Bleacher Report - Articles by NYI Fan Central

Garth Snow Makes First Cuts as Camp Heads to New York & Connecticut

NYI Fan Central — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 16:56:51 -0400

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Islander News Articles 9/29

Newsday: Greg Logan has more from Scott Gordon on the club's system and how the forecheck can generate chances. He also felt his club caught a tired Florida team playing its fifth game in six days while Frans Nielsen also has a few words on how this system benefits him.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio reports in his blog the Sound Tigers met Sunday night to settle paperwork and get acquainted with the list set for Monday's skate as Bridgeport camp opens.

Here is the early list:
"Team DiPietro," 10 a.m.- G: Nathan Lawson, Mike Mole. D: Andy Sertich, Dustin Kohn, Jamie Fraser, John Gleed, Reagan Leslie. F: Jason Pitton, Vladimir Nikiforov, Mike Walsh, Tyler Haskins, Rob Hennigar, James Sixsmith, Jesse Joensuu, Pascal Morency, Tom May.

"Team Hunter," 11:15 - G: Peter Mannino, A.J. Bucchino. D: Mark Wotton, Andrew MacDonald, Jordan Hart, Russ Moyer. F: Trevor Smith, Marc Rechlicz, Kazuma Takahashi, Kurtis McLean, Jean Bourbeau, Sean Bentivoglio, Joel Rechlicz.

Mr. Fornabaio also reports Michael Haley is with Bridgeport with a wrapped hand from his fights. Tomas Marcinko is also supposedly with Bridgeport or coming while Joe Callahan is on waivers.

NYI Fan Central Comments:

Somewhat surprising Rob Hennigar did not make it to New York because he is a little older. Jeremy Colliton apparently will last a little longer with Scott Gordon and some depth defenders. Unsigned Sugden vs. signed Tim Jackman head to New York while Joel Rechlicz heads to Bridgeport with his three year contract.

Peter Mannino did not make it to New York while Joey MacDonald and Yann Danis did.

And who the heck is Kazuma Takahashi for those scoring at home? No, not a sumo wrestler turned goaltender which might be a plan if anymore goaltenders become injured.

Kazuma Takahashi (born 1978) after having played a few seasons professionals in Asia, was with the Renegades of Richmond in the Southern Professional Hockey League in the 2006-07 before joining the Grizzlies.

Newsday: Greg Logan had a late blog update with the list of players cut which did not include Mike Iggulden who suffered an injury in Saturday night’s 4-2 win over Florida or he likely would have been on the list also. Mr. Logan also believes Ben Walter, Tomas Marcinko, and defenseman Joe Callahan were placed on waivers for the purpose of assigning them to Bridgeport.

This is Mr. Logan's list:
The Islanders’ current 31-man roster breakdown:

Forwards
Jon Sim, Doug Weight, Kyle Okposo
Blake Comeau, Josh Bailey, Mike Comrie
Jeff Tambellini, Frans Nielsen, Trent Hunter
Sean Bergenheim, Richard Park, Andy Hilbert
Mitch Fritz, Jeremy Colliton, Tim Jackman
Brandon Sugden

Defense
Brendan Witt, Radek Martinek
Andy Sutton, Freddy Meyer
Mark Streit, Bruno Gervais
Jack Hillen, Chris Lee
Brett Skinner

Goaltenders
Joey MacDonald
Yann Danis

Injured list – G Rick DiPietro, RW Bill Guerin, D Chris Campoli, C Mike Sillinger.

NYI Fan Central Comments:

I was not aware Marcinko had to clear waivers at his age?

So about eight, nine, or ten roster cuts coming depending on how many Garth Snow decides to carry.

Absolutely one goaltender between Danis/MacDonald when DiPietro is ready.

Likely Lee, Skinner, and Hillen on defense to bring the defense to seven when Campoli is activated.

At least two of three among Fritz, Jackman, or Sugden in the enforcer department and perhaps all three.

And then what seems the toughest calls:
Bailey, Colliton, Hilbert, and maybe Nielsen along with Iggulden. A lot of this also comes down to when Sillinger and Guerin can play. No absolute lock Richard Park keeps his spot if a young winger out produces him here.

Ben Walter did not make Mr. Fornabaio or Mr. Logan's list so for now he's in limbo.

Islanders-Bruins: New York Wins Preseason Opener, Bill Guerin Speaks Out

NYI Fan Central — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 19:34:24 -0400

Islanders Web site

Has comments from Scott Gordon, who praised his team's hard work in Tuesday's 2-1 victory over Boston.

Canadian Press

Has a recap of the game with Trevor Smith's comments after he scored the winning goal in overtime for New York.

The Guardian

Jason Simmonds has more on the game in Summerside from assistant to general manager Kerry Gwidyr about how many veterans will be in the lineup with the club scheduled to arrive Saturday afternoon from Moncton.

Sound Tigers Web site

Also has a recap of tonight's game.

Newsday

Greg Logan has an interview with captain Bill Guerin, who is working his way back from shoulder surgery but has not been cleared to play. He discusses how the rookies will have to pull their own weight, but that this team is in "win-now mode" as he shares his thoughts on the new coach and how he should produce more regardless of his age.

NYI Fan Central Comments

That sounds nice and reads well from Bill Guerin, but last year, when this team fell apart, the veterans were outworked by the kids, and this was visible far too many nights. If he got on anyone, it was behind closed doors.

He is absolutely correct in that he can and should produce more, though, because clearly he still has hands and an ability to find the net when in the right position.

New York Islanders in 08-09: Fact vs. Fiction

NYI Fan Central — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 15:11:30 -0400

New York Islanders in 08-09: Fact vs. Fiction

I thought today would be a good day to play a little fact vs. fiction regarding the 2008-09 New York Islanders and some statements you read in the media.

1. This will be a rebuilding season for the New York Islanders.

Fiction.

This team was very competitive all last season in its own division, aside from some self-inflicted damage by its own special teams against Philadelphia.

When you lose games to Pittsburgh with Crosby and Malkin putting on a skill show that's over-matched, when you lose three one-goal games because of a Laraque shorthanded goal, a Ruutu goal, a bounce off Brendan Witt late in a game with a 52-shot loss to Ty Conklin, this is not being over-matched.

When you open a combined 9-0 against the Rangers and Devils and win both season series with two more MSG wins in March and April, this is not being over-matched.

When you go 0-8 against Florida and Boston you are not going to make the playoffs.

Another reason is that this team has too many veterans here at this time playing for their careers on one-year contracts. Then you also have a lot of defenders in their 30s signed to longer-term deals.

For the veterans on one-year contracts, they are not passing through or marking time because if they struggle now this could be the end for them.

If the club enters the second half well out of contention then you will see some veterans traded and a little rebuilding. But for now this team is playing to win with a lot of players like Tambellini, Gervais, Campoli, and Bergenheim who are not kids anymore. They have had years of seasoning and it's time to produce or move on.

Also a little reality check for those in the media who go back to the late '90s to start any current discussion of the club. New York has been to the playoffs in four of the last six years and stayed competitive with a lot of flaws last season.

This is not one of the franchises in this league that starts poorly and is so far out of contention the competitive part of the season is over by Christmas—aside from 2005-06 where it was clear the club was in a free fall.

2. Rick DiPietro must have his workload reduced and a set schedule because he cannot stay healthy.

Fiction.

The schedule and the days off in the second half combined with more road trips make this year different from last year where the Isles never got a break because they were off most of October. On top of that, the injuries he had in 2007-08 were different than the injuries he had in 2006-07.

To lay out a set schedule of games and a target number now for March is pointless because he may be completely healthy and a lot of this also depends on his workload in games.

If his shots against continue to drop as they did last season he will be more durable. If he has to stop over 30 shots a game and carry the club it will take a larger toll.

3. This team will struggle with injuries.

Fact.

Many players on this roster (especially on defense) are not going to play 82 games because it's not their career track record. Up front Guerin, Comrie, and Sillinger all played hurt or missed significant time, and Doug Weight is no stranger to injury.

That's when a Colliton, Walter, or Nielsen (whoever does not start the season here) will sink or swim because they will have to step up and be a factor.

Sutton, Witt, Martinek, Campoli, Gervais, and Meyer have all missed significant time with injury and some of them will be injured again.

4. Islanders lack the speed to keep up.

Fact.

If Scott Gordon thinks this team is going to stay in games playing wide open hockey, then he has not watched the tapes of Guerin, Sillinger, Hunter, and Weight. This is not a fast roster and it's something Ted Nolan talked about often. Plus, those players are not getting any younger or quicker.

My biggest concern is what Montreal did to them last season in the open ice and what Ottawa has done for years to dominate them head to head. Western Conference brings a lot more skating clubs into the mix that the Islanders did not play a year ago.

5. This team lacks a true enforcer.

Fact.

Tim Jackman and Joel Rechlicz are not NHL enforcers. Does that mean the Islanders should have made a play for Eric Godard to occupy a spot on the fourth line? No,
because a team this limited on offense with a lot of third and fourth line players cannot afford such a luxury.

The bottom line is that in games like this the Islander wingers along with Witt, Guerin, and Sutton will have to fight their own battles.

6. This team will drop from the race because it cannot score.

Fiction.

How much worse can the club do after last year's roster scored two goals or fewer for 14 games in a row?

At times this was called the worst offensive club in the team's history statistically, and yet going into January they occupied a playoff spot.

If they can stay in the race with Vasicek going through his 30-game scoreless streak along with most of the roster being scoreless at various times, they should be able to survive with the kids if a few players step up.

When does it become fact? If the players who won the jobs do not produce as much as the players who left, and the players who struggled last season pick up right where they left off—struggling.

7. The powerplay will be terrible.

Fiction.

It's a different year and some different players at the point and up front who did not get the chance a year ago will now get that chance.

Berard, Bergeron, Fedotenko, Satan, and at times Vasicek were a big part of the powerplay. Streit will be on this club's powerplay, but needs another reliable pointman and a far better second unit on the backline.

8. Okposo has to have a big year at a very young age.

Fact.

Fair or not, Okposo has to give this team 20 goals, 40-plus points, and be far more visible than Satan. Park and Hilbert are not the answer if they are in that spot for any length of time, and you do not get that kind of player in a trade unless you give up something of value.

