I made it to the game on Tuesday night, the first time this season. Not that I haven’t wanted to go earlier, I have been crazy busy during this shortened season.

From the second we pulled up to the parking, you knew that hockey was back on Long Island. Yes, it’s been back since January when the lockout ended – but it’s BACK these days. We sat in traffic just to pay for parking and had to park near Hempstead Turnpike do to the turnout. The last time that happened was my first as a season ticket holder, in 2006-2007.

It was a beautiful night Tuesday night, so many fans did as they always have during early and late season games – they tailgated. There was a buzz among the crowd, an hour before the puck was even dropped!

Inside, fans were just as plentiful – a far cry from some of the earlier games this season.

Earlier on, the Islanders struggled mightily at home, the team had been dubbed (and even dubbed themselves) “Road Warriors” because they played great away from the Coliseum, but that’s all behind them now. They continue their strong play both on the road, and now at home as well. The most important statistic, isn’t a stat at all – the Islanders are making noise and are very relevant in April. It’s been a long time since this was true.

As I said, fans certainly notice when the team plays well. It was literally a night where you had to sit on the edge of your seat because you knew they wanted to beat the Flyers at home. As any fan who’s ever been to the Coliseum knows – the building got LOUD! Another memory forever burned into my brain – the “We Want Playoffs” chant that sprung up in the final five minutes. It gives you chills when the fans back the Islanders like this. CHILLS.

What’s more, media coverage has increased. When you win, it seems fans aren’t the only ones who notice. I do a ton of driving for work, and as of late I’ve listened to the NHL Network on Sirius/XM. Daily mentions have increased, with several minutes often being devoted to discuss what’s happening on Long Island. It’s an exciting time to be an Islanders fan again, for sure.

Fast forward to tonight, a road game against the bigger, tougher and stronger Boston Bruins. The Islanders made the Bruins look silly at times on their forecheck. They chipped pucks deep, initiated contact like they have during this great stretch of hockey and willed their way to a 2-1 win over the B’s. Nabakov was fantastic, as was the Islanders defense. Thomas Hickey has really grown into a reliable top six d-man as of late, it makes you wonder what his true ceiling can be.

Going into Saturday’s home tilt against the rival New York Rangers, owners of the Eight playoff spot as of this post – is certainly expected to be even louder at the old barn. It’s been a long time since the place rocked and I cannot wait to see how long we can keep it rocking.

The Islanders certainly believe – do you? We’ll see in just two days time, and I know I cannot wait.

Dylan Reese, NOT the answer

When Eric Hornick updated his awesome blog with the latest Skinny on the Isles loss to the Senators last night, one glaring stat stuck out like a sore thumb. 42.

No, it’s not the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe and everything actually yes it is, but read on! It’s the total of third period goals allowed, which owns the title of most in the NHL. Perhaps the Islanders never have those handy towels ready. Ok, that was the last unavoidable reference to The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galazy, but not towards the frustrating New York Islanders.

Click here to view the embedded video.

The team cannot seem to find its true identity and they continue with erratic play (Perhaps we all should visit Deep Thought). It’s hard to put a finger on the pulse of the issue, but there have been a ton of excuses by the fans. Last night I heard a few things on Twitter – soft goals, blown calls and poor coaching. So lets analyze.

Soft goals: everything the Senators generated last night came off of bodies in front of Nabokov. How do you fault him for a soft goal when he defense continuously allows traffic and sticks in shooting lanes? Everything that went in last night was either the result of a tipped puck or a screen. That’s on the defense, not much more Nabby can do there.

The officials: Yes, there were blown calls (and non call) and a goal that was nullified after being called good on the ice. But what got them into the position to even care about the goals? Read above. Teams who struggle and fall short blame everything but themselves. You cannot EVER allow a call or non call decide the outcome of a game. I turned off MSG before the post game, so I don’t know for sure if the team themselves referenced this or not, but I know the fans did.

The coaching: I blame Capuano to a degree here, but honestly – there is only so much any coach can do to motivate players. Dare I say this (I’ll get grilled), but look to Philly with Laviolette and the Rangers with Tortorella – two teams with a tremendous amount of talent and they aren’t where they were speculated to be. I’d say the Islanders are right where they should be given their roster, overachieving a bit and lacking in certain positions. Not playing good hockey and protecting leads happen to be a byproduct of young growing team.

@islesblogger Isles are 8-2-1 when leading after 2 (Loss to Carol/Ott: OTL to Wpg). The two home ones are the more painful.

— Eric Hornick (@ehornick) March 20, 2013

Another little tidbit from Eric Hornick, thanks to his answer via Twitter (that man is amazing with stats) the Isles are 8-2-1 when leading after 2. Losses to Carolina and Ottawa and an overtime loss to Winnipeg. So surprisingly the 42 third period goals, while the most allowed in the NHL, hasn’t contributed to anything more than what amounts to heartburn and a mediocre record at .500.

But what is 42 the answer of? That’s simple – it’s the answer to an area of play that sorely needs to be remedied. Third period play, especially with a lead. I guess 42 really is the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe and everything in the end. Either way, the Islanders need to make sure they fix whatever is causing third periods like we have seen all too often, but most recently in Florida on Saturday and again last night against Ottawa. If they hope to make the playoffs, clunkers like this have to be avoided at all costs.

What else is 42 also the answer of? I’m glad you asked! You should read this to find out. Hopefully they add this post to the list! (I kid, I kid).

