ALEXEI YASHIN…REALLY? NOW?!!!
No matter the motivation, this is shameless, clueless
2:05 pm: I want to be very clear here. No matter what the Islanders are trying to pull, I do not understand how Garth Snow can go on the record – with so much on the line in the final days before the Aug. 1 referendum on the future of the franchise – and confirm he has had discussions about bringing Alexei Yashin back to the team.
I know Charles Wang and Alexei Yashin are the closest of friends. I’m very fond of Yashin as well and respect his ability as a hockey player. That is neither here nor there at this moment.
The Islanders are in a real battle with this Aug. 1 referendum. This is serious business. You will hear about polls that will be published in the coming days that say the vote on Aug. 1 is very close. One poll will project that NO will win.
Perhaps the Islanders are just doing Yashin and his agent a favor to see if there are any interested bidders from the other 29 teams. Perhaps they truly believe that Yashin would be an ideal addition to the lineup this season. Heck, perhaps they’re all just having a laugh.
I don’t get it. I cannot comprehend how they could possibly allow this to come out now, with so much at stake. It is mind-blowingly inane.
There are fans who will have no trouble with Alexei’s return on a cheap contract and without having to give up players to get him. I can understand that. But there will be plenty of others who will see this as somebody’s idea of a wicked joke.
The Islanders need 100% of their fans 100% proud of their franchise so they can rock the vote, write to the newspapers, call the politicians, pressure NIFA. Can the Islanders really be this tone-deaf to their fanbase?
I cannot believe that Snow, even if it was “suggested” to him to play along, would not stand up, be a manager and say, “This is not the time.”
This dance could have been danced in mid-August. The Islanders could sign Alexei a few weeks from now.
But to willingly let this get out now? On Friday, July 22? With Newsday ready to launch a load of positive and negative stories and editorials on the deal for a new arena on Sunday? With the Association For A Better Long Island prepared to pounce with a series of withering ads to reach the non-hockey fans?
With, oh, the future of the franchise at stake?
I cannot think of one good explanation. I’d love for someone to try.
359 Responses to ALEXEI YASHIN…REALLY? NOW?!!!
No matter the motivation, this is shameless, clueless
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FanSince72 says:
And with the first pick in the 2016 Draft, the Quebec City Islandeurs select…
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KBelanger33 says:
Call me sick but when I first saw this on twitter, it didnt bother me as much as I thought it would. Heck , he’s about the only vet/player that wants to come here, why not, dont see us making a big move anyways.
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Andy says:
No such thing as bad press, at least in the sense that the Isles are getting tons of attention today about something not related to the Aug. 1 vote. Can’t make a blockbuster deal? Create some buzz, I suppose.
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Peter says:
The Islanders are AMAZING at snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.
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forsitel22 says:
The only thing I can think of is that this bad news is a precursor to good news. Yashin doesn’t even fit as a centerman on this team right now so his acquisition would require trading one of our own. Perhaps we are looking into getting rid of Bailey? Katie eluded to a trade the other day.
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martin says:
Only the Islanders could do this!!!
All my Ranger fans just texted me – “HAHAHA”
Amazing.
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AngryPete says:
We know he’s incredibly generous and charitable. Maybe he will bring something to the community.
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tom says:
vote no.
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Neil says:
When your management structure (or lack therof) is based on friendship and not accountability; this is what happens.
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Bryan says:
I’m amazed that the circus never ends. Give me a 40-50 point guy on a cheap contract and I’m thrilled so long as the name isnt Yashin. I dont dislike the man but I dislike the $&*#% that I take from Ranger fan’s over this team being a life long joke. If they do sign him what happens to Bailey. Is he now a #5 pick playing 4th line 4 years after being drafted. I really dont get it.
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PennIsalnder says:
Chris? This is easy to explain. Follow:
This is the Islanders, so not making any sense makes PERFECT sense..
do you expect anything different?
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kcNYI says:
From a player standpoint – Yashin has been just under a point-per-game player his entire career including in Russia. Think of him as an upgrade to PAP – Yashin is 30 lbs heavier and 3″ taller.
I don’t see the problem with bringing back a player who would help in transitioning Petrov next year and help Kirill as well as the rest of the young guys.
Im pretty sure if Yashin was given a 2nd chance here he wouldn’t be a cancer in the locker room.
Yeah – Im not a big fan of having Yashin come back because of the past but would he make the Islanders better – YES.
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garthsnow30 says:
This will create a buzz but I dont think it will change the vote. Lets be real. I think people will want to come to see Yashin regaurdless if he does well or not. Yashin would play a much quieter and smaller role than in past years anyway. Good or bad buzz, its a buzz. Isles need it and he WILL sell tickets.
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gary91922 says:
Excuse me for the delay in responding… I just lost my lunch…
I checked the calendar and I cried when it didn’t say April 1st.
Here is your explaination CB: I am now convinced beyond all beleif that Wang has been jerked around for so long, has lost so much money that he is setting the table to hand this team over to another city or owner. He is only concerned with the current bottom ine and not to lose one dollar more than he has to.
He wants the vote to fail. Blue Oyster Cult as the headliner… REALLY??? If he wanted the team to stay for real he would have lined up the likes of Billy Joel and his friends. All he had to do was promise Billy a statue of him sitting at the piano or design one of the entrances to memorialize the graet music that has come to the area and feature Billy Joel.
This is a joke beyond all jokes. Today for the first time in my life I am truley ashamed to be an islander fan.
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misterpink says:
Well, at least he’ll have a reason for the turtleneck in Quebec.
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@Nyislandersfan says:
Really?? No Really??? WTF is Snow doing? Guess paying him for doing nothing was not enough. We already have an albatross we don’t need any more.
FOCUS People
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2011-2012 Isles says:
The only way I would want Yashin back is in an office, perhaps as some sort of community liason.
Bringing another center to the team makes absolutely no sense whatsoever.
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DaineNYU says:
From Yashin’s POV this is the time because KHL camps are starting. He needs to know now if an NHL team wants him or else miss camp in Russia since the season starts in September there.
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TheMass says:
Hopefully they make him the captain and have him model the new, probably hideous, third jersey.
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Well at least the fans’ overreaction is right on time.
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Phil says:
I don’t really have a big problem with this idea. At this point of his career, Yashin is a low-risk signing with a big reward if he has anything left in the tank. He could be a good veteran presence on the team and he actually likes playing for the Islanders. It’s not the knockout signing everyone wanted, but it’s also not the bad apple that will ruin all the other apples in the bunch. CB, are the Islanders still paying him anyway from the buyout or is that done?
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IslesHostage says:
Belanger, I agree. Who else wants in on LI? If we win more, more will but we need to win. Now Bailey has had a rough go with njo vet support on his line and this might help.
It’s two years than CIAO! No more Yashin as we’re by then hopefully going to see a better Bailey with young Kabanov or whomever.
The signing of a vet just for this cause (Bailey) was imperative. I’ve learned over five years to give Snow some benefit of the doubt and trust me, he got NONE the first two. Let’s just see if a world class Russian winger with experience can help Bailey reach his potential.
Or tell me who else we could have signed – that would sign here. -
BB says:
Chris, I have been a season ticket holder since the 1990′s, I was already to bring a car full of people to vote for the Aug 1 date. I am now prepared to vote NO because of Garth’s lack of guts to stop Wang from making this move. I GIVE UP!!!!!!!! What next, Poulin traded because he makes Rickey nervous. NO WONDER TO REAL PLAYER WILL COME HERE, WE ARE A CIRCUS!!!!!!!!
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Dave Sep says:
Here is my one shot at making any sense of this…
The Islanders are trying to bring back Yashin to remind the fans of when we last made the playoffs. To try and bring back those “Good Memories”
If they’re going to bring back players, why not re-sign Derek King… Yeesh!
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Tom says:
How does this affect our 35 year rebuilding plan?
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Phil L says:
not a horrible fit, if healthy he might put up 20 goals from the 2nd or 3rd line. That would free up a Comeau or Bailey to be traded. This may be just part of a bigger plan, but agree with CB, timing is horrible. This should’ve come up later. Nothing but more fodder for the press.
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Maybe this is a precursor to bringing back the Fisherman logo also.
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Richie from Va Beach says:
I’m getting on uneasy feeling that maybe, just maybe the Isles would not be unhappy with a No vote.
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The Frans Nielsen Experience says:
This is my two cents:
If you were to ask any casual hockey fan, or any non-Islander fan what their feelings are on the NYI, they would most likely say that it is a joke of a franchise. While, we here in Islander Country know that we’ve been working hard to put the “circus” days behind us, we haven’t given the outside world any reason to believe that. Since 2008, we have drafted very well, we have developed a ton of young talent, and the future finally was looking bright. All of a sudden hockey pundits started to take notice that maybe the Islanders have finally put the Circus in the rearview mirror. Now, with one of the most important moments in franchise history approaching, we are giving the hockey world every reason to believe we are not past those days. I don’t know about you, but I am sick and tired of reading/hearing “that’s the Islanders, when the world zigs, they zag.” Maybe Snow thinks Yashin will put up 50 points, but there is no excuse for this to happen prior to Aug. 1.
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islestherapy says:
Yashin is going to sell tickets? Are you on crack?
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Matt says:
This team is a joke…. enough
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Jim says:
What a joke! Snow has to stand up to Wang he has to know this would be a bad move. Just when you think Wang is starting to get it, it goes back to the buddy system which has kept the Islanders down for so many years. Please leave that cancer out of here!
On a brighter note I mailed in my absentee ballot today. So it’s YES votes: 1 – NO votes: 0.
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Dave#23-not sure if you are happy about move or not..but you hit it right on the head with your comment about why they are thinking bout bringing him back…
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I DO NOT WANT YASHIN BACK!
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@29- Yashin will sell tickets whether its a disaster or not. Book it.
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ghost of milbury says:
Chris, you should really tone done your criticism…. last thing you want is Snow getting mad at you and pulling your creds…
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PotvinRocks says:
Who was Gretzky talking about when he called a NY area franchise, a Mickey Mouse franchise?
What really bothers the daylights out of me is that this means that Ricky DL is always going to be our number 1 goalie. Ugh. He will yet again have the Islanders competing for number one in the draft this season and I was hoping that he would have been pushed into “management”. But nope. He’s our number 1 for the next 10 years. Thanks Charles.
Where would Yashin even fit in?
Tavares-Moulson-PA or Nino
Neilson-Okposo-Grabner
Bailey-Comeau-Nino or PA -
avolp55turgeon says:
Given Snow’s proven history of landing players who have garnered little to no interest- I’m giving him the benefit of the doubt here. Sure, on the outside it looks like a joke (hell, it looks like a joke to isles fans too), but Snow has surprised us before.
By no means am I saying this is a slam dunk. This is a risk that will likely cause the fanbase to uproar.
But when you are 26th in the league and well under the cap- I guess you need to take some risks.
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Mike says:
Richie. Your conspiracy theory makes a lot of sense. At least more sense than bringing back a guy we bought out who was a cancer in the locker room.
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Kaszycki's Krew says:
Wang, Snow, Rickey and Yash got together – and Rickey wants Yashin back. The locker room will be filled with young players who want to win – who have no loyalty to Rickey and guys who will complain if Rickey is 47th again this year in save % and GAA.
Yashin will tolerate losing. Tavares won’t
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James J says:
Sign him to a two-way contract on the cheap, no problem. But to even whisper the name Alexi Yashin before August 2 is not a prudent idea. I really like what Snow has been doing, but it all can be undone by signing or even seriously implying Yashin will be in an Islanders’ sweater next year.
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Bob E says:
I know we have alot of fans that love to say, i wont spend a dime on this franchise.
I just bought my 1st full season package this season to make sure i did my part to show support to the isles.
Ive been a die hard since i was a young kid. At 36 years old, prior to his news i was the most excited i have ever been as fan.
I was fully onboard for the rebuild. This would be a major set back that it makes me sick to my stomach to think about it.
TIMING IS HORRIFIC AHEAD OF THE AUG 1 VOTE.
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Hollywood says:
Holy Shit! This would be a huge mistake by Snow and Wang. Yashin is the wrong mentor for these kids. NOBODY wants to see Yashin in an Isles Jersey ever again! Don’t do it, somebody stop Snow!Isles fans despise this guy. Even if this is nothing more than a rumor it’s troubling!
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D. Meng says:
What Garth is trying to say is… Yashin will return. Expect it.
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Matthew says:
why not? he might put up 50 points on the 3rd line and he can mentor kabanov and petrov!
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isles72 says:
who knows Chris –maybe the isles are trying to bury the negative referendum attention by creating a distraction .
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TM says:
“Can the Islanders really be this tone-deaf to their fanbase?” YES!
They absolutely can and usually are. They just don’t get it and never will under WangSnow.
Lowest payroll, no radio, dragon as mascot, lowest payroll, dumping Jaffe, dumping Jankowski, lowest payroll, dumping Trottier, DP’s contract, Neil Smith, lowest payroll, LaFontaine leaving, Milbury, Sumo wrestler as goalie, lowest payroll, STH abuse, telling fans to come in a blizzard or else, ignoring evryone west of Nassau….NYI are always a PR nightmare.
Did I mention lowest payroll?
