News And Notes

Not much Isles info today, so I'm going to do my best to get a post in here.

-Tomorrow night is Mike Sillinger's 1,000 career NHL game. I hope all the fans congratulate him well, and I have a feeling he will do something good for us.

-Here are the probable lines for the game tomorrow night-

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt - 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton - 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli - 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
26 Ruslan Fedotenko - 89 Mike Comrie - 7 Trent Hunter
11 Andy Hilbert - 18 Mike Sillinger - 13 Bill Guerin
20 Sean Bergenheim - 63 Josef Vasicek - 81 Miroslav Satan
12 Chris Simon - 10 Richard Park - 2 Aaron Johnson

17 Shawn Bates


-Doesn't look like Bates is playing. Maybe it would take too much attention away from Silly.

-Tampa's coming off a 6-1 loss tonight, so the Isles are in for a similar situation as Saturday.

-There are still some trade rumours strolling around. I'd guess they involve a Dman. This is VERY unlikely, though. (14%)


Okay, maybe I did a pretty good job of putting together a post. Happy Halloween, everybody!


Let's Go Isles!!!

Islander Zone Goes Halloween!

What does that mean? I don't even know. Don't worry, Isles Zone ain't a changin'. Just a random title.

Anyways, my whole point of this post is this: (You must read the following)

Steve Williamson is on the ultimate road trip.

Check out his site at: http://www.30gamesin30nights.com/index.html

If the site URL doesn't say enough, he is going to every NHL arena, seeing 30 games in 30 nights! He will be the first person to ever do this. A great future accomplishment.

"But why stop there? My concept is simple….I’m going to watch a hockey
game in all 30 National Hockey League arenas….in 30 consecutive nights!"

There's his way of explaining what I just said.

Why should you care? I really find this interesting. On Thursday, he will be going to the Isles-Lightning game. Seriously, someone who's going to the game has to get some pics of this guy. I wonder if they will do an interview with him on a TV timeout.

Truly amazing! Tonight is his 5th game. He's got a long way to go, so let's wish him luck!


Talk about it with me and other HFers at: http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=436598


Let's Go Isles!!!

No Post...

I know. I'm sorry. I have a life too, you know? I can't always get to my blog. I'm sure you understand. I PROMISE I'll do the game review tomorrow, and something else.

Let's Go Isles!!!

A Post...

Yeah...couldn't think of a title.

-Game sucked last night. Hopefully we bounce back right away on Thursday.

-No Bates. Sorry for making such a big deal about it. Maybe he'll play on Thursday.

-I couldn't really get to my blog today, so I'll do the full game review tomorrow. Don't worry, I have time.

You may notice that I make these random posts that you probably have no interest in, because they are pointless. Yes, I do this just to have a post for that day. Clever me.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Final On The Isle, Canes 8 Isles 3

Photo Of The Game:


Here were the games' goals:
1ST PERIOD

-1st goal- Rod Brind'Amour

-2nd goal- Ray Whitney

-3rd goal- Rod Brind'Amour (2)

2ND PERIOD

-4th goal- Ray Whitney (2)

-5th goal- Ruslan Fedotenko

-6th goal- Justin Williams

-7th goal- Eric Staal

-8th goal- MA Bergeron

3RD PERIOD

-9th goal- Rod Brind'Amour (3)

-10th goal- Justin Williams (2)

-11th goal- Mike Sillinger


My 3 Stars:

1.Rod Brind'Amour- It's an obvious one. He had his 3rd career hat-trick. A hat of hats!

2.Justin Williams- Not only 2 goals, but he skated around very well.

3.Ray Whitney- A great game all around. Also got 2 goals.


-Notes From The Game-

-Dissapointing game. Fans at the Law Enforcment Night did not see a good game at all.

-A great penalty kill. I hope we continue to have this throughout the season.

-What went on with DP? Looked terrible out there.

-I guess the 1 week off really had an effect on our performance.

-Park had a penalty shot, and didn't convert. It was a great move, but he lost the puck and never got the shot off.

-Here were the lines-

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt - 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton - 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli - 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
26 Ruslan Fedotenko - 89 Mike Comrie - 7 Trent Hunter
11 Andy Hilbert - 18 Mike Sillinger - 13 Bill Guerin
20 Sean Bergenheim - 63 Josef Vasicek - 81 Miroslav Satan
12 Chris Simon - 10 Richard Park - 2 Aaron Johnson


Thursday Night- Lightning @ Isles! Silly's 1,000 career NHL game. Hopefully that will turn into a win.

Let's Go Isles!!!

Game 9: 10/27/07 Hurricanes @ Isles 7:00 PM

Hurricanes 6-2-3 @ Isles 5-3-0


The Isles look for their 6th win of the season as they take on the Hurricanes at the Coliseum tonight.

