers were on a 12 minute PP with their puck possession time! Andy Mac was rusty and lets get real folks,as stated earlier,he ain’t Nick Lidstrom anyway.
For those who are gaining concern of John Tavares’ play,I hear ya! After becoming encouraged with JT’S obvious improved strength on skates earlier in the season,he is weakening and again rarely able to get from point A to B.Hence, his quality scoring chances are far and few between.
Last but not least is our last man of defense between the pipes. No doubt the ‘D’ in front of him was lousy tonight and most nights for that matter,but his failure to control the puck and square up to a shooter,especially in close,usually leaves too much net to shoot at.
Listening to the classic losers lament(The Isles have nothing to be ashamed of and the coaches will be encouraged by their effort) as the players with their heads staring at concrete walked down the runway,says volumes of how far behind the rest of the League this team and Organization actually is.
It is only fair to mention the fine play of young Jesse, Travis and Michael(Grabner). How long can it be expected to last without the guidence and structure of skilled veteran leadership. There is nothing more discouraging for a young player than habitual losing without growth. -
Oncesince1940 says:
I said it in the preseason and I’ll say it again. Give Martin first line time. And get him on the Power Play. And Hamonic? Wow. He’s something to look forward till 2015 (thanks Charles for putting a cap on this franchise). As for Gillies giving it away on that goal? Big deal. The Islanders did that all game and all season long. And to the idiot (sorry) Islander fans who chant “DP Sucks”, why would you EVER join Ranger fans in chanting anything?
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Phil says:
Yea Chris, Snow is going to make a deal. Lol!
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jaygee-calgaryislesfan says:
If there is any positive…….Hamonic. Dude has played amazing! IMO best all around d-man tonight.
Ya we scored 5 but we really needed to keep the energy we had at the beginning of the second. We didn’t. Is that coaching? Experience? Talent? We weren’t able to continue it and thats why we lost. As far as i’m concerned it’s all 3. I’m a huge fan from Calgary, Canada. I love my Islanders and will bleed orange and blue till the day they leave or I die. IMO the one thing thats killed this team over the last 20 yrs is ownership. 2 of the last 3 owners are in jail or were. 1 happens to be Wang’s partner in the original sale. We need to open our eyes as fans and realize the common denominator over the las 2 decades.We will flownder untill Wang is gone. Period. Just another selfish owner in the long list of bad owners in our history. I plead with all you Long Islanders to boycott this team as much as your heart can possibly sustain. Since i’m 3,500 miles away this is my only avenue.
It’s for the best.
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CM says:
Lack of fan…good.
Still need a real NHL coach. Isles were out coached too.
Even if Hitchcock or other have been contacted, I doubt they would come.
Does not look good. Being realistic, don’t be surprised if Isles get blown out tomm.
No word from Wang means team will stay in the pits. Players are playing for themselves. -
I may have been unfair. I do believe in Tavares. He is not Crosby or Stamkos, but I do believe he is committed to be successful. We and 10k others all cheered Garth’s decision, so lets not be hypocrits. This is a good kid who works hard and will be successful. We need to srround him with more.
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Brother Rat says:
1. Eh, can any Isles fan really expect a win at this point? I almost can’t complain when they score 5 goals, which is their highest output since mid-October. If my disgust shifts to apathy, is that an upgrade?
2. I hope Hamonic is sent down ASAP to develop at his pace, not Garth’s. Development is more than throwing a kid out against NHLers. That is *NOT* how top teams regularly develop their talent, Dmen in particular (not that this organization has anyone with past success at developing players to their potential). Players should not be rushed and should have an environment where their natural talents and confidence can mature–does anyone really believe that that can happen for Hamonic and the rest of the kids with these death-spiraling Isles?! -
Mike P says:
There is a long way to go here, there are a few players that stand out as buildling blocks(Tavares, Martin, Moulson(if they even sign him), Hamonic and Macdonald but they need to add a couple of proven nhl forwards. The combo of the team and antics of the organiation leaves me almost to the point of not caring anymore, i wasn’t even mad they lost to rags tonight and probably won’t be again when they lose in the garden tomorrow night.