Thanks for stopping by – So long, and thanks for all the fish!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Edit: For whatever reason – this post was reverted back to a draft and I lost the original version. I think I got it back to what it was originally.

Just last week, when Visnovsky returned from a wake in Slovakia, he had his family in tow. News had broken that he had rented a house on Long Island and that he (no surprise) LOVED the area and the team.

Moments ago on Twitter, Arthur Staple of Newsday Tweeted out that the Islanders are still in talks with Mark Streit on a contract extension, which we had heard some time ago. But there was NEW, news as well. The Islanders were also to begin talks with Visnovsky, Nabokov and Brad Boyes – all pending unrestricted free agents.

All in all, this isn’t surprising news. We know that Evgeni Nabokov has been playing some great hockey, and was extended last season into this season. He must feel he has a lot left to offer and could be disappointed with the shortened season due to the lockout.

What IS a bit surprising is the Lubomir Visnovsky news. When word got out that he liked what was happening here on Long Island, it sounded a bit familiar (ala Nabokov) – but the understanding was that Viz would likely retire after this season. Maybe he too, feels he has a lot left to offer and wants to be a part of the up and coming New York Islanders past this season. He hasn’t looked out of place and honestly, I like what he brings to the table.

#Isles soon to begin extension talks with Visnovsky, Nabokov. Both players told me that they are open to staying w/ team beyond this season.

— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) March 16, 2013

Also will be talking extension with Brad Boyes. Would indicate there’s no plans to deal any of the 4 pending UFAs at 4/3 trade deadline.

— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) March 16, 2013

Brad Boyes was a given to be extended. He has looked good on Tavares’s wing and has played his way into earning a new contract. If the Islanders plan on releasing some other players, there are potential upgrades that can be signed through free agency, or through the stocked system the team has in it’s pocket.

Things could always change between now and the trade deadline next month, but in this anomaly of a season I am glad that apprehensive players buy into what is being built here on Long Island.

Let’s here some thoughts on this! I already know there will be some debate on Mark Streit, but I am curious to see the rest of the opinions.

New York Islanders

Fortunately for the team, they had a rare four days off in between the Pittsburgh game and their game in Tampa against Stamkos and the Lightning and outworked them to a 2-0 victory on Thursday. The break afforded much needed rest for the team, as well as Evgeni Nabokov who’s been used in most of the teams games thus far.

Tonight’s game in Sunrise Florida against the struggling Panthers is a pivotal game for the Isles. Why is this? Let’s take a look at the standings for a second.

As of right now, the Islanders sit in fourth place in the soon to be former Atlantic division with 27 points. They are just one point back of the Rangers for third and trail the second place Devils by five.

Looking at the bigger picture in the Eastern Conference, the Islanders are in 10th place with their 27 points, one point behind the 9th place Rangers, three behind Winnipeg in the eight spot with 30. But it gets even better. Teams are so bunched up in this shortened season, that the Islanders are within striking distance of as high as fifth place if they continue strong play. The Maple Leafs are in seventh place with 31 points, the Devils in sixth with 32 and the Senators just above them in fifth with 32 as well!

That’s the thing about this Islanders team so far, consistency. I’ve joked numerous times about the team having an identity crisis, or a split personality. We’ve seen them show up for periods, half of games – either early or too late and at times, not at all. It’s been crazy, but then again – it’s an atypical season after all.

Looking ahead at the teams schedule to close out the month of March, the team has a mixed bag of a opponents. They play the Senators, Canadiens, Penguins and Panthers at home and then finish the month on the road against the Capitals, Flyers and Penguins.

Let’s look further and see the record against each team so far this year:

Penguins – 1-2
Flyers – 0-1 (7-0 rout)
Canadiens – 2-0 (shootout win)
Senators – 1-1 (shootout win)
Capitals – 1-0

Clearly, the Islanders have some work cut out for them – especially against teams in the state of Philadelphia. They would need to bring the type of game that has made them successful up to this point. The Flyers are beatable and if the Islanders want to make the post season, they MUST win against that team. They also need to avenge their loss to the Penguins as well, and they could even up their season series by that point.

Coming back to the present, the Panthers are 2-6-2 in their last ten games are dead last in the Eastern Conference. Teams like them are dangerous, because they are likely out of contention and have nothing to lose. They will be hungry and try to make the Islanders leave Florida with the loss. It’s also going to be tough due to injuries. Ullstrom and Grabner are both out. Ullstrom injured his groin in Tampa on Thursday and will be out for the next few weeks, Grabner hurt his shoulder earlier in the week and will be back in 2-3 weeks.

The Islanders have not recalled anyone, Joensuu has traveled with the team and is close to returning from his sports hernia operation but is said to NOT be ready to play tonight. That’s a shame because they can certainly use his size and skill up front. Arthur Staple of Newsday, sent out this tweet earlier today:

Looks as though McDonald back in, Joensuu still out. Same D as Thursday. #Isles

— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) March 16, 2013

Colin McDonald back in – fresh off his two year, one-way contract extension with the Islanders. Details of that contract, as well as a great write up, are available on the Islanders website.

So it’s clear that Capuano is comfortable with his lineup from Thursday, but how will the team fare without Ullstrom in the lineup? I guess we are a few hours away from finding that out, aren’t we?