There is no right wing in Bridgeport that can play in the club's top six until Robin Figren comes over, unless Marcinko or Joensuu change positions or Tambellini, Comeau, Bergenheim change wings, which does not seem in their best interest.

I think if Okposo is not ready or productive he has to go down and Garth Snow has to trade for a veteran right wing. The fact is for this to work Okposo, even at his age, is a key. Otherwise someone else who can produce 20 plus goals must be in that spot.

New York Hires Scott Gordon as Coach

NYI Fan Central — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:29:14 -0400

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New York Hires Scott Gordon as Coach

Islanders website: Has Scott Gordon's comments along with General Manager Garth Snow who will formally introduce the new coach of the Islanders Wednesday at a 1pm press conference live on Islanders TV.

"Scott has been one of the top up-and-coming coaches in hockey and with good reason," said Snow. "Through his work in the minor leagues and most recently with Providence over the last eight years, he has gained an impeccable reputation. The entire Islanders organization looks forward to working with Scott."

"Garth has given me an unbelievable opportunity to coach in the NHL with the Islanders,” said Gordon. “From my time coaching in Providence, I’ve seen firsthand the talented young players in this organization. I look at the direction and the vision for this team and see a bright future.”

Newsday: Greg Logan reports the New York Islanders have hired Scott Gordon as their new head coach with general manager Garth Snow's comments.

Newsday also reports it's a multi-year contract.

Newsday: Scott Gordon's coaching record.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Garth Snow feels he is the right coach for this team at this time and given the prospects in the organization combined with how many things I read out of Boston about how well well regarded he is, how well he has done in Providence for years and how qualified he is combined with a defensive approach, it's hard to disagree.

Scott Gordon does not have a track record of moving as did some of the others but with that comes the question of how he will start with what is a veteran roster combined with the recent lack of success of goaltenders as NHL head coaches. His defensive approach will no doubt be a plus but he may find he has to open up to get any scoring out of his roster.

Scott Gordon also comes without the ring Bob Hartley had for winning a Stanley Cup.

I wanted Bob Hartley over Gordon but it's very tough not to argue with Snow's reasoning here for why he made what many will call a very good choice for a man overdue to be an NHL head coach and highly regarded. This is not a career AHL coach who has moved around and it's not a situation like Steve Stirling where he was in the organization as an instructor and had several roles before the Isles had an affiliate in Bridgeport despite how well Stirling did in his rookie season for New York.

Garth Snow here had to make a call here on who was the best choice for his team at this time, it's tough to disagree.

I also remember the problems in Boston when Peter Chiarelli fired Dave Lewis last summer, many in Boston's upper management wanted Scott Gordon to be named head coach with Mike Milbury getting an early interview if anyone recalls? Some felt Claude Julien was hired because of his ties to the gm but it was the right call for Boston last season.

More Later:
A.P : Has a brief update on the Isles hiring Scott Gordon.

Boston Globe: Fluto Shinzawa back on 7/21 in an update on Scott Gordon to the Isles reported Gordon was entering the final year of a two-year contract. The Bruins held an option on a third year.

A little Wikipedia action for those wanting a full overview of Scott Gordon here. along with his profile from the Providence Bruins website here.

New York Prospects at Team USA Camp

NYI Fan Central — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 09:27:51 -0400

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Isles at Team USA Camp

USAHOCKEY: Reports in the US/Blue-Finland game, Islander prospect Jyri Niemi had a few penalties, including a hit from behind and a ten minute misconduct. Blake Kessel also had a penalty.

In the second game on Tuesday USA/White-Sweden game, Islander prospect David Ullstrom opened the scoring for Sweden.

Wednesday's games:
Aug. 6 USA White vs. Finland 4 P.M.
USA Blue vs. Sweden 7 P.M.

Lot's of questions, few answers for New York.

NYI Fan Central — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 12:28:03 -0400

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Lot's of questions, few answers

There are a lot of questions for this club on paper if it enters training camp, and for next season as it's currently constructed.

I do not really see hiring a coach as a huge question. Some will point out the club has never hired a coach this late, but this season is starting a week later anyway. Does Tampa even have a general manager in place?

The important questions are ones that are frankly going to determine if this club can stay competitive in the first twenty games regardless of who is behind it's bench.

These are the questions that have to be looked at:

Is Mike Sillinger going to be at full strength from day one off his surgery given he has had to stay off skates for months, and some reports claiming that he will not be able to skate until August?

Will Guerin be at full strength, what about Comrie or Rick DiPietro?

Are Witt and Sutton close to a hundred percent after the injuries they had?

For that matter is Bergenheim fully healed after apparent injuries cost him most of the World Championships? Campoli has been off since early January, Gervais' concussion problem was a serious issue at the end of last season.

The younger players recovering from injuries are a concern, but for players who need to be in top conditioning, like Guerin or Sillinger, it's critical. They must have one more huge year at a point where, frankly, if they were healthy all summer, asking for the kind of production it will take, could be too much.

What will the club be getting from Jon Sim, will he hit that wall that many do skating off that kind of injury that can take two full years to regain the speed and quickness? This club desperately needs those seventeen goals he scored for Atlanta.

Isles need the version of Doug Weight who produced two years ago, anything less on a club with so many offensive holes could frankly be fatal, will he even match Vasicek's early production?

Whill someone step up to make this powerplay better and work the puck to the right player in the right spot? Will someone step up with Mark Streit and be a true number two point man with the entire defense signed beyond a year with only room for a trade/injuries?

Perhaps the second biggest question after the veterans health:

Can Comeau, Okposo, Bergenheim and especially Tampbellini produce enough to keep the club competitive? Will Hunter be able to produce more goals? A few of these players have to put up twenty goals or more or the club will not stay competitive. Okposo is going to have to give production on a level with a first or second line NHL right wing, same for whoever the two left wings are in the top six.

This is not 1999 where Tim Connolly is being asked to produce out of a draft, it's not the same as when Taylor Pyatt or Juraj Kolnik were thrown into spots. Outside of Okposo, these players have been in this organization for almost five years in many cases, it's showtime or go time.

Will the toughness factor be a problem with no true enforcer among the forwards or does the lack of enforcer mean Sutton, Witt have to become more involved in that role?

Some questions will work out ok, others will not. The Isles have options and competition for spots which will settle some questions but not all of them.

There are not many answers on paper in early August. I would not be shocked to see a trade or two toward the end of camp.

New York signs Bruno Gervais, Tortorella Interviews Sunday

NYI Fan Central — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:20:21 -0400

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Newsday: Greg Logan reports John Tortorella will meet with Garth Snow this Sunday as the beatwriter makes comparisons between Tampa Bay and the Islanders and also reports Mike Sullivan and Scott Gordon are expected to interview next week.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Tortorella is an interesting choice but he has had a lot more talent to work with on offense in Tampa. By contrast he will have a lot of talent on defense and in goal if he is hired here. Garth Snow has no time for vacation and has a lot of interviews to go through, he may need some second or third interviews before a decision is arrived at.

Newsday: Greg Logan reports in the Islanders Newsday blog defenseman Bruno Gervais has been resigned to a three year/one way contract at a bit more than 2.1 million. At the conclusion of this contract he will still be a restricted free agent. His first-year salary equals his qualifying offer of $522,500 but will receive $800,000 and $900,000 in the next two seasons.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Great signing but it does mean seven defenders are signed for at least the next two seasons. That finishes up contract negotiations with all restricted free agents and no distractions in terms of player contracts before camp.

Someone with a contract will not be happy opening night if everyone is healthy.

For those voting in the poll we can eliminate Gervais will not be signed.

Times & Transcript: Cole Hobson has Moncton Mayor Ian Fowler's comments on the 9/23 exhibition game against Boston. More details surrounding the camp, public activities and open practices will be released at a later date.

Long Island Business News: Henry E. Powderly II has an interview with new Dragons majority owner Steve Silva with a few words about Charles Wang and negotiations.

Quick Hits:
Why is it Ken Campbell's Hockey News article on Maurice a front runner for Isles job
appearing on ESPN, I think this is a repeat from THN. How come ESPN does not have enough hockey writers?

The days of a staff of writers like Al Morganti seems long gone for ESPN leaving us with the Scott Burnside, E.J Hradek or Teri Frei perspective.

Not to kick around the Isles TV staff because they did a great job on mini-camp putting up prospect interviews in bulk and obviously need to get this months version done early in the month but the Isles Illustrated needed to do more than throw in a very quick blurb on Ted Nolan not returning even if it was only Bill Jaffe's video comments last week. By the looks of this some brief prospect camp footage was included but it looked like it was held for the August version.

So what is that now, forty shows a week on MSG Ranger centric and nineteen minutes of Islander content? Who padlocked the vault of games for the Islanders on MSG + this summer? I know I would not mind seeing Al Arbour night a few times or all those Ranger or Devils wins.

New York Islanders: Media Disconnect Shows in Coverage

NYI Fan Central — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 01:55:47 -0400

It's interesting reading so many in the general hockey media pile on the Islanders, but a common thread for me stood out that makes me dismiss almost all of the coverage.

Whether the news is positive or negative means little. All they do is provide background wallpaper that goes back a decade or longer, and has no value regarding today's club whatsoever. This is a disconnect that can be attributed to not only dwindling coverage, but dwindling quality in terms of reporting. In terms of 2008-09, or Snow-Nolan deciding they did not want to work together any longer—all of that is completely worthless. Some of the articles were so poorly written, they did not even note that Neil Smith was fired, and instead incorrectly reported Smith resigned. If they cannot even get the background correct, obviously they can give us nothing of value in terms of the current club. A good example of this media disconnect was clearly evident during this season, when a lot of West Coast writers finally got to see the club in their markets for the first time since 2002. Some had never even seen Rick DiPietro play a game in those time zones. Had DiPietro even seen Calgary since 1999, when he was drafted? It was the first time a few of these writers could update their files in a decade. But of course, this disconnect goes well beyond the West Coast. What is Wallace Matthews of Newsday going to tell our fans about the New York Islanders, writing one article every few years at best? John Rolfe of SI, Adam Proteau of THN, Scott Burnside of ESPN can tell us nothing that they have not been writing for years. It seems a most of them are trapped in the club's past. You could see it in Scott Burnside's reporting all year. All he could tell us was he did not expect the club to stay in contention ,just as he did the previous year, playing it safe. This year, even confirmed local writers like Larry Brooks—who covered Al Arbour night from an Islander perspective—Dave Caldwell at the Times, and Peter Botte at the News were simply not around nearly enough to provide anything new of value.

