Based on an examination this morning at the time Rick DiPietro underwent an MRI on his injured left knee, Islanders spokesman Chris Botta said the club’s franchise goaltender has “no significant structural damage.” Results of the MRI were expected later this afternoon, but Botta added, “We’re very convinced he’s okay.”
DiPietro, who said he twisted his knee during pregame warm-ups before the Toronto game Wednesday night, took himself out of the game after giving up two goals on nine first-period shots. He is listed as day-to-day with a sprained knee, but there’s a chance he could return to the lineup as soon as Saturday against the Devils at the Coliseum.
Following the Isles’ 4-3 overtime win against the Maple Leafs with Wade Dubielewicz picking up the slack in goal, DiPietro was favoring his left knee slightly as he left the arena. He was not immediately available for comment today after undergoing tests.
The Islanders often have not been forthcoming regarding injuries. When DiPietro suffered the first of two concussions last season, the injury first was described as “general body soreness.” After the second concussion, they denied a report that DiPietro would not make the trip to Buffalo for the Islanders’ first playoff game. In fact, he did not board the team plane, but he flew up the day of Game 1 and sat in the press box as a spectator before playing the remaining four games of the series.
So, the notion of DiPietro stepping back in goal against the Devils three days after removing himself from a game with a knee injury must be taken with a dash of skepticism. It’s a long season, and the Islanders can ill afford to lose their best player for an extended period because they rushed him back from injury.
The Islanders’ recalcitrance when it comes to disclosing information about injured players was manifest yesterday with regard to forward Shawn Bates and defenseman Radek Martinek. Bates underwent season-ending hip surgery the week before Christmas, but there was no announcement and the team only confirmed it today after Bates was seen on crutches in the locker room area.
According to Botta, Bates’ surgery was to repair a torn labrum. The operation was similar to the one general manager Garth Snow underwent two years ago when he was the backup goaltender.
As for Martinek, he is listed as day-to-day with a bruised right leg. Judging by the walking boot he was wearing last night, make that “lower right leg.” And “week-to-week” might be more accurate.
Asked about Martinek at the pre-game skate this morning in Ottawa, Islanders coach Ted Nolan said, “Last time I checked, it wasn’t a serious injury. But it’s enough to at least be two weeks.”
Still, the biggest loss is that of DiPietro, especially against a team like the Eastern Conference-leading Senators. Dubielewicz said the line of Daniel Alfreddson, Jason Spezza and Dany Heatley might be the NHL’s best, so, it was good to get a win under his belt against the Leafs, ending a stretch of 54 days in which the Islanders’ backup made just one appearance.
“It gives you a little confidence,” said Dubielewicz, who withstood a Toronto power-play at the end of regulation and a four-on-three situation in overtime. “If we would have lost 5-3, I wouldn’t be feeling too good right now. I’ve got a little bit of confidence, but I know I’ve got a big challenge tonight. Ottawa’s a good team, and it’s going to be tough. I’m sure they’re going to come out flying. I’ll have to weather the storm a bit and calm down.”
This will be only the third start of the season in 36 games for Dubielewicz, who lost the previous two by a combined score of 12-1 to Toronto and Atlanta. Both of his wins have come in relief of DiPietro, who suffered an eye injury earlier this season.
The inactivity was building up so much rust for Dubielewicz that he said he approached Nolan recently about going down to Bridgeport to get some games to regain his sharpness. “I thought it would be a really good thing,” Dubielewicz said. “I just want to get back in the game a little bit. I actually felt it last night. I felt pretty good, which is nice. It’s the little things. If you’re playing a lot, you know where the puck’s going. If I went to Bridgeport, I’d be a little bit sharper.”
Because of his struggles in his two other starts, Dubielewicz worried about his ability to contribute to the team while playing so infrequently. He was an inspiration with four straight wins in the final week of the regular season last spring when the Isles barely qualified for the playoffs, but Nolan even suggested that was yesterday’s news because today matters most.
Dubielewicz understands how important it is to come through during this time without DiPietro. “You know, I feel like I’m on somewhat of a short leash,” he said. “I don’t know if it’s the organization or myself. I haven’t been happy with the way things have gone. I want to turn things around. It’s something I thought about over the Christmas break. I want to get back into it and play the way I have that got me here, and I was able to get in last night and show it a little bit.”
If “Dubie” stumbles, Nolan won’t hesitate to go to backup Joey MacDonald. He was the winning goaltender for Bridgeport over Hershey last night and arrived this morning in Ottawa.
MacDonald spent last season in the NHL with Detroit and Boston, appearing in a total of 15 games and compiling a 3-7-2 record and a 3.12 goals-against average. But Nolan views him as a solid competitor for Dubielewicz’s backup job and has liked what he’s seen from MacDonald with the Sound Tigers.