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Westfall says:
Chris, you used the perfect word: inane. Once again, this is Wang making hockey decisions, and no one having the stones to tell him no. When someone does (Neil Smith, Ryan Jankowski) they are giving their walking papers. THIS is exactly why our organization is the laughingstock of the entire league. How does Snow look at himself in the mirror after making those statements? New arena or not, this team will only become a serious Cup contender when Wang hires a respected hockey manager and gets out of his way. What a complete and utter disgrace!
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gutty34 says:
Why all the Yashin hate. A true hockey fan will realize he was great and resurrected our franchise with Peca. He was our best player until he was SERIOUSLY injured. Not sure how many of you have had your tendons and muscles sliced to the bone across your shooting forearm by a skate blade but this does change things drastically. He had a tough year the year after but he can definately help this team. He knows the NHL, is respected and can play the game. Like someone pointed out in previous posts – maybe he is 3rd line center and Bailey is part of deal that we will know of soon. I love Bailey and his potential but we did screw up his progress and maybe change of scenery is needed. He has a huge upside but will another mediocre/ok year totally kill his tradeability to return something worthwhile rather than a pick?? I love my fellow Isles fans but I sometimes think you all dont really stop and look at hard facts first. Most seem to shoot straight from heart which is good and bad. On another note – I work with someone who was the main broker working with Wang on Lighthouse finance structure. They said that as dedicated as he is and as great a man as he is, he does not get LI politics nor US business culture and that this has and will always be his knock. We all say can he be that stupid and naive – the answer I got yesterday is yes – that scares me!!!
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scatch38 says:
well the Islanders do need a captain lol
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I think I just threw up in my mouth. We need an underachieving veteran on this team like we need another injury on defense. The Isles organization does not get it and never will. I thought we trimmed the dead weight(not Doug) by getting rid of the likes of Gervais, Martinek & Sim. Yes, what we need to see 82 nights a year is Yash along the half boards taking weak shots right into the goalie hugging. He does not fit here, never did. He should take some PP time away from our kids. That’s good thinking.
This would be a horrible mistake. You never go back to the well again on a guy like this. -
JSExpress says:
I’m now 100% convinced they want the vote to fail. While I’m not totally against this potential signing, why in the world would they announce this now, as opposed to August 2nd? Not one more person will vote “yes,” but I can guarantee you that many fans will be turned off by this move, and either vote “no” or not vote at all. Plus, then does Snow ever come out on the media and confirm that he is talking a specific player? Something is up with this, and it is not good…
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Schultz39 says:
Well, we didn’t try to have training camp in China this year……so we had to do something weird to continue with the mockery of a franchise that this one has become. Let’s hope the vote is NO on Aug 1st, Wang bows out and someone else comes in to move the team to Queens or Suffolk.
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chos500 says:
Not sure how the cap hit works. Unless they can pay him less to play than not play this is a media mess.
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Hey where are all you SnowWang lovers now…Preaching patience, Snow and Wang know what they are doing, have faith in Them….I cant hear ya!
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Anthony says:
Snow is a joke and a puppet of Wang.Yashin stunk when he was here.Only the Islanders would buy out a player then bring him back.Lets bring back a washed up Yashin to take up a roster spot from a kid who has more talent.Great plan,way to stay on course Snow!!!
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Isles86 says:
I think he can menthor Kabanov and be instrumental in getting Petrov to the Island.
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Brian G says:
Snow is a horrible GM & Wang is a terrible Owner who still doesn’t have a clue about the NHL or the game of Hockey. I’m sorry but now charging $20 to park is a disgrace. If Yashin is signed I will not set foot in the Coliseum this season, they always do the opposite of real NHL teams…..Just sign the Sumo to play goal for this Circus of an organization. No other NHL team wants Yashin.
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Strummer's Army says:
1) I am sorry to hear the vote will be close because it shouldn’t be.
2) Bringing Yashin back and even considering bringing Yashin back is a mistake on every level.
3) Isles need to issue a statement right now that they are not considering bringing Yashin back. Get out in front of this!
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bababaoey to ya'll says:
This is a joke but lets not act like this will have any bearing on the vote…What difference does it make???
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Big says:
Completely awful. I don’t care if he put up 50 points. It’s a move backwards and will silence some of the young guys who have stepped up and grown so much. I want to say I can’t believe this but….
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Steve J says:
Im voting Yes but its days like today that make you realize why so many people could care less about this team anymore.
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Steve C. says:
This is not surprising. The Isles cant get anybody. Nobody wants to come here. They are a joke. They should just move. Let’s just end all the pain already. It’s over. Let’s move on.
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Richie66 says:
I would not mind if he comes back to the team on a trial basis. Let him get some preseason games in to see how he does with the kids. If it doesnt work out just let him go
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Bags502 says:
Moulson-Tavares-Yashin
Grabner-Neilsen-Okposo
Comeau-Bailey-Niedderritter
Martin-Reasoner-Parenteau
Gillies/HunterHe certainly is worth the gamble on a 1yr low salary contract… He’s much better then Parenteau and would help on the powerplay. If he sucks during camp then we cut him. Go for it, no one else is gonna sign here.
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gus mouse says:
Perhaps this will be a majore dual signing — Yashin and Nabokov. This is how they convince Evgeni to stay and relegate DP as the back-up — assuming he can play in more than 10 games. Certainly would solidify our main weak spot – in goal.
Will Carol Alt replace Christie Brinkley at home games???
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Michael says:
While nothing would ever surprise me with this team, I’m not buying into the tweets of his agent who is desperately trying to find a market for this big stiff.
Wang just can’t be this out of touch with the fan base that he’d seriously consider a return engagement. Maybe he can also bring back Kirk Muller and Ryan Smyth and we can have a line consisting of three of the fan’s most disliked players ever to have worn the Islander uni.
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DD says:
Yes, I DO think they are ‘that out of touch’ with their fan base. They are either way out of touch or they just don’t care about the fans’ feelings in the least (which isn’t smart either). Its fine to make decisions based on what they feel might be best for the organization, but some of their head scratchers should be explained in my opinion. It seems they don’t even realize how odd some of their comments/ideas/decisions are, and that is why I believe they are out of touch. Its a real shame because I could handle the cheapness but the idiocy is tough.
I’m trying to be open about Yashin…I guess for ONE YEAR he might be able to teach some of the younger set a few things they could use to up their games in the future. Last thing I’d want to see if him coming in and becoming captain, or taking over on the top line(s) too much in place of our own guys. Maybe I’m not feeling too open about it after all…
But also, isn’t this now the 3rd summer Yashin’s name was being buzzed around this organization? So it could just be their annual summer joke on us. And we’re a bunch of ‘the sky is falling’ type fans so how could they resist a good laugh at our expense. I could see that scenario happening. But then that would mean they weren’t out of touch.
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Toomas22 says:
Chris, do think this is just a game? I’m not really sure. I agree with everything you stated. But I believe if it was ‘just a game’ for the benefit of a friend, they’d play it post 8/1. To do this know? They could actually be serious. The arena IS serious business, but so is reaching the Cap Floor. Sign Yashin to an incentive heavy contract which he’ll never attain AND get to the Cap Floor. That’s serious business too. So serious, that this might not be a game. Either way it’s dumb.
Isles fans– it’s not all bad, the Isles are throwing a free concert next week, please take lots of pics because I won’t be there.
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Isles14 says:
Am I dreaming? Is Mike Milbury still the GM?? What is going on here? Man, every time I feel like this team takes a tiny, painstaking step toward respectability they manage to do something so embarrassing and remind everyone who we really are. Disgraceful.
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I think it’s now official…..Sanjay Kumar was brains behind Computer Associates and Wang got rich off his brilliance. Only a fool would bring back a player who the fans hated and was bought out of an obsurd contract. Add in the fact that we are 11 days away from a vote to keep the team on LI, and it makes this an even more head-scratching move. This once proud franchise is now the biggest joke in sports, sorry fellow Islander fans!
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Grandma's Boy says:
I don’t mind getting Yashin for a good price….it never hurts to sprinkle a couple of vets with a young team. He is an upgrade over Doug Weight, and was always very good with the community from what i remember.
Some of us are giving Yashin way to much credit here. I’m pretty sure talking with Yashin isn’t going to make a Nassau County Taxpayer to change their vote from “yes” to “no”. This isn’t like the President of the United States choosing a questionable running mate!
Maybe we will see him next Wednesday jamming with Blue Oyster Cult.
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another theory, what if this a pump fake in order to liven up the fan base, before Garth executes his real trade/signing or whatever the big move is. Kinda like when they hinted at drafting Duchene when everyone wanted JT just to add drama to the draft party.
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ENV79 says:
There are only 2 real possibilities I can see with this situation:
1. Turning this into a negotiation ploy (for both). Other GM has way too hefty a price for a player we’re targeting via trade, we leak the possiblity of bringing Yashin back while giving up nothing. #79 meanwhile uses us as leverage for his own deal.
2. They really believe he will help the team (and not just with getting to the cap floor).
Just for the sake of argument, with this clearly being Tavares/Okposo’s/Streit’s team what exactly is the harm with adding him at a Jagr-like salary?
Before we get hysterical, lets remember that he probably wouldn’t be captain, he won’t be the #1 center (more like a spare part) and he won’t be the highest-paid guy on the team (if however he IS at least two of those, I agree, I want what Snow/Wang are smoking too).
Our biggest problem with Yashin was his long, hefty contract and his failure to live up to expectations. Take both of those away and this is no different than us signing Alexei Kovalev to a 1-year $2 million deal.
Don’t get me wrong, I seriously hope this is (1) and not (2). And while the arena situation isn’t going as smoothly as we’d like, lets not conflate our frustration with that with arcane and obsolete hysteria.
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He is awful. So weak. Mental midget. However, may we be seeing Carol Alt in the building again?
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Yashin scored 30 goals once for the Islanders in 01. That same year he had his highest point total, 75.
The next season he had 65 points and missed one game. The 03-04 he had 34 points in 47 games. Then there was the lock out. Where everyone waited and expected a buyout. But nope he was back with 28 goals and 66 points. Followed by another disappointing season of 50 points in an injury plagued 58 game season.
What is appealing about this guy? -
Ryan says:
With all due respect to CB and his consistently great coverage, I don’t see the big deal. The move arguably makes sense on the ice, since he will come cheap, and I can’t imagine anyone changing their vote from yes to no, or not showing up to vote at all, simply because Yashin is brought back. I don’t love the move, I just don’t think it means very much.
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Chris A says:
Its worth the risk but the risk shouldn’t be taken now…after the vote. If it’s a low salary and he has a renaissance it can lead to playoffs or trade bait. It’s an ill-timed move that’s low risk
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everyone go on tsn’s nhl page and vote for TAVARES!
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Joe says:
This disgusts me, Garth is more clueless than I ever expected.
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Eric N. says:
Not in favor or bringing Yahin back but I don’t think it effects the vote. If you are an Islander fan you vote yes. If you are not, this means nothing.
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Isles66 says:
One step up, two steps back
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texas_isles says:
i would hope that this is all talk and nothing more. what was it last year or the year before the two sides were talking? but why now and not after aug 1st is the big ?
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Shoeless Joe Jackson says:
Overreaction. I don’t see how Yashin makes or breaks the vote. The vote is the vote, the majority of voters already know how they are going to vote.
Yashin talks are Yashin talks. Not sure how he fits on the team at this point, but on a cheap contract you can probably find a spot for him somewhere.
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JTizzle says:
I can explain Chris! It is because Garth Snow even though he is an eye for talent is not a GM. He is a PIKER!
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Terry19 says:
Am I the only guy that likes Yashin and would love him back on this site. Look, he was good and even great at times when he was here. The issue was his contract and injuries. When healthy, he was a point a game guy. Bailey could be a wing with Comeau on the other side. I like it for 3rd line.
Okay, now let me have it. Tell me how I’m not a true Isles fan. -
HyeDray says:
IMPORTANT For the VOTE. DONT fall for the ploy that the polls are showing a “NO” vote on the proposal. It could be VERY VERY CLOSE, and the detractors of the deal could be releasing the poll to suppress the turnout among supporters. Under NO circumstances should Isles fans waiver to show up and vote for this proposal — dont let media reports, Newsday, Democrats, Republicans or Ranger fans deter you from voting. If it is as close as I think it might be — we will need every single vote.
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DocDuke says:
I DON’T WANT YASHIN BACK!
But…If the reasoning is to help Kabanov & Petrov adjust, i could live with that.
NO MORE THAN 2 YEARS!!! -
Anthony Y, (Bay Area, California, formerly Oyster Bay, NY) says:
If this is the only guy that will sign here, I’d welcome it. The fans won’t like it though, and at this point it’s a terrible time to alienate the fans…
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DP2D says:
Possibly cap manipulation and relief? Bring him back on a one-way, help meet the cap floor, and reverse the buy-out amortization for the next few years. Immediately bury him in Bridgeport so he can keep DP company.