ISLANDERS:
The Islanders are coming off a great OT win from their last game. They've had a week off, and should be very well rested. I see them coming out a bit sluggish in the first 5-10 minutes, but should pick it up late in the first. Tonight is also expected to feature the return of Shawn Bates. It will be cool to see how that works out.

Probable Lines:

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt - 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton - 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli - 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
26 Ruslan Fedotenko - 89 Mike Comrie - 13 Bill Guerin
11 Andy Hilbert - 18 Mike Sillinger - 7 Trent Hunter
20 Sean Bergenheim - 63 Josef Vasicek - 81 Miroslav Satan
12 Chris Simon - 10 Richard Park - 17 Shawn Bates



HURRICANES:
The Hurricanes, on the other hand, are coming off of their worst game of the season. They are on 0 days rest, and should also be pretty slow out there. Their defense and goaltending totally broke down last night as they lost to the Canadiens 7-4. Cam Ward had to be pulled after he had given up 5 goals. Also struggling with a few injuries, things aren't looking good for the Canes tonight.

Probable Lines:

Forwards
1 Cory Stilliman - 12 Eric Staal - 51 Jeff Hamilton
59 Chad LaRose - 17 Rod Brind'Amour - 11 Justin Williams
13 Ray Whitney - 8 Matt Cullen - 18 Ryan Bayda
37 Keith Aucoin - 27 Craig Adams - 19 Trevor Letowski

Defensemen
22 Mike Commodore - 4 Glen Wesley
7 Niclas Wallin -6 Bret Hedican
8 Tim Gleason - 5 Frantisek Kaberle

Goaltenders
30 Cam Ward
47 John Grahame


Get ready for an exciting game tonight! This game is going to have my second ever live coverage post. Can't see the game? Visit Islander Zone and get the latest scores within seconds of them happening.

Let's Go Isles!!!

Prepping Up For Shawn's Return

Many reports are that forward Shawn Bates will be playing in the game against the Hurricanes tonight. It seriously has felt like forever since he last played for us, so I hope he will have a great game. I also hope the fans will give him a warm welcome back, and not mistreat him.

My Projected Lines For Tonight:

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt - 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton - 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli - 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
26 Ruslan Fedotenko - 89 Mike Comrie - 13 Bill Guerin
11 Andy Hilbert - 18 Mike Sillinger - 7 Trent Hunter
20 Sean Bergenheim - 63 Josef Vasicek - 81 Miroslav Satan
12 Chris Simon - 10 Richard Park - 17 Shawn Bates

Scratch: 2 Aaron Johnson


I know Bates is a center, but I'd rather have Park do the face-off duties tonight. Bates should give us some extra boost on the Penalty Kill, too.

Please remember that this is just a rumor, and anything can happen.

But also, it is a very strong possibility, and I feel the comfort of assuming he will play tonight.

**Remember to vote on the new layout if you haven't! I would like everyone's opinion!


Let's Go Isles!!!

Aaron Johnson

The newest NIR. Aaron Johnson.


Aaron Johnson was signed by the New York Islanders on 7/12/07. A extra D pick up that was supposed to be in the minors could now be a big part of the Isles 4th offensive line.

Johnson has played with the Bluejackets from 2003-2007. In those 116 games, he scored 7 goals and 19 assists. Not much, but he didn't get that much playing time. This year, he has played 2 games for the Isles. Surprisingly, not in his normal position. Instead of at the blue line, Johnson plays as a wing on the Isles 4th line. He hustles out there, and looks good.

Johnson does not play a huge role on the Isles this year. Signed as a defensive back-up, we are now using him as an every-day 4th liner. He won't get much playing time, but his skill could lead him to 2 goals and 5 assists. I am no one to know how much time he will be playing, or if he will be playing at all. That is just my sensible guess.

Johnson has yet to prove himself in this league. This year, he may have a chance to do it. Unfortunately, Johnson's short NHL career has summed up to a fairly short "New Islander" Review.


Johnson's Player Page: http://islanders.nhl.com/team/app?page=PlayerDetail&playerId=8469534&service=page&tab=prf


There it is, Johnson's NI Review. Hopefully, I won't have to do too many of those until next September.

Tomorrow- Hurricanes @ Isles!!!

Let's Go Isles!!!

Bootland Sent Down

Bootland is now on the NHL waivers after he was sent down from the Isles. This means Johnson has won the spot on the team. Interesting. I liked Boots.

Right after I post this, I will start the Johnson review. So it WILL get done.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Info Update

As you can see, I've added a poll on the side to rate the new layout of the blog. If you are reading this now, PLEASE vote. I really want to know what people think about it.

Guerin will likely be playing with Comrie and Tank again. Here are the current lines we are working with:

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt - 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton - 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli - 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
26 Ruslan Fedotenko - 89 Mike Comrie - 13 Bill Guerin
11 Andy Hilbert - 18 Mike Sillinger - 7 Trent Hunter
20 Sean Bergenheim - 63 Josef Vasicek - 81 Miroslav Satan
12 Chris Simon - 10 Richard Park - 2 Aaron Johnson


Johnson has been doing a good job on offense. Tomorrow, I will be doing his New Islander Review (yes, I'm serious).