Most of these writers told us nothing. Some blamed Nolan based on nothing more than his reputation, others blamed Snow because he came in as a backup goalie.

They threw half-baked theories against the walls hoping they would stick. Many blamed Charles Wang, but had no current news beyond blind speculation. Few blamed him for waiting so long—which is what the legitimate criticism should be. Most of these writers could not name ten players on the current roster—they can only tell us the roster back in the late nineties, or when the Isles signed Yashin, or that Charles Wang fired Neil Smith two summers ago. You can see how they avoided discussing the current roster at all cost, writing that the club does not have great prospects, or telling us Doug Weight is old while ignoring the fact that Bobby Holik of the Devils is older—and has been less productive over several years. It's like me trying blog about the Phoenix Coyotes, and then going back to when they were in Winnipeg to explain why Blake Wheeler would not sign with them. I can do a little filler and provide the downside why they have struggled for a long time—but in terms of current information I would do a very poor job. That's what has happened here. Of course when the games begin and the Islanders are competitive, they have nothing to write about, because there is no comfort for them in current events.

We saw that a lot in the last few years, just as we saw teams copy some of the Isles' ideas. But the media downplayed the long-term contracts or shared management strategy in Dallas to almost silence. Most fans following knew the committee philosophy was a bit overblown and downplayed for most of the last two years. Mr Botta wrote about this a few times during the season. It's kind of like how we see some writers portray the Blackhawks or the Blues as a team on the rise, despite the fact that these two teams that to date have not won anything—and in the Blues' case, finished behind New York. No knock on these clubs, because it could be true that's on the rise—but it could also be true for the Isles. For folks who remember, in press conference a few years ago Charles Wang even said if a committee approach did not work out it would be scrapped, and they would go back to the way it was. Along the way, that is exactly what happened—and for all we know it began shortly after the next season began. A year ago the coach had input into player acquisition, but once the games began the coach had his job and the general manager had his. Both Garth Snow and Ted Nolan confirmed this in their now-infamous WFAN interviews back in March—which everyone seemed to ignore in the media. But hey, Roberto Luongo was traded in 1999, Alexei Yashin was signed to a long-term contract—that must be the reason things are dysfunctional now even though a lot of clubs changed coaches.

Los Angeles hired Dean Lombardi as general manager and just fired his first coaching choice, Marc Crawford—who was hired the same summer Ted Nolan and Garth Snow were hired. Tampa fired its Cup-winning coach for an ESPN commentator and left its acting GM home for the draft and free agency, and the media did not have much, if anything, to say about it. Are the Isles going to be a good or bad team next year? We'll see. Is it going to have anything to do with 1999, Roberto Luongo, or Charles Wang firing Neil Smith two years ago? No. Until those writers get beyond that, there's nothing to read of value from them.

The 2007-08 New York Islanders scored two goals or less fourteen games in a row when healthy. They managed to not only stay in contention with a strategy that did not involve getting to overtime—and, unlike the previous season, produced a team deep in the red in terms of plus/minus—but were close to five games over .500, until the flu and injuries pushed them out of the mix in January.

Nevertheless, they were able to recover and win six straight later on, despite missing some key players. Even with four hundred man-games lost to injury, they still managed to beat the Devils, Rangers, and play competitive hockey with Pittsburgh. The Isles' special teams seemed to beat themselves against Philadelphia a lot more than the Flyers all season. There are a lot of what ifs going into next season for the club. But if Comeau and Bergenheim keep improving, Okposo can replace/improve Satan's nightly impact, Tambellini bringis his AHL production to the NHL level, and the club gets a good bounce-back year from Hunter (in terms of goals), Mike Sillinger, and newly acquired Doug Weight—there is no reason this club will not be in position to compete for a playoff spot, regardless of who is behind the bench. Nielsen, Colliton, and Ben Walter will be pushing for spots, along with Jesse Joensuu‚and perhaps Josh Bailey, if some moves open up a spot. On defense the Isles are going to be counting on Campoli to provide Mark Streit with some power-play production—but overall this defense comes in only better than they were a year ago. Sutton and Meyer have settled into their roles after very strong finishes for both of them.

Witt and Martinek should pick up where they left off when healthy, with Bruno Gervais a possible seventh defender given the depth chart and Jack Hillen behind him. Why would anything think losing Ted Nolan, Josef Vasick, Miroslav Satan or Ruslan Fedotenko cause a free fall? Charles Wang and Garth Snow could leave tomorrow and this could still be a competitive club, depending on how things break. This was a group that cut down its opponents' shots last season by a hundred and ninety eight. Needless to say, this did not make it into those reports about Todd Bertuzzi, Roberto Luongo, or Neil Smith—nor did Greg Logan even note in his constant reports DiPietro had to start less games. Rick DiPietro, aside from his grandmother's passing, gave the club solid goaltending from beginning to end last season—despite a statistical argument put forward by Newsday he was struggling, which ignored a six-game winning streak highlighted by a 1-0 win against Tampa Bay. We'll see what happens when the season begins. The idea it will have anything to do with Mike Milbury, Todd Bertuzzi, Neil Smith, or Alexei Yashin is a result of the media's poor coverage habits that are their problems—not ours. And of course you will see more of the same in preseason predictions. What the heck is John Rolfe of SI going to tell us about the 2008-09 Islanders? We'll get one of those articles from yesterday from Mr. Rolfe, regardless of record‚—and will until the Isles win another Cup.

Rolfe did a good job quoting Rich Pilon on ownership back in the nineties but forgot to include Pilon was grossly out of shape which he cannot blame on Howard Milstein and only dropped some pounds after he was traded and he was playing for his future.

Of course, the day the Islanders bring the Cup back home to New York, you can bet the theme of John Rolfe's article will be all about the dark days—the only place he can go with his reporting now.

They can try and blame Charles Wang for that too. But in the end, many of them have to take a long look in the mirror and ask why are they not watching games to give us a current view on the club. If they do a review of the club and tell us Bergenheim cannot finish, Comeau is not a scorer, and Okposo is too young that's fair enough, that could well be correct. If they want to tell us Campoli cannot stay healthy, or that the defense has too many players prone to injury, that's a fair discussion also. But don't tell us it's because of moves close to a decade old. That's just lazy journalism. Our fans deserve better from you.

John Tortorella, Mike Sullivan granted permission to speak with New York

NYI Fan Central — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 19:06:30 -0400

Erik Erlendsson reports the Tampa Tribune has learned the Islanders have contacted Tampa Bay seeking permission to speak to former coach John Tortorella. Tampa have granted their request along with the one for Mike Sullivan, who was Tortorella's assistant last year, although it was unclear whether that was for a head coaching or assistant's job.

Tortorella and Sullivan both have a year remaining on their contracts with Tampa Bay which is why the Isles needed permission. The former coach reportedly was making $1.3 million.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Mike Sullivan was the former Bruins coach for those who recall. Larry Brooks will not be a happy man if the Isles come to terms with Tortorella.

Bergenheim, Tambellini Re-signed by New York; Contract Updates on RFA's

NYI Fan Central — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:07:15 -0400

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Several other blog updates today including one on where Islanders' Owner Charles Wang deserves his share of blame along with more media fallout and updates from the Islanders' prospect camp.

Thursday's Live Blog has been cancelled because of unforeseen circumstances, but we will have another one in the future.

Newsday: Greg Logan reported in the Islanders' Newsday blog that forward Jeff Tambellini agreed today on a two-year deal worth $1.175 million.

Mr. Logan reports Tambellini, who made a salary of $882,000 last season, including bonus money, actually took less than his qualifying offer of $660,000 for the chance to prove he belongs in the NHL in exchange for a one way contract where he will make $550,000 next season and $625,000 in 2009-10.

In addition:
Ben Walter and Jeremy Colliton both accepted the two-way qualifying offers yesterday before the 5 p.m. deadline.

Frans Nielsen and defenseman Bruno Gervais declined their qualifying offers, but are continuing negotiations.

Sean Bergenheim is still headed for arbitration, but his GM said he is making progress with his new agent, Allan Walsh, which could avert a hearing.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Gervais' and Nielsen's situations get very interesting because neither have a roster spot guaranteed with Freddy Meyer under contract along with five other defenders.

We're almost to the day Campoli signed last summer.

Tambellini, on a one-way contract, now has to prove himself at this level or the club has a player to move if it does not work. Given our poll results, no one knows where to seem to play him.

Updated Wednesday AM:

Bergenheim resigned by New York

Newsday: Greg Logan reports in the Islanders' Newsday blog that Sean Bergenheim has avoided arbitration with the club signing a two-year deal worth $1.725 million. He will have one more season as a restricted free agent when the contract ends. Bergenheim will make $800,000 this season and $925,000 the following season. Garth Snow comments on the signing.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Another good signing by the general manager. Obviously his former agents were a major problem in negotiations. Bergenheim gets another two years to improve his value and the club keeps his negotiating rights when the contract ends.

Veteran players give their take on Islanders coaching change

NYI Fan Central — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 02:18:14 -0400

The Veterans Speak Up

http://newyorkislanderfancentral.blogspot.com/

Newsday: Greg Logan has comments in Newsday's Islander blog from Bill Guerin, Mike Sillinger, Rick DiPietro, and Brendan Witt, giving their take on the coaching change with reaction.

Bill Guerin was not shocked and said it was no secret the coach and general manager were not seeing things eye-to-eye during the year or over the summer, and felt it had become a distraction from what you read in the paper. However most of the veterans have seen every situation, and the young players seeing more ice time should not have a major impact.

Mike Sillinger praised Ted Nolan and talked of the great relationship between both of them. He had no idea what was happening because he was injured in the second half but this was a terrible year for the club.

He was contacted by Garth Snow about the change and told that it's the GM's decision. Sillinger, who will not be critical of anyone, said he enjoyed playing for his now former coach, but thinks it's unfortunate that the coach always gets the blame. He also believed the club needed more youth, and that they have some young players who are capable of stepping in and contributing.