“Even though it’s a different league, he looks big in the net,” Nolan said. “Anytime a goaltender looks big, it sends a message to players that it’s tough to score on those big goaltenders. So, he comes here when called upon, and hopefully, he plays big here…We’re very comfortable with Joey.”
Comments (58)
505 -- I only had to explain icing once, though whether it stuck I am not sure. I also explained offsides, the different effect of the goalie holding the puck for a few moments vs. several seconds (i.e., being able to put it in play vs. a whistle and a defensive zone faceoff), "clean" vs. "dirty" hits (we could have a long discussion on this board about *that* distinction), hand passes, penalties/power plays... They seemed to get it. Hockey is really a simple game, much easier to explain to a neophyte than football with its countless technical penalties (illegal motion, ineligible receiver downfield, etc. etc.).
Let's hope that's all with DP.
Nolan's comments on McDonald looking big in the net are key. On Steen's SH goal, Dubie looked small and Steen took an easy shot that went high over the shoulder. I'm sure if a goalie looks bigger a shooter feels a lot more pressure.
As for tonight, let's just play well. We got only our 5th win against the Sens in our last 2 million regular season games, so I'm not expecting much.
I'm a little surprised by Nolan's comment about looking "big". On the one hand you've got Dubie mentioning his confidence is low, and on the other Nolan's reinforcing this view that they need a "big" guy in net.
Hopefully Nolan learned from his mistake last year, namely entrusting the team's fortune to a guy just because he was the veteran presence.
I'm also curious about whether this sheds any light on the team's decision to sign Dubie as the backup in the first place. Maybe Dubielewicz wasn't Nolan's first choice, but the front office liked the PR aspect of making a cult hero out of him?
Sounds like Marty's got a busted bone in his foot. Likely he took a shot off the boot. Nolan's response on the injury is telling. "Last I checked... at least 2 weeks." Yikes. That's not good. These injury's are to 2 of the worst possible players to have to play without, at one of the worst possible points in the season.
Without Marty to move the puck up ice, and DP's "7th D-man" stickhandling, it's essential to constantly look to headman the puck. Comrie's breakaway goal last night was the key to keeping the Leafs out of our end. I hope to see the same tone set in tonight's game.
"Even though it’s a different league, he looks big in the net,” Nolan said. “Anytime a goaltender looks big, it sends a message to players that it’s tough to score on those big goaltenders. So, he comes here when called upon, and hopefully, he plays big here…We’re very comfortable with Joey.”
Translation...
"I looked at Dubie in the net last night and i swear I saw Spongebob Squarepads... that guy is a freakin fidget!"
Did anybody else notice the overuse of the word "BIG"?
Anyway... along the neophyte thread.
I took a good friend from Peru to the Caps game in DC. It was his first NHL game. I had to do some minor back stories to make the game interesting. Like:
"watch hunter tonight, they switched him and guerin to get Hunter some scoring opps"
Guerin gets the hat trick.
"Ovechkin is probably the best young two way player in the game and he has an awesome shot."
OV throws a BB past DP to tie the game.
"Hockey is like soccer, only it's exciting"
It was a washington caps game... and as somebody alluded to before.... YAWN! But thanks to some poor officiating and a an awesome free buffet (including beers) in the luxury box... we survived!
...and he can't wait for the next one.
Way to throw Dubie under the bus Ted !
Why not start Mac Donald since you obviously have no cofidence in Dubie.
This is going to be interesting tonight. Let's see if the new born confidence in guys like Dubie,Park,Hilly,Comeuo/Bruno = a W.
WOW!!!! Very telling comments by Nolan. Yes .. I did notice the over use of the word BIG.
My brother and I were discussing last night's game a few hours ago .. and we both noticed how small Dubie looked in the net against the Leafs. Which is why my heart was in my throat for that 2 minute Leaf PP in OT. Dubie's 3 consecutive saves towards the end of that penalty really was an incredible test of his abilities.
Something does tell me as someone alluded to ... that Dubie wasn't really Nolan's first choice of backup goaltender. Just a feeling here. He really was talking up Mac Donald. Dubie looked so beatable last night just due to his size. It probably encourages teams to take more shots at him.
I'll finish watching this game ... and hopefully things will turn out in the Isles favor.
WTH is Jaffe talking about???
Jaffe- The Senators didn't draft the best players in the draft? They drafted the team that fit their system."
Is he totally nuts? They had top draft picks for a number of years ... and ALWAYS picked the best available or # 1 rated player ie: Spezza. Dan Alfredsson was just a great hidden Gem ... Heatly they received via a blockbuster, HIGH profile trade .... they've had several different coaches the last 8 years alone. So their system has changed. Great players can play in a number of different system. Great coaches can coach a variety of different great players.