Let's Go Isles!!!

The New Layout Is Up!

Hope everyone likes it. I'll make a poll to rate it later.

Comments? Suggestions?

Islander Zone Layout Coming At 6:01 PM

The new and improved Islander Zone layout is being released at 6:01 PM this evening.

Don't ask why I made it 6:01.

The blog will be closed down from 4:00 until 6:01, so I can get everything right.

I hope you enjoy the new layout!


Let's Go Isles!!!

New Layout Coming Tomorrow!

With the lack of posting in the past few days (and today), I think I owe Isles fans a great new layout of the blog.

I'll constantly be updating the layout, and will always be excepting suggestions.

I also want to say that I have a new affiliate! Check them out at nhltopshelf.com.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Cap'n Clutch, Isles win 4-3 in OT

The Isles pick up another win after Bill Guerin put a rebound into the net with 3 seconds left in overtime.



Zach Parise got the Devils up right away as he wristed one in the net 55 seconds into the game.

The Isles would answer back in the second, with 3 goals. They were scored by Mike Comrie, Josef Vasicek and Miro Satan.

The Devils controlled the third, tying the game up with goals by Gionta and Pandolfo. It was time for OT.


The Devils started OT on a powerplay, and the Isles ended OT on a powerplay. With 3.5 seconds left in OT, captain Bill Guerin put in the rebound of a Mike Comrie shot, giving the Isles a 4-3 victory.


My 3 Stars:

1.Bill Guerin- Who else?
2.Miro Satan- played a great game, getting his first goal.
3.Brian Gionta- He had a really sweet goal, and I couldn't think of anyone else for the 3rd star.

Notes From The Game:

-Penalties weren't a factor. Only 4!

-Berard was taken out with a groin injury. No news on him yet.

-Captain Clutch succeeds again!

-Satan can finally take a breath. He got his first goal.

-Here were the lines-

Goaltender
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt – 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton – 4 Bryan Berard
14 Chris Campoli – 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
11 Andy Hilbert – 18 Mike Sillinger – 13 Bill Guerin
20 Sean Bergenheim – 63 Josef Vasicek – 81 Miroslav Satan
26 Ruslan Fedotenko – 89 Mike Comrie – 7 Trent Hunter
12 Chris Simon – 10 Richard Park – 2 Aaron Johnson



The brand new Isles Zone layout is coming very soon!


Let's Go Isles!!!

No Post Today

I won't have any posts today for similar reasons as Friday. But I will do the review tomorrow.

Isles Win! 5-2

The Isles bury the Caps with the help of Guerin's Hat-Trick.

Photo Of The Game:


Bergenheim got things going when he netted a puck.

The Isles jumped to a 2-0 lead when Bill Guerin got one in on the PP.

Ovechkin and Fleischmann both scored to tie the game up at 2 early in the third. Bryan Berard got his second goal of the season when he put in the game winner on the powerplay at 9:39 of the 3rd. Bill Guerin would score two more in a span of less than 5 minutes, giving himself a hat-trick and the Isles a 5-2 victory.


My 3 Stars:

1.Bill-Bill-Bill Guerin!
2.Chris Campoli- 4 assists. Nice.
3.Bryan Berard- I love how this guy plays. 1 goal and 2 assists. Game winner.


Notes From The Game:

-Penalties. I'm sick of saying it. Luckily, this was the only bad part of the game.

-DP!

-Bryan Berard is really showing his skills out there.

-I'm very confident about the Isles. Another win after this would be great.

-Here were the lines-

Fedotenko-Comrie-Hunter
Hilbert-Sillinger-Guerin
Bergenhiem-Vasicek-Satan
Simon-Park-Johnson

Witt-Martinek
Berard-Sutton
Campoli-Gervais


My lines were right! Woo!


Let's Go Isles!!!

No Game Review Today

I've been working on the new Islander Zone today, and I will not be able to make any more posts today.

I've been working on features, and it ended up making me feel I should re-design the entire blog.

The release date is unknown, so I can only say, "Soon."

Game review will be posted tomorrow.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Pre-Game Post, 10/18/07 Islanders at Capitals 7:00 PM

The Isles take the ice for the 7th time this season, as they face-off against the Capitals in D.C.

After Nolan's line changes yesterday, we might be seeing a bit different Isles team. Also, the one thing that has shocked the Isles world is that Aaron Johnson is reported to be playing on the 4th line, with Park and Simon. Bootland and MAB are the likely scratches tonight. Also, Bates is not coming back yet, and probably won't play against the Devils on Saturday.