Rick DiPietro felt you need to develop your talent, have good drafts, that young players need to step up and play big roles; developing a young nucleus with some veteran guys around to lead. They are making strides in that direction with Okposo, Comeau, and Jeff Tambellini. The goaltender also felt the club needed a tighter defensive system than the one Nolan used, citing success against the Devils, but when they got away from that things did not go well.

Brendan Witt for his part also felt the clubs 1-3-1 system was more successful in the coaches first season. However despite problems between the coach and general manager, Witt was shocked there was a change and that there still were lingering bad feelings. He felt management would have waited for the club to struggle next season before making a change.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
In summary the captain Ted Nolan praised up and down at the end of the season, and never was critical of even when he blasted his veterans. They knew there were problems, did not seem surprised at how this turned out, and did not give him a ringing endorsement you would expect from a captain considering he is the link to the coaching staff.

Mike Sillinger admitted this year was terrible but praised Ted Nolan for the first season and did not see any problem with the coach or anyone but it's the general managers call.

Rick DiPietro, like most goaltenders, wanted more defense and a system that keeps them in the games better, which was lacking all year as the club could not get games to overtime. A great plus/minus team a year ago became a terrible plus minus team last season.

Brendan Witt was surprised this was still going on between them and they had not worked this out by now as he also talked about the defensive system from a year ago.

Bottom Line:
All of them agreed it's time to work in more young players and let them become the core talent on the roster which is the common thread.

Ted Nolan Out as New York Head Coach

NYI Fan Central — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:27:20 -0400

Ted Nolan out as Islanders head coach

NYI Fan Central

Islanders website: Report the New York Islanders on Monday announced Ted Nolan will not return as coach for the 2008-09 season with comments from General manager Garth Snow and Ted Nolan with both citing philosophical differences.

Newsday: Greg Logan in the Islanders Newsday blog which was a repeat of what was in the paper here also reports on the dismissal of the head coach with Garth Snow's comments that it took over three months because it was a difficult decision for him and for Ted Nolan, because of the owners desire to give Ted Nolan the opportunity to coach in the NHL and because of his loyalty to those he hires and explains further he will take the criticism and that arriving on this decision was a process as he spoke with the now former coach regularly following the season and when the draft and free agency ended. Ted Nolan was not available for comment in Mr Logan's blog.

Mr Logan has a lot of his own speculation that has been repeated here several times as his reasons for the change but added a few more today on the teams defensive system vs playing veterans vs prospects.

John Tortorella, Paul Maurice, Bob Hartley are the early speculation for a replacement and that executive director of player development Bryan Trottier, commentator Butch Goring or Bridgeport coach Jack Capuano are not in the running for the head coach position.

Newsday: Anthony Riber plays the shock jock game reminding us how he and Jim Baumbach made this a big issue back in early April and of course writes the Isles are a Mickey Mouse organization that once again has proven it has no clue and is critical of the timing because of all the good coaches that have been hired.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
They sat on that stage together and lied to us.

The season ended back in early April, it took over three months of articles with both of them appearing at team functions taking questions from fans where the next day the one story would be reported with the quotes from the people involved the exact opposite or they outright denied they had problems?

Ted Nolan back on April 15th in the Times and Transcript said he intends to be back and talked about his team here as he denied he wanted to return to Moncton, Garth Snow said there was no reason Nolan would not return on April 10th.

After this dance for that went on for three months they both finally came to realize they could not get past their philosophical differences? It's insulting to this fan for both Garth Snow and Ted Nolan to let this go on for as long as it did and a waste of everyone's time.

Garth Snow wants to make it about the owners loyalty? To me that is a lot of nonsense. You say someone is your coach on April 10th you keep him or end the speculation and make a change if you do not think something will work out or the owner steps in and settles it once and for all, you do not tell us your relationship is great when it's not.

This was handled very poorly all around. Mr Botta in his blog thought Ted Nolan had problems not only with the general manager but with the veteran players. His speculation about how the coach said things to separate himself from the club speaks for itself and he knows when a coach feels like an outsider or for himself.

Bottom line a qualified well-respected players coach is gone, he helped provide the franchise credibility with the public and a belief in what they were trying to do and the Isles are going to have to take the hit with the public, you look at a coach like Nolan and despite the roster you feel he is part of the long-term answer.

I was frankly surprised his comments on May 2nd in the Saint Sault did not get him fired saying how difficult the coaching circumstances would be on a one-year contract after the organization's stance back in April was they do not comment on contracts.

My impression was Ted Nolan drew a line in the sand when he said that.

On the ice we could make a lot of discussion the injuries were too much but when your team scores two goals fourteen games in a row when healthy some of that has to go on the coach who obviously from watching games preferred the veterans to the prospects because a coaches job is to win. That also has to go on the general manager because he was part of getting those players along with Ted Nolan.

If this coach wanted to go with veterans over the prospects he was the wrong fit for this team moving forward and if he did have damaged relationships with veterans with Mr Botta also touched on where do you go?

Which is something that should have been decided in early April because no games have been played since.

Both the general manager and the coach but on a very poor show for us, the owner deserved better from both of them who he gave this opportunity to.

For those who will write me and say Newsday/Greg Logan were correct and I was wrong writing a blog about Newsday/Greg Logan on the Grassy Knoll I'm afraid you would be missing the point entirely.

I commented a bunch of times over the weekend Ted Nolan could be fired immediately but if the speculation from both Greg Logan and Katie Strang contradict the quotes from both Garth Snow and Ted Nolan and even the two Newsday reporters are contradicting their own stories to go with retractions then the coverage is also a problem.

This was my primary issue with the coverage and I stand by every word I have written on this subject. I have no doubt this level of reporting did not help their working relationship either because obviously the lack communication between both of them was terrible.

Also it's painfully clear the working relationship between Newsday and the club is also not very good also when there are retractions combined with Mr Logan complaining about not being consulted about injuries in the paper despite all his vacation time.

These man obviously had differences, they did not need Newsday to get behind and give it a push. For myself the disconnect between Newsday and this franchise may even be deeper than anything between Nolan or what now is his former general manager.

Very sad to me a man who pulled his car over in tears upon learning Peter Laviolette would be named Islander coach for 2002 wondering what it would take to become an NHL head coach again and wanted to be part of a club that had missed the playoffs seven years in a row had philosophical differences that could not be worked out. He had no problem coaching prospects in Moncton, why was it a problem now?

I thank Ted Nolan for Al Arbour night and the class he showed, I thank him for coming here and being the teams coach for two years but I do have bitter feelings about his part in how he sat on that stage and denied there were problems with the general manager, that to me is not honest on his part or Garth Snow and upper management.

Good day for the prospects to show up for mini-camp and be presented with this, not a good first impression at all?

I know Bob Hartley had a lot of good things to say about Garth Snow when he was hired as general manager, that would be the first person on my list but you need a coach who will want to be part of a youth movement.

This is one Garth Snow needs to make a quick decision on if it's his call.

So what happens now?
I put up all the articles critical of the club, regardless of whether it is fair or reasonable or comes from someone who follow the club or just shows up once a year to bash the New York Islanders.

Newsday/Mr Logan back on Grassy Knoll with Snow vs Nolan

NYI Fan Central — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 20:58:08 -0400

http://newyorkislanderfancentral.blogspot.com/

Newsday: Greg Logan picks up where he left off earlier on Ted Nolan vs. Garth Snow about the coach's future status with a few of the things Botta touched on in one of his final blogs from a week ago.

Ted Nolan is quoted as saying his relationship with the GM has been the same, that he spoke with Garth Snow and wants to concentrate on coaching and doing the best job he can, that he had no input into signing Doug Weight or Mark Streit and that Garth Snow and the scouting staff made those decisions.

Logan speculates Nolan was not consulted about trading down for Josh Baily. He also speculates to date that Nolan has received no assurances from the organization that he will be the coach and reports Garth Snow declined comment.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Greg Logan and New York Islander coverage in Newsday, two steps forward, five backwards.

Does Logan hold some of this stuff and pick a moment to dump it on the public to hold down anything positive about this team, or does his editor demand a team barely being covered have to become a soap opera and force this kind of coverage from him?

Twenty nine other clubs have successful or struggling coaches fired or rehired without these conspiracy theories a running sidebar in their newspapers for months.

Did someone on the Newsday staff see the website article on the new season tickets sold and decide what can we do get something negative stirred up?

You have to read the actual quotes vs. the beatwriter speculation here folks. As usual, what is the point of this unless Garth Snow or Ted Nolan confirm it?

Worst of all, Newsday is contradicting itself with some of this because anyone who reads the paper knows what they reported already and see the mistakes in coverage.

All this comes off as forced by Newsday and designed to stir up negative fan reaction. It would be another thing if Snow and Nolan were quoted and confirmed this speculation, because then it would be fair game and I would have no problem with it.

If Nolan is fired so be it, but aside from that it's time for Greg Logan to get off the grassy knoll with regard to this until they are quoted and say there are problems.

It almost feels now like we were being set up with all those great updates the last few days.

Worst of all, Logan's speculation is not even correct according to the other writer in his own paper in Katie Strang, and Logan contradicts himself.

Get those headlines ready for TSN and the Canadian Press along with all the other papers and fire up the rumor mill.

Newsday: Islanders' Nolan on the hot seat
You know the drill by now.

All I ask my blog readers to do here is read how many mistakes in reporting were made here and then make up your own mind.

Let's take these one at a time:
Logan writes, " Contacted recently at the hockey camp he runs in Ontario, Nolan was asked if he's confident he will be coaching the Islanders when training camp begins in mid-September. "I'm confident in my ability to coach," Nolan said. "I know I've got one year left on my contract, and I'm going to make it the best year of my coaching career. Hopefully, it will get me another one."

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Recently? All those quotes were back on May 2 in the Sault Star and were blogged about at the time here where Ted Nolan denied any problems with Garth Snow or Rick DiPietro but was quoted as saying it was difficult coaching under the circumstances of a one-year contract. This begs the question, was Logan only finding this out now or saving it as fodder to stir the pot?