What do you think? Let me know about it in the comment section, or hit me up on Twitter – @islesblogger

I’m back from Sunny Florida, as I am sure you may have seen if you follow me on Twitter!

I had a great time on our trip, a lot of exciting things happened – but now that I am back it’s back to business.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t watch any of the games while I was away. I did catch one period of the Ottawa game last Sunday (a really bad stream online), but the rest I caught bits and pieces of via the WRHU iOS app.

On to the good stuff.

The Islanders will be completing a seven game homestand this afternoon against the Capitals and are 2-0-2 in their last four. To have points in four straight is a huge accomplishment for this team at home, as they have had major struggles in front of their own fans. The team is one game below NHL .500 and only a few points out of the final playoff spot with 24 games remaining.

The Islanders have been extremely frustrated as of late, as evident by John Tavares slamming the bench door after a hit by P.K. Subban in the Montreal game and again against the Rangers. It seems the team feels they have not been on the receiving end of calls lately – in fact, they have received ZERO power plays in two recent games. Ultimately, when games are decided by questionable calls, or non-calls – this is bad and the feelings on this have been the same league wide. It boiled over after the game against the Rangers, with several players earning penalties and even assistant coach Brent Thompson being suspended two games for his comments to officials after the overtime loss.

There have been several Islanders contributing as of late: Brad Boyes, Michael Grabner, Frans Nielsen, John Tavares, Matt Moulson and Matt Martin. The power play has been chugging away, but the Islanders have been allowing some goals on the penalty kill.

Michael Grabner now has 10 goals along with Tavares and Moulson and has done so playing less than 10 minutes per game and on a line that is a much more defensive line. It’s a shame he isn’t trusted with more minutes or hasn’t been given a look with different linemates.

The Islanders have found success playing their style of game, smart defensive hockey and good offensive pressure that generates scoring chances. The Capitals are a team that can be dangerous if given the opportunity, so they need to limit scoring chances against and spread out their defense as they have against other opponents during the last week.

It should be a great game, and it’s a key two points during the final game of this home stand.

Now, only if they can generate some power play opportunities this afternoon. Only time will tell.

Hopefully, Team A shows up, as this game is nationally broadcast.

It’s a sad state of affairs as I mentioned the other day, as you never know which team may show up, game by game and even period to period. That’s just what we saw against the Hurricanes on Sunday night. The Islanders looked good for the first twenty, ok for part of the second period and lost in the third. Capuano struggles to find answers and a remedy for the varied play, going so far as to call out his team in the media claiming (paraphrasing) “Individualistic play belongs in golf and tennis” and also “No emotion in the room.” I don’t want to make excuses about it being a back to back game, as the Hurricanes were in the same position. Perhaps the energy of Nabokov’s well earned shutout in Buffalo took everything out of them – no idea.

It’s a shame that the team only managed a solid 20 minutes in front of Poulin, I thought he played well but he obviously needs some time to get up to NHL speed. It’s been a hot minute since he was last up with the Islanders, and that ended in injury.

Keys to success tonight, limiting the Bruins big guys travel through the neutral zone, blocking (ouch-Chara) shots and clogging every shooting lane possible. Support Nabokov, play smart defensively. Easier said than done, I know.

DiPietro Reports

I have yet to post my opinion on this DiPietro mess that has finally come to head, but he’s reported to the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the AHL. Not that I expected anything else, but the second stage of his wayward journey is under way.

Look for more on this in the coming days.

New York Islanders

In any case – the Islanders were victorious North of the Border in Montreal last night, but it was a tale of three teams. I’m almost certain that you read the title and said – “Eh? THREE teams Mike?”.

Yes, three.

You see, far too many times the last two seasons (for a long time…) the Islanders have this dirty little secret. They’re actually two completely different teams. As I mentioned the other day in my most recent post, it seems as though Team A can come out, right from the jump and score early goals or at least generate tons of pressure. They can also sustain this pressure, force turnovers, penalties and generally dominate on both sides of the puck for 60 minutes.

Then we have Team B – and they’re nasty.

Team B, well – they seem to forget that they’re supposed to be professional hockey players. They lack motivation, drive, talent and for the most part – energy. What’s more, they LOVE to allow their opposition scoring chances and worse, early goals. I’ve lost track of how many times in the very short season the opposing team has scored under a minute into the contest. It’s that bad. They also tend to have an issue protecting leads, seeing two, three or even four goal leads erased. Ouch, just nasty stuff.

Last night in Montreal was no different. The Habs got onto the board first barely a minute into the game, even after a great scoring chance by John Tavares off a great feed from Mark Streit. After the first periods horn sounded, they trailed 2-0. Matt Moulson scored on the power play in the second, but the Habs would regain a two goal lead and go ahead 3-1. That’s when things turned around.

Team B, whom for the most part ruled the roost for the Isles, was overcome by Team A and things got interesting. The Islanders were awarded another power play chance, and they found success once again – with Matt Moulson depositing a puck past Price to make it 3-2. In the third period, the Islanders – I mean, Team A continued their strong play and forced the Habs to ice the puck six or seven times. They kept the puck deep on one flurry and had great zone time until a turnover lead to an odd man rush back into their zone. Frans Nielsen skated back to help the lone defenseman and did a heck of a job back checking. The play didn’t end there however, Nielsen passed the puck up through the neutral zone to Josh Bailey who crossed into Habs territory and stopped on a dime. Nielsen went straight to the top of the slot and wired a wrister past Price to tie the game at 3.