-Likely Line Combos-

Fedotenko-Comrie-Hunter
Hilbert-Sillinger-Guerin
Bergenhiem-Vasicek-Satan
Simon-Park-Johnson

Witt-Martinek
Berard-Sutton
Campoli-Gervais

DP
Dubie



Let's Go Isles!!!

New Feature Released!

I am now releasing NYI Zone Chat, where you can talk to me directly about this blog or the New York Islanders. Any other topics will be blocked, and I won't answer it.

Anyway, I think this is a cool feature. Once this blog gets more popular, I might have my own chat room! But that is really thinking long-term.

I'm working on a few more features, also. Any suggestions for the blog would be great.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Bryan Berard

Finally, it is here. The newest NIR. Enjoy.


Bryan Berard was signed by the Isles on 10/9/07, after coming to training camp on a try-out. This late pick-up could really help us this year.


Bryan was drafted #1 overall by Ottawa in the 1995 Entry Draft. Ironically, he never played a game with the Senators. The Isles traded their pick; Wade Redden, and recieved Berard in return.



Berard was on the Island from 1996 to 1999, scoring 26 goals and 83 assists in 188 games played. He was then traded to the Maple Leafs, where he would experience the worst thing that could happen to him.



In a game against Ottawa on March 11, 2000, Marian Hossa was attempting to make a shot right in front of Berard. Hossa's stick sailed just over the puck, leaving the follow-through to go right into Berard's right eye. In the hospital, Berard was told that he might lose his eye. Right after that, he said that he would play hockey once again. After seven eye surguries and some special contacts, he would have the chance to make a return to the NHL. The Rangers signed him as a free agent 10/5/01, and that would mark his return to the NHL.



He would play a full season with the Rangers, scoring 2 goals and 21 assists. His next year, he played with the Bruins, scoring 10 goals and 28 assists in 80 games. He was on the Blackhawks the next season, and he had his best year. He scored 13 goals and 34 assists in only 58 games. He would move to Columbus to play two seasons. In those 55 games, he scored 12 goals and 23 assists.

I feel like I've said it for everyone, but BB plays a big role on this year's Isles team. We were desperate for a PP QB, and now we have him. I'll ask 6 goals and 21 assists from him this year. Not much, but to me it's enough.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Philly Eats Up Isles, 3-1

The Isles fall to 3-3 this season after a loss on Saturday.

Photo Of The Game:


-There was no scoring in the 1st period-

Jeff Carter and Sami Kapanen scored goals for the Flyers in the second to make it 2-0.

The Isles put one on the board in the 3rd when Josef Vasicek slapped one in shorthanded. Jason Smith sealed the deal when he tossed one into the empty net, making it a 3-1 final.


My 3 Stars:

1.Martin Biron- Solid throughout the game, under a lot of pressure.
2.Jason Smith- Great defense.
3.Sami Kapanen- Game winner, looked good out there.


Notes From the Game:

-2nd road loss in a row. Nothing to worry about, though.

-Strong 1st and 3rd. We lost the game in the 2nd.

-Josef Vasicek played a very complete game.

-Only 6 penalties! Nice!

-DP has new pads. Again. I'll search up a picture later.

-Here were the lines-

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt – 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton – 4 Bryan Berard
14 Chris Campoli – 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
26 Ruslan Fedotenko – 89 Mike Comrie – 13 Bill Guerin
20 Sean Bergenheim – 63 Josef Vasicek – 81 Miroslav Satan
11 Andy Hilbert – 18 Mike Sillinger – 7 Trent Hunter
12 Chris Simon – 10 Richard Park – 27 Darryl Bootland


Scratched MAB, as expected. Simon returned. Didn't do much out there, though.


Berard review later...


Let's Go Isles!!!

Back In Action!

Everything has gotten fixed much quicker than expected, and now I can get this blog back to normal.

It was only two days. That's great.

I won't make anymore posts today, but I will do last night's game review and the Berard review tomorrow. Also, I can get back to working on some features, and get them up soon!


Let's Go Islanders!!!

Blog Trouble

The amount of posts on this blog will slow down over the next few days. I've been having trouble accessing my blog today due to some technical problems.

This will be my post for today. I will do my best to post tonight's game review (Isles losing 2-1 right now) tomorrow, and get to the Berard review as soon as I can.

I still want to keep my promise of posting everyday, so I'll use another computer for a bit. My plans are to get everything fixed up as soon as possible, so I can get back to my regular schedule of updating this blog.




Let's Go Isles!!!

Leafblower Turned On In Toronto, Isles Fall 8-1

Isles are victims of post-ranger syndrome, as they are now 3-2 this season.

Photo Of The Game:


Right away, Toronto picked up a 1-0 lead with the help of Nik Antropov. White made it 2-0 when he put a slapper in. The Isles scored their only goal of the game on a tip in by Feds on the PP.

Toronto scored 3 more by Stajan, Steen, and Kaberle, to make it 5-1.