According to Logan, Ted Nolan feuded openly with Snow about his role in the decision to part with free-agent goaltender Wade Dubielewicz. When they appeared together later at an Islanders function, the rift was evident as they expressed opposing views on how to improve the power play Snow favored better preparation, and Nolan suggested better players were needed.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Katie Strang covered this event on June 4 (while Logan was AWOL after creating this huge issue over Dubielewicz) and at the time reported herself that basically it boiled down to a minor misunderstanding in Newsday's Islander blog here.

This begs the question what open feud and if the other Newsday writer did not report any of this on June 5, where has Greg Logan been for over a month to where he's making all these claims now on July 13?

The next day, on June 5, Strang wrote another article which was posted on this blog with a full summary here with Garth Snow's comments that we're a tight-knit organization and the situation with confidence in Wade Dubielewicz was not as big of a deal as what people are making it out to be.

In addition, the GM said everything is great regarding his relationship with the coach but prefers that situations like this be kept within the four walls.

Ted Nolan for his part felt there was no disagreement at all. he said he and Snow agreed on the conditioning, that Dubie was hurt in the off season, so he couldn't come in and that sometimes that's construed as lack of confidence, but it was maybe a lack of communication.

This is what Logan writes is an an open feud? Where were you to tell us all this new information Strang did not report on when she was at this team event and told us none of this in her article?

Logan then writes: Nolan and the organization picked up steam in late March when the coach was rebuffed by owner Charles Wang after expressing his desire to receive an extension before the final season of his three-year contract.

NYI Fan Central Comments:

Picked up steam? Rebuffed? Logan was the only steam behind this on March 23 when he asked Ted Nolan about his contract and thought this was such a critical issue we had no game day coverage.

Ted Nolan on March 23 never expressed any public desire to receive an extension of his contract. He was quoted as having said he plans to fulfill his contract, however he has to find out exactly what the plans are and that there have been no discussions. At the time he even said he did not even have an agent.

Did someone hijack Greg Logan's account at Newsday to stir up garbage tonight? Most of this is simply not correct.

Of course, we had coverage of this back on March 23 here while Newsday's actual link is outdated here but a few sites have summaries of this article here.

Worst of all in this article, Logan writes:
To date, Nolan has received no assurances from the organization that he will be the coach. Snow, who declined comment, is emphasizing the development of young players as opposed to acquiring the veterans Nolan prefers.

NYI Fan Central Comments:

Funny, Mr. Logan, but you have Garth Snow's quotes on April 10 in your own article here you asked Garth Snow if there's any reason to believe Nolan won't return, and according to you Snow said, "I don't see any reason. He's our coach."

Here's the full Newsday link which is outdated to this article here which Logan did a blog preview for at the time here that is still available.

Logan even reports Josh Bailey and Nolan's son Jordan were teammates in the Ontario Hockey League last season, yet Nolan wasn't consulted about the pick.

NYI Fan Central Comments:

Here is the Isles top pick commenting in the Windsor Star on June 20 that he had already met Ted Nolan a couple of times, but don't really know him here.

Bottom Line:

I'm going to have to start saving the full articles again and keep all the quotes if the level of reporting is going to be this poor just to call our beatwriter on some of what he is misreporting before all these links go outdated.

Again, if Snow and Nolan say there is a problem, I would have no issue with any of this. But even when a fan like myself just following the articles/quotes can easily point out all these contradictions between writers at Newsday or outright mistakes, it's more than fair again to question what is going on at Newsday with Greg Logan.

Now let's get down to business:

Are all coaches consulted on free agents, about moving down in the draft or about prospects? Maybe there is a legit problem there and a disconnect based on that and what Botta wrote about or Garth Snow and Ted Nolan have their own way of working.

All organizations work differently and coaches generally do not know prospects. Some coaches just want to coach what they are given, and some general managers want to follow their plan above all.

I do not know what will happen from here. All I do know is Ted Nolan will be at prospects camp. If things become a problem, there could be a change sooner than later but a lot of this stuff has not been fair to the club or its fans and worst of all some of this Newsday speculation is contradicted by Newsday itself.

What was the point of any of this to open prospects camp in mid-July?

New York Islander Fan Central News/Notes

NYI Fan Central — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 06:08:10 -0400

http://newyorkislanderfancentral.blogspot.com/

New York Islander Fan Central updates include what's ahead along with a blog on the competition for a spot on left wing between Jeff Tambellini vs. Blake Comeau vs. Sean Bergenheim for Tuesday.

In terms of blog updates with commentary:

Globe & Mail: Tim Wharnsby reports NHLPA executive director Paul Kelly flew to Zurich to take another shot at working out a player transfer agreement, confirmed reports the NHL will indeed announce this week that the New Year's Day outdoor game between the Chicago Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings will be held at Wrigley Field, and reportedly said the NHL should look at putting one or two of its troubled franchises in Southwestern Ontario and Winnipeg.

Daily News: John Dellapina has his Ranger spin on the story as to why a game did not take place in New York claiming the mayor's office was on board, but with no quotes from anyone, but speculates his team could be part of a New Yankee Stadium outdoor game in 2010.

Columbus Dispatch: Aaron Portzline reports in the Blue Jackets blog that former Islander Michael Peca has come to terms on a contract extension that could be announced as early as Tuesday.

Sound Tigers.com: Reports Joe Callahan's contract is a one year/two way agreement.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio has an article on the signing of Joe Callahan with comments from team President, Howard Saffan.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio, in his Ct Post blog, has a few words on Joe Callahan, Peter MacArthur, and reports Bridgeport's rookie camp will be in Shelton and that Jack Capuano is in St. Cloud, Minn. this week, with USA Hockey's Select 17 development camp before he heads to Islanders development camp next week.

Newsday: Greg Logan has a late Monday update on arbitration/contract negotiations for Sean Bergenheim with comments from his agent, Todd Diamond who said on Monday his client plans to accept the arbitrator's decision rather than seek a better deal in Russia. He also expects the Islanders to opt for a two-year deal in arbitration. According to Mr. Diamond, Bergenehim will be an RFA the next three seasons.

Mr. Diamond's partner, Mark Gandler also commented about the arbitration process and how/when things go well vs. when they go poorly with a team, but did not have anything specific with regard to Bergenheim.

Point Blank: Mr. Botta updated his blog with a bunch of things and is considering keeping it open.

Vancouver Province: Ben Kzuma reports the Anaheim Ducks will sign Brendan Morrison to a one year contract that will be announced Tuesday despite a no comment from Brian Burke and a denial from his agent Kurt Overhardt when reached Monday at his Denver office.

Tsn.ca: Reports the Tampa Bay Lightning signed Mark Recchi to a one year contract with incentives.

Brent Skinner Signs Deal with New York; Satan, Fedotenko to Pittsburgh

NYI Fan Central — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 07:28:18 -0400

http://newyorkislanderfancentral.blogspot.com/

New York Islander Fan Central for Thursday has an update on the club signing Brent Skinner, the daily articles, a blog on the team's roster, the departure of Miroslav Satan and Ruslan Fedotenko to Pittsburgh, and the upcoming blog notables among several items.

Newsday: Greg Logan's article has Garth Snow's comments that he absolutely signed Doug Weight because of his relationship with Bill Guerin and that both have always been good when teamed together with the writer's speculation that Weight's bonus incentive could be tied to how many goals he sets up for the captain.

The general manager also thought his team needed an upgrade at center with Mike Comrie, Mike Sillinger, Richard Park, and Frans Nielsen. He thought that Richard Park can also play wing and that his line-up needed more offense from the center position to distribute the puck and make their line mates better and that Weight will help the power play.

In terms of Mike Sillinger not skating until August, Snow is quoted as saying this was not really why he signed Weight, but to give the coaches more options and create line chemistry.

Mr. Logan speculated on the potential lines and limited openings with too many
one-way contracts with Garth Snow's comments he probably is done shopping for free-agent help, but he will still poke around and make calls with the beat writer reporting Danis will be the new starting goaltender for Bridgeport.

Newsday: Greg Logan updated the Isles blog with a lot of line speculation which mostly centered around where Ted Nolan would play Jeff Tambellini vs. Sean Bergenheim.

Mr. Logan also reports that because of the Weight signing, the Streit feature will be pushed back to Friday's paper.

NY Times: Stu Hackel's blog had comments from Shawn Avery that nothing was really going on with the Islanders, but if they were smart they would have made a bid for his services. Another blog was done here on the NHL, but ends with a long commentary on the Islanders signing Mark Streit here.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio has a few words from the newest Islanders/Sound Tiger in Yann Danis along with comments from coach Jack Capuano and Team President Howard Saffin about both Danis and Mike Iggulden.

Ct Post: Mr. Fornabaio has several updates in the Ct Post blog along with some of his own speculation that Garth Snow could still tinker with the roster.

Sound Tigers.com: Announce the signings of center Mike Iggulden and defenseman Brett Skinner to one-year, two-way contracts.

Mike Iggulden was profiled yesterday and in the Ct Post today.

Brent Skinner spent last season with the Providence Bruins and posted the best numbers of his career scoring seven goals and 40 assists for 47 points. The 25-year-old has played three seasons in the AHL with the Manitoba Moose, Portland Pirates, and Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights totaling 17 goals and 73 assists for 90 points. Prior to his AHL career, Skinner played three seasons with the University of Denver winning two National Championships in 2004 and 2005.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio has been keeping a depth chart of players under contract to New York/Bridgeport for next season.

Updated 12:30pm:

Newsday: Greg Logan updated the Islanders Newsday blog and corrected an error on how many one-way contracts he reported, but again notes the few spots on the current roster if any more players are signed.

He also notes the two way qualifying offers to most of the prospects and that Tambellini, Gervais, Walter, and Colliton all would have to clear waivers on the way down to the AHL if they were assigned to Bridgeport and that Frans Nielsen was qualified on a two-way contract for 30 more NHL games.

Updated 1:30pm

In the notables department, Tsn.ca reports here that the Pittsburgh Penguins have verbally agreed to deals with forwards Miroslav Satan and Ruslan Fedotenko with both one-year contracts, with Satan earning $3.5 million next year and Fedotenko $2.5 million.

The Weighting is Over for New York

NYI Fan Central — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 12:34:58 -0400

http://newyorkislanderfancentral.blogspot.com/

New York Islander Fan Central recaps the clubs moves on 7/2 so far..