The Isles had completed a seemingly impossible comeback and forced overtime. But it wasn’t easy, they had to come up big on the penalty kill in the last minutes of the period. That’s when the magic happened.

New York Islanders

Despite the win, there are obvious problems. Their five on five play leaves a lot to be desired. Scoring on the man advantage is an important part of winning hockey games, but being able to find the back of the net during even up play is enormously important. Slow starts, motivation or preparedness needs to be remedied. Why work from behind so early in the game? Consistency. Team A and Team B need to have a meeting and decide which team they want to be on a nightly basis. The skill is there, for the most part so I would like to see the same team from night to night, and even more important – period to period.

So you’ve read through this entire post now and are likely asking – what about the third team? Easy, Team C is the opponent, which you likely picked up by this point!

We’ve seen this team come out flying and score goals in the first minute of play and dominate for a full 60, but we’ve also seen the same team come out and look lost and allow goals in the first :27 seconds or less of periods. I’ve seen blame placed upon everything from the owner, to the coach, preparedness, the captain, lack of talent, lack of defense, size – everything.

What are the answers?

That’s a great question. One that I find myself asking as I watch these games from the comfort of my living room with a scowl on my face and sore throat from yelling at the TV.

Let’s analyze.

The Talent

Up front we have Tavares, Moulson and Boyes. While this line has put up points and John has entered beast mode at times, he cannot do it alone. I watch this guy bust his hump game in and game out and teams pay lots of attention to him. Why? Because the talent around him while good, can’t keep pressure off of him most nights. Sure, they can compete with that first line, but he needs someone who can open up space and be as big of a threat as him so he can penetrate the defense without too much trouble and not have four guys hanging all over him.

At the same time, because he draws that many players to him those around him need to get into better position. Something that doesn’t always happen. Moulson gets to the net, creates traffic and is handy with his stick depositing shots – but only when they get through. Boyes shows flashes of being a smart playmaker, but he gets pushed off the puck and causes turnovers at times. I’d really hoped for more out of him and I’m not sure he belongs on JT’s wing.

As we move down the depth chart – we have Grabner who’s speed and defensive play cause fits but he often can’t finish. Nielsen with his defensive play, while he’s a smart player he doesn’t seem to have much as far as offense this season. Bailey has looked better this year, but we haven’t seen enough of him. Ullstrom and Cizikas have been a pleasant surprise. I’d like to see Ullstrom up on JT’s wing for a game or two actually.

Okposo. I’ve never been as disappointed in a player as I have been with Kyle. He seems lazier this year, perhaps because he opted to not play during the lockout and it’s a matter of conditioning? Two games in a row he’s taken penalties that have killed momentum and have been in the offensive zone. You just cannot do that. He’s haphazardly back checked and tried too hard to make pretty plays with the puck. He needs to use his head and slow his game down a touch. He’s been all over the place in the lineup, and last night he looked OK until he decided to be a bonehead.

Aucoin and McDonald – two serviceable guys who deserve spot duty in the NHL, but would be better served down with Bridgeport. Aucoin I’d actually go and say he’s good enough to stick, but I think it’s because of our depth issue.

Reasoner – well, we know what we have there and why the team is shopping him. He actually played ok last night in Ottawa, but as much as this team needs a veteran, he doesn’t fit and hasn’t fit since was signed. Experiment over.

If he’s waived or traded, it’s time for Niederreiter to be called up.

The Defense

This has been a tough year – as noted by our waiver wire addiction.

Hickey has looked good, I like not noticing a player much until he makes that solid play and he hasn’t looked out of place. Finley, well – we could do better but he serves a purpose when he’s around. Carkner has added toughness and been an ok defenseman and I’m actually a little upset he’s been injured. They need his fire.

Visnovsky has been as advertised. I just wish he was a few years younger because he adds an element that this team needs – a secondary power play QB. He seems to like the team, thankfully – and plays every night. Not to say he hasn’t made mistakes though.

Our Captain, Streit – he’s struggled but has given glimpses of the player he was in his first season on the team. I’ve not changed my mind in that he was a bad choice for captain. He would never do as Giroux did for the Flyers and call out his teammates. He should’ve after the 7-0 shutout though. I would have. Sometimes you need to get pissed as a leader and veteran. Just look at what assistant coach Doug Weight did with his “paint peeling” speech last week. We need THAT fire and excitement.

Strait is hurt and that’s a shame. He’s been solid and deserves that contract. A fractured ankle will likely see him gone the rest of the season. I suppose we’ll see the man-o-glass Martinek replace him this week at some point.

MacDonald – oh what happened to you? You’ve gone from a steady workhorse to someone who’s positional play has gotten away from what it was. You’re playing too many minutes friend.

Hamonic – thank goodness for you. You’re the best we have on the rear guard corps, but like your partner you are playing too many minutes. This just screams lack of depth and poor coaching.

It’s clear to me that Capuano trusts who he trusts and is hesitant to change much up. Sounds exactly the way Scott Gordon was and we know how that ended.

The Goaltenders

Nabokov has been outstanding for a player creeping up there in age. He’s been overplayed though and hung out to dry more often than not with his defense.

DiPietro – I’ll get lambasted for saying this, but he’s been ok. Not great, not good – but just ok. Sure last night he flubbed that glove save and it put the game out of reach, but when you don’t allow your goalie to see the puck you can’t expect him to automatically make a save, I don’t care who it is in net.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been writing about this team since 2006, been a fan my entire life and have seen a lot of crazy things go on with the organization.