Yes ... they built a great team on drafting ... but don't make it seem like they didn't have any top 5 draft picks the last 10 draft sessions. Key is .. they built the team on the draft and didn't give up on ... or trade away their top prospects unless their was equal or better return for who they were trading away ... Berard for Redden.. Hossa for Heatly, Yashin for Chara, Muckalt & 2nd overall draft pick 2001 (Spezza) ... Pretty smart trades, key free agent signings and drafting helped build Ottawa
BTW ... Spezza got his 100th career point vs Islanders ... 200th career point vs ... Islanders ..... and 300th career point against ... guess who? The Islanders .... call it Karma ... but really now .. what are the odds? Freak of coincidence. Not even mentioned by the Islander broadcast team from what I've seen and heard thus far.
Ridiculous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I don't know where to begin ... I don't even want to criticize Dubie ... looks like he was hung out to dry. However he just laid down on that one.... I can't figure out why Dubie was just laying down. He wasn't knocked down.
SHG's against in back to back games.
Hey Greg,
Thanks for getting confirmation on Bates. It really sucks to see such a good guy have such crappy luck as of late.
WHOA KH,
Sounds like you held an advanced 300 series course.
5 minutes left tonight, on to the Devils.
I can't watch, actually listen, to much more of this. Center Ice has the Ottawa feed and these announcers are making me ill.
I am beginning to despise the Sen's only because of their cocky arrogant tube crew.
Oh, Guerin just scored again.
Shove that down you mikes, hotshot Canadian snobs.
Team does not play hard for Dubie. On top of that Dubie is as good as a shooter tooter!
Comrie is back to being "Dorn" and saying "Olayyyy" instead of using his body .
Sens show how far away we are from being elite.....We need Radek and DP back ASAP !!!
Tough game against a very good team. Let's bounce back against the Devs.
Typical game against Ottawa but could we show a little life. Hey Ted with your team down by 3 with 3 and a half left in the third and you are going on the PP with the face off in their end how about calling a TO shaking things up a bit and pulling the goalie. Demand that your players play hard the rest of the way, did Ottawa have to break a sweat tonight?
Best said by Steady, Let's bounce back against the Devils!
This is a good team that just played back to back games the day after Christmas with one of the teams being the best in the East. We have to be happy with getting two points while playing 5 periods without DP, lets hope he can go Saturday and get another win against the Devils!
I dont know... anyone ragging on Dubie for that loss must NOT have watched this game.
AND, I have a lot of comfidence that the Isles can win games even without Rick and Radek. This was the SENATORS, people... they have only been beat a minimal amount of times all season, and we already got one off them! Lets hope we get another, but going 500 against them is all Id ever dream of.
Metal.... Dubie gives up 5 goals a game minimum. I clearly stated that the team failed him as well, but he is not a strong enough back up for this team. He is a minor league goalie with an NHL heart and b^lls !!! I respect and like him, but we would be better off with a veteran. Anyone happen to see what Osgood has been up too in Detroit ????
dp and Radek are our two best players in my opinion. Without them we are poor at best.
No one said we should of won this game. I simply stated we are a long way away from being as good as them.
What I cannot stand is the effort we get every now and then. CLUNKERS !!!
Bounce back and beat up the Devils and all can be forgiven.
You can't blame Dubie on this loss alone ... this was a total team effort loss. Guerin helped the team save what ever face it had left.
Steady ... Good call on Dubie being as good as a tutor shooter ... I love the Dubester ... great heart as you said .. he just isn't an NHL goalie. The team doesn't play well infront of him either. Last season's 4 game win streak to the finish line was great ... Dubie truely was a big part of that .... however he had a different team infront of him too.
Also, there is no way the Isles would of deserved to win scoring only 2 goals anyway.
Steady put it perfectly ... Games like this show how far the Isles are away from being an elite team.
This is one of those games you just shrug and say .. oh well ... it was the Sens ... typical. The 2nd period with that 5 on 3, 5 on 4 combo with the SH goal at the end was the difference ... really bad period ... and exellent execution for the Sen's special teams ... sometimes you just gotta tip your hat to a team.
I wonder if we'll see Mac Donald if DP is out on Sat?
How come Bergenheim never gets any heat? He takes a stupid penalty at the end of the first period and has scored one goal the WHOLE year! He's got to be more productive than that. Geez, even Hilbert has more goals than him.Watching the Sens shows what a team that drafts well and makes good trades looks like. I sure hope Garth was watching. Men against boys tonight. Isles couldn't even get out of their own end half the night.Better luck on Sat.
Bergy is one of those kids that you just get the feeling he will explode on to the scene one day. Seems he is a nano second away from being very good. I am willing to give him to the end of the year before I pile on him.
You watch....The Bobbles will give up on him and he will do it for someone else!
This is just my take on Bergy (and most other young guys) ...
In my eyes, while Bergy has played abroad, he's still a rookie. He's still averaging under 10 minutes a game. He still provides a lot of energy and skill (although its tough to put up points when you're getting under 10 minutes of ice time a game) ...does he make young mistakes? Ofcourse ...a lot of times he can make up the difference with his skating ability ...does he take rookie penalties? Ofcourse, but that's what young guys do ...