Toronto scored 3 more in the 3rd. Wozniewski, Sundin, and Gamache got them.



My 3 Stars:

1.Mats Sundin- Broke 2 Maple Leaf records last night.
2.Matt Stajan- Goal and 2 assists.
3.Andrew Raycroft- Solid in net.


Notes From The Game:

-Ugly. Plain ugly.

-Dubie got the nod, but it didn't seem he was ready for it.

-Hunter and Silly are the only Isles that didn't have a negative +/-.

-Here were the lines-

Goaltenders
34 Wade Dubielewicz
39 Rick DiPietro

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt – 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton – 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli – 8 Bruno Gervais
4 Bryan Berard

Forwards
15 Jeff Tambellini – 63 Josef Vasicek – 81 Miroslav Satan
26 Ruslan Fedotenko – 89 Mike Comrie – 13 Bill Guerin
11 Andy Hilbert – 18 Mike Sillinger – 7 Trent Hunter
20 Sean Bergenheim – 10 Richard Park



Went without Boots again. On Saturday, Simon can play. MAB will likely be benched. He had an absolutely terrible game.


Let's Go Isles!!!

No Berard Review Today

I'm sorry about this.

You know how it is, I like saving things for posts, so I can continue my, "post-per-day" promise. I'll always keep that promise. I just can't make NIR promises.

I just want this blog to make sense. Why should I post 5 things one day, and struggle to find one thing to post the next day? I really don't want to deal with that, so you probably won't see me make 5 posts in one day, unless I'm on overload.

Tomorrow is an off-day, so I will do the review tomorrow (99.9%). But like I said, I can't promise NIR's.

Just incase you are new here, and don't know why I put 99.9% before, I rank every possibility by percents.

-Isles @ Maple Leafs, 7:30 Tonight-


Let's Go Isles!!!

Isles Rag the Rangers, 2-1

Isles are 3-1 this year as they defeat the Rags, 2-1.

Photo Of The Game:



Marc-Andre Bergeron gave the Isles a 1-0 lead when he slapped one in the dying seconds of the first, on a 3-on-3.

Just over 2 minutes into the second, Tyutin wristed one behind DP to tie it at 1. Bryan Berard scored the game winner mid-way in the period when he slapped one in on the powerplay.

-THERE WAS NO SCORING IN THE 3RD PERIOD-

3 Stars (Mine as well):

1.Rick DiPietro- DP! (clap clap) DP!...He was a brick wall(Except for that Tyutin goal. Someone moved the net on him)
2.Bryan Berard- Returning as an Isle, he scored the game-winner.
3.MAB- Scored the first 3-on-3 goal for the Isles since Bob Bourne did it in 1981.


Notes From The Game:

-DP!!!!

-All goals by Dman. Interesting.

-17 penalties by the Isles and Rangers. Rangers 9, Isles 8.

-Isles were outshot, but why should that matter?

-Here were the lines-

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt – 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton – 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli – 8 Bruno Gervais
4 Bryan Berard

Forwards
15 Jeff Tambellini – 63 Josef Vasicek – 81 Miroslav Satan
26 Ruslan Fedotenko – 89 Mike Comrie – 13 Bill Guerin
11 Andy Hilbert – 18 Mike Sillinger – 7 Trent Hunter
20 Sean Bergenheim – 10 Richard Park


Yes, the Isles went without Boots last night. Just for Berard. It may happen again tonight.



Let's Go Isles!!!

Sim Out For Season...

Sad news...I was expecting a lot out of this guy. 2 games and he is done.

Berard will be playing tonight....something to look forward to. Nolan says it will be a game-time-decision on who BB will replace.

NIR for Berard tomorrow!

Berard Signed

I was supposed to post this about 24 hours ago. At least I'm posting it.

The Isles signed defenseman Bryan Berard on Monday to a 1-year contract.

He will be coming into his second tour of duty with the Isles. He had a great pre-season, now let's see what he can do here in the season.

Yes, this does mean that a "New Islander" Review will have to be done for BB. Also, I will do one for Johnson, because he has played in the NHL.

So, why not Bootland? I'm not sure. I may do his review, I just don't know yet.

Anyways, you have 2 new reviews to be looking forward to.

-Tomorrow- Rangers @ Isles!!!!


Let's Go Isles!!!

Coyotes Grab Meyer

The Phoenix Coyotes claimed Freddy Meyer off of waivers this morning.

This helps the Isles now. We cleared space for Berard, so now we can sign him.

Signing could come tomorrow.

Isles Take 1st Loss, 2-1 Capitals.

The Isles first loss comes off of a game that they dominated.

Photo Of The Game:


Park gave the Isles a 1-0 lead in the first when he wristed one in off of a great pass by Bootland.

Viktor Kozlov (boo) tied up the game when he slapped one behind Dipietro.