Updated 6:30pm

Islanders website: Reports the club has come to terms with Doug Weight on a one year contract with Garth Snow's comments that bringing Doug aboard was a priority that he not only brings a wealth of NHL games and experience with him, but he’s the type of player we want our younger players to learn from.

Point Blank: Mr Botta gives his take on Doug Weight and the start New York has had in free agency.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
For this to work he has to produce as a first or second line center, if not and he's hurt or unproductive it's a bad signing that keeps a roster spot from a player in the organization or from another club. Anaheim made him a healthy scratch at the end of last season, he has to be the player he was a few years ago, not just a mentor or a veteran presence.

That may not be fair on my part to ask but on this team there is no alternative, in terms of numbers this is a step back from what Vasicek gave them as a center.

Tsn.ca: Reports he signed for 1.75m but has bonus clauses that could push his deal to as much 4.3 million.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Fair to write Isles are approaching the cap floor or above it. Did anyone not think he was not going to want Guerin-Comrie money if he hits his bonus clauses which I hope are production based.

Newsday: Greg Logan reports on the signing and includes the bonus money that confirms TSN 4.3 million figure and writes he will have more details later on this but speculated Garth Snow added an older pivot in the hopes that he not only will be a solid playmaker for the young wingers but serve as a mentor.

Uppdated 5:35pm
Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio reports the Isles/Sound Tigers have added center Mike Iggulden from the Sharks organization and provides his stats with his stats here.

Mr Fornabaio speculates more signings are coming.

Updated 5:00pm
Newsday: Mr Logan reports on the signing of Yann Danis, a four-year AHL veteran from the Montreal organization who figures to start for the Sound Tigers and speculates prospect Stefan Ridderwall will stay in Europe but remain New York property because of the transfer agreement.

Mr Logan writes he will have a lively interview with Mark Streit for Thursday, who he says he spoke with Wednesday from Zurich with what the beatwriter reports are interesting comments about how he was used the past couple of seasons in Montreal and about why he is looking forward to the opportunity to join the Isles in an expanded role playing strictly as an offensive defenseman.

Updated 4:30pm
Islanders website: Confirms Yann Danis has been signed to a one-year, two-way contract. A former NCAA All-American with Brown University, Danis has a record of 81-67-18 in 176 career AHL games with a 2.78 goals against average and a 908 save percentage.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
Credit to Mr Fornabaio for reporting it on his blog. Seems like a replacement for Mike Mole or will get a brief shot to unseat Joey MacDonald.

Montreal Gazette: Pat Hickey reports back on 6/14 why the Canadians decided not to bring back goaltender Yann Danis.

Newsday: Greg Logan had another blog on Mark Streit, with the upside of what he will bring to the current roster, some of the possible downside and looked at the market for free agents and matched up where Streit stood and felt it was a good signing for the club.

NYI Fan Central Update 6/30: Rumors, Newsday Perception Hurting Franchise

NYI Fan Central — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 02:40:56 -0400

http://newyorkislanderfancentral.blogspot.com/

New York Islander Fan Central has its early update for 6/30 with commentary in the blog on the moves and the articles.

A second full blog looks at how come several teams with on and off ice records/problems worse than New York does not have it's primary paper and beat writer reporting no one will sign with their teams and looks once again at Newsday.

Star Tribune: Michael Russo reports the Islanders are one of several teams that could have interest in Brian Rolston if Tampa Bay cannot close a deal Monday with him after the Wild traded his rights for a conditional draft pick.

Boston Globe: Kevin-Paul Dupont reports the Islanders are one of a few clubs who could inflate the market for Senators' defenseman Wade Redden with a big contract offer.

Calgary Sun: Report Edmonton traded forward Jarret Stoll and defenseman Matt Greene to the Los Angeles Kings for Lubomir Visnovsky. The Colorado Avalanche have re-signed defensemen John-Michael Liles and Adam Foote.

Bob McKenzie reported on TSN John-Michael Liles and Adam Foote were both resigned by the Avalanche here.

Tsn.ca: Darren Dreger reports on the top free agent defenseman.

New York Islander Fan Central will be having a live interactive blog Tuesday 7/1 at 7pm (no registration required) to discuss the first day of free agency and what Garth Snow may have done for New York.

Newsday Beatwriter Claims Isles Tried to Trade/sign Kristian Huselius

NYI Fan Central — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:53:07 -0400

http://newyorkislanderfancentral.blogspot.com/

Newsday: Greg Logan's late Saturday/early Sunday article claims several sources had Kristian Huselius as the player New York tried to trade for at the deadline last February but a pending agreement on a future contract had to be done within seven minutes which was not enough time for Huselius after Flames GM Darryl Sutter took so long to agree to trade terms despite what Mr. Logan writes was an offer above market value than he will expect to see Tuesday.

The Newsday beatwriter also reports Islanders general manager Garth Snow did not comment on Huselius but did have his quote he would not be a major player when free agency begins, however he would try to make his team better if it makes sense in his overall plan which is developing the prospects on his current roster.

Mr. Logan also claims an un-named agent with a high-end client among a dozen free agents did not have any of them list the Isles in their top ten destinations with quoted comments because players do not get to see the Island and all the nice places to live from the Marriott they do not wish to sign here.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
So several sources had this since February and Greg Logan was holding this information about his own team almost until July and yet he still does not have an actual quote from anyone beyond his own speculation Huselius had seven minutes to reach an agreement and up root his family long-term?

Okey-dokey.

There it is folks, the proof no one will sign here combined with Ryan Smyth who only called Mike Comrie and convinced him to sign here last summer which did not make the cut for this article.

For all these source and four months you think Mr Logan would know what was headed to Calgary from New York in such a deal? Maybe that would have forced a denial from the general manager and the latest potential Newsday retraction when all was said and done?

I also wonder if Greg Logan could have found an unnamed agent to quote who would say his client likes playing here and it's a good place to sign maybe starting with Mike Comrie or Rick DiPietro among several players who have signed here?

Sure seemed that before last summer's so-called exodus most of the players that left wanted to return but the Isles decided to move on, not the other way around.

I guess that would be pushing a positive discussion about our club, cannot have that, especially at this time of year.

Or any time of year in Newsday apparently.

Time for this to filter north to the Canadian media so the other agents and pending UFA get the word not to sign with New York.

NYI Fan Central Update 6/26

NYI Fan Central — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:11:03 -0400

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New York Islander Fan Central recaps the following news regarding the club:

Barrie Examiner: Ian Schantz reports signed Islander prospect Tomas Marcinko is expected to go pro this year according to assistant gm Jason Ford.

Windsor Star: Dave Waddell reports Islanders first round selection Josh Bailey was among the 45 players invited by Hockey Canada Wednesday to attend the Canadian national junior team developmental camp which will be held July 25-29 in Ottawa.

York Region News:
Mike Hayakawa and Jim Mason have comments from Islanders second round pick Cory Trivino.

Chatham Daily News: Mark Malone has comments from Islanders fifth round selection Matt Martin about how the Islanders decided to draft him.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio reports on the changes in Bridgeport with Steve Regier's comments that he is disappointed but will move on and try and find another home somewhere else but will not be looking at Europe.

He also comments he enjoyed my time with the Islanders, it was good for him and his development and that they have the right people in place both at the NHL and AHL level.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio reports in his blog that after speaking with Howard Saffin. Micheal Haley, Tyler Haskins and Andy Sertich are all signed. Pascal Morency will be given a tryout invitation.

Scott Ford and Colton Fretter are among those who probably won't be back; tryout kid Daine Todd is probably going to college. Peter MacArthur isn't signed but it sounds like he'll be coming to Kiddie Camp. Saffan also mentioned that Drew Fata had been talking about Europe.

Updated 6pm:
NHL.com: John Kreiser in his NHL blog has Islander scout Eric Cairns and his experience at attending the NHL draft.

Islanders website: Reports the club has a league high five players invited to attend the Canadian Junior Development Camp in Ottawa from July 25-29 with Ryan Jankowski's comments.

Josh Bailey (2008, 1st round), Travis Hamonic (2008, 2nd round), Mark Katic (selected in 2007 in the third round), Jared Spurgeon (2008, 6th round) and Corey Trivino (2008, 2nd round) were the players invited.

Point Blank: Mr Botta blogs on Bryan McCabe and the price it would take for the Isles to take back his contract along with his thoughts on the Isles and Leafs draft along with how the media spin out of Canada.

NYI Fan Central has scheduled another live interactive blog on 7/1 at 7pm to chat about day one of FA as well as potential Islander signings, everyone is welcome to stop in and participate with no registration required to participate.

Friday's update will include an article on the numbers game for the club and how reaching the cap floor with so few roster spots is not about inability to send but having to give prospects a roster spot.

New York Islanders: RFA Deadline, Who Replaces the UFA and More

NYI Fan Central — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 01:55:41 -0400

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New York Islander Fan Central Has the following blog updates for June 25:

* A blog on the restricted free agents the club needs to qualify throughout the organization.

* An update on the poll grading the draft with some results that are surprising, given the reaction on Friday.

* Another live interactive blog for July 1 is under consideration asking input on the best time, leaning toward 7 p.m. as the choice after we have some signings around the league.

* A few words regarding trade rumors and what our policy is regarding information posted on the blog regarding trades.

* A full blog asking how the Isles replace the numbers from Satan, Fedotenko and Josef Vasicek and speculation on who will be given the opportunity.

* A summary of the news articles surrounding the Islanders and a few league items with blog commentary.

* Some news articles that include the following:

Minnesota Daily: Brian Deutsch writes how Islander prospect Aaron Ness will fit on the Gophers this fall is one of the biggest mysteries in college hockey right now, along with the writer including Ness did not have much to say, nor was he happy about not being drafted in the first round Saturday.

Sarnia Observer: Dave Borody reports Jon Sim, former Islander Alan Letang, Justin DiBenedetto, Matt Martin, Sound Tigers Jamie Fraser will participate in the annual Sarnia Sting Golf Tournament for Sunshine, presented by Bell and Labatt, July 24 at Huron Oaks Golf Club.

NY Times: Michael Brick had former Islander Brent Hughes comments about the Austin Ice Bats club he coached twice ceasing operations, along with the promotion's "guaranteed fight night" for its fans.