I'm not telling anyone else what to do ...well ...because you wouldn't listen ;-) ...but I think young guys - who are giving the effort - deserve some time ....hell, I don't even want Hillbert sent to Syberia anymore ...although the day is young ....
As I was watching towards the end of the game last night ... I was having flashbacks to when my old coach would have us drill on defensive positioning without hockey sticks in the next practice if we gave up 5 goals or more .... even if we won. LOL!!
To the guys who have played or still play now ... you remember that? You'd have a group of guys on offense with sticks ... then the coach would have 5 other guys without sticks try to defend against them .... you'd have to some how get the puck out of your zone .... my coach called it the 1000 calorie burn drill.
If he was really angry .... there were pushups involved if the group with the sticks were able to score against your group.
Even though the Isles got beat good by the best team in the Conference .... Nolan can't be happy with the overall team effort... so I wonder how practice is going to be this morning?
This is what happens when the coach throws the backup goalie under the bus RIGHT before the team is going to face an offensive powerhouse. Nobody played in front of Dubie last night and he was pretty awful as well, however, the blame goes to Nolan. He shouldn't speak as much.
The problem is we don't win if DP doesn't stand on his head so he has to play all the time for us to even stay in contention for a playoff spot. But, DP is very injury prone (which makes me nervous over the next 13 years) so the backup doesn't play for months on end and then gets thrown to the wolves when DP gets hurt. This is a very bad formula. We need to put a better team in front of DP so he can be rested occassionally. Right now, this team just isn't good enough and the few young guys we have won't help. Again, a very bad formula.
But blame this one on Nolan. He has a tendancy to throw his players under the bus. Just don't speak Ted!! Please!!
I’ve got another take on that game last night. I don’t blame the defeat on Dubie (although I agree with others who say he’s not a legit NHL goalie). And I don’t blame Bergy or the overall effort by the team.
I blame the system.
Ever notice that the Isles have the most trouble against teams that are best at moving the puck with QUICK east-west passes and who can score effectively off the rush? Ottawa (always), Buffalo (most of the time), Montreal (when they’re playing well), Carolina and even Atlanta. I think the problem isn’t necessarily the talent level of the other teams. Instead I think we’re playing the wrong SYSTEM against them.
The Isles are committed to a hard-charging, forechecking type of system. And it worked perfectly Wednesday against the Leafs. Why? Because the Leafs defense SUCKS. They’re horrible at moving out of their own end even on a good day. But that same system of 2-deep forechecking is gonna toast you when playing against a very mobile, quick passing defense that have forwards ahead of them that can score on the rush. It leaves the neutral zone and blue line entirely unprotected.
The key to beating teams like the Sens and Sabres is to dominate the neutral zone. OK, now I’m gonna say it. I’m gonna use the “T-word”. Without the same overall speed, overall skill AND overall scoring ability (lacking in all 3) as the other team, a team with a defense-first philosophy – one that the Islanders admittedly play – MUST play a trapping defense at center ice.
Otherwise… fuggeddaboudditt.
Cincy,
Excellent point... The only problem is that I don't think the team can morph from one to the other, and they are pretty effective in their standard set. Just look at how much trouble they have when they switch goalies. I agree with all the points above about dubie, especially Steady's heart and balls comment. But they play better when DP shortens the ice. even if it's just 30 feet... and you can defintitely tell the opposing teams are relieved that they can get a forecheck going without a perfect cross ice dump in.
505,
I had the OTT broadcast as well. My comments are in my HERO/Goat section. The "skate blade" comment on Campy's penalty had me doubled over. I'm guessing the cold weather effects their mental stability.
This team isn't that deep. Dubie vs DP cost us at least one goal, if not two. DP is a huge part of the defense AND the offense. Look at the head man he gave to Park in toronto... he just allows for a quicker transition. But even worse is Marty vs [insert name here] They need another guy like that. The toronto media jumps all over McCabe, but look at their record with and without him. A strong puck mover is vital to success in teh NHL. Witt is tremendous... but without Marty he's like Jerry without Dean...everywhere but France. I relly hope that Kohn can grow into that role... but he's going to need some NHL ice time pretty soon... Maybe... just maybe... we can squeeze 12 mins out of him instead of 18 out of Meyer.
Yeah Cincy ... we've all jawed (posted) about the Isles monolithic system. You've layed out some great detailed points ... it reinforces the fact that the Isles cannot play all facets of the game effectively. They cannot switch gears ... infact a system that works well for DP .. doesn't work well with Dubie in goal.
Myself a forward seeing Dubie's stature in net I salvate at the prospect of ripping a slapshot towards the net. Because it looks like he leaves sooo much of the net open. It is deceiving however .. because he knows how to play to his size. That is why he's been successful at the collegiate and AHL levels. However this is the NHL ... best in the world talent.