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jack blakc says:
Agree with CB here. Absolutely senseless move by the Islanders…Now onto my issue for the August 1 vote day. I went to register to vote today only to find out that the deadline to register for Aug 1 was JULY 7! I am 19 years old so I have never had the need, chance or opportunity to vote for anything. I really wanted to vote yes on this referendum. I love my Islanders, I worked there this past season in the PR department and it was an amazing experience and I know how good the department is and how hard they work. But did anyone want to put out in every media outlet that the deadline was July 7? I had no idea and I read Newsday EVERYDAY! No one felt it was important to put that out there. I am praying that this referendum passes, but it’s BS like this that may be a reason it doesn’t. Wang nor Mangano or anyone else thought it was important to make that one of the most important pieces of information put out there? “Make sure you register to vote by July 7.” There are plenty, plenty of people ranging from 18-25 that haven’t registered to vote and wanted to for this, but how would they know?! They wouldn’t because NO ONE told them! An absolute farce and failure by Nassau County! Thoughts CB?
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jack says:
How is this a surprise to anyone?
Turn out the lights the party’s over
They say that all good things must end -
Why don’t the Mets bring back Oliver Perez and Luis Castillo! I love the team but what a bunch of clowns!
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Joe says:
“But when you are 26th in the league and well under the cap- I guess you need to take some risks.”
This is NOT that risk! Trading four first round picks for Drew Doughty- that is an acceptable risk. Signing 38-year old Alexei Yashin to force someone ten or more years younger out of a job has no redeeming qualities. Not to mention Yashin’s history with the fans. With that there’s really no chance of this working out. I’ve already heard from three friends of mine who have full or partial ticket plans who have said they’re giving them up if the NYI sign Yashin.
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nosebleed says:
HAHAHAHA – I have said it before and will say it again; You can never make this stuff up when this “organization” is involved!! Yashin can have a money fight with DP, as they continue to fleece the “team”.
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Jim McDonald says:
Where in the article did it say we signed Yashin?
Relax people!!!
Why does everything have to be such an over reaction????
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Craig says:
Wondering is Snow is still looking to make a major trade for a top 4 d and a guy like Bailey is part of the deal. Bring back Yashin on a 1 year deal to play 3rd line center while one of the prospects plays a year in bridgeport and gets ready to take over that role?
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Oye Comeau Va says:
Just horrible. The only saving grace would be this time we wouldn’t have to give up Zdeno Chara and Jason Spezza to get him.
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Lotta Draught says:
Yep, Wang is trying to sabotage the vote so he can sell and relocate the team to recoup some of his money. It also helps him minimize expenses by signing a player he already paid-out not to play. Yashin signing would not be considered if the cap floor didn’t jump up so much. Cheap is as Cheap does.
Dolan is helping Wang by providing bad Newsday press so he can get out of the ~$20M per year TV deal and boost his Rags support. Both Billionaires win while the Isles fans lose. It’s all about the mighty dollar folks.
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StevieL says:
Bizarro world! What’s sad is I am numb to all of this now! I give it a big “whatever”!
More importantly, I work near the NVMC. Why doesn’t every bar and restaurant have a huge Vote Yes sign in front of it? -
Andy says:
There is no good explanation for this. He is not good for veteran leadership, outside of the fact he’s 37 (he takes shifts off, lazy on defense, etc.) He stands in the way of a young player’s development. and there has to be a better option for reaching the salary cap floor. I don’t think it will necessarily change the vote come August 1, but I think it’s certainly a backward step roster-wise.
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Maybe Wang will try to sell the team to the Nets owner to bring them to Brooklyn. Remember the Nets owner is Russian and there is a huge Russian population in Brooklyn.
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BooBoo says:
absurd.. on another note Jt needs some fan support @ tsn.ca…
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rpchief2 says:
Let’s picture this. He will not be counted on to be the man. He will probably play wing. Does anyone remember how great of a passer he was. Did Marius and Blake ever do anything without Yashin at center. Think of the possibilities of him setting up JT and MM. He could score 10 goals and have 60 assists. Id sign up for that. I know I’m in the minority but but that’s cool.
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Miked says:
I don’t give a $#!& if Yashin is a 60 goal scorer. Id rather finish last overall than to see him on my team again !!!! Geez
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jamie says:
Bring Yashin back and I will vote NO!!!!!
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RV says:
Why not bring back Brendan Witt while they’re at it? If the only way they can get players here is by paying them twice, then the team has far greater problems than a brand new pile of bricks for these guys to play in.
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DWC says:
Can two contracts for one player count against the floor?
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Steven says:
Another example of Charles being too close to these players and a lousy judge of character.
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BAAAAA!!!!!!
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DT says:
Chris, when i first saw the Yashin rumor on Twitter, i said i hope the Isles at least wait until after August 1st to announce a potential signing. To allude that they have had discussions is just as bad. I certainly don’t have an issue with the team bringing Yashin back. His expectations won’t be the same as they were 10 years ago and i think he would be a nice veteran presence in the lineup. That being said, Yashin never added up to the hype fans expected when he was here. This is just bad PR and it boggles my mind as to why Snow would let the words Yashin out of his mouth prior to August 1st. Unless Snow knows he has a major trade announcement upcoming just before the vote, the statement to hard to believe at the very least.
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Jeff from Smithtown says:
“I do not understand how Garth Snow can go on the record – with so much on the line in the final days before the Aug. 1 referendum on the future of the franchise – and confirm he has had discussions about bringing Alexei Yashin back to the team.”
Getting Yashin back on the Isles will sway no votes either way so I do not see a problem. How many people will change their vote – no one. Stop making a big deal about it.
Getting Shea Weber might energize the fan base a little but that is it. The vote will be the Islander fans and the Unions against the elderly . I predict the turnout will be less than 20% of eligible voters I do not think this is a hot button issue for most of Nassau residents. Once it passes the politicians will make it a big deal in trying to shoot it down -
Dan says:
Polls really don’t mean anything with this Monday Summer August vote- Its all about one thing my fellow Islander Fans- TURNOUT. Get everyone you know to vote YES!!
I remember the low turnout election in 2009 & no polls had Mangano beating Suozzi. Its all about TURNOUT….
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CJ says:
I’m telling you…. I’m the most faithful fan out here…. but if this comes to fruition, people really need to question their loyalty.
Do you really want to follow such an inept organization?
I’m really, really scared because for the first time, I’m really questioning my fan-hood.
1. Lafontaine trade
2. Turgeon trade
3. the entire 90′s debacle (except for 92-93)
4. Palffy “trade” to the Rangers
5. Luongo trade
6. Linden trade
7. Berard trade
8. I’m not going to say the Yashin trade because every Isles fan and their mother loved it at the time. Don’t lie.
9. Neil Smith
10. This arena garbagePlease don’t go backward Isles. Look at that list. Most of that stuff was 10-15 years ago.
The embarassment has tapered off.
Don’t be stupid.
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tond24 says:
keep drinking the kool aid…im only here till J.T. leaves then im gone too..this is a joke
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dose says:
Weird, bizarre, strange, goofy, odd, peculiar, abnormal and mind-boggling.
But I don’t see how this would affect the vote. Is any Islander fan now gonna vote NO because of this? I think the difference in the talley may well be how many votes they can score among casual and non-fans, by pushing the non-hockey benefits of this thing. Those people don’t know Alexei Yashin from Boris Badenov. Can someone tell me what I’m missing here? -
93 Miracle says:
To the people that say no one wants to sign here…come on now. If they wanted to they could sign Mccabe or Hannan right now im sure or even a Stillman.
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Mike says:
At least we can all move on with our lives when the three ring circus starts up again. Hey, let’s scam the taxpayers into building us an arena, one way to convince them is to sign Alexei Yashin!
Way to go, Charles. Your track record with the Islanders is absolutely flawless, and your ability to build a contender is amazing. Keep up the great work and your amazing decisions.
Who cares about August 1st anymore. I seriously cannot continue to stay onboard a rudderless ship with a zookeeper trying to guide me to safety.
Unbelievable. Or should I say, how fitting.
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StuDog says:
and this is surprising, why? this is charles wang. this is what he does. garth has righted the player personnel and drafting, but wang will always force his hand at dumb stuff like this. it’s par for the course.
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RHL Vin says:
I’m sorry but this is why no one takes this franchise serious and no bug name free agents want to sign here. This team is not run like a professional sports franchise is suppose to be run. It’s like a circus. Here we are a week away from possibly losing the franchise to another city and the Islanders admit to having discussions to bring Yashin back? Only the Islanders can screw this vote up.
I can’t say that this surprises me. Wang has proven that he is an established business man but he really has no clue how to run a professional sports franchise.
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Sean S says:
Hey if we cant have a winner, might as well start now and screw it up for Quebec.
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Michael Delman says:
No!!!!! Please God let this be a joke. Yashin is a cancer! His poor work ethic will infect the entire team. This can’t be happening….
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Ethan K says:
Wow what an overreaction… I guarantee this news does not change a single vote. If anything, it shows that Snow isn’t sitting around waiting for August 2nd. To honestly think that this will change the future of the franchise is silly.
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jdun89 says:
Anyone on here that says that the Islanders’ signing Alexei Yashin will cause them to vote NO is not a true Isles fan. Im sorry but its true. I don’t care how much you dislike the guy, he’s not worth losing the team over. Talk about an overreaction. Nothing has even happened yet. It seems like all of you go through anxiety attacks everyday or something.
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BT says:
I think this is, at best, merely an inside-joke amongst hockey fans and the fans alone. This really isn’t going to further diminish our chances at passing the vote. No big deal, everybody simmer down.
I’m just surprised this elicited such a response from you, CB. This sorta read like a fanpost on Lighthouse or something…
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AJAX says:
This is what happens when the GM is incompetent
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coralspringsislefan says:
This is an opinion based blog so I certainly respect everyone’s opinion. However, it’s my opinion that bringing added attention through the passing of judgement adds fuel to the fire on the Yashin issue and is no better than what was perceived as wrong in the first place. With so many people in this teams fan base already conditioned to responding negatively with regards to the teams decisions I can’t see the benefit in choosing to make a post like this one. I have a great deal of respect for you CB and your work is amazing. With that said, you wield more influence than you may realize and an article like this seems to serve as a detriment to all of the other hard work you have delivered with regards to the arena issue. If the vote is NO, it will not be on the fact that the Islanders spoke with Yashin’s agent. Vote Yes!
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When I read this I did laugh aloud, but I didn’t pull my hair out.
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sean says:
They are just blowing smoke they are not gonna sign him. They just want make the hockey news that’s why its brought up.
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jimisles says:
Thank God for the 100+ temp today or my Rangers friends would have been texting me all day!!!!
NEXT!!!!!!!!!
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Austin Powers Kvasha says:
Don’t worry everybody, the Isles won’t be signing Yashin anytime soon.Instead, on July 31st the Islanders will announce they have traded John Tavares, Okposo, Strome, Niddereiter, Grabner and Moulson and a 1st round pick to the KHL for Oleg Kvasha and sign him to a 15 year contract with an ownership stake upon retirement. After that the Isles will also sign DiPietro to another 15 year deal on top of the deal he already has (he will play defenseman while simultaneously playing goalie). The islanders will truly not allow their fans to have hope for more than a small period of time will they?.
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Mike. #113…I would LOVE to hear your explanation of why this arena deal is a plan to scam the taxpayers. Also, lay out what you would do differently. Don’t say that Wang should pay for the whole thing himself cause he already tried that once and was shot down. Not to mention that as we have learned, Wang was not the first Islanders owner to look into getting the team a new building and no previous owner was willing to finance a new arena on his own.
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The new isles gm says:
Chris, I think that you are a bit out of touch on this subject, quite frankly…I’m surprised. How quickly we all forget Garth convinced Wang to buy Yashin out the year after Ryan Smyth callef Yashin out in Newsday. That right there single handedly is responsible for the drafting of Tavares. So it seems unlikely we would resign that mistake and expect a favorable response from the fan base. I do still believe though…if anyone is getting traded, it’s Bailey. I think Garth has done an excellent job since Yashin’s buyout. It’s just not going to happen for us as quickly for us like it did for Pitts/Hawks. As you said on twitter, this deal would be done by now if it was true. My guess is we make one move, subtle as usual and start camp. Only time will tell though. In no way does Yashin affect the vote though. This is about the future, not Yashin centering the Isles 3rd line. More about watching our core grow, develop and parade down hempstead turnpike with Lord Stanley himself. Time to go swimming boys…it’s hot out!!!
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WM says:
For those few people on here that are now considering a “NO” vote b/c of this Yashin news……..you are all pathetic. Move to Atlanta and root for the local minor league team.
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Bye bye DP says:
another terrible decision by this franchise.
I believe it though – we’re used to this treatment. Another reason whey we’re treated like the red-headed stepchild of the area. I can’t even read the article on Newsday because I don’t subscribe and live in Westchester, where they barely sell the paper…
Once again apathy sets in…. -
yabbazabba says:
# 126 and the other reasonable people posting here, i agree. remember this isnt all about the Islanders. VOTE YES 8.1.11
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LIMBAUGH2012 says:
April fools!