Toronto Sun: Lance Hornsby reports the Isles could have interest in waived forward Kyle Wellwood and that Andrew Raycoft and Scott Clemmenson were also placed on waivers along with Darcy Tucker being bought out of the final three years of his contract by Toronto as of Wednesday.

Sportsnet.ca: Chris Nichols does a fantasy breakdown of the top picks in the NHL with a profile of Islanders selection Josh Bailey.

Los Angeles: Eric Stephens reports that Ducks owner Henry Samueli was suspended indefinitely by the NHL for his role in an alleged stock option scheme. He will remain an owner, and it will be business as usual for the most part but they won't be involved with the team until an Aug. 18 hearing.

Nashville Tennessean: Brad Schrade has more on Predators investor William Del Biaggio entering bankruptcy court as he lists his share in the Predators as his top asset. He owes creditors $88.4 million but that the Nashville-based investors that makes up the other owners, led by former medical waste company owner David Freeman say this will not effect operations.

Ct Post: Michael Fornabaio, in his blog, is already hoping to get some RFA answers for the deadline, which is today.

Espn.com: Scott Burnside has the new Lightning owners along with new coach Barry Melrose and adds if the NHL had more owners like that, and fewer under investigation, the league would be a much more happening place.

Garth Snow Considering Offer Sheet with Leafs Pick?

NYI Fan Central — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:01:25 -0400

New York Islander Fan Central has a little speculation of its own for Monday's update, along with club notables.

Call this some speculation from NYIFC, but why in a draft where many second rounders were considered first-round talents did Garth Snow decline his option to take Toronto's pick at sixty on Saturday?

He traded up for Chicago's pick later to go with his other third round selections, so obviously he wanted depth from this draft class.

Sure the Islander general manager may have decided to put another second rounder in the prospect bank for the 2009 draft—which also includes his own pick and the one he will likely have from Boston when Nokelainen hits his games-played incentive next season.

That's at least three and a great start looking ahead.

And of course, Toronto could be a lottery team next year, and instead of being a pick at the end of the second round Saturday, it could be a pick at the beginning of the second round next summer.

The Isles GM also did have more picks than any other club in this draft.

Having written all that, with the talent pool as deep as it was Saturday, why not use the pick this year when next summer that pick may be worth a lot less?

The only thing that makes sense is that he's getting ready to drop an offer sheet, and will use that second rounder as part of the compensation, depending on the contract.

Makes sense to me. Based on some of the pending restricted free agents without huge contracts, teams would require a second-rounder as part of the draft-pick compensation.

I guess we will see, but something to consider.

In other news:

Islanders website: Website/Publications Coordinator Jason Lockhart looks at the Sarnia connection with Isles OHL area scout Tim MacLean, 2008 picks Justin DiBenedetto, Matt Martin along with comments from 2007Islander selection Mark Katic.

SI.com: Adam Muir in the NHL draft winners and losers article has the Islanders in the honorable mention department for making hay with potential first-rounders Corey Trivino, Aaron Ness, Jyri Niemi and Kirill Petrov on Saturday.

Toronto was hit was a loser tag because they gave up draft picks in a skill draft for a defensive-defenseman in the top five?

THN.com: Brian Costello of THN also was very critical of Cliff Fletcher for giving up prospect depth.

Montreal Gazette: Has Mark Renaud, father of former Spitfires captain Mickey Renaud comments regarding the Islanders selecting Josh Bailey along with the Spitfires' centre statement he dedicated his selection in Renaud's honour.

Colmbus Dispatch: Michael Arace reports Jacket fans are not too happy with the overall draft, that Filatov was another third-liner and another mercurial Russian dangler combined with asking who's drafting Russians. For the sake of balance he includes Filatov looks a lot like Zherdev -- but without the baggage, and with an apparently clear path to North America.

NYI Fan Central Comments:
I guess we shall see. Means nothing until they hit the ice at this level and then we get a good idea as time passes.

Quick hits:
Espn/several outlets report Barry Melrose will be officially announced as new coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday.

Ray Emery of the Senators has been bought out after clearing waivers. Washington Capitals Ben Clymer, Carolina Hurricanes, Jeff Hamilton (former Islander) and David Tanabe have been placed on waivers.

NYI Fan Central Blog Notables:
A little surprised on the poll for the Islanders draft given the reaction on Friday. I gave the Isles overall a C.

Blog Notables are also updated as to what changes have been made at NYIFC with some updated 2008 prospect profiles added.

Due to the huge response for Friday and Saturday's live interactive blog another is under consideration for July 1st.

Late 6/21 Islanders Draft Update

NYI Fan Central — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 14:57:11 -0400

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Late Saturday Islanders Update

Newsday: Mr Logan's article has Garth Snow's comments along with Ryan Jankowski as to why they targeted Joshua Bailey as opposed to Nikita Filatov along with how the prospect pool was built up with the thirteen selections.

Newsday : Mr Logan's late blog on the draft centers around Kirill Petrov with the 73rd overall pick, what reaction was when Snow selected him along with reviews and comments on the other Islander selections as well as more insight into the trades including Toronto gm Cliff Fletcher's take.

Mr Logan writes he will be posting another blog in a few days explaining what the club saw in top pick Josh Bailey and on Sunday he will write his analysis of Snow’s trade-down strategy along with thumbnail sketches of Saturday's selections.

Islanders no doubt will keep updating along with ITV updates. I would expect at some point Newsday to have something on day two. Larry Brooks of the Post went to Ottawa and did an Islander centric article but seemingly knows little on prospects based on past reporting.

The Oklahoman: Robert Przybylo reports Islanders draft pick Matt Donovan was just sitting on the couch and watching everything and that the Islanders are a good fit for him, but the truth is any team is. He would have been excited no matter where he ended up as he will be attending the clubs July minicamp.

Gophers website: Has a profile on Minnesota defender Aaron Ness, last season’s Minnesota state high school Player of the Year and an incoming recruit at the University of Minnesota.

National Post: Reports New York had a league high thirteen selections Saturday.

THN.com: Ryan Kennedy reports Kirill Petrov seems a lock to stay in Russia for several years and New York also provided the first big surprise of the afternoon by tabbing Matt Donovan out of Cedar Rapids in the USHL in the fourth round because he was not listed at all by central scouting.

Espn.com: Scott Burnside had Garth Snow's comments on drafting based upon lineage that he does not read much into it, with regard to David Toews, the younger brother of Chicago star Jonathan Toews because he is a professional athlete and his brothers weren't very good athletes. Mr Burnside adds David Toews is expected to play at his older brother's alma mater, the University of North Dakota, this season and although he put up big numbers at Shattuck (181 points in two years) he isn't expected to be the offensive force his brother was and is.

Espn.com: Gare Joyce writes on the Islanders selecting Josuha Bailey that the Islanders always zig when everyone else is zagging, that Bailey is more in the 12-20 range than top 10, heads were scratched after Isles traded down twice to get him.

St Louis Post Dispatch: Jeff Gordon reports from central scouting that Cory Trivino has the ability to see the ice well and to move the puck, needs to get stronger , but isn’t always winning the puck. He’s got a goal-scoring touch and he’s good on face-offs with good skating ability, not necessarily high-end skating, but good.

Islanders website: Linked to Mike G. Morreale's pre draft article with Kirill Petrov's comments that he really wants to play in the NHL and only in the NHL, with his agents comments he is prepared to do whatever it takes to make his client's wishes come true despite a three year agreement remaining with his Russian club.

Saskatoon Phoenix: Cory Wolfe has a pre-draft update on Jyri Niemi (pronounced nee-EM-ee) with his agents updating us on his minor surgery on his left hip when he returned to Finland in April, that he resumed skating this month and is currently helping out at a hockey school and is expected to be in top form by July.

Edmonton Journal: Reported back on June 1st that Jared Spurgeon who the club selected at 156th might be a late round draft pick in June because he's diminutive but there's a good chance the defenceman will be one of the 44 players invited to Canada's world junior summer camp in Ottawa on July 25. Al Murray, Hockey Canada chief scout said Spurgeon partnered with Jared Cowen, a likely top-six pick in the 2009 draft, on the Spokane blueline and did a lot of covering up for Cowen.

Elite Prospect.com: Profiles Islanders fourth round prospect David Ullström.

Windsor Star: Jim Parker has Islander selection Matt Martin's comments going into Friday's draft that his agent felt there was a good chance he would be selected, he spoke to ten-twelve clubs and hopefully it would work out as he hoped for the best.

Usa Today.com: Kyle Woodlief in his pre-draft review of goaltenders felt that Islander selection Kevin Poulin at 148th started the season as a sure-fire first-rounder based on his great physical gifts and performance last year but he was a perplexing mystery to scouts all season alternating between the occasional utterly dominant vs many nights when it appeared he couldn't stop a beach ball. He has great size (6-2/208) and superb athleticism with flexibility. His movements are fast and crisp and he's big enough to cover the top corners in the butterfly. But he's shown a propensity to lose his angles, has a very shaky catching hand and his mental toughness has become a real question mark.

NHL.com: Adam Kimelman had a full profile of Islanders selection Jyri Niemi back on June 18th with his comments.

NHL.com: Mike Morreale has a full feature of Islander draft selection Travis Hamonic back on June 16th with NHL's Director of Central Scouting, E.J. McGuire's comments along with B.J. MacDonald.

NYIFC has breakdowns and analysis of the Isles draft weekend around the articles.

'Twas the Night before Draft '08: New York Islander Notables

NYI Fan Central — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:23:55 -0400

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Newsday:

Greg Logan blogged with a lot of his own speculation, on the draft. His primary focus was on Pieterangelo, Filatov and Schenn depending on who was left.

Mr. Logan also addressed Jokinen, McCabe, Patrick Marleau rumors with Garth Snow's comments it would be highly unlikely that we would move that pick for an older player that may only have one more year on his contract but having the two seconds and thirds enables us to make a pitch to try to get that pick if there’s a player who’s high on our chart.

Logan was honest enough to admit he did not know more than he has read about the skills of the top juniors entering the NHL draft and that the only one he has seen was Drew Doughty one time.

He also issued another retraction on the Yashin headline.

Updated 9pm:
Newsday: Greg Logan had a second blog update, which was centered on Filatov and Colin Wilson with comments from both players as well as E.J McGuire from central scouting who talked about Bogosian and Pietrangelo.