Also, Nolan's comments about him before playing one of the most potent offenses in the world couldn't of been very encouraging for Dubie or the team as a whole. It's like he gave up before the team did.
I'll have more comments later ... going to spare you guys the long diatribe this morning. JP ... I want to add a few thoughts to your post in the previous thread about power play minutes (Montreal Rules) ... later.
Please don't be getting on Bergy for taking bad penalties. I didn't see last night's, but almost all of his penalties are for being aggressive fighting for the puck. the kid hustles on every shift, and he finishes every check. He doesn't shy away from the physical stuff... and he makes things happen. He's also caused more post marks than the Victoria's Secret Catalog.
He's going to explode soon enough... you might even say that his work has manifested in Satan's scoring success. Not to take anything away from Satan and vasicek, but somebody has to dig the ditches for buildings to be built.
Bergy is just fine.
I feel like the comments from Nolan were a small insight as to why he was ousted from Buffalo. It's the Bill Parcels situation, only on ice.
His comments make you believe that he has no confidence in their backup goalie. As if to say, I had no say in signing this guy. Laying the "loyalty" on Wang and Snow. I definitely disagree with those comments. That stuff needs to be aired to the people who matter... not the general public. It's not good for Dubie, the team or HIM. He may grow to realize that someday.
I'm glad Dubie has an opportunity and was rewarded... but let's face it, I don't think any of us think he's a #1 NHL goaltender.
He has to come out farther to play angles becasue of his size, and that leaves him open to lateral passes... and he's not the best east-west goalie... Plus the disparity in styles leads to inconsistencies in strategy and a general confusion among defenseman. There were at least two occaisions where the puck laid dormant behind the goal line because the other team was changing and the Isles "D" assumed that they were set for a headman. then a D [usually campoli] had to rush back to pick it up and was hounded by a forechecker.
He probably needs a little more work as well. So when DP gets back create a rotation so that he gets him some AHL starts, an NHL start and start putting McDonald in the mix... Back up 4, play 1 while Dubie is starting in Bridgeport.
It is better to be vulnerable for a game or two to see what you have, than to find out too late.
Listening to the USA game right now ...the announcers were saying how the line that has Okposo and Rhakshani on it are pretty much unstoppable and are probably gonna score a lot of goals. Said they're cycling at will ...granted the Swiss team isn't considered one of the powerhouses, but still nice to hear ...
It was the Islanders' league-leading eighth shorthanded goal allowed this season and their second in two nights. "It's very much a concern," coach Ted Nolan said. "We keep doing the same thing over and over again. If the power play isn't scoring goals, that's one thing, but if it's letting the other team score shorthanded goals, that's unacceptable."
Earth to Ted ya think having Satan on the point might be the problem??? Why doesn't someone in the media ask him that question?
Hey guys, can't chat for long but I just wanted to say that the Isles web site is reporting Okposo has signed a 3 year deal.
Welcome aboard, Kyle!
JP ~~ I couldn’t agree with you more about that whole 2 minute power play concept. I was kinda young when teams had to play the entire 2 minutes shorthanded, so I can’t attest to its effectiveness. I was barking about reinstating that rule to my teammates and fellow hockey fans when the NHL was “reinventing” the game right after the lockout.
Nobody in the NHL even brought up that possibility. I wrote the NHL asking them to consider it. I told them that I was in favor of generating more offense by having teams play the entire 2 minute penalty shorthanded, just like they do for a 5 minute major. That by itself will generate more offense. The NHL didn’t need more penalties called … it just needed to make the penalties have more impact.
When a player takes down an opposing player to prevent a scoring chance .. we call it a “good” penalty … because it’s sometimes better to play 2 minutes short handed … then to give an opposing player a 90% success rate scoring chance. You figure … it’s like saving a goal … and most team’s power plays are no better than around 25% from the best teams. So it’s better to take the penalty. Which squashes offense .. and encourages interference, tripping, hooking etc. slowing the game & sapping it of its energetic flow.
Do you think a player would trip someone as much (lets not kid ourselves here … players will still do it) on a scoring chance .. if the consequence would be a FULL 2 minute shorthanded situation that allowed the PP team to score as much as it can in 2 minutes? Right there … without creating crazy rules … you can increase the goal scoring opportunities in the NHL.
Cause I tell you this much, with the current rules … as a center … I’ll trip the open player 100% of the time if he breaks free from my coverage and is wide open for a pass in the offensive zone with a yawning net awaiting him to receive a pass. That alternative of having the other team need to work for the goal on the PP is better than him having a shot at an easy tap in goal. That is the way I was coached .. and I’m sure it goes all the way up to the NHL level. I’d have to think twice about it if it would give the opposing team a full 2 minute power play to score as many goals as they can.