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Mond says:
I disagree CB. He is a top tier athlete that performed well his first 2 years here. He was a good player, just overpaid. He’d be good for the competition on this team. He is better than Hunter, Gillies and even Parenteau
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seabass says:
What a joke. To even put the fans through this is just despicable and tone deaf to say the least. What a blunder to allow this to come out now. Can we all just face facts that CW is a loser and always be one? As long as he is the owner of the Isles we will be putting up with this @#$%. And, if the areana wins it will be who know’s how much longer of this crap..if it isn’t this it will always be something like him defaulting on his payments to the county. CW bought us stability a decade ago..and nothing but heartache and embarrassment since…he has accomplished nothing as the Isles owner. There are plenty of depots that have managed to remain in power over the years but that doesn’t make them good or righteous leaders…and it doesn’t make CW a good owner. Wake up people! this referendum is about CWs ownership of the Isles, not the Isles staying on LI. Don’t let this man continue his reign of incompetence VOTE NO to get CW out and a new owner in…Trust that there are other owners out there and that Bettman will not let the Isles leave….it is a leap of faith but it is better then being held hostage by this owner any longer…
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Sumo Goalie says:
Party on Wang! Party on Garth!
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chris18 says:
You can find Yashin Isles jerseys for under $50 on sites to this day. Why? Because the fans hated him. Other than the 1 game vs the Rangers where he had a hat trick & a fight, he was gutless. Ryan Smyth came in and took the leadership from him in 2 minutes. I still remember when Ted Nolan was made coach & they had the pre-season interview show. Yashin said that hopefully Ted could find a role for him on the team. He was “Captain” at the time, making $9m/year, and he needed someone to tell him his role?
Such a waste of hockey talent. I can’t even remotely see what the point of this is, unless they are trying to completely alienate the fanbase so they can move. I have supported SnoWang throughout the rebuild, but this is just flat out stupid. (Supported everything other than pulling CB’s credentials)I nearly punched my monitor when I saw this. Rangers fans I know have been emailing/texting me the link all day.
I have never been embarassed of being an Isles fan, until this.
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FrankieD says:
Everybody is getting nuts including CB…Snow said Yashin is skating at IceWorks and looks good…he didn’t say the Islanders were signing him….although that might not be a bad idea if you want to get the Kirills excited.
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they wont sign him. dont worry
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Isles22 says:
Classic case of overreaction by everyone. Including CB.
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Jeff Kuntz says:
Just told my very, very knowledgable Detroit Red Wing fan friend about the hissy bit being thrown by Isles fans.. his response?:
I’d take him in Detroit. Our biggest problem we have here is we’re trying to convince Mike Commodore to wear #64.
(how epic would that be?)
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Ok sorry, one more post to tie up my previous comment.
My point is that at this point in time, our greatest concern are the voters NOT affiliated with this team. Does a conversation between Garth and a seemingly obscure Russian dude who shoots a puck mean anything to someone who doesn’t know, let alone even care what “icing” is?
But once you explain it all to them, make sure to omit his PPG decrease. For the arena’s sake.
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er, hissy fit. sorry.
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Hud says:
I don’t see how it hurts to bring him to camp and see what happens, dude would get fifty points and bury some of those sweet JT passes, relax kids.
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Mikeb says:
Vote is close ? On 8/1. Forget whether Yashin is good or bad for this team. This doesn’t pass the Islanders must announce they arw bailing on Nassau cty 8/2. The NIMBY stuff is crazy, let Nassau have a closed arena.
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FL wants him, Oilers want him, Detriot wants him, yadda yadda yadda, my vote will not change whether the pick him up for a year or not. Lets face, one year of Yashin or…. infinity years of Quebec? get real people. stop acting like a bunch of babies. Im die die die die hard fan. but really, most of you make me sick to my stomach. stop complaining. be happy they still play on LI. g0d d@mn
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PSM1966 says:
with this heat, Yashin may finally break a sweat wearing an Islander Jersey
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Peter says:
I don’t think this is a big deal at all. I don’t live on LI anymore, so maybe I’m unaware about some ridiculous hate for Yashin. I also don’t see how this impacts the vote at all. If people won’t vote yes on 8/1 because we are considering bringing Yashin back then perhaps we should just let the team go. That would be a ridiculous overreaction.
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Muggsy says:
Well…guess when they move to Quebec City in the next year or 2 (they are not staying till 2015 if the new arena fails), we will have to switch our hatred from the Rangers to the Habs. Do you think they will have Long Island nights in Quebec for old Isles fans like the Packers have the “Milwaukee Games” for the people of Milwaukee since the Pack don’t play any more games in Milwaukee?
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Hank says:
This is great news. I also heard that Wang likes Yashin so much that he said he was willing to pull #19 down from the rafters so Yashin could wear it.
I must have a great sense of humor, to be a devoted Islander fan for 32 years.
Oh boy, maybe Butch can come down from the both as well.
I certainly hope that this is not the big moves Katie S. from newsday wrote about. -
i agree pete
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bossy man says:
It”s not about Yashin,it’s about Carol Alt being the new senior ice girl
Or is yashin the big defenseman we are missing,
Or has garth lost his mind in the heat -
islesfan03 says:
okay okay relax a little bit. I do NOT want yashin sighned but to say as a islander fan that you are now voting no is so stupid. Still suppourt the team lets go islanders but this isnt the move im looking for. VOTE YES
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PA,islanders says:
Um is just me or aren’t we still paying Yashin, so we might as well get some return.
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VOTE YES!
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VOTE YES
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Wald says:
Picked the wrong week to stop sniffing glue.
Vote Quimby!
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Rob T says:
At this point I’d rather go down with the ship…
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Vote Quimby?? VOTE YES! This in no way should have an effect on the way you vote Aug 1. For your sanity and mine… VOTE YES
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Chris says:
Yashin is a Cancer.
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I’m mixed on it….I like Yash, always have, but he IS 37 now. I don’t think it’ll sway voters, but that is just my opinion. If the Islanders do sign him, as a fan, I’ll welcome him back with open arms. To be honest, I wasn’t a fan of buying him out.
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This has to be a smoke screen! Garth never tips his hand and now he is saying Yashin looks great and we are talking with his agent! Agree it is clueless timing for the Islander fans but i just don’t see it. Maybe I’m the clueless one.
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VLo brooklyn says:
omg i need a drink.There’s something brewing here. Im desperate for any move. Keep the faith. Go isles
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Bob from Bethpage says:
man yur finally gettin it .. this is serious stuff and these guys(wangano’s) are playing clown games… btw i told ya about the polls a few days ago .. and its scary stuff ..this is 50 -50 right now.. and not time for games..alexi yashin ..??? really ? keep tellin me how this aint about real estate ,its like these guys wanna lose this vote.. and if any of you have ever talked to anybody in the county executive office you’d have lil hope too.. to here these guys say stuff like ” well we think it might pass” we just really gotta get our facts out there”.. hello ya think mr. walker??? how about gettin to it months ago… and the FACT that details are still fuzzy is a joke .. 60$ a month ..or maybe 13 .80 $ so what is it really ??? and shouldnt this have been clear before going to battle ?? im sorry but from point 1 this has been handled like a 3 rate carnival..
trust folks ..the word is out the senior groups see it as frivolious wastefull spending .. and they are coming..
finally wang needs to make guarantees he needs to make concrete guarantees to the county that if they pay up they are gonna get paid back..
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Jethro09 says:
This team just continues to shoot itself in the foot. Its incapable of making wise decisions.
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but i actually like the idea of yashin better than blue oyster cult..
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jpa says:
Bad timing, sure. Hockey move, I got no problem with it, so long as the contract makes sense. Short term, less than Jagr and it’s a win for the Isles.
Are there any other skilled vets who can get us 60-80 point season out there in FA waiting for a contract?
To all the fans who are SURE the Isles are lacking, this pick up makes us better.. yeah, thats how bad we are. But go ahead, complain about it. Im sure people are still frustrated we didn’t get stamkos or wondering why were not getting Weber. Or waiting for some magical trade that gets us a Trottier for Bailey and a 6th round pick.
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RV #55 says:
Yo guys and gals…..of course cb and you all are right on, but there are now over 100 comments that the VOTE NO’s will use against us. I challenge everyone to begin posting POSITIVE Yashin signing comments. I’ll start….
This is great news! We finally get a big name free agent that wants to play here. AY continued his point a game career scoring pace in the KHL. He is finally injury free after years of battling knee, back, and that darn arm ligament injury that caused him to spiral into a hockey depression. With our young guns, AY will surely rack up assist after assist and and chip in 20+ goals himself. Adding AY givees us the forward depth needed to jettison a young prospect that bring us that killer D’man we’ve been salivating for all summer. I heard via twitter that AY looks great, and is skating with determination and fire. Vote Yes on Aug 1 and prepare to walk behind AY into the new arena in 2015. Wonderful news! Snowangano genius!! Let’s use it to get out the vote!!
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goislesgo105 says:
Is this an Islanders fan blog or an Islanders bashing blog!!!???? I’m really getting tired of all of the Isles bashing that goes on here. And now even you,CB, are doing it! Whether the Isles sign or don’t sign Yashin has NOTHING to do with the Aug. 1st vote. Nassau NEEDS to pass this referendum because it is a good idea. To allow the Isles to leave and let the NVMC and the area around it rot is STUPID and INSANE!!!Please vote YES!! GO ISLES!!
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rookie92 says:
All i can say is this…if you are now going to vote “NO” because of this then you are not a true fan. As ridiculous as this may seem voting no is even worse. And if Yashin should put up 50+ points none of you would have a thing to say (but let it be known that in no way do I expect this).
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Hishutzi Skorz says:
We could sign the equivalent of Bobby Orr, Gordie Howe, and Rocket Richard, and it would have a miniscule, if any effect on the vote. The “naysayers” will vote that way for one reason—they are sick of paying ridiculously high taxes!
As for having him on the team? I was never a big fan of his, but if he comes to camp and shows he can play, he’d probably be a more productive RW than PA and would certainly boost the PP.
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i dont think any signing will matter to the NO vote.. with them its strictly taxes ..and wango missed the boat about making a very clear case about what the taxes will be and than POUNDING it home ..instead they wasted precious time , much of it on non sense if nothing at all..
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its all about the taxes stupid… taxes taxes and taxes….
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No way Yash is better than PA. I’m no huge fan of PA but at this point I’ll take him over Yash. Don’t screw with the building of chemistry amongst these young kids by bringing in a cancer like Yashin. Go back to Russia!
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Cold Spring Harbor says:
If he doesn’t make the team, he can be the team’s NIFA representative. Does Carol come back as well? Stranger things have happened.
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Froggy says:
Hey RV55(#161), get the needle out of your arm already.
This is so pathetic I can’t even muster up a comment. I am literally paralyzed by the stupidity of this idea.
What dopes these guys are.
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Rob76 says:
I am in the minority but i do think he can help our team next season, especially on the power play. My big problem is they have to be smart enough to know this move wont be met with praise so why didn’t they just wait til August 15th to announce the signing AFTER the most important day(August 1) In the last 30 years of this organ-eye-zation
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Isles7 says:
People, the back cover of Newsday was in celebration the day we bought him out. Botta, you are right on the money, this is truly insane at a time like this to talk about bringing Yashin back. He’s done here, I don’t want him taking any one spot, this is a new team with home grow players, something we havn’t seen since the late 1970′s to 1980′s. Snow, you earned everyones trust so far, tell Wang to eff off and stand your ground. Let him take care of the new stadium, you take care of the team, don’t hurt it.
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Marc says:
I am against signing Yashin but if it happens, every Nassau county resident, hockey fan or not, better vote YES!!!
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For the record. Ive been positive on this franchise for the whole rebuild beginning 2008. Every action taken by Snow to this point has been consistent with direction of this franchise.
You really dont know hockey if you dont believe this would be a colossal setback to this team.
YASHIN is a Cancer.
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Mike P says:
Lets not get too crazy here. Lets stay focused on Aug 1st, really guy’s, STAY FOCUSED !!!! I’m not happy with Yashin’s possible return either, but we need to stay FOCUSED, even though our beloved Isles act crazy sometimes. STAY FOCUSED. Yashin shouldn’t make or break the vote, don’t let it….
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Sometimes I feel that the only people posting here are RANGER fans. Everyone is Islander bashing. I don’t find any of this on Lighthouse hockey.
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dack1972 says:
I can’t believe the negativity in the comments regarding Yashin. Did Yashin deserved the contract no but it wasn’t his fault. Yashin is a point a game player maybe not anymore but I still think he can contribute. Does anyone have any faith in Garth. the guy has built the best prospect pool in the league and has signed some unbelievable sleepers. Some fans are ready to vote no because of the return of Yashin…..really!
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slsangus says: Curiouser and curiouser…
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Anthony from Commack says:
hell, bring back STEVE WEBB!!! that’ll get a car I get on if we board this train — i cant believe this, I am now struggling to support the management of our team … love the players, but can NOT stand the suits – is it bad to say fire snow yet?? anyone in the position of 1st overall pick woulda gone w JT and 5th overall with nino (maybe) and stromer – aside from MM and MG, where is the amazing GM that ppl speak of?? with that said, hope for the best for the team, GO ISLES
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islesfan999 says:
I dont get all the drama. He could be useful for 1.5 million 1 year deal as a 2nd – 3rd liner.
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TimQ says:
This says 2 things to me. Wang is loyal to a fault. Isles PR department is the joke of all sports teams
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JM says:
Wang is a kooky guy.
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phil says:
Tone deaf. . .and this surprises anyone why? Konopka is a senator. . .Nuff said
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Jim Clark says: I will believe it when I see it but if I see it, I won’t be seeing it in person at The Old Barn. In other words, I won’t buy any tickets for him. I went along with the initial trade for him with misgivings but now I know better. No bad characters..and Yashin is a con man.