The Capitals got the game-winning goal when Brooks Laich finished off a play that burned Ricky.

My 3 Stars (and the game's 3 Stars):

1. Olaf Kolzig- Made it look easy out there, stopping 30 out of 31.
2. Brooks Laich- Scored the game-winner.
3. Brendan Witt- How many bruises does he have now? He got in the way of 6 today.


Notes From The Game:

-The Isles absolutely dominated this game, in shots (31 to 12), and puck control, and in almost every category there is, except for the only one that counts.

-I'm still disgusted with the refs. They blew a huge call on a Hunter breakaway. They also called off the last icing that would have given the Isles another chance. Clearly, there was no reason to call it off.

-Martinek got a lot of penalties today. We had 6 in total, and Radek had half of them.

-2-1. It's still good.




I was happy with the way the Isles played, we just couldn't find the back of the net.

Wednesday- Isles vs. Rangers! More great action!


Let's Go Isles!!!

Tambellini Re-called.

Well, he didn't spend too long in the minors. Jeff Tambellini was called up from Bridgeport to replace Jon Sim while he is out with a sprained knee.

...

Let's Go Isles!!!

Park's Contract Extended 2 Years

The Isles signed C Richard Park to a 2 year contract extension until 2010 on Sunday.



I wasn't thinking Park would be someone we'd be trusting 2 years from now, but I guess the Isles did.

If Marty and Park are guys we would like to have in the future of our team, it's good to lock them up now.

Final In Uniondale- 3-2 Isles

The Isles go 2-0 in the home-and-home to start the season.

Photo Of The Game:



The Sabres got the first goal of the game when Spacek slapped one in the net.

The Isles tied it up in the second when Campoli put a slapshot in the net to make it 1-1.

The Isles got the lead for the first time in the game when Mike Comrie backhanded one in for his 3rd goal of the season. Comrie lighted the lamp again, giving the Isles a 3-1 cushion. The Sabres made it a tight 3-2 game when Hecht put one in, but they failed to score again, giving the Isles a 3-2 victory.


My 3 Stars:

1.Mike Comrie- 2 goals in each of the first 2 games. Nice.
2.DP- Backed up Comrie and the Isles stopping 30 out of 32.
3.Jon Sim- Another gritty game that put a smile on my face.


Notes From The Game:

-Penalties. Uh oh.

-Comrie is looking insane out there. I hope he can keep this up.

-The Isles got completely out-shot, but DP made that a matter-less fact.

-Isles are 2-0, and should be going 4-0, in my sights.

-Here were the lines:

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt – 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton – 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli – 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
16 Jon Sim – 18 Mike Sillinger – 7 Trent Hunter
26 Ruslan Fedotenko – 89 Mike Comrie – 13 Bill Guerin
11 Andy Hilbert – 63 Josef Vasicek – 81 Miroslav Satan
20 Sean Bergenheim – 10 Richard Park – 27 Darryl Bootland


The Isles will try to go 3-0 against the Capitals tomorrow at 2:00 PM.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Pre-Game Post, Sabres @ Isles 7:00 PM

The Isles will take on the Buffalo Sabres tonight in the second game of a home-and-home. This will serve as the Isles Home Opener.

After a great win last night, I'm hoping that the Isles can finish off the sweep. It should be another night of high-scoring action. I'm not attending the game, so you can follow all of the action as I post it here at Islander Zone.


-WTW4-
-Jon Sim is 3 points away from 100 in his career.
-DP is seeking his 92nd career win.
-The Isles 1st line.


You can watch the game on FSNY.

Here is the roster for tonight's game:

Goaltenders
34 Wade Dubielewicz
39 Rick DiPietro

Defensemen
2 Aaron Johnson
8 Bruno Gervais
14 Chris Campoli
24 Radek Martinek
26 Andy Sutton
32 Brendan Witt "A"
44 Freddy Meyer
47 Marc-Andre Bergeron

Forwards
7 Trent Hunter
10 Richard Park
11 Andy Hilbert
13 Bill Guerin "C"
16 Jon Sim
18 Mike Sillinger "A"
20 Sean Bergenheim
26 Ruslan Fedotenko
27 Darryl Bootland
63 Josef Vasicek
81 Miroslav Satan
89 Mike Comrie

Expect the lines to be the same as last night's.

Yes, Freddy Meyer is noticably still there. For now.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Meyer Waived

A rumor has been swirling around that Freddy Meyer has been put on waivers by the Isles. I'm just getting confirmation of this. He is on waivers.

This will open up a spot for signing Bryan Berard. I'll get more on this if I can.

Pre-game shortly! Hour before game time!

UPDATE:

This may still be a rumor. Don't take it as official, yet. But it is a 99.9% right now.


Let's Go Isles!!!

Isles Defeat Sabres In Season Opener, 6-4.

The Isles are now 2-7-3 in the past 12 Season Openers after the win in Buffalo Friday night.