What I cannot wrap my mind around is the lack of effort by Charles Wang to put a genuine NHL product on the ice. Garth Snow is always forced to assemble a majority of his team with tape and bubble gum and that’s no way to form a contender, let alone a professional hockey team. His hands are tied for the most part – I don’t agree with the thoughts that he’s a bad GM and I’m curious to see how good he can be if he was ACTUALLY free to do what he wants.

Sure there are a ton of issues going on behind the scenes with the pending move to Brooklyn, but enough is enough.

The Islanders are wrecking these years with John Tavares. Plain and simple.

While the farm is stocked with a ton of good prospects – we seem to be stuck in this repetitive cycle of poor management. It’s painful to watch as a fan, I’m sure it’s no better as a player.

We should be going hard as we move towards Brooklyn. The fans in on Long Island deserve to make the old barn rock at least one more time.

I’m tired of feeling as if we’re constantly lied to as a fan base – and I know a lot of other fans out there feel the same way.

I look forward to better days and we’ve been teased with what it’ll be like once we get there.

Tell me you’re feelings or ideas in the comment section. I’m open for debate.

As we move forward here, I am really excited to churn out my take on everything New York Islanders. I’ve been given such a great opportunity that not many folks have received, so let’s make the best of this!

Let’s start out with the lockout.

We knew it was coming, each side had their reasons and I really don’t want to go into the semantics of the whole thing. It was horrible to endure as a fan, and that’s as far as I can take that. I refused to write about any of it, although I did read about it and listen to NHL on Sirius/XM daily – go figure.

I don’t see the need to go back 8 months to recap who we’ve drafted back in June, or who we traded for or signed. You all know that by now. I will provide my take on the most recent transactions though.

The Lubomir Visnovsky debacle rages on. Arthur Staple said earlier that the player had “some personal issues to deal with” and would eventually report to camp. This comes after weeks (if not month’s really) of the player trying to find his way out of his contract by any means. What kind of element will he add to the tight-knit locker room? Hard to say – but clearly Nabokov changed his tune once he was here.

The Islanders announced the signing of long time Islander (and short-time Blue Jacket) Radek Martinek to a one year deal. You can never have too many defenseman I say, and clearly Garth Snow feels the same way.

Speaking of defensemen – the Islanders also recently waived d-man Ty Wishart (who has since cleared and returned to Bridgeport) and claimed two players in Joe Finley (Buffalo Sabres) and Thomas Hickey (LA Kings), most likely for depth. The Islanders had a really nice article on Jon Landry that is worth a read. If you think the trials and tribulations of a hockey player are all golden like that of John Tavares – think again. Landry has traveled down a really long road, and it’s nice to see a young man stick to what he loves throughout it all!

The Islanders have also opened up a ton to fans – regarding scrimmages, practice and even concessions. For all the latest visit NewYorkIslanders.com for the latest!

On Saturday January 19th, the Islanders have their season opener against the New Jersey Devils. Also that night, a new website will go live, exclusive for Islanders fans! A site called IslandersPowerPlayDeals goes live exclusively for Islanders fans, offering preferred pricing on Long Island’s best local travel, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centers and various other retailers. You can learn more details on the Islanders official announcement.

The Islanders are in New Jersey tonight to take on the Devils for round two of their three game stint.

The Islanders are 2-1 against the Devils so far this season – with three games remaining in the season series. Last weekend, the Islanders blanked the Devils 1-0 thanks to their strong defensive play and the great play of their rookie goaltender Anders Nilsson who stopped all 24 shots he faced.

The Islanders cannot give up ANY points in their quest for a post season appearance. They have struggled to put together win streaks longer than a two or three games much of the season.

Scoring has often disappeared, as the only line doing much damage is their first line, however Josh Bailey’s move to wing has paid dividends as of late. Bailey has scored four goals over the last four games, while Kyle Okposo has played well with his new linemates and scored the only goal – the games winner last weekend against New Jersey.

With 16 games remaining, the Islanders are 7 points back of the 8th and final playoff spot. While not mathematically eliminated, they need to win the next string of games with strong, confident and consistent hockey of they don’t want those hopes completely dashed.

It’s a stretch, but crazier things have happened. Just look at the parity in the league – these six points against the Devils are HUGE.

This year, I’m home – celebrating what will likely be an uneventful day for the New York Islanders. Last year however, I was working – stuck in the Bronx and forced to stream TSN via their Tradecentre app. This year I have a new solution, and despite being home I thought it would be easy – but I don’t have the NHL Network.

So, my solution for 2012:

I purchased a $10 dollar application called AirParrot for Mac OSX. This enables mirroring your desktop to your Apple TV. I located a link, (which I really don’t want to post in fear it would hurt the stream quality) that is showing the TSN feed. Is it perfect? No, but at least I can watch.

Now, I realize that NHL.com has the stream, but they won’t be live streaming until Noon EST. This should hold me over for a few hours.

What’ll Happen?

We all know that the Islanders play as of late has been wildly inconsistent, due in part to a few key injuries and a rampant flu bug running through then locker room.

The Islanders find themselves 8 points back of the 8th and final playoff spot.