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Jerry Killane says:
Tonights game was the best game overall amongst both teams in a few years for sure, it was a thriller. However it ends with the same old results for the Isles a loss. The Defense was putrid tonight and DP was hung out to dry, but he could have played a bit more aggressive or maybe made a big save, the 1st goal he let in over his shoulder was bad bcuz he was crouched down for no reason. anyway you all know the saying….”Payback Is A B*tch” and 2morrow we will get the revenge. LETS GO ISLANDERS!!!
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Vealchop says:
Its amazing that the Islanders look so slow and dont care. Unacceptable, they are one of the youngest teams in the NHL. Plus being the least skilled they should be the team that tries the hardest. But they dont.
The D-Men are overrated. Martinek, Wisnewski, Eaton are all junk. Trade them at the deadline.
Great to see A-Mac back, him and Hamonic are solid.The forwards, there are not to many good ones.
-Matt Moulson is their best forward.
-Schremp at least moves his feet and creates something.
-Nielson, Martin, Konopka are acceptable.
-JJ too early to judge
-Comeau, way to inconsistent
-Grabner & Parenteau help fill out the roster
-Tavares needs a stud center and move to the wing.
-Sim and Gillies do not belong in the NHL. -
anthony c says:
consistency, energy, passion, and focus are not in comeau’s and parenteau’s vocabulary. I hope those 2 are gone after this year. And as for snow making a move that helps us. Well there is a better chance of me winning the lottery then that happening.
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IslesNation says:
I agree with #80. Unfortunately its time to start thinking about what players will be dealt before the deadline and what players should be on this team after this season is over. I personally believe letting Moulson go would be a huge mistake. Moulson has poor qualities, but he is a solid goal scorer and gets his role on the team. Wiz and Roli should not be in this teams future. With the drafting of several goaltenders in the draft a couple years back, having Roli backup DP is pointless. Wiz is a coin toss… depending on his price.
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JT had two assists tonight, so I do not see why people are ripping him. Meanwhile MM was a minus 3.
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MattyB says:
How does Matt Martin stand out as a building block. He’s useless. He’s a third/fourth line player at best like the rest of this putrid lineup
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Eaton drives me insane most nights. This was one of them.
I’m a WIZ fan but he plays awfully weak sometimes. What happened to those booming body checks?
JJ-Nielsen-Grabner were the only consistent threats. They played with more passion than the rest.
Capuano…I wish they didn’t show him doing nothing and just giving up the reins to Scott Allen…that was just embarassing.
Go MM…both of them!
Boo to no place in RVC showing this game with volume. Better win tomorrow…
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David says:
Absolute cracker of a game. But, some of the D-men have some serious issues getting the puck out of the zone. That cost us two goals this game. The Nielsen line one of few positive things this season. JJ really adapting well. As others have pointed out, Comeau and PAP needs to go. See you season year Adam Larsson!
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Martinek and Wisniewski made the softest plays I have ever seen leading to both Rangers goals in the 2nd period. I don’t understand how the veteran D-men are playing worse than Hamonic and Reese.
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Ari (Not Haanpaa) says:
Listened to the first period or so in the car until I got home. Went with Kenny Albert and Dave Maloney on 1050, even though I’m a Hofstra Alumn.
Despite being a Rangers broadcast, those guys almost felt sorry for the Isles. They couldn’t believe an NHL team could be so bereft of talent. Sadly, I have to agree with them at this point.
By the way, hard to make a very strong case for DP when you let in 6 goals, regardless of any fine saves he may of made, or the shaky D. If you can’t somehow get rid of Rick’s “lifetime” contract at this point, you might as well move Roloson sometime before the deadline and let Poulin get some starts. Seeing more of the young kids is probably the only thing to look forward to for the rest of the year. I imagine our genious GM will actually make this move, but you never know with Wang and Snow.
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Also, I agree with an above post.Anyone that thinks this team is giving 100% effort needs to watch other NHL games and see how other teams skate. The Isles just don’t play hard enough.
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ed says:
Sad seeing the wingers the Islanders got for JT. Sad to see our coach looking extremely uncomfortable and not in charge. Sad not seeing any defenseman except for maybe Hamonic throw a check. If there was ever a class on how not to construct a hockey team, Garth Snow would be the professor. Incredible how inept he is.