This would make 5 on 3 penalties last as 5 on 3’s for the entire duration also. You can turn a game on it’s heels.
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Posted by JPinVA | December 28, 2007 11:23 Cincy,
This team isn't that deep. Dubie vs DP cost us at least one goal, if not two.
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Ill give you that Ricky may have been able to stop one more of those goals... MAYBE even two. But, so? Does anyone really expect any backup to do as good as or better than one of the best starting goalies in the league? Against one of the number one team in the conference, to boot? Perspective, people! :)
Its ONE LOSS... the Isles are still 3 for their last 4 and we know they arent going to win every game. They are 500 against Ottawa this season, and Im OK with that. :)
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Posted by AZS | December 28, 2007 12:27 Listening to the USA game right now ...the announcers were saying how the line that has Okposo and Rhakshani on it are pretty much unstoppable and are probably gonna score a lot of goals. Said they're cycling at will ...granted the Swiss team isn't considered one of the powerhouses, but still nice to hear ...
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Its friggin GREAT to hear, since they both belong to US!!! :D
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Posted by Saint Nick | December 28, 2007 13:08 Hey guys, can't chat for long but I just wanted to say that the Isles web site is reporting Okposo has signed a 3 year deal.
Welcome aboard, Kyle!
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HELLS yeah! Im thrilled.
Kyle's quote from this morning: "This is an incredible day for me and my family. I want to thank the Islanders for making it happen and I want our fans to know that I can't wait to begin my Islanders career. My focus right now needs to be on Team USA, but I'll be more than ready when my pro career starts in a few weeks"
WHOHOO! :)
Some Updates from the WJC ....was looking at the live scoring and this is what I've seen from the Isles prospects :
USA : Okposo and Rhakshani each with an assist so far - games in the 3rd period ...
Sweden : Robin Figren - 1g and 1a ...seems to be doing a lot scoring - believe he scored 2g in their 1st game ...Stefan Ridderwall was between the pipes and gave up 1g in Sweden's 10-1 victory over Denmark (I hope Frans Neilsen wasn't watching ...ouch!)
Nice to see young Isles prospects playing so well against the worlds best young players ...
PS - Stamkos and Tavares have been killing for team Canada ...whoever ends up with these guys in the next two drafts will be lucky!
JP
"I had the OTT broadcast as well. My comments are in my HERO/Goat section"
Pardon me while I go off on a rant,
After sleeping on it, I am now a devoted anti-Senator fan.
I'll even root for the Rangers in a head to head matchup.
With Center Ice, ya get all the home team announcers. And certainly there is "homerism" among all crews. As it should be.
But there is "homerism" and then simply BUSH LEAGUE COCKY, ARROGANT, OUR TEAM'S SCHIT DOESN'T STINK, and HOW DARE THIS OTHER TEAM THINK THEY CAN SKATE ON THE SAME ICE AS OUR BOYS broadcasting.
From the get go last night those guys in Ottawa were talking about the Isles like they were a weak HS team, joking about various players (especially Dubie), condescending and amazed at the simplest plays performed by the Isles.
Now granted, the Sen's are far and away a better team than the Isles, but these pricks last night behaved like they had better things to do than to broadcast that game against the mightier than thou Sens.
CHEAP SHOT, LOW BLOW, BUSH LEAGUERS IN THE BOOTH.
Pure and simple.
Give me the guy (steigerwald) in Pittsburgh anytime, Or Buffalo, or Florida, or Tampa, or a dozen other cities in the NHL over these clowns in Ottawa.
I hope Detroit or Anaheim has the Sens for lunch in the finals again this year.
More than my opinion, a very strong attitude
AZS
"Nice to see young Isles prospects playing so well against the worlds best young players ..."
BRING ON THE KIDS!!!!
More Bergie and Comeau!!!
FREE OKPOSO BY JANUARY 5!!!!!
Metal,
Let me come right out and say it. I don't think Dubie is teh guy I want in nets if DP is out for 10-20 games. I have a feeling that Nolan feels the same way. Dubie may even get the job done, but he mucks up the system.
... and I really like the guy. I was really happy that he was rewarded. I also think that he can win in the NHL. But he is not the goalie for this team. That's why Dunham got so many chances last year, that's why they signed an NHL goalie to play in bridgeport, and that's why he had no problem with it... becasue he knew that the ceiling was thin above him.
Dubie knows that as well. He got the job done last year, but let's not forget him flopping all over the place...and getting beat by snaps from the top of the circle becasue his angles were bad. Luckily the team could score last year. this year... not so much.
All that... and there is probably nobody on the team with the heart, and as Steady said, juegos, that Dubie has. I just think that you are better prepared if McDonald is somehow in the mix...JUST IN CASE.
27,
I'm pretty sure the points were mannd by Berard and campoli when the shorty was scored. the killer on that goal was that they got a crossbar reprieve and STILL nobody came back to cover the defensive ice. We're going to start to see the fourth line on the PP because too many times the guys out there are just not in sync.