Then Islanders have a whole list of pending UFA’s:

Forwards
Brian Rolston (Placed on waivers 2/25/12)
Jay Pandolfo
PA Parenteau

Defensemen
Mark Eaton
Steve Staios
Milan Jurcina
Mike Mottau
Dylan Reese

Goaltenders
Evgeni Nabokov
Al Montoya

If you look over the list above, two players in particular would garner the most interest – Parenteau and Nabokov. Parenteau is second on the Islanders in points, with 15 goals and 43 assists for a total of 58 points. Garth Snow has come out on record, a few times, saying he really doesn’t want to deal PA and would like to sign him to an extension. PA’s agent has also come out on record as saying PA would rather focus on the contract after the season is over – so does Snow risk losing PA for nothing or does he listen to offers today? It’s clear that Parenteau has excelled off of Tavares’ wing, but regardless the Islanders have still struggled offensively outside of that first line anyway. It’s quite a conundrum and would leave a big hole to fill should he get moved.

Moving to Evgeni Nabokov; he’s got a no trade clause and would have to approve any move but again, Garth Snow and Nabokov’s agent have been on record the last few weeks as saying an extension is being worked on and that there are no trades being discussed. That said, we all know that things could change in an instant – especially with the goalie market being somewhat saturated. I really like what Nabokov has brought this season and turned around his little situation in not reporting after being claimed off waivers last year. He’s helped hide the Islanders defensive issues and helped them claw back to where they are currently.

The rest of the players available all have one thing in common, experience. They could help teams add depth for a stretch run, or in the playoffs – but they have all been relatively HORRID for the Islanders. Outside of Mark Eaton and maybe Montoya, I wouldn’t be sad to see anyone go.

The dilemma here for Garth Snow, he’s neither a buyer or a seller. If he sells off any available assets, the season is officially over and any SLIM chance of making the playoffs is essentially dashed. If he moves no personnel, and brings no help in – we can expect the same type of play the rest of the season and essentially come up short for the playoffs, as expected.

The Needs

Should Garth Snow have a shopping list today, he needs primary and secondary scoring, AND needs first, second and third pair defensive help. For once, the goaltending situation isn’t as big of an issue as it has been in the past – but that’s IF Nabokov is retained and Montoya regains his form from earlier this season.

I guess only time will tell – and we have over five hours left until the 3 PM eastern trade deadline.

My gut says that we won’t see many trades for the Islanders today, if any at all.

You can take the Great Dane off your list, as Garth Snow has inked Nielsen to a four year $11-Million dollar contract extension earlier tonight.

No official news per the team, but it was just talked about on MSG during the Islanders telecast and TSN’s Bob McKenzie had several tweets on this:

https://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie/status/167035150729883649

https://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie/status/167036069043372032

Nielsen has been a key defensive forward for the New York Islanders, and he also has that deadly go-to move during the shootout.

I’ll have more shortly.

I am working on a few stories leading up to the All Star Game, the teams play over the last few weeks, the ever looming trade deadline and what to expect out of the Islanders the remainder of the season.

That said, I came across this great clip from a series on The Score called Face Paint. This time they interview Al Montoya and ask him about his current mask design. I am sure there are clippings on this story on the internet somewhere from preseason or earlier in the year, but it’s always great to have the players full explanation.

Pretty cool, have a look:

Flash forward to the present, Tavares has grown leaps and bounds. He’s more confident, he’s a stronger skater and for the most part, has proven he can shoulder the weight of his team.

Look no further than last season, when Tavares would get muscled off the puck, or taken down while skating and compare him to today just to see the difference. It’s night and day how far he’s come, credit that to his character.

Sure, there were knocks on his skating and defensive skills – but he’s improved in those areas tenfold.

John Tavares is who the Islanders needed to rebuild around, he is an integral part of the nature of the team. It’s a good thing he signed that contract extension over the summer, as he will be with the Islanders for a while.

Here are some notes per the Islanders release:

The National Hockey League announced today that Islanders center John Tavares has been selected to participate in the 2012 NHL All-Star Weekend.

Tavares, 21, leads all Islanders in scoring with 39 points (14 goals, 25 assists) through 40 games this season. The first overall pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft also led the Islanders in points during each of his first two seasons, but 2012 marks his first All-Star selection.

Only 20 players in the NHL have more points this season than Tavares, who has recorded 10 multi-point games, including two four-point efforts and one hat trick. The Oakville, ON native, leads all Islanders forwards in ice-time, averaging 19:39 a game.

Tavares joins some other recent Islanders who’ve gotten a taste of the All-Star weekend: Mark Streit, Rick DiPietro, and Michael Grabner.

It’s great to see Tavares noticed and rewarded for his great work here on Long Island. It’ll be interesting to not how well he’ll do skating alongside some of the greatest players in the game, and if the Garth Snow takes note of whatever chemistry he may have with them.

Either that, or get a dose of reality in what a shot in the arm by way of “upgrading” his roster could do for this team.

Only time will tell.

Not just for the New York Islanders, but – for those of us who follow the team and more importantly, TRY to blog about them. All too many times, I’ve started a post – felt like I have been repeating myself or just don’t have anything positive to add and either quit or delete it completely.

I don’t get paid to write – this is something that I did because I enjoyed watching (and playing) hockey and I liked writing even more.

When you’re a fan and a blogger (a Flogger? No – that’s something completely different…) this task becomes even more difficult the worse the team does, or the more frustrating things around the team make you.