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dynasty23x4 says:
the wiz is not wonderful…
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cjcb says:
Anyone who dislikes what a player like Gilles provides should really consider Basketball or something else. Hockey without players like Gilles is lame. Not only is it entertaining and like Howie said nobody was sitting durning the bout but it just adds that atmosphere to the game that makes the game great. The last 3 or 4 years the Isles/Rags rivalry has been the worst that its been in years and i believe its because the Isles tried to emulate a passive boring style(Red Wings) that added NOTHING to the rivalry. Love Capuano, keep him DO NOT hire Hitchcock please. Great Game alot of fun to watch, keep playing this style and i might make it back to the colisium sometime soon!!!
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Big Van Vader says:
With franchises struggling and under pressure in hockey-mad Toronto, Ottawa and Calgary, Islanders GM Garth Snow should get on the horn and try to make a deal. If he isn’t already.
Really, Chris? Really? Are you really saying that Garth Snow should try making a deal for an impact forward? We ALL know how hard Garth “tried” in the summer to sign Kovalchuk. And yes, he’s sucked for NJ, but when, I ask, do the Isles and the “GM” EVER trade for an impact player? (Since Ryan Smyth) They “try” really hard, but never quite accomplish anything.
Anyway, I was at the game last night and let me tell you, this was NO CLASSIC. Went with my brother who’s a Rags fan and we both left saying that was one of the worst played games for BOTH teams we had ever seen. Sure, he was happy to have the two points, as I would have been, but we’ve been to too many clashes between our fav teams to be tricked by the goal scoring. Some guy next to me said this felt like 1980′s hockey. I turned to him and said, “If it was the 1980′s, Al Arbour would have either benched most of these guys for bad defensive play/turnovers, and/or had them doing puckless skating drills after the game.”
Rick wasn’t bad, but he wasn’t good either. Rolo should be in goal tonight. As far as the future goes, Poulin or Koskinen can’t come soon enough.
Bottom line though, when Wang decides to put some money back into the team a la 2001-2002, you will start seeing people in the stands again and a winning product on the ice. No excuses. -
NHL fan says:
#105 Justin…you beat me to it…what is MattyB watching?
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You guy’s saying DP played well need to get a grip. I honestly cannot even begin to fathom your love for this guy, he’s been mediocre or worse for what 10 years now? yeah he’s good lookin’ but come on people, he’s a hack. Kevin Poulin Is going to be a star in this league for many years and thanks to somebody’s moronic contract it probably won’t be on long Island.
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1983Islander says:
Oh well, I was at the game we lose another one too bad it was against the Rags. But ate up all that free Wendy’s chilli yummy. At least there’s that, it wasn’t just DP who sucked tonight btw.
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battfist says:
1st period last night was pathetic.
A good coach doesnt need the period to end to make adjustments.
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sheppy says:
It is strange how it is a few fans that dislike Gillies being on the Islanders. I have only read great things from guys ON THE TEAM who LOVE Gillies and think he plays a role and serves a function. Is he the best player? No. He is a tough teammate, and it seems as if THE PLAYERS understand and appreciate this, even if a few fans don’t get it. By the way, a couple of posters indicated that Gillies lost the puck to Avery on the winning goal. If I remember the game accurately, he lost the puck on Rangers goal #5. They scored 6. Gaborik scored both, but Gillies was not on the ice for the winner, I believe. Regardless, I stand by my assertion that those on the team like him being on the team. I read a quote from Tavares most recently where he said he plays a difficult role and he appreciates what Gillies does; it is a shame that some fans can’t see it. Martin has also been quoted saying things like this…about how much of a positive influence Gillies has been to his development.
To those who think that Martin and Konopka can fill his role, you are wrong. Who wants Martin battling the toughest players in the league? I hope he develops into a good player who is tough, not just a fighter. Konopka serves a role and is good on face-offs, but he would get manhandled by the heavyweights in the league. Sure, Gillies lost to Boogaard. What do you think Martin’s face would like today if he had fought Boogaard?
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jimmy says:
i cant stand garth snow anymore!! bailey is one of the pieces to our future and we have players like sim playing.. bring back bailey!!! we stink
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Mike P says:
NO way DP should get the start, 1st goal was so typically soft which didnt help the tems slow start. A good goalie is supposed to be able to carry a team through ruts from time to time and letting up and extremely weak goal from such sharp angle is unacceptable. I have also had enough of Martinek. 1 horrific pass, and afraid to go into the corener to get the puck first costs us 2 goals. It’s time Martinek and gervais were shipped outta here. All in all Isles played well, loved the resiliency and it’s about time they showed some fight.