I still say the best way to play the PP, for now, is to just roll your two best offensive lines...AS IS. and have the second two def pairs play the points. That might work better when Marty is back, becasue Sutton and Meyer don't give me any warm fuzzies.
I'm with you 505 ...I would rather see these younger guys getting more ice time then several of the other guys on the squad ...
ceratin players haven't really been cutting the mustard as they say ...so why not give the youth a chance?
What do you all think they'll do with Okposo when the tourney is done?
JP check the boxscore from last night's game on the Isles site on ice for the Isles on the Ottawa SH goal were 4,7,18,34,63 and yes 81. It just seems everytime a SH goal against is scored he is out there, and there were other times in the game last night when the Isles were running around in their own zone on the PP and Satan was out there.
505,
Not to mention they have the Islanders..well, Mike Milbury to THANK for a good portion of their success. What other idiot would have freed them of their PAIN and SUFFERING. Not only did he perform the yashinectomy, but he supplied the perscription drugs free (madmikeaid Part D) in the form of Spezza and Chara.
Mike Milbury should run for the mayor of ottowa... He should have no problem ousting the incumbant Mr. McCheese.
I hope that during the next ISLE-OTT broadcast Howie says, "and here we are between periods...oh... there's the zamboni... I sure do hope Dany Heatly's not driving it!!!"
I was thinking that last night when Howie and Billy were talking about how Ottawa built their team they left out Milbury.
27, I'll have to check Tivo tonight. You're probably right, but I specifically looked for that on the PP. Satan was definitely on the ice.
No biggie... point taken... I totally agree that it's not a good idea, never was, never will be.
JP I don't remember Satan playing upfront on the PP recently.
Okposo, IMHO, should be in bridgeport for at least a month before seeing any NHL ice time. there are guys at the bridge that CAN play in the NHL, and they're waiting their turn. Let HIM prove to THEM that he is special. That will keep the whole organization on the same page.
But he could replace Jackman on the roster, and park in the lineup. Park has been great on the top line, but the fourth line with him between Hilbert and Comeau has the potential of being a legit second line... and it makes the post PK transition a little easier.
PS: has anybody else noticed Vasicek slowly turrning into the bad Kozlov. the skating and hitting he showed early has all but disappeared...
I am surprised there isn't a bit more Bates discussion. Out for another season...I guess that really isn't a shocker. This guy should finally be done with this team.
Seeing how easily Ottawa could penetrate the Isles defense last night, I certainly agree we have a while to go. Would rather play the kids and let them get experience and us get a good draft pick. The kids are at the very least exciting to watch.
JP -
I've noticed that JoVas has had a couple of bad, er, ineffective games recently. I wouldn't call them "bad" because he really didn't do anything stupid or didn't lack effort. It's just that he's been out-of-whack, that's all. It's true he hit a lot more earlier in the season, but he never was considered a very physical presence before he came to the Isles, despite his huge size. I'm not overly worried. All players go thru some peaks and valleys during the season. And besides, while not saying much, his line was the best of the 4 last night.
Cincy,
I totally agree. I just remember thinking, "this guy is built like a truck, and he plays like a truck". Now it's more like kozlov..., "this guy is built like a truck, but he plays like a Yugo"
...and YES, that has been the most effective over the past 10 or so... by far. But the shuffle that put Park with Comrie and Comeau with Hilbert has definitely set a little more balance. It's fun to see opps coming from three lines instead of one.
Let's showcase McDonald for a coupla games.
Let's hope he shows some STUDLY netminding skills.
Cuz Tampa Bay is in DESPERATE need of a goalie, and I think I hear the klaxon bell ringing down there..
Then Garth puts together some kind of blockbuster 3 way trade with TB and Montreal where Vinnie L goes to MTL, Mcdonald and some puck bags (Comrie, Jovas, Tank, Guerin, pick some names) go to TPA and the Isles wind up with any combination of Higgins, Komisarek, Ryder (1st choice are the two former).
My only fear is that TB will demand some combination of Comeau, Bergie, KO.
AZS,
"What do you all think they'll do with Okposo when the tourney is done?"
I am selfishly praying for a quick demise to the U.S. team so the Isles can bring KO with them on the Western Road Trip, which just happens to begin on Jan 5th in Denver.
A long road trip is an excellent time to "initiate" a 20 year old into the NHL.
I have a post game dinner spot reserved for KO at the Boiler Room in Denver with "da boys". (Hope he's got fake id).
After the Great Western Road Trip?
Sure, send KO to Bridgeport for some seasoning, unless he just had 6 goals and 5 assists on the road trip and the Isles earned 1.5 points per game.
But bring him up again for the MN game in Feb.
Gotta see whether or not the kid has rabbit ears and how it affects his game.