I’m going to make a huge admission here on my blog; I do not enjoy watching this team as much as I have. It’s to the point (for several reasons) – I discontinued my Season Tickets over the summer. I can honestly say, I have not missed them.

I watch the games on TV and I yell at the team as if I am at the arena, or even better – I change the channel. That’s exactly what I did when the Islanders got shutout for the seventh time this season on Monday. Sure, the Rangers are a better team – but that’s besides the point.

What makes the losing even worse? This commercial:

The Islanders have not done a heckuvalot to improve. The team has struggled to score at even strength, at times even seem unable to hit the broadside of a barn. This season isn’t all to different from the last up to this point, being a point or two off of their record from that crazy November skid and the goal differential is almost identical. How is that improvement? How is that COMMITMENT? This is what you do for Islanders fans on their 40th year of existance?

I know this sounds like one gigantic vent – and it is, maybe because I rarely use my blog to lament on the stuff surrounding this team but I cannot hold my breath any more. Something needs to give, waiving a Blake Comeau is not the answer. That said, at this junction there is nothing about this season that is salvageable – it’s another year chalked up to the rebuild. Get this years number one and call it a day.

But no, we have the huge question mark of where the team will play or even if the team will stay on Long Island forever looming over our head. Too many questions, too many variables.

Ok, rant over.

In any case, the Islanders are taking on the Calgary Flames tonight at the Coliseum. It’s a meaningless game in that it’s a Western Conference team – but it’s a chance to earn two points and break out of their funk.

Nabakov is in net, and according to Arthur Staple of Newsday – there are some possible line changes tonight.

If the team comes out and has a strong first period anything can happen. If they allow a goal in the first few minutes, they’ll likely chase the remainder of the entire game – and we know how that ends.

AP Photo/Paul J. Bereswill

Fans hoping for a little retribution or retaliation on Mark Fistric for his concussion inducing hit on Nino Niederreiter – will have to wait. The Stars, likely by design – have made him a healthy scratch for tonight’s contest. It’s also important to note, he also just returned from a three game suspension for his hit on Nino.

That should all be of no worry tonight for the Islanders, as John Tavares, Josh Bailey and Kyle Okposo are all finding their stride and potting goals for their team. Josh Bailey has been playing like a man possessed as of late – 1 goal and 2 assists in the last five, but that’s not completely indicative of his play. He’s been much more confident on both sides of the puck, and been an absolute beast on the penalty kill. Then you have Okposo, who’s starting to play like he did prior to his injury, being physical and initiating contact.

There are some new faces in the lineup for the Islanders tonight as well, Calvin de Haan has been called up to take the place of concussed D-man Steve Staios to make his NHL Debut – and Kevin Poulin earned the start tonight in his replacement of Evgeni Nabakov. It feels like just yesterday that I was interviewing de Haan and Poulin on draft day!

The Islanders simply need to play their game – smart plays, passes, confidence and poise all the while continue that element of toughness with the puck. As I write this, the Islanders have allowed Dallas to score as the Power Play expired – not the start they were looking for, but they need to continue to pressure Dallas.

I’ll have a full recap after the game, but until then, be sure to follow me on Twitter @islesblogger!

Tavares still cannot finish, but he’s certainly been able to start – earning three assists in their win over Dallas on Saturday night, and two the previous game in Chicago. Tavares now has 21 points, 8 goals and 13 assists and is tied with PA Parenteau for the team lead. Matt Moulson had a heck-uva game in Dallas, scoring four goals, the first time any player has scored four in a game this season – and wound up with the NHL’s First Star for the week. Moulson is in third place on the Islanders now in scoring, with 13 goals and 6 assists for 19 points. After that, it’s a pretty big drop off.

While there are some things to be worked on, the Islanders have shown some resiliency the last several games – going deep in the game and coming back when the opposition finds a way back into the game.

Injuries are beginning to mount as the season moves along, with Niederreiter out with a concussion, DiPietro out with a groin injury, Grabner a groin injury, MacDonald a leg injury, Eaton a knee injury, Nabokov with a groin injury, the list goes on. To replace some of the walking wounded, Kevin Poulin backs up Montoya in net and Tim Wallace up to replace Grabner. Wallace looked great during preseason and has fair stats down in Bridgeport – 9 goals and 11 assists for 20 points, top scorer for the Sound Tigers. Also up with the big club, Micheal Haley.

Tampa is on the second game of their four game road trip, and also coming off a loss to Ottawa. It should be a chippy game all around, as the Islanders need these two points to continue their strong play and to make a point that the pushing around that started in Dallas, is going to stop.

Nobody could have seen this start coming for the Islanders, who finished strong last season and looked to carry the momentum into the start of this season, but it’s not the way things have worked out.

The team has struggled to score goals, when they have scored they have struggled to hold onto leads and at times, just struggled in general. The Islanders are a young, talented team on paper, supplemented by some key veterans as well. So why have things been so tough?

Some are quick to cast all that aside and blame management, others even quicker to discount the talent on the team because “they’re the Islanders” – my hope is that the team, like last season, uses the negativity to fuel their fire and drive to prove everyone wrong.

Islanders head coach Jack Capuano is in his first full season as an NHL coach – so it’s really hard to place 100% blame there. Charles Wang has come out, as well as GM Garth Snow stating confidence in Capuano. Trust and confidence goes a long way in the NHL, where we have already seen three coaching changes in this young season.