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The New Isles GM says:
The only thing I can say to sum up the season so far is this Grabner guy is really making a name for himself. He may not be dazzling but he finds a way to put points up on the board. He’s only getting better. I think he will finish in the top three in scoring on our team his he continues to play the way he’s playing. In my mind, he’s part of next year. PA Parentslow, Sim and Schremp are not.
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Hoser14 says:
“….The Islanders’ performance could sum up a lot of the losses in the first quarter of this season. They looked out of their league, out-sized and out-manned….” Did anyone see Gaborik out muscel smurf-size Wisnieswski on the game winner?
You figure that after 4 years back-up Goalie-turn GM Snow, would have done something about the Isles still being too slow, too small and too soft.
I guess Garth Snow’s major priorities is more on the press box reporting (better none than critical) than on the on-ice product (which SUCKS!!!!). BOO! HISS!
They almost unwatchable, especially against Little Jimmy Dolan’s Ranger$$$, it’s way too painful.
I taped the Ranger$$$ game, but I did watched the last two minutes. They called it a “classic,” I call it just another loss. I don’t plan on watching the rest of the game and will tape over it with tonight’s game, which I won’t watch it live either.
FREE CHRIS BOTTA!!!!
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Brian @ Work in DC says:
The Isles have a 60% loss percentage this season and are dead last in the league standings. I think that is a pretty good season… I laugh @ this joke! The Isles are the only favorite team of mine that I TRULY don’t care about anymore! I wish comcast would cancel my center ice package that I didn’t pay for. I paid for NBA League Pass which is 1000X more enjoyable that the Isles and NHL… This is a statement that I sould never utter because I used to live and die with the Islanders but not now.
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mark t says:
can someone please tell me why gillies was on the ice to start the 3rd period. then he got his second shift 3 mins into the period. i dont think capuano was paying attention. he was an average ahl coach.
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peter debenedetto says:
Garth Snow is Wang’s Kumar. When things got bad, he left him out to dry. Wang is making this team worthless. He is making this hard to watch. All I can see is Quebec/Winnipeg/Hartford players skating in those cities for the last time…remembering the look on the faces of those fans. Folks,that will be us one day soon.
CB, would be great if you could post a video of those last games for those cities so the fans can see how it will eventually be. -
Well said Sheppy, well said.
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It is so sad that this team was done before Thanksgiving….we are 15 pts out of a playoff spot, with Zero hope for a turnaround….no trades will be made, and the fans are still expected to show up and to pay to watch this stale/boring team….Capuano is a terrible coach, We have players like Sim & gillies on the roster…when they wouldn’t be on any other team in the NHL. Bring up Ullstrom & Rahkshani, why not …we are rebuilding right? …they won’t b/c Wang is cheaping it out….what a joke of an Owner, him & Snow don’t have a clue what they are doing
Do something right Islanders Organization
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mikef says:
It was def a great game. Too bad DP got hung out to dry so many times, that 1st goal was really the only one he stood a chance on.
I dont understand how PA Parenteu maintains his role on the #1 line and #1 PP. This guy brings nothing to the table.
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shlo says:
When the grabbing and holding rule changed, some teams started going for a smaller puck moving defensemen, Islanders included. Still need couple of big shut down guys like Sutton. His problem is getting injured too often.
Love Hamonic. Love Gillies but why was he on the ice when Gaborik was on? that was a costly mistake.
DP was just ok. Own goals – the first was an unfortunate bounce, happens. The second poor positioning of the defense. -
John F says:
Suffice it to say neither the Rangers or the Islanders will be in the Stanley Cup finals. The Rangers one cup in 70 years and their fans chirp like they have a license on winning. Pathetic. The Islanders mostly a collection of minor leaguers with a few exceptions. Pathetic.
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VA ISLES says:
anyone notice that Reese has great hands on the puck? I thought he was solid last night. MAin problem is that we’re only playing 30 mins of hockey. We sucked in the 1st, owned the 2nd and split the 3rd period. How do you not cover Gaborik like a blanket. PS Die Avery, die.
No Way Mr 76% save % should get another start, he also let 2 floaters bounce right to Rangers. He is the human momentum killer.