Photos Of The Game:







Spacek gave Buffalo an early 1-0 lead as he lasered one past Dipietro. 6:20 later, Josef Vasicek scored one on a delayed penalty to tie the game up at 1. Just over a minute later, Derek Roy netted one to make it 2-1. In a span of 34 seconds, the Isles got 2 goals by Tank and Campoli to make it 3-2 Isles. The Sabres finished off a 6 goal first period when Stafford scored with just over a minute left.

Comrie picked up his first goal of the night when he finished off a great set-up by Bill Guerin and Ruslan Fedotenko. Vanek tied the game on a slapshot on a breakaway about 15 feet in front of DP. Comrie scored his second goal on another great set-up by Guerin.

The Isles got some cushion when Hunter shoved one in on a powerplay mid-way in the third. That was the last goal in a 6-4 win, but there should have been one more. Satan missed an open net, followed by a great attempt by DP to score. I feel it was going in, but a Sabre got in the way of it a bit past the blueline. That was also followed up by a failed attempt at a hat-trick by Mike Comrie.

My Three Stars:

1. Mike Comrie- Two goals, and had a third one taken away from him. Great Game.
2. Bill Guerin- 3 assists and was a crucial part of Comrie's 2 goals.
3. Josef Vasicek/Jon Sim- These guys were hard working and checking guys all around. They put a smile on my face.


Notes From the Game:

-We ran into a few penalties, but so did the Buffalos.

-I'll say it again, Sim and Vasicek played great games.

-Guerin showed that he's a playmaker, too.

-Tank got his 100th assist of his career.

-Here were the lines: (Not in any order)

Goaltenders
39 Rick DiPietro
34 Wade Dubielewicz

Defensemen
32 Brendan Witt – 24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton – 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron
14 Chris Campoli – 8 Bruno Gervais

Forwards
16 Jon Sim – 18 Mike Sillinger – 7 Trent Hunter
26 Ruslan Fedotenko – 89 Mike Comrie – 13 Bill Guerin
11 Andy Hilbert – 63 Josef Vasicek – 81 Miroslav Satan
20 Sean Bergenheim – 10 Richard Park – 27 Darryl Bootland


I can't wait for tonight's game at the Coliseum. Pre-game will be posted sometime between 5:30 and 6:30.



Let's Go Isles!!!

Pre-Game Post, Isles @ Sabres 7:30 PM

Tonight at 7:30, tune in to FSN to watch the Isles face the Sabres in Buffalo.

Opening Day, early October, Friday night, fall breezing in the air (well, not really); It smells like hockey season. I'm very excited to kick off another hockey season, and my first season in covering the Islanders over here at Islander Zone.

Tonight, the Isles will face-off against the Buffalo Sabres. This home-and-home against them will mark 7 straight games against each other. After that disappointing playoff loss in 5 games in April, it is time for revenge. The Isles come in with a completely different team, and the Sabres come in without Drury, Briere, and Zubrus.

Expectations are mixed for the Isles this year. My poll ends at 7:29 tonight. So far, I have gotten 38 votes. Small, but I'm in my very early stages of blogging, so this is very acceptable for me. The poll results show that we are expected to get an average 7-9. I feel we can do better, but I might be going too far.


Here is the starting roster for tonight:

Goaltenders
34 Wade Dubielewicz
39 Rick DiPietro

Defensemen
2 Aaron Johnson
8 Bruno Gervais
14 Chris Campoli
24 Radek Martinek
26 Andy Sutton
32 Brendan Witt "A"
44 Freddy Meyer
47 Marc-Andre Bergeron

Forwards
7 Trent Hunter
10 Richard Park
11 Andy Hilbert
13 Bill Guerin "C"
16 Jon Sim
18 Mike Sillinger "A"
20 Sean Bergenheim
26 Ruslan Fedotenko
27 Darryl Bootland
63 Josef Vasicek
81 Miroslav Satan
89 Mike Comrie


Opening Day is here!

Let's Go Isles!!!

My New Isles Jersey!!!

I've received my new Isles jersey today.

Here it is!

















I believe that has been my first info-less post.

About an hour before game time. Pre-game will be posted shortly!


Let's Go Isles!!!

Radek Inks A New Contract...

Defenseman Radek Martinek was signed to a 3 year contract extension on Friday until 2011.

Marty was entering his free-agency season, but he does not have to worry about that until the summer of 2011. This shows that the Isles are relying on him to be one of our veteran Dman. A great reward for him.

I'll post a pre-game later.


Let's Go Isles!!!!

Season starts.....

As we prep up for Opening Day tomorrow night, I have a few notes for you.

-Berard has been practicing with the Isles, which basically means he is still on the try-out. Expect a signing sometime before the game tomorrow. Since he is still playing with us without a contract, I see no reason why he would sign somewhere else.