What’s next, Milbury as abroadcaster?
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Dave says:
Stop…Stop…Stop PEOPLE! This should not matter on the way you VOTE! I’m still Voting YES! It is not a done deal and even if so they will not sign Yashin for me then 1 yr – 1.5 mill. I have said this before and I stand corrected. No team is going to give up their core players unless you give them 2 first round picks and a top NHL ready player! The climate we are in today everyone builds around the draft! Zach Parise, Jerome, and Drew will sign with their current club team!
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Petey Pete says:
If you gave me a choice between PA Parenteau or Alexei Yashin on JT’s wing, I’m taking Alexei Yashin. I don’t understand the animosity…”he makes the Islanders a laughingstock!”…guess what?
He’s probably the only ice hockey player on this planet who’s first desire is to play on Long Island! It’s not like we’re giving him another 10 year deal and naming him Captain.
If someone tells you they switched their vote to NO “because of Yashin”, they were probably going to vote NO anyways.
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I’m Not a Yashin fan but he would only be sign for VETERAN Presense nothing else….stop the complaining..this team is way better then those years yashin was on the team! besides it’s only for one year if it happens!!!! This Arena includes no concerts and events too if it does not pass!!!!
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And CB, I love your work more than anything, but I’m going to have to agree with a good chunk of the commenters here that this is a major overreaction.
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vlad says:
I will be voting NO and trying to convince as many people as I can to vote NO too.
This franchise completely amazes me once again.
They will always be A JOKE AS LONG as Wang is here, the best chance for this franchise is a No vote and WANG to sell.
Everybody vote NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Michael Pastore says:
Come on guys do not go overboard. We have heard this same song and dance before and nothing ever came of it. Since when does Garth ever leak anything to the papers like this? He makes Parcells and Belecheck look like they are open books. He will not be coming back to the Island. Also when they take these polls they just call up all registered voters and do polls. Because it is a non election vote the people who are on the fence about this are not going out of their way to vote. Only the Islander Fans, The consruction Union members and their familys, and the people who are very against it. This should not be a problem it is when the vote gets to NIFA and the County Government when we will have the issue.
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Money Making Mike says:
Please vote NO!!!!! Wang is freakin clueless. The isles will never win with him as owner. He is a joke….
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People LoVE to complain no matter what..its part of being human! Long Islanders are #1 for it!!!! Take this into account either you have no hockey team and ARENA or Vote YES! Garth Snow is trying, but all the players are locked up or want to remain with there current team so it’s dead. MARK MY WORDS SNOW WILL SIGN A DEFESEMAN BEFORE THE START OF THE SEASON! Snow has done this every year!
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AFIsle says:
what has yashin done? why all the hate?
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one of the scary part of the polls is that early polls were close to 75% yes…only in the last 2 weeks have they drawn even..which rob walker himself said was shocking..
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THollinger says:
It’s simply one of two things, a stop gap to buy time, keeping someone or two in juniors or minors another year (Kabanov or Strome, or Nino) or with signing Reasoner as well…if Reasoner matches Bailey’s output last year, Snow is setting himself up for a trade…back away from the ledge ppl., the sky is not falling…and no, Snow is not suppose to show his cards to all…it amazes me how NY media think they know more than the GM – yet Snow’s true peers, the real experts, think he is a very good GM. Yet Brian Burke never gets this kind of flak from Toronto media…obviously Yashin would not be expected to put up 60 points, 30 goals…did Philly scream over Jagr? Not a big deal.
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#199 VLan your not an ISLANDERS FAN! True fans will vote YES no matter what! People have all ready decided which whay they are voting…I have spoken to at least 50 people more YES then NO! SINCE WHEN DOES ANYONE LISTEN TO NEWSDAY! THEY PRINT MORE NEG. STUFF THEN POSITIVES! GARTH SNOW NEVER GIVES A YES IN PUBLIC> either way it should not MATTER i’m sure this is another NEWSDAY tatic!
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199 your not a true fan voting no is so stupid just because of yashin. Tell everyone to vote yes. Don’t make it that easy for our team to relocat fight for our team god dam ppl!
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zerstoren says:
isles fans who don’t realize his point production and admit he was bout out for smyth are fools. he didn’t tell the isles to pay him x a year. they decided it. he was a solid player who got negative attention from fans who were obsessed with players like blake. he made that man a millionaire. while fans still love blake-who has gone on to do nothing on 2 teams-they still hate on yash. one of the better fan friendly players. oh and for what it’s worth, his time as an isle he had a better ppg average than elias-cup winner and all time leading scorer-has had his entire career with the devs.
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Bob Bassen says:
Lead story on TSN. Wow. Truly speechless. Wang (who should be in jail) always trying to stubbornly ignore his hockey ineptitude but thinking that he’s the smartest guy in the classroom.
#16 is one of the funniest post ever whether they sign this guy or not.
So honest answer: What is everyone more PUMPED-UP for;
Blue Oyster Cult or Yashin coming back?!?
Scott Gordon must be happy as heck right now… -
jbassman72 says:
Overpay a player tremendously – owner eventually realizes grave mistake through the years with players lack of production and leadership- owner comes to senses, takes the financial hit, and relieves player of his services to the joy of thousands of rabid fans only to………….bring this clown back once again when our teams future is hanging by a thread?????? Is this the impact move we’ve been waiting for????? We ALL know what this guy brings to the table. Probably not major or even minor factor to sway votes but I see not ONE positive with bringing him back to the team.
Show me ANY other organization that would put on this charade.
Further proof that Yashin and DP MUST have pics of Wangdoodle bedding down a sheep.LETS GO ISLANDERS
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This organization never listens to it’s fans regardless if it’s the goal song or stupidity like this. My god give us a break. If they want to be in the news then spread rumors about making a blockbuster trade that we can get amped over not resigning a stiff who the entire league knows is a locker room cancer.
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shlo says:
We are suppose to progress not REGRESS .
Yashin was SLOW 5 years ago, where does he fit?
maybe in a photo with Wang ,but that’s about it. -
Danbury Islanders Fan says:
How could bringing back Yashin effect someone’s willingness to save the team! You either want to keep them or you don’t!
I am not saying its a good hockey move, but it shouldn’t influence your vote. -
jim says:
I may not agree with the move but that wouldn’t make me vote no. WTF?
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Dan C. says:
This is absurd. Yashin was as slow as it gets, easily knocked off the puck and as unwilling to go into traffic as an NHL player could possibly be 4 YEARS AGO! And comparing him coming back to Jagr’s return is ludicrous. Jagr was 10 times the player Yashin ever was, and while he was also slow 3 years ago, he was still as strong on the puck as anyone in the league. This is a joke. This would be the capper to one of the most disheartening months as Islanders fan ever, and that is really saying something. After executing a sensible draft for once and then trading for the negotiating rights for Ehrhoff, it really looked like this team was headed in the right direction. 3+ weeks of near-inactivity later and now this? What just happened?
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Not Surprised says:
Um at what point in history has Charles Wang done anything even remotely intelligent with regards to this hockey team?
Why do so very many people insist on being surprised when he does something asinine like hire a goaltender to GM, or run a team by committee, or fail to run a real publicity campaign for the new arena or whatever his embarrassment of the week is?
If this move is a surprise to you, you have not been paying attention over the last 10 years. Nothing is off limits to Charles, and you are never, ever bound by the unwritten limits of good faith or common sense when considering his next move.
Next up: Fire capuano and re-hire Milbury. Why the hell not?
This is like the NHL version of the Twilight Zone now.
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bleedorange&blue says:
I love Islander fans. Good comments, bad comments, your input is what drives my faith in that no matter what we do, we have our fans. If i was to buy the team (in my dreams) I would do exactly what the GB Packers did. I want the Islanders to be a publicly traded company with the input of everyone. Vote YES. Hope I win the lottery and all of you can have a piece of this team and bring it back to the days of glory; though those days arent far off. BTW… during Yashins 6.5 years with us we made the playoffs 4 times, with a horrid team. By no means am i 100% behind this move (the ink isnt out of the pen yet) i dont see it as a devastating blow to the franchise. People around the NHL might snicker, but if we make the playoffs, we have made a decent statement. ISLANDERS ARE BACK.
VOTE YES AUG 1st, 2011 -
Wally says:
Might as well bring back the fisherman and lighthouse logo
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valentino says:
My question is – why would you bring him back after having bought him out 4 years ago. You paid him for 4 years without the benefit of any production and now resign at the end of the buy out and he’s 4 years older. Makes ZERO business sense to me. Just another reason why real players don’t take this franchise seriously.
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Islesfan_in_Vancouver says:
if his name was Cory Stillman instead of Alexei Yashin this wouldn’t be an issue, would it?
this isn’t like bringing back Kirk Muller
I’d like to see Yashin back, I always thought he did well given nothing for linemates.
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Is mad mike available?
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The overreaction to all of this is hysterical.
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CM says:
Train wreck. Only reason now why I follow the Isles. Hard to admit being a fan.
Vote No. Make Wang sell. Stop the madness.
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Mickeyboy7 says:
What’s next? How bout a 6 year EXTENSION for DP?
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Islander Pauly says:
Maybe Charles and Garth think they get extra credit towards reaching the cap minimum if they not only pay Yashin, but this year actually play Yashin ! I hope they know what they’re doing here. It’s never boring….is it??
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Don from Levittown says:
This has probably been asked in the previous posts, but I don’t have time to read them all. If they sign Yashin, would they be paying him two contracts? I don’t have that much of a problem with him coming back if they can figure out a way to actually “save” money by voiding the other contract. But yes, I think it could have waited 2 weeks.
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drive45 says:
If you are going to change your vote from YES to NO because of this then go F… Yourself. Why are some of you even on this site reading about the isles if you want them to disappear.
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Mike239 says:
How, in the name of all that is sacred, does a 37yr old, 37!…out of the NHL for 4 yrs or however long…ANNNND turned away by the KHL Alexei Yashin, fit THIS team??? Unless this guy has had bionic legs surgery and the HEART of a real hockey player implanted?! O…M…G. I am ashamed to be an Islanders fan today. I think i may be forced to become a Tampa Bay Lightning fan. I want to scratch my eyes out with broken glass.
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@219
How were the Isles a horrid team the 4 years they made the playoffs? In 2001-02, when Peca was healthy and Yashin actually played well, they were an above-average team. The other three years they are average, and what little success they did have was more attributable to some fast, irritating forecheckers like Blake, a solid and skilled defense, Osgood, Dubie and, yes, DP. Yashin contributed to the power play, but that’s about it.
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jzruggie says:
I suspect the Yashin signing has something to do with 1) Nabokov; and 2) having a respected Russian to mentor Kabanov and (next year) Petrov. I am not too worried …I think calm is in order. And CB …I think maybe you over-reacted. What are you trying to do, get yourself banned from the locker room? Oh ….
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streit02 says:
As far as the team goes, i dont mind adding the talent of Alexei to the lineup. If he were never expected to carry the franchise on his back he would be perceived differently. He isnt expected to do that now, my only concern would be his will to win being a veteran on such a young team and the kind of impact his attitude is going to have rubbing off on this close team of young kids. Would i do it? NO, but on the ice it should make the team better, but that isnt the big picture here.
Botta, as far as this post goes, it probabyl would have been better for you to spin this into a positive for the 8 days or so until the vote and then give your honest opinion after. You know how many followers you have here who will agree with anything you say. This post can only sway people who were in the middle to vote no now. You may say you are just a blogger with an honest opinion, but you have to know the convincing power you have. Perhaps this post could have waited 8 days as well, just like the Isles could have waited also… -
I find it funny that some fans are saying if you Vote NO, that you are not a true fan of the Islanders…. That is BULL!!!!!
I’m a true Islander fan for many years and I will definetely be voting NO and convincing other people to Vote NO also.
The reason is simple, I feel this franchise will always be a JOKE under WANG( New arena or not). He has proven time and again, that he has no clue and we will be jokes and losers under him always. It doesnt matter how good the young talent is, Wang will find a way to ruin it(like he has a few times before).
I’m willing to take my chances with a NO vote and hope he cant use this team anymore for anything and will then SELL.
Then and only then will the Islanders rich tradition be restored(including winning ways) with a new dedicated owner.
Maybe the real bad Islanders fans, are the ones that are voting yes and ignoring the truth they have seen in the last ten years with Wang.
These fans are the enablers and just giving Wang another chance to make money and use this team as a laughingstock.
Reminds me of the Milbury supporters through the years, some fans will deny the truth and enable evil(if they are a part of the Islanders). The truth will set you free, dont support somebody that has shown you he only cares about themselves…
To Quote WANG to a fan at a past Islander gathering— ” sit down and shut up”
Wang could care less about the fans and is only out for himself….
VOTE HIM OUT OF HERE…
VOTE NO AUGUST 1st
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RV says:
I just drove by the coliseum and the decrepit electronic sign out front reads, “Tickets for The Island of Misfit Toys on Ice go on sale Aug 1.”
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Honnold says:
Well put, CB. I consider myself a part of the silent majority and do not consider Isles mgmt. 100% self-destructive idiots. They’ve taken their shots post-Milbury, and some moves have worked better than others. But, this would be the final insult. DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT, MR. WANG (well, apparently, it’s too late for that). I hope it’s, as you write, merely a favor to Ya$hin’s a$ent, but the timing is unforgivable.