John Tavares is riding an 11 game scoring slump and the pundits are coming out in full force. If you follow me on Twitter I was quick to point out that nobody seems to bring up the recent slumps of Stamkos and Ovechkin – two players surrounded by world class talent. But hey, Tavares is an Islander, right?

Chicago comes into the game tonight in fourth place in the Western Conference at 14-8-3, and off a recent loss. The Islanders have had a few days rest since their great game in Buffalo, they need to be smart defensively tonight against the Blackhawks scary offensive attack.

No announcement has been made on the starting goalie for the Isles, but Capuano often rides the hot hand and that’s been Al Montoya as of late. He had a superb game in Buffalo, making highlight reel save after save.

Andrew MacDonald is out tonight, with Dylan Reese called up to take his spot – a solid replacement and someone who had hoped to make the opening night roster.

The keys to a win tonight are simple: good puck movement, a continued strong forecheck, a good first pass and entry into the offensive zone. Utilize speed to help the transition and get behind the Chicago defense. Last, but not least – stay out of the penalty box.

If the Islanders bring what they have the last few games, earning their third straight road win is a good possibility.

For long stretches of time, the Isles were out muscled, out played and out hustled. They did manage to turn it around for a bit towards the end of the first period, and then again during the second with a few power plays but ended the second period down 2-1. The game got chippy at times, with Mottau and Avery fighting and then Martin and Eminger as well.

Nabakov absorbed lots of contact, as have his fellow keepers had the previous games – it’s no wonder why the league is looking into ways of protecting goalies.

There were the typical gaffes, bad passes, blocked shots, poor clearing attempts and a few miscues around the net. But none took the cake like Josh Bailey’s bone headed backhand clearing attempt late in the third. An ill advised attempt that was up the middle of the ice and went directly to Brad Richards who scored the game winner. Josh Bailey may find himself on the outside looking in, as soon as tomorrow nights game.

The team clearly responded Kyle Okposo’s benching last night, but they were just no match for the stronger and more talented Rangers.

During the post game, it was your typical somber and quiet locker room. The players were milling about, with Austrian news crews going through and interviewing Grabner, Niederreiter and Streit, in German. I could barely hear Moulson in his scrum, he was monotone and looking at the floor for the most part. The only thing I managed to understand was how the team is frustrated and that they know they can play better.

Tavares’ scrum was no different, as he is already a quiet person. However, you could literally see the pain and frustration in his expressions and through his words.

I am not going to lie, I’m glad they are frustrated and mad. A team that accepts defeat and begins to expect losing isn’t a team I would want to watch – so perhaps this is another learning experience for the young crew.

Listening to head coach Jack Capuano speak during his post game press conference – it was good to hear that he felt there weren’t any passengers and he saw lots of effort last night. He admitted that they had paid the price on the 5 on 3, and nearly scored right after killing it off.

Third Jersey Revealed

The Islanders 3rd jersey was revealed tonight at a special event, it had been speculated about for months and was even leaked to a few different websites. Unfortunately, it was that black design that just wouldn’t go away – which I admit I don’t hate, but I don’t love it either. It reminds me too much of the jersey the Mets wear and I really don’t want to emulate that team any more than we already do.

Please, tell me what you think in the comments. Although, I may regret that.

The Islanders have struggled mightily the last few weeks, they’ve had trouble scoring, hitting, and skating. They also have far too many players who are struggling offensively, or just struggling in general. Back on November 1st, I had started a post outlining all of the offensive woes of the current roster – but I got side tracked with the SEMA Automotive show in Las Vegas. I’ve taken on some more responsibility with my friends TV Show and Website – Motorz TV.

In any case, players up and down the roster are struggling – Blake Comeau, Josh Bailey, Kyle Okposo, Brian Rolson, and Marty Reasoner – just to name a few. Head Coach Jack Capuano has stated several times now that there are certain players that are simply along for the ride and not bringing what they can to the game. He’s done little to wake his team up however, only scratching Blake Comeau for two games last month. If you have players who feel they automatically deserve a roster spot, sorry they should be sitting.

Thankfully, Nino Niederreiter returns tonight from his two week conditioning stint in Bridgeport. His style of play and energy should be a welcomed and much needed boost for the slumping Islanders.

Newsday’s Arthur Staple reported via Twitter earlier today, that Capuano will not speak about his roster adjustments until closer to game time, but – he did say that Evgeni Nabakov will be in goal for the Islanders tonight.

The Gameplan

This shouldn’t come as a surprise – but the Islanders need to execute their shot selection better. The last handful of games the Islanders haven’t been able to get through their opponents forecheck, or even establish anything once they gain the offensive zone.

Defensively they’ve been no better, as they’ve allowed the first goal on the first shot against way too many times. They have also made a ton of mistakes, miscues and not been hitting aggressively enough. It’s almost like the entire team is afraid to be physical, well – aside from Martin and Streit.

Pressure – simply put, pressure the puck carriers coming into the defensive zone. Put pressure on the opponents defense to force turnovers and for once, just shoot the puck. The team has held onto the puck for way too long at times, it’s almost as if they haven’t learned anything last year.

Fortunately, the Islanders always seem to step up their game when it comes to their cross-town rivals. If there was ever a game that the team would break out of their funk – tonight would be the night.

I know that everyone watching in that arena will be amped up to see some spirited hockey, but will our Islanders?