505,
I really don't see the Isles getting anything too valuable for what they have to offer. There are maybe five guys on the team that have value across the league, and none of them say VALUE as Blake did last year.
1. If Comrie gets hot, and can prove he's not damaged goods he might fetch a first or second round pick... maybe some AHL talent from a team close to a cup run with no patience for a prospect.
2. Satan has excellent value as a renter. He can be a second line scorer for any team in hockey.
3. Hunter... I don't see him going anywhere, but if there is a package that gets us St. Louis or ryder... It was nice knowing you trent. I hope that doesn't happen.
4. Sad to say... Silly. He hasn't had the magic he had last year, and maybe with a team that needed those all important face off skills and veteran leadership for a playoff run... he might value out at a second round pick or a good defensive prospect. One other "numbers" consideration is this: If they chose to keep Comrie and Vasicek (which is possible...both being top scorers on teh team) they are goinig to have to make room for walter soemwhere. Otherwise Snow has huge gobs of egg on his face for letting Nokie go at a pos. they could use help at, for walter at center. One of the centers are almost assuredly gone at the deadline... unless they're in first place and on a 10 game winning streak.
5. tambellini... I'm pretty sure he's done as an islander. But I don't think he's done as an NHLer. He could be Nilsson II... and if he is scoring for some western conference team next year you might see snow slowly turning into milbury... ala lon chaney jr's wolfman... and villagers chasing him around hempstead with torches and pitchforks.
BTW,
Did anyone catch the beginning of the Ranger/Hurricane game?
Opening faceoff Nolan's kid and Avery were jawing and Junior Nolan dropped the gloves and challenged Avery.
Avery did his lip service and moved on.
It was my only highlight from last night.
JP,
I cannot emphasize how desperate TPA is for a goalie.
Desperate teams will do desperate things if you have the goods to offer. (How good is Mcdonald? He wasn't going anywhere in DET cuz of who was ahead of him- Let's find out if he has marketability).
C'mon, let KO play on the big club to get started, and let's see some more responsibility for the kids.
Keep Guerin-Comrie-but put Comeau up there with them.
Put KO on a line with Satan and Bergy and let them go.
Stick Park on a wing with Silli and Hunter, and ice a "4th line" of Hilbert, Tank, and Vasicek.
You can't tell me sitting Jackman over KO is a bad idea. I say let it ride till the trade deadline and maybe then move one of our supposed veteran top 6 forwards (Guerin, Comrie, Satan, Tank, Vasicek...wait, we have no 6th top 6 forward) with a prospect (Tambs?), and toss in Berard or MAB, to get either a proven top 6 guy, "puck-moving d-man," or prospects/picks (depending on where we are in the standings).
KO supposedly has as much (if not more) potential to put the puck in the net than any of our other forwards . If he is the real deal, the learning curve should be steep and short. If he is the best prospect in our system, who cares about the other guys at Bridgeport. If he is not, we'll know quickly.
I understand the desire to cultivate our prospects and not heap too much pressure on the youngens, but since DP, the organization has not been this excited about a 1st round draft pick. Let's see what he can do.
The Islanders can play with the Pittsburghs, Washingtons and Torontos of the league if they play solid team hockey. Regrettably, they're just not good enough to consistently beat top teams. It pains me to say that, but I'm trying to be objective. Basically, the so-called "first line" would be a second line at best on a lot of other teams in the league -- hence the dearth in scoring. This is no slight against Comrie-Guerin-Fedotenko -- all good players in their own right -- just not top-line material. It'a apparent to me that a "Ted Nolan-type" team worked fine in the old pre-lockout NHL, but no longer. This team has plenty of heart, character and work ethic -- it just needs a lot more speed and a little more skill. God bless guys like Andy Hilbert and Richard Park, but you can't expect to win in today's NHL with an entire team of grinders. Bergenheim has shown some fire and Comeau seems ready. All we can really do is wait for others in the system like Kyle Okposo to arrive and be patient. As Bill Parcells is famous for saying, "You are what your record says you are." For the Islanders, right now, that means a team hovering around .500 who will either miss or barely make the playoffs beacuse they just don't have that one dynamic line, duo, or even one player who can take the team on his back for a few weeks and go on any kind of prolonged winning streak. Hate to sound pessimistic -- but that's the reality of the situation.
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For the Islanders, right now, that means a team hovering around .500 who will either miss or barely make the playoffs beacuse they just don't have that one dynamic line, duo, or even one player who can take the team on his back for a few weeks and go on any kind of prolonged winning streak.
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NYIhockey16, the Islanders DO have one player like that.
His name is Rick DiPietro.
And if you dont think that he has "taken the team on his back for a few weeks and gone on any kind of prolonged winning streak" please look back and remember how many of those games where the Isles only scored 1,2,3 goals but they still won!!! :)
Point well-taken, MC and I agree about DP stealing games for us so far this season, but we still need more scoring.