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I fully support bringing Yashin back. Great idea. Would rather have Yash over Parenteau as first-line LW or anywhere among top nine forwards. Stop blaming him for the contract.
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Cary says:
I’m a practical guy – Yashin over PA Parenteau.
Not a great signing but by no means a cancer or step backwards.
That said I’d rather see someone better on JT’s wing.
Vote Yes – DUH!!
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patrick says:
this is not getting passed even if the vote does..disgraceful.
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to even say your going to vote no if they sign him is just plain stupid. i really dont care if they sign mickey mouse to center the 3rd line. just as long as they are still here after the 14/15 season. United we stand divided we fall. vote yes
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Al says:
Proving once again why this franchise is considered the joke of the hockey world. Serious lack of good judgement, completely out of touch with their fan base. Just a bad hockey and PR move all around. Disgusted…now if he comes back and nets 30 I completely rescind my previous statements
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KyRick says:
I tell you I don’t like it, but Snow has pulled some good moves in the past. Yashin is going to serve some other purpose ; help the fourth line, aid the young Russians who are coming soon, and he might be big body sized upgrade we might use a bit. Heck we are still paying him I think, so you might as well get your mone’s worth. Make him earn some of it, at least.
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Adroc says:
At the end of the day, our GM is an ex-backup goalie with no prior front office experience working for a guy who learned the basics of hockey as an owner. I don’t care how much Wang “cares” but he’s a novice that likes to be involved. Not a recipe for success!
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This crowd is fickle.
Someone tell me which FA available now is as good as picking up Yashin?
Worst Case: Benched
Best Case: 60-70ptsWe give up nothing here and yet it’s a horrible move. We have nothing to lose except what? Haley or Gilles sit a few more games? Is that really what were crying armageddon over? This is a joke how? Because we bought him out before the rebuild?
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D in Big D says:
Hey people how else are the Isles going to make it to the cap floor?I also agree this should not have an effect either way on the vote.Its definitely better than the dead Weight signing last year.He will help period.Especially on the PP.This just goes to show the Isles have nothing anyone wants.We’ll have to do this from within the organization.
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I don’t think Yashin would get paid anything – he’s STILL ON THE PAYROLL!
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Now I’m voting no on august 1st
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HE IS 37 Years Old and he couldn’t cut it in the KHL! Good Pick Up! LOL
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isles316 says:
Only explanation I can come up with is that how the heck can the Islanders get to the cap floor? No free agents are signing here, even with an honest effort to do so. No free agents left are really upgrades either. Without making a major trade, where does Snow go to get $11 mill more on the books?
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To everyone who is in favor of bringing Yashin back – REALLY??????? We paid him to go away because he quit on the team and was a cancer in the clubhouse. So to all of you geniuses who think we should pay him once to go AND once to come back, I have a bridge you might be interested in.
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Alex R. says:
A team so deaf to its fanbase doesn’t deserve the support thereof. I’m changing my vote to NO.
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Staten Islander says:
Don’t we get one of these every year? Maybe the heat got to the powers that be. That said…..NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!
And I don’t want him infecting the Karils
Oh yeah, did I say….NOOOOOOOOOOO??????????
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Steve says:
I don’t know if its been mentioned but TSN said Yashin is deciding on an Islanders offer. That means, the Islanders have offered him a contract, and this isn’t just speculation. WOW.
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joeg says:
Now you know why the Islanders are the laughingstocks of the league. The Owner and GM are both clueless. We need a new owner and an experienced GM or this team will never grow into a winner.
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Ray says:
Id rather have Yashin play on JTs wing then PAP…..But this proves Wang does not want this to pass…. so at the end of the day he can atleast say he tried….
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LouD says:
I remember Yashins last year on the Island.95% of us wanted him gone. He seemed to have lost a step and also seemed like he didn’t care about the game anymore. It looked like, from where I was watching at least, that he had no heart. He didn’t hustle anywhere on the ice, especially not in the defensive zone. How long ago was that? Did he miraculously find the fountain of youth? Even if it is to help him get a contract somewhere like Jagr did, CB is right and the timing could not be worse. It just shows how truly,hopelessly,pathetically clueless Charles Wang is as an owner. I am done sticking up for Wang, I just hope he sells the team now. This has actually made me believe that the Islanders would probably be better off moving under new ownership. If I was able to vote, and heard this news, I would vote NO! Charles you have no idea what your doing and should’ve listened to us 5 years ago when we as fans suggested hiring someone to overlook all hockey operations as you step down. Someone with the experience that you obviously do not possess. I couldn’t be anymore turned off by this team right now. I keep thinking that they have stooped as low as they could possibly go but somehow that bar keeps getting lower. Absolutely pathetic.
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jisles says:
How can you people say you’re going to vote no? Come on! What a terrible thing to write.
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NYI 16 says:
Old..check
Slow..check
Soft..check
This really feels like a bad dream..its wrong on every level, makes no sense and sends a terrible message to the fans that are left. CAN WE PLEASE JUST SIGN A GOOD YOUNG PLAYER LIKE BLAKE COMEAU!!! Whats the deal here?!?! -
Nobigwhup says:
Carol anne Cindy front and center. MILF city! Either way. I implore everyone to Vote YES. Otherwise this blog could become a Rannger forum. Ughhhhhhh. Vote Yes. Vote Yes. Vote Yes
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Suffolk Islanders says:
All of you people suddenly deciding to vote NO because the Isles are talking to Yashin are absolute hypocrites. How could you possibly say your a fan of the team if you are going to vote to send them out of Nassau for the rest of eternity?!
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Everyone relax Id take 1 more year of Yashin if I could have a new arena and Garenteeed 30 years of the Islanders!! If you Vote No because of Yashin getting a contract then your not a true fan…Look at the big picture….
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Drive for 5 year 28 says:
Why not grab Darius Kasparaitis, too. Only 38 (lol) and he would fill a need! He actually won a playoff series here, so never mind.
I think this is just Wang’s way of showing he wants out. He is sabotaging the arena with a name that he knows will repulse Islander fans.
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isles fan says:
CB,
First off, I read your blog daily and respect your opinion a great deal. I often wish I was blessed with the ability you have to blog for your childhood team. I disagree with this blog 100 percent though. I cant help but feel that this is written in a way that portrays Alexi has an evil and that this POTENTIAL signing will negatively impact the vote. This signing will not impact the vote. Nor will the rally or a verse from “Dont Fear the Reaper” from a band that half of the people rooting for the Islanders have no interest in. Again this is no way lashing out against you or anyone else who commented. However I felt I should drop in and say how I feel. Maybe its the fans commenting in here who are ” tone- deaf”. They most likely just ” forgot” that Alexi Yashin scored 32 goals his first year, led us on that incredible run that year. They most likely ” forgot” that he was a Captain on the team that made the playoffs 3 consecutive years with him playing a vital role on. They most likely ” forgot” that he truly loved Long Island, contributed to the community and would be proud to offer a helping hand in getting this much needed vote passed. I would be curious how this blog might look if Drew Doughty(who you say NO CHANCE of, naturally) was the one who Garth was in contact with. To CB and all the fans, give the guys a chance IF! in fact he does sign. When he scores 8 goals in the first 15 or so games, I look forward your article on him and his comeback in the NHL, along with that nights score prediction, game event ranking, and a locker room story on Steve Thomas from 1993.
Again, this is no disrespect Chris. I admire and appreciate your hard work. Just think everyone is over reacting. There could be a lot worse players we could be in discussions with.
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#239 that’s all well and good but in my opinion I would rather have them move then have to put up with another decade of being the laughingstock of the league. It’s just embarrassing. These guys are so clueless and obviously don’t care about the diehard fans who have suffered for so long. You are actually saying that you would be happy to suffer for another ten years as long as they stay in Nassau. Enough is enough, I only have so many years left.
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Tony says:
This is all the proof I need that this is a bush league organization. I will NO LONGER be voting YES on August 1st. Screw this team, I’m not wasting a single second more of my time OR a single cent more of my money supporting this JOKE of an organization.
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This is insane people, i am sorry. Words like ” mess” ” sick” disgrace”, ” hard to be a fan” COME ON. 40 years of Islanders Hockey, Many Many Many dark days, and this is making you sick. Come on, when he scores a goal to win a shoot out, I can wait for the comments. How quickly things can turn. Support your team, do not give others a reason to doubt us.
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John says:
I am voting “NO” on August 1st because of stuff like this. The lack of common sense displayed by management in this organization makes me sick. Why doesn’t Doug Weight suit up again this year? Hey, let’s name him captain again since he has represented the Isles so well on the ice the past 2 seasons. He can fill a need too.
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#263 if I may. I can say I’m a fan even if I am happy for them to move because it’s very simple, I don’t live in Nassau County and hopefully they will move closer to me. Wang doesn’t deserve a hockey team. And anyone that really knows hockey will remember how disinterested Yashin was his last year. Most of the fans wanted him gone and respected players like Pecca were telling stories about Yashin not taking the game seriously, being more interested in chumming around with Wang than being with teammates. He divided the locker room and was a cancer. And now you’re questioning our being fans because we don’t want him back? I will give you the benefit of the doubt because you obviously weren’t a fan when all of this went down.
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I also agree that if this move or proposed move changes your vote from YES to NO, that you have to be kidding. I don’t like the move or the fact they are trying to sign Yashin, but in no way would I vote NO if I had the chance.
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#268 please also read the comments when he loses us 10 games because he refuses to skate back into the defensive zone and leaves us 4 on 5.
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FrankEIslander says:
I sit here in disbelief. I just finished paying 7K plus for my Season tix and now I learn that the man who helped destroy this team in the 2000′s might be back. Can I get a refund?
Yashin is the symbol of this franchise’s demise. He got a big check, but he rarely checked or hustled for the Isles. He was paid to leave to remove his toxic presence from the locker room and now we are supposed to believe he is older, but better? This is akin to the Mets offering a huge new contract to Ollie Perez. I am embarrassed to be an Islander fan.
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Al L says:
Vlad #201,I don’t get your reasoning for voting no. Allow me to ask you this. What makes you think Wang selling to a local source is a guarantee should he decide to sell? What good does it do an Islanders fan for some Eskimo in Western Canada to take the franchise off Wangs hands,relocate it near his home and kill the Name and Crest.
Unless the identity of the NY Islanders and its survival isn’t of importance to you,what is accomplished with a NO vote? Perhaps you are privy to a deal in the fire with the County of Kings or Queens or a suitor ready,willing and able to move them 12-20 miles West.
If that doesn’t happen,and the franchise is sold,in all liklihood the NY Islanders crest,colors and name will DIE! -
Matt 85 says:
I know I’m completely alone here but this is how I feel…
Alexei Yashin is an incredibly talented hockey player. No one on here can argue that. He signed a contract that he should have never been offered, and he couldn’t possibly live up to it. Add to that injury problems and an underachieving team around him.
However, I remember how good he was when he was on, and I remember the STAR he made Jason Blake in 2006. He turned a guy with speed and a goalscoring touch into a star. Sounds a little like Grabner. Or maybe see what him and and JT can do? I know it’s not what everyone had in mind for the big addition, but I think it’s a smart little move and I think all this talk will quiet down real fast if he starts producing…
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Jerome says:
“I can’t believe the news today. I can’t close my eyes and make it go away. How long? How long must we sing this song? How long? How long?”
God save us all (especially on Aug. 1). Vote YES! -
cbagwillie says:
everyone needs to clam down. yashin is not the anti-christ . numbers dont lie . he is earning almost a point per game . he will not change the culture of this team AND HE ABOLUTLY WILL NOT BE THE REASON FOR A NO ON AUGUST 1ST. he is a class act player and is worthy of another chance . if you are a fan be a true fan and stand by your team and players
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anthony c says:
So where is yashin gonna play? Tavares, Nielson, Bailey, and Reasoner are our 4 centers. So is yashin gonna play wing? He is to slow to play wing on either line. There is no point in bringing him back. They need a defenseman to help out streit without breaking up the pairing of hamonic and macdonald (who were our best defensemen all year). This is my issue with wang. He doesn’t know how to seperate personal relationships from professional relationships. If yashin comes back, then the last 4 years of the rebuild will be a waste and he can kiss the support of the august 1st vote goodbye.
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NoManIsAnIslander says:
Until such time as Wang’s death grip on this Organization is removed, hockey operations will remain merely a front for real estate schemes.
Save the Islanders! Force Wang to sell! Vote No!
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st4rr says:
yea this is a great idea, rally fan support by bringing back the BIGGEST MISTAKE IN ISLANDERS HISTORY. We might as well give DP a 200 year contract extension
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Daniel says:
Let me first start off by saying if he were to return, I wouldn’t be 100% against it. Now, just exactly as you said Chris, I have NO idea why this had to come out now. Could they not wait 2 weeks for this? There are going to be a decent amount of people who just get pissed off and could easily say, “screw the vote if this is what they are going to do.” And I could understand it. Oh well, they have a reputation around the league for a reason right?