-The hockey season enters its second night. I will launch an "Eastern Conference Standings" section where you can, well, see the Eastern Conference standings. I may add the West's sometime in the future, but not to start the season.

-If we do sign Berard, it will be likely that the Dman trade with Tampa could be put into action. Campoli and Meyer for Lecavalier? I'll bring it up again, because it could all be possible.

-Opening Day- TOMORROW Isles @ Sabres 7:30 PM. 6-1 blowout? I hope.


Let's Go Isles!!!

NOTES.....NOTES.....NOTES.....

-The Islanders have signed goalie Mike Morisson. He has made the AHL roster.

-There still is hope for Berard. Although, I still have that bad feeling that he is not coming here. I hope I am wrong, of course.

-Bill Guerin will be on WBAB (102.3 FM) tomorrow morning at 8:15.

-Ted Nolan will be on WFAN (660 AM) at 10:30 in the morning.

I hope everyone can tune in for those!

Let's Go Isles!!!!!

The Final Roster Is Here!!!

Here is the starting roster for the 2007-2008 New York Islanders:

GOALTENDERS (2)
34 Wade Dubielewicz
39 Rick DiPietro

DEFENSEMEN (8)
2 Aaron Johnson
8 Bruno Gervais
14 Chris Campoli
24 Radek Martinek
25 Andy Sutton
32 Brendan Witt
44 Freddy Meyer
47 Marc-Andre Bergeron

FORWARDS (13)
7 Trent Hunter
10 Richard Park
11 Andy Hilbert
12 Chris Simon (eligible to return Oct. 13)
13 Bill Guerin
16 Jon Sim
18 Mike Sillinger
20 Sean Bergenheim
26 Ruslan Fedotenko
27 Darryl Bootland
63 Josef Vasicek
81 Miroslav Satan
89 Mike Comrie

17 Shawn Bates (injured)



Just like the title of my last post; UH-OH!.

As you can see, we weren't able to find a spot for Berard. And what hurts me even more is that Tambellini didn't make it. What's going on here?

I do have to congratulate Aaron Johnson and Darryl Bootland for making the team. Good training camps pay off!

More as this unfolds....

UPDATE:

Here is an interview with coach Ted Nolan on the starting roster:

On having eight defensemen on the roster:
“It’s a good luxury to have with eight or more strong defensemen who could play for us. It’s not necessarily about picking the most skilled people, but the right people. It’s going to be exciting, because every decision we make is going to be a tough one. This bodes well for us, because if it was easy, than we wouldn’t have people competing for jobs.”

On filling the power play spot next to Marc-Andre Bergeron:
“We have a number of guys who can fit in on the power play. Campoli has some offensive ability and Sutton could jump into that position. Martinek is another guy. We have a bunch of guys who could fill that spot.”

On the importance of defense:“There is no question we’ve been focusing on the defense right from the get-go. From the first day of training camp, we emphasized our coverage of the defensive zone. Defense is the way to compensate for any weaknesses we might have. That’s why we have a tough decision on defense. We had a couple of young guys come in and play pretty well. Aaron Johnson played pretty well, making it even more complicated. Hopefully, we come up with the best solution as to who plays opening night.”

On Jeff Tambellini being sent to Bridgeport:“In order for Jeff to be up here, he has to be among the top nine forwards. Jeff’s not a fourth-line guy. The way Sim and Fedotenko played in camp, and the way Andy Hilbert performed for us consistently last year, it was just one of those things. That’s not to say he won’t be back up here in a very short time. He’ll get his chance, and if he performs on a consistent basis, he’ll stay here.”

On Andy Hilbert playing alongside Miroslav Satan and Josef Vasicek:“Andy will be a very reliable defensive person on the line with Vasicek and Satan. If you look at all the big lines on any team, there’s always one guy who is more defensively-minded, as the high guy and the first one back. He’s one of those guys who does a lot of the work, but doesn’t get the credit for it.”


Big thanks to the Isles website (islanders.nhl.com) for the interview!

UPDATE 2:

Here are the lines that are likely the ones we will start opening day with:

Defense
Brendan Witt - Radek Martinek
Andy Sutton - Marc-Andre Bergeron
Chris Campoli - Bruno Gervais
Aaron Johnson - Freddy Meyer

Offense
Ruslan Fedotenko - Mike Comrie - Bill Guerin
Andy Hilbert - Josef Vasicek - Miroslav Satan
Jon Sim - Mike Sillinger - Trent Hunter
Sean Bergenheim - Richard Park - Darryl Bootland





Let's Go Isles!!!

Uh-Oh

I am shocked by what Ek has just said. Bryan Berard could be headed to Detriot.
Either there, or here. The signing of Berard should happen today, I believe. I, personally, felt that it was a no-doubter in the fact that Berard will sign with us. Now, I am a little worried. Ek says he'll follow this, so I will too.

Could be an interesting day.


Let's Go Isles!!!