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Bob says:
Re-sign Yashin and the Isles will be losing a fan who has been loyal since 1975
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As a Canadian, all the comments saying “I’m voting no” are completely blowing my mind. Are you guys for real? What a disgrace! Those are not the words of true Islander fans or hockey fans. Vote Yes! Go Isles! Garth has given us NO reason to doubt him.
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Ari (Not Haanpaa) says:
Alexei Yashin? Good guy, but talk about one step forward, 20 steps back, and the timing of it too. In the words of that old John McEnroe rant, “You cannot . . .”
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I guess now we know who the captain is going to be….hahaha
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Holy crap, reading some of this backlash, you’d think the team offered Casey Anthony a contract. And if you vote no because you think it’ll make Wang sell the team, you’re wrong. He’ll keep it and move it. And if by some slim chance he does sell, I guarantee you the team says bye bye to LI forever. Vote YES! And what the hell Vote YASH too!
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how can ANYONE be in favor of Yahsin being on THIS team??? he has been out the NHL for 4 yrs(the NHL has gotten faster by the way) and has only been playing 56 game seasons in the KHL. how is he gonna be capable of playing 82 NHL games?! and WHAT IF we make the Playoffs!? THIS IS ABSURD. O…M…F…G. i really hope this is just some sort of acid-trippy PR stunt.
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VOTE NO!!!! GET RID OF WANG !!!!!
WANG WILL SELL WITH NO VOTE and the Isles will no longer be a laughingstock.
For all you people worried that they will move, wont happened…Bettman wont let it.
All a NO vote will do is get rid of Wang finally and we fans will finally have a chance to root for a team we can not be embarassed to root for.
If they do by small chance move to Quebec, I’m willing to risk that small chance then continue to have my team be hijacked by WANG.
VOTE NO AUGUST 1st To save the ISLANDERS!!!!
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Doug Heffernan says:
i still dont get it. why would people be mad to bring in a 50 – 60 point playmaker that would make others around him better (jason blake 40 goals). it was a horrible trade, he wasnt a horrible player. with the additon of yashin there that much closer to the playoffs
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Steve M says: alright, I know this is a weird situation but anyone who votes no over this is an idiot.
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C’mon everyone. Do you really want the PAP smear as your first line winger? Do you want your 2nd line center to be Yashin, or someone who only scored seven even-strength goals last year?
What we really need: Two top-four Ds. Scary thought isn’t Yash on the third line, it’s Mark Eaton on your 2nd pair D.
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# 271 that may be convenient for you, but I would bet there are a ton of fans here who wouldn’t even THINK about voting No on August 1st, because they realize if this doesn’t pass the Islanders won’t be the Islanders anymore. Might as well change the entire thing if your gonna move them out of Nassau. Snow has given us no reason until now during this rebuild to doubt him. Besides the DiPietro debacle, he has brought in tons of talented prospects that have us on the cusp of being a consistent cup contender. He cannot be that stupid, and must see something here. Call me crazy, but I’m a fan and I’m gonna trust whatever decision the GM makes because that’s all I can do. GO ISLES!
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gdmike says:
The truth is Yashin was instrumental in getting us back in the playoffs. If Ryan Smyth never came and criticized half the players on this team for effort Yashin would still be here. He never had someone like Tavares to work with on Long Island. Of course, I don’t know how his came is now not having seen him play in 3 years.
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2 pro-Ya$hin comments I cannot stomach: 1) “Captain” of team that made playoffs 3 consecutive years 2) made Jason Blake a success. C’MON, MAN!!! Ya$shin was “Captain” of the Islanders like Mubarek and Asad are “Captains” of Egypt and Syria (2 perennial bottom dwellers in the Middle East division). I thought Ya$hin had no one good to play with, but he made Blake great? Look what former Ya$hin linemate Sean Bergenheim has done for the Lightning this year while we replaced him with a PAP smear. You’re insulting our intelligence, Mr. Wang.
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This jerkoff should play for free
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Merrick says:
It all speaks to competency or the lack of it. The Isles have been an incompetently run franschise and there is no reason not to believe the incompetence would not extend to the handling of a new arena.
All in all, this is “unbelieveable,” but exactly what we have lived with for ten years. Even as a diehard Islanders fan, I have a hard time seeing how I could vote in good conscious to give Wand the the keys to a new kingdom.
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CIsle says:
This topic SHOULD have no relation to the vote. It should play no role. Everyone should want the Islanders here one way or the other.
I agree however that it didn’t need to be news before the vote. By allowing it to be news – by confirming discussions – Snow ‘n co. feels this can only be seen as a plus. I gather some here don’t agree.
From a sporting standpoint, adding anyone who could be a 45+ pointgetter next to Comeau/Bailey would at least be considered by any GM in the league. Surely there are those on the Island and in the organization who continue to be amiacable towards Yashin.
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IslesFanInFlorida says:
G-d U guys are a joke, to all you STUPID ASSSSSS SO CALLED FANS that say u are voting NO, SHUT YOUR MOUTH!!! Yashin was almost a POINT PER GAME player on a decent team, just THINK what he could do with SNIPERS like Grabs or Moulson and o man, even JT!!!! I didnt like him being bought out so the Isles could have a shoot at SMYTH. Guess what, RS DIDNT SIGN ANYWAY, maybe he just wanted him gone to screw F%$#$CK with us. Yashin could be productive at 37 and certainly would be better offensively then WEIGHT was. I WISH I LIVED on LONG ISLAND to vote YES, if u ASSSSSH#$LES think of VOTING NO cause of this, then u arent FANS, and should just get off this BLOG!! GO ISLANDERS, and VOTE YES!!!
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Jeff says:
I’m just tired of being the joke of the hockey party
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Ya$hin’s a$ent must have called in a big favor and played tone-deaf and timing-blind Mr. Wang for a sucker. Reminds me of all the other tone-deaf moves just in the last year like Jaffe, Bergenheim, Dougie Weight captaincy. All b.s. moves that flew in face of common sense.
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i said in past posts not to worry. wang and snow will make a big move. i said before aug. 1st. i guarantee they will sign 2 of the worst ahl scrubs they can find. yesterday was step one. today is the start of step 2. plus dont forget with the greatest number 1 goalie in hockey today, we are set fot at least another 10 years. i cant wait for yashin to put on the 3rd jersey clown suit. for the big ralley thats being held at a perfect time at 400pm on a weekday, that should really get the vote out. hopefully the rally can be broadcast on their powerful 50 watt radio station. thats good for at least 15-20 blocks. finally all of you are finally realizing what a joke and disgrace and laughing stock aragant wang and his equally aragant sidekick snow are. you are finally realizing how both laugh in our faces and treat us and the islander franchise like the lowest forms of garbage. but dont worry, soon the isles will be heard on a powerful 50,000 watt radio station and i am sure we will be able to hear all the night games very clearly. when clown wang sells the team to the highest bidder who will move the team to quebec, at least we will finally be able to hear all the games. one final note. its better like this. remember what the franchise once was, the greatestest most respected nhl franchise ever under bill torrey and al arbour. now under the circus clowns snow and wang since they destroyed it all does it really matter any more what happends to the isles? the isles died long ago. just the memories remain.
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EJ1SINCE40 says:
This is…well…AMAZING!!!
Maybe ASSistant GM Weight can do something with Ya$hin playing the point on the PP.
Then, when he’s all done, it’s right upstairs next to Chuck, Garth, Doug, and DP…
LMAOOOOOOOOO
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CJCB says:
No No No No No!!!! Stay clear of Yashin!! Sell!!!!! Im almost to a point of hating Wong as much as the coupons in Flushing!! Is there not anyone who can save this team from this misery????
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Mike says:
Timing is bad but Yashin on the 3rd or 4th line?? And I can break out my Yashin jersey again!! Unlike most Isles fans I did not hate the guy!! Not to mention he is a CLASS act off the ice!!!
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WavepooL says:
Eh… Why not. As a lifelong light fan who has become fully fanatical in only the past couple years (believe it baby!) I say simply why not. As long as he isn’t a blight in the locker room… Why not?
VOTE YES!
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Well, I guess it lines up Yash for an office job next season
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JT27 says:
What is next Kvasha? Oh God Help Us!
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geduffer says:
Only in Islanders Country is July 22 April Fools Day.
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admin says:
It often happens that when the Islanders create crazy news like this, by the time we get to the 100th comment some fans have not even taken the two minutes to read what I wrote but respond personally to me anyway.
My column was about the Islanders letting this news out – regardless of their motivation – and that being a big mistake at this crucial time for the franchise.
If you didn’t know what I meant, you’re now seeing the result of the Islanders’ decision by the wild responses at Newsday, TSN, several other media sites and NYI message boards. I received an email tonight from a reader who said even the Islanders Facebook page, trying to promote Aug. 1, is getting pelted by reaction to the Yashin stuff. Very unfortunate.
One reader here actually suggested that I should have lied, said this was a great move by the Islanders, and if I wanted to I could have reversed my stance after Aug. 1. Wow.
Hopefully this will blow over soon, but some of you need to stop blaming the messengers. It was Garth Snow who decided to confirm publicly that he has been speaking to Yashin and his agent about a spot on the team…CB
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isles71 says:
Bringing Yashin back will increase ticket sales. If I am not mistaken, Yashin himself bought something like 100 tickets for underpriviledged kids for EACH game. Don’t confuse being soft to equal being a cancer in the lockerroom. They never should have made him captain, but he was a good player for us. We are still paying him, what can it hurt to see what he can do?
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BobbyNy23 says:
Never ends, I’m not even voting put me out of my misery.
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MarioGazz says:
How can this make people sway their vote?? If Yashin is on this team I think he could still put up good numbers. If he was in Parentaus spot, how many goals would he have?? Do not tell me he is not a better player and mentor to Kabanov and Petrov. PLEASE DO NOT CHANGE YOUR VOTES!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Jon in Chicago says: When does the Islanders’ offseason begin? You know the one with all the moves to help us get better.
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Chris, it is the Islanders fans like the ones that wrote to you to lie that will always take a blind eye to anything negative Islanders and will always try to make things look positive, even when the sky is falling down.
These are the same people that always defended MILBURY even with all the terrible trades and they are now defending WANG/SNOW…even though it is so obvious they are making the Islanders jokes once again.
It is because of fans(who think they are such great fans to always be positive) like this— that the Milbury regime was allowed to last so long and now the Wang/SNOW era is basically getting a free pass from these fans, no matter the incompetence.
They will not stand up to the evil empire and will let the evil empire walk all over them again and use them. Fans like that maybe deserved Milbury and now deserve Wang/SNOW
I for one(as an Islander fan) will stand up and ask for better for my team…More of you Islander fans should do the same instead of always going along with the party line.
VOTE NO AUGUST 1st and GET RID OF THE EVIL EMPIRE
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Tim F. says:
Really, is a dalliance with Yashin really going to change anyone’s vote from “yes” to “no”? I agree that the focus should be on the referendum, but really, I just don’t see this negatively affecting the vote.
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Vote NO and end this madness.
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Orange&Blue says:
He can come back and play for free since we are paying him 2.2 mill anyway from his buyout. Those are his terms if he wishes to play here.
Otherwise, Das vedanya!
We need a new owner! Pronto!
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Nyles says:
you’re wrong cb. This Yashin decision by Snow and Wang doesn’t change the subject when it needs to be on the arena. It changes my vote from yes to a big fat NOOOOOOOOOOOOO.
My vote is not against the future of my Islanders. My vote is the only stand I’ve got against the reign of terror of Wang and Snow.
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If they wanted to bring in an old,washed-up Hack they shoulda signed Jagr. This is just stupid and idiotic
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wilky29 says:
Bottom Line Yashin or not its roughly $1.20 a week…VOTE YES!!!!!..and this is coming from a nassau county employee who has had his pay frozen!!!!!!
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mike says:
Garth is doing his job, his focus has to be on the up and coming season…maybe if he signs Yash maybe we get Nabokov to play like a top goalie that he is….sign at low cost
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Denis says:
No to Wong.
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Is the above post a joke?
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I think Garth is just trying to get publicity out there and attention, not sure why because it would be negative attention, anyway do not see how he could make this transaction, no way!!
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For those who are taking this Yashin news seriously, even though I am against it, the options are: Islanders or no Islanders. For any hockey or non-hockey fan to vote no on 8/1, including due to Yashin potentially signing, shame on you. The timing sucks and the biggest issue is taking the focus off of the 8/1 election for a few hours. Islanders fans should automatically vote yes and non-hockey fans want to see Disney on Ice and don’t give a rat’s you-know-what about Tavares, Grabner, Okposo or Yashin and should also vote yes. I hope VOTEYES and labor unions continue to get the word out, supplemented by more positive articles and headlines. NFL lockout will take over the front and back pages any day, though. VOTE YES!!!
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Steven says:
This has to be a foreshadowing for Garth Snow activating himself Roger Dorn-style right?
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just watched TSN bash the islanders decision about this. even though they may be a little wrong. This has been an pn going joke for 3 years and wont happen. only see it happening if we made a move and lost 2 starters but gained a top notch player and he comes in and fills a third line center spot. islanders always find a way to keep me smoking cigs and staying up all night
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the people who say vote NO to get wang out have to look into what they are saying, In the new lease agreement, wang can sell the team in 2 years after completion. He IS going to sell if we get the arena or not. if he gets the arena, he builds value for the team and it helps him recover the extra 100+ million he has lost since taking ownership. He wants out. If the vote doesnt pass or even if it does and NIFA scraps it then he still looks like a hero and saves face. a big thing in the asian culture. No matter if he gets the arena or not, he is selling in the near future.
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hangover3 says:
This is ALL WANG. Wang is in love with Dipietro/snow/yashin/milbury/weight/kevin connely. You never see Wang in Miami beach hanging with strippers, flying to Hawaii to play golf with other 60 year old men. His friends. His freiends are Islanders, thats it. You never hear anyone outside of the Islanders say they are friends with Wang. He doesnt trust snyone who isnt on his payroll. Thats why he buys these players for life. If dipietro was a free agent today, Wang would give Dipietro and his crutches a 7 year contract.
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Blizz says: ….guess this is his big move PARTY ON GARTH!!!! But seriously tho can he even still play? How old is he? Where does he fit in? This aint gonna happen.
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Anthony says:
Somewhere out there Oleg Kvasha is beginning his conditioning program….
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Todd says:
I’ve got to be honest. I’m voting NO on August 1st simply because this move was brought to my attention today. This was it. I couldn’t take it anymore, and this pushed me from no to NO! All good things come to an end. I am voting no to put an end to this madness as someone above posted. This franchise has gone to hell in a handbasket.
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Wilky is wrong at post #321. Its not $1.20 a week. Its $13.80 annually, or $0.27 a week per household. Roughly $0.04 a day. On Long Island people pay $4.00+ for gas, $10.00+ for a pack of cigarettes? Milk and OJ are $5.00+ a gallon….It seems to be a no brainer to me!
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Patrick at #328 is also mistaken….Mr Wang has lost nearly $250,000,000.00, since buying this dead end franchise as a favor to a friend. You should be thankful he owns this team and is loyal to Long Island. They could have been gone long ago! Plus the new lease is a 30 year comitment to the arena. He can sell the team but the new owner cant move the team!
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BryanG says:
Eric Cairns despised Yashin when they were teammates. Cairns is one of Snow’s top scouts and development people.
You know a guy like Doug Weight would have no respect for Yashin.
Garth Snow also hated Yashin as a teammate and was the GM when he was bought out.
These three grown man have stood by and done nothing about this. Collect another paycheck, boys.
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Wow! I’m officially outta this comment thread. The talk of no votes is insane; in Canada voting against your team would not happen, I can’t believe some of these comments.
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not that i was wrong im going by what has been said in public and at the first press conf..58 bucks a year..hell if its less even better no matter what its a yes vote..and if by some chance the vote is no..guess we know where the casino will be going..at least ill have no shortage of customers in the gated community with 24 hour security overlooking eisenhower park..
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People!!!! I’m surprised too, but how this would change anybody from a Yes vote to a No vote is crazy! If Yashin becomes a role player, how is that a bad thing? Nobody says he is coming here to be a savior. He’ll be a role player, and one that i wouldn’t mind having. I am putting myself out there to have egg on my face, but i am VERY certain Snow and the Islanders will announce a huge trade next week that will make everybody forget about the Yashin comments. Then f they sign Yashin after August 1st, nobody will care and the Isles will be fine. Is the timing of the comment odd? Of course. I promise you something big is on the horizon next week. Trust me.
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Darren ingersoll says:
Next week will only look better, if they do anything positive.
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Todd #333! What do you mean;”this is it,your voting no?” Are you implying that at this point you want the Isles out of sight and out of mind,perhaps relocated somewhere in the Canadien Rockies? Look! I agree,the Yashin leak was either incredibly stupid or part of a conspiracy to weaken our spirit and disenfranchise us all.
Remember this,however! The NY Islanders are BIGGER than Charles Wang and Garth Snow. Given certainty in LI,the Wang’s and Snow’s will come and go,but the Isles will remain.
That is all that is important! Vlad! Again,voting NO is losing focus of the above. Just so you should know,before pulling the lever Aug 1st,Gary Bettman has already declared,Charles Wang will NOT play another game in the NVMC beyond the lease expiration in 2015 or sooner. He also implied Brooklyn is a no go!
So I ask you,if not Queens,what then? There are already two teams in the Metro area. You can bet your bottom dollar he will NOT blink an eye at a sale to an out of state suitor if he sees the people of Nassau County have spoken and turned their backs on what was and probably still is the heart and soul of the entire Island Community!
You people who are voting NO are not only turning your back on your beloved Franchise,but counterproductively destroying a vital part of lifes quality in your own backyard!
Vlad and others,I implore you to think before you act. Forget about Charles Wang and his craziness! He is merely a CURRENT steward of YOUR NY Islanders. What he can do if pushed by you is sell the Franchise to who ever he wants to,regardless of his origin and where he wants to move them.
Your NO if part of a majority will go along way toward making that happen. Unfortunately the result will be the death of the NY Islanders! Without an Arena in Nassau County to play in, Quebec or another location with one,will not be a SMALL chance of occuring. It will be a near certainty. More certain than the only other local alternative in Queens! -
nick m says:
everyone sounds like a female PMSing.. calm the ef down. hes isnt signed first of all. second of all if he did sign in the next few days so what? hes much better then half the roster…hunter, gillies, pap, bailey, martin, hailey. hockey wise he is an upgrade. it has been made clear snow IS making a trade. so changes could open up room meaning a piece of youth would be traded. he is a perfect spot holder until someone steps in..strome,cizikas. bailey PLUS another roster player will be included in trade..not mention picks and prospects
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doc says:
Many of the posters on this blog have written that just because there are rumors of Yashin act 2, they are now changing their vote to a “NO”. Really? You would change your vote because of conversations with Yashin’s agent? Stupid is as stupid does.
Another person said he has a friend who told him that Wang doesn’t understand the USA business culture. OK… I guess we will believe anything now. The man is a self made BILLIONAIRE! And he’s been living in this country since he was a little boy of 8 years old. I think he understands business in the USA.
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I honestly think that anyone who claims they will vote no because of the Yashin thing isn’t old enough to vote anyway. If they are, they are clueless fans that I would rather not be a part of our fan base.
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#236 – vlad
I’m not sure where you’re coming from. We’ve all been appalled by how bad this team has been for so long and by bad decisions by the owner – some of them REALLY bad. And at this point, I understand the susicpion about his commitment based on the lack of spending the last several years, though I personally think it’s understandable given the millions already lost with still no certainty of resolution on an arena. I even get why some think if this team becomes a winner, it will be despite the owner rather than because of him. But I also get that if he ends up selling the team, the chances it will be to someone on LI or to someone who keeps the team on LI, are pretty much nil. Some think that even a NO vote doesn’t necessarily mean the end, that the owner et al will come forth with another plan that will work. I’m not at all sure that’s the case, and if it isn’t, this vote will have come down to a YES or NO on the franchise itself. In other word’s, it’s not a about Charles Wang’s ownership, but about whether you want the team to stay or not.
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Alexi. Yeah, lets get back together, it’ll be different this time. I know you will start paying attention to the teams needs, grow a heart, work hard. I remember the way you celebrate your own goals, ‘look at me’ not ‘we scored’. The blank stare on the bench. The joke you made of our team. you are the reason veterans shy away from us. you are a cancer. You would be a walking reminder of crappy trades and a place we moved on from. you are a stain we can’t get out. any one who thinks he is a role player a third liner who can contribute is insane. putting his name on a jersey is throwing good money after bad.
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I have been an Islander fan my entire life, had seasons and went to every game last year. This vote is our only chance to get CW out of here. VOTE NO! Get this inept loser out! For those expecting the Isles to ramp up the PR push any day now…keep dreaming…in CWs world this has been enough…and that is exhibit A right there folks..the man is to incompetent and bizarre to do the right thing and hire outside strategists to handle this like and political campaign..instead we get Yashin and Blue Oyster Cult…I was all for this but after watching this whole thing get botched so badly (I’m talking everything, not just this fiasco) I am looking at this as not an opportunity to get a new arena but an opportunity to get CW out as owner…maybe the man has tried to do things right in his own peculiar way but, the results are in, and he has bought us nothing but failure and embarrassment…VOTE NO…get CW out and a new owner in…
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If the no vote wins (#345), the team is gone. Nobody is going to buy this team and then put up their own money for a new arena. I don’t agree with much of what Wang does but this is our last hope of retaining this team.
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Does anyone remember the gruesome injury Yash suffered December 2003 driving to the net as Arron Asham scored? He had nerve endings in his forearm severed. That was a career-threatening injury, downplayed at the time. AY came back in three months. Yashin is perhaps the most maligned, underappreciated quality Islander in franchise history (Also in the running: DP, Tommy Salo). Check his stats. It’s time to stop resenting players b/c the owner throws $ at them. You would take that money too.
As for the referendum – remove the taxpayer guarantee on covering the debt service if arena revenue isn’t sufficient, and almost all the opposition and NIFA should vote yes.
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Steve M from jersey says:
Most people screaming no are just not islanders fans… There trolls or just really stupid. Grow up oh no yashin a guy who was just given things for no reason may come back. The guy got a bad rap for no reason. At least no reason that he really caused… He shouldn’t have been painted the savior… He shouldn’t of been the captain. Was he a good player with a lot of talent yes and could he be a place holder if we traded bailey and hold down the second line center till our other centers are ready ( stome,lee…) Absolutely… Get over it and vote yes cuz if this vote goes no that’s gonna make us the joke of the league… Not yashin resigning
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hoser14 says:
I don’t think the decision to bring ex-Islander Captain, Alexi Yashin back has anything to do with the August 1st Vote.
I can see it only for hockey reasons. One, they do need a productive veteran and there wasn’t too many on the FA market that would play for the Isles. Plus I think Yashin would give them a home-town discount
Not everything during Yashin’s tenure on the Island sucked, they did make the playoffs 5 out the 6 seasons he played here.
So as an Islander fan for over 35 years, I really don’t have a problem with Chairman Wang & Snow bring Yashin back.
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People. This is not a game where a no vote means Wang leaves. This vote is for the livelihood of many of our neighbors, a place where We can take my kids tonseenthe circus and keeping the only pro team here where it belongs. Yashin dilemma should not sway this. I like my Islanders!, I like a vibrant Nassau hub so everyone should be voting YES. It is a YES vote for investing in the economic growth of our home and keeping us vibrant and relevant. Do not by any means think voting no means an ownership chg. That is not on the referendum.
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Reading these comments I’m starting to feel ashamed to be part of this fan base. Voting no if they sign Yashin? Saying Wang and Snow are a reign of terror? 350 comments on this thread and about 275 of them are PATHETIC. Wang is a hero and we should thank him all every day, without him the isles would have moved years ago. Snow has done an incredible job the last three years, drafting well, developing talent, and spotting under the radar free agents who make a difference (Streit, Moulson, Grabner).
Most of you sound like a bunch of 4 year olds who got their toys taken away. Grow up, get real, and do what it takes to keep your favorite team on Long Island. Or just shut up and go away, but don’t spew your negative ignorant BS here for the rest of us to have to read.
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Than you Matt85. You hit a home run with your comment. I am more fed up with this mob and their knee jerk reactions than the reality of the situation. Wang is a philanthropist donating millions to LI and has kept the team here while losing millions. He is far from perfect. But it is either Wang,s islanders or no team on LI. I will take Wangs islanders than a shuddered ncc and no hockey anytime
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Mikey Pants says:
I just dont understand why Snow would even consider taking away potential spot from someone like Ryan Strome or Nino Neitterider. I’d rather see one of those guys hungrily earning their ice time than seeing some lollygagging guy sleep his way through year 18 of our Rebuild.
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Reason says:
Wang made a terrible mistake releasing this news now. It has divided the fan base and turned votes against him. These kinds of decisions make me worry about what he will do if the vote fails. This reeks of spite. He could trash the team out of nihilistic anger. It is obvious that he could care less about the fans.
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Strome will not be on the team this year. He is a Hugh talent still in a boys body. He needs time to muscle up and mature so he can compete with grown men. Maybe Nino is ready. But he is still only 18. At that age both physically and mentally it is a difficult to compete with players 5+ years older. Taking one on your team may be all the team can manage. Vote YES so we see these kids in an Islander jersey when they are ready
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kabbage19 says:
It appears that someone is trying to create a lot of drama here. Do we know what the extent of the conversation was that Garth had with Yashin’s agent? Maybe it was an inquiry like “Are you interested?” and a reply of “I don’t think so”. Is Garth supposed to lie when he is asked if he has had a conversation with Yashin’s agent about coming back? Some people jump to conclusions with limited information and get a lot of other people worked up. Some people will take that limited information and twist it to “mean” something else of exagerate the worst case scenario from it.
Other people will take note and then wait until Garth makes an actual move before they criticize it. If he conducts business in the same way he has in the past, he rarely tips his hat before he makes a deal.
We must be really bored and craving for something to happen for us to get so worked up by this.
I am not from Long Island, but if the vote is NO, you do not deserve this team. If this small non-issue is even a small factor in whether or not your team stays, the team would be better off moving. The support just isn’t there.
Really people, Garth and his staff has made very few if any player personnel errors, so stop with the drama. Go vote on August 1, take everyone you know that is eligible, even grab some you do not know and make sure the vote is a resounding YES.
I think I’m going to be sick…..