Assistant GM/Director of Amateur Scouting Ryan Jankowski had a quick update and provides a pulse of what's happening so far here.

Toronto Sun: Mike Zeisberger claims one theory making the rounds is of course, McCabe, to the Islanders for an exchange of a first round pick.

Sportsnet.ca: Has Bryan McCabe's agent, Ian Pulverdeny, denied any rumors he would waive his no trade clause?

Ottawa Citizen: Wayne Scanlan, in an interview, with Bryan Murray, has the comments when Ottawa joined the NHL, they tried to copy the Islanders model for success.

Media Blog: Cory Witt has a good update on how the club decides on the nameplates and jerseys are done in advance for so many potential players a club could draft.

Ottawa Sun: Bruce Garrioch speculates the Isles could be one of several teams interested in Jokinen.

* A second blog on the do not list for Garth Snow at the draft was also written.

Updated 11pm:

Newsday:

Greg Logan's 6/20 articles have Nikita Filatov's comments: he likes the Islanders a lot and refused a new contract in Russia.

Colin Wilson said New York is definitely a place he would like to go as he talked about being a teammate with former BU player Rick DiPietro, and that Kyle Okposo his teammate from the World Juniors has told him nothing, but good things.

Luke Schenn talked about his interview process with the Islanders as Alex Pietrangelo. He said the group got a tour of New York City and was pretty happy with how the meetings went and would like to be part of the Islanders rebuild.

Zach Bogosian visited separately and had dinner with former Isles defenseman Eric Cairns and Ryan Jankowski, and said he would try to do everything in my power to help any organization and that team win.

At the end, Logan had to throw in a quick dig that it looks like the Islanders cannot go wrong, but “we know better.”

Newsday: Katie Strang has an update on potential draft pick— Jordan Nolan with his comments, along with Islander coach Ted Nolan.

Los Angeles Times : Lisa Dillman reports that the Los Angeles Kings intend to keep their second overall pick with Dean Lombardi's confirmation Thursday night, that he has had offers from three teams in the last two weeks for the No. 2 pick.

The most recent proposal came Tuesday, essentially a three-for-one deal—a current player, a prospect and a draft choice for the pick, but went to Kings ownership as he had with the other two, and recommended they reject the offer, because everyone wanted to keep the selection.

Atlanta Journal Constitution: Mike Knobler has Thrasher's GM, Don Waddell’s, comments that he thinks they’re going to get a defenseman they could have for years to come, who's a special player with the writer speculating between Zach Bogosian or Drew Doughty.

St Louis Post-Dispatch: All of Blues writer Jeremy Rutherford's Thursday articles were about defense, including his speculation in a Q&A with fans, which he got the impression that the Blues don't think Filatov is ready.

Globe & Mail: Tim Wharnsby speculates in an article about Steven Stamkos that the Kings are expected to select, Guelph Storm, defenseman, Drew Doughty and the Atlanta Thrashers would settle for Peterborough’s, Petes blueliner or Zach Bogosian.

The St. Louis Blues are believed to have their eye on Kelowna Rockets defenseman, Luke Schenn, leaving Russian forward Nikita Filatov for New York in the fifth slot.

New York Islander Fan Central will be having a live interactive blog both Friday beginning at 6:45 pm and Saturday at 9:45 am for anyone wishing to come by and talk hockey during the draft in the blog itself.

Guerin major shoulder surgery, Newsday friction with Islanders?

NYI Fan Central — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:00:51 -0400

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New York Islander Fan Central has the following items to highlight its early Tuesday coverage:

Newsday's Greg Logan reports Islanders captain Bill Guerin had major shoulder surgery in May, with new media relations VP Josh Bernstein's comments that it was performed to remove loose bodies and to repair the labrum with a timetable for recovery of four months. Garth Snow released a statement that the club is looking forward to having him at training camp in perfect health.

Logan questioned the club's media policy with regard to injuries, claiming the organization announced the surgery only in response to an inquiry from Newsday but, less than two weeks ago, the club was forced to admit that goaltender Rick DiPietro was having knee surgery after he inadvertently announced it himself on a radio program. Logan also claimed club policy was cited as the reason for the Islanders' failure to inform the media and fans that two prominent stars were added to the list of injured players, but that, back in March, the team immediately announced Rick DiPietro needed hip surgery for the second straight season.

NYI Fan Central fires back at Logan and speculates the beat writer is making issue of team policy with regard to injuries because current and former team officials were outspoken about another incorrect headline in Newsday. The publication claimed the Islanders were talking about bringing back Alexei Yashin, despite no comment from Snow or Islander management.

NYI Fan Central also asks the question of why Logan is playing the fan card now regarding the need to know of injuries. NYIFC also wonders where he was when DiPietro got hurt in the skills competition at the All-Star weekend and did not do one single blog for fans from Jan. 24-29, when everyone wanted an injury update, and why we have seen nothing but infrequent articles from the Newsday beat writer since the season ended that seem designed to incite fan reaction but have hardly been accurate given the lack of quotes from pertinent sources?

An update and interview with IIHF president René Fasel about the transfer agreement expiring, and what it means.

Kyle Woodlief of Red Line Report in his mock draft predicting Mikkel Boedker as New York's selection.

TSN projecting Nikita Filatov at No. 5 for Friday's draft.

Former Islanders media relations VP Chris Botta with some thoughts in his "Point Blank" blog about Marc Gandler and a few choice words for the Newsday staff headline writers for misleading readers. A second blog comparing former Islanders coach Terry Simpson with new Sharks coach Todd McLellan and new Panthers coach Peter Deboer is also featured.

Islanders media relations coordinator Corey Witt, in his NYI Media Blog, wonders how come Newsday buried its retraction about Alexei Yashin in the paper, but made it a top headline when it was announced?

New York Islander Fan Central Update for June 15

NYI Fan Central — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 19:54:07 -0400

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New York Islander Fan Central has the following early updates for June 15:

* Isles website with more draft party details, which include prospects Jack Hillen and Robin Figren in attendance.

* A review of Kyle Beach.

* Another infrequent sloppy article from Newsday reporter Greg Logan, where he has an interview with Alexei Yashin's agent Marc Gandler on his client's unlikely return to New York. This will no doubt stir up fan reaction but does not even bother getting a comment (or a no-comment) from Gandler on another client in Sean Bergenheim—about his World Championship injury or his restricted free agent status after he signed to play in Russia two years ago.

* Logan in the Newsday blog did get Garth Snow's comments on the upcoming draft, where he talked about some specific players but did not reveal any strategy. It's interesting how in the article on Yashin he could not reach Garth Snow for comment, but in the blog about the prospects the Islander GM is quoted several times.

* A New Jersey paper did a profile on defenseman John Carlson, who is projected to go late in the first round who was compared with former Islander Bryan McCabe among other defenders.

Note:

New York Islander Fan Central next Friday at 6:45 p.m. and Saturday beginning at 9:45 a.m. will have a live interactive blog for anyone wishing to talk about the draft or anything Islander hockey related.

NYI Fan Central 6/6 coverage: Rookie game, Hodgson, Katic, Enforcers & Johnson

NYI Fan Central — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:28:32 -0400

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NYI Fan Central looks at the early updates for 6/6 that include the following:

* The Isles prospects for the second year in a row playing the University of New Brunswick Varsity Reds in a rookie game, with former UNB star Rob Hennigar now under contract to New York.

* A few words from prospect Cody Hodgson who could go in the top ten picks with his comments on the NHL combine and the upcoming NHL draft who interviewed with the Isles.

* An editorial on the NHL off-season beginning with speculation that Islander defensive prospect Mark Katic should have a decent shot at cracking the lineup and is ranked as the team's fifth best prospect?

* The Isles enforcer list from five to one is released but the story being the team using youtube.com highlights?

* A full blog and review of defenseman Aaron Johnson's season.

New York Islanders: Garth Snow, Ted Nolan Dismiss Newsday Report

NYI Fan Central — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:47:10 -0400

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NYI Fan Central Covers the following Islander related events to begin its 6/6 coverage.

Among the highlights:

* Katie Strang of Newsday covered Wednesday night's business club event with Garth Snow's commenting that we're a tight-knit organization and the situation with confidence in Wade Dubielewicz to play was not as big of a deal as what it was made out to be.

In addition, the GM said everything is great regarding his relationship with the coach, but he prefers that situations like this be kept within the four walls and that Rick DiPietro is great with regard to his minor surgery.

* Ted Nolan for his part felt there was no disagreement at all, that he and Snow agreed on the conditioning, that Dubie was hurt in the off season, so he couldn't come in and that sometimes that's construed as lack of confidence, but it was maybe a lack of communication.

The coach also plans on thanking Dubielewicz, trying to maintain a friendship as he spoke about the business side vs. the relationship side as he again praised Dubielewicz and maintained he never lost faith in his ability.

* NYI Fan Central questions Greg Logan's agenda, why he did not attend the business club meeting with Snow and Nolan together in the same room last night and if there is pressure on the beat writer to stir things up from Newsday sports editor Hank Winnicki. A major issue was made from nothing, which is not good for a club with virtually no media beyond the one paper.

* The Business Club meeting itself was covered by Newsday's Islander blog with full team website coverage. Chris Dey, Senior Vice President, Sales, Marketing & Operations gives his comments as Mike Bossy, Executive Director of the Islanders Business Club, welcomed everyone. Team owner Charles Wang was present, along with Bob Nystrom, Clark Gillies, Mike Sillinger and Kyle Okposo.

* Mike Milbury comments on the contract he offered Chris Osgood when he was general manager of the Isles, while NYI Fan Central questions the former GM's strategy at that time in making such an offer.

Check back later for more updates.

Rick DiPietro's Knee Surgery Considered Minor

NYI Fan Central — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:19:44 -0400

Greg Logan reported in Newsday late this afternoon that New York Islander’s goaltender Rick DiPietro had minor knee surgery on his meniscus, Tuesday in Colorado.

The latest procedure is not expected to interfere with the goaltender's rehabilitation from his hip surgery and he is expected to be a hundred percent before the opening of training. The club took a pro-active approach, because the situation was an intermittent problem.

Logan speculates the surgery is on the same left knee he sprained during warm-ups before a home game against Toronto on Dec. 26.

NYI Fan Central Update 6/2: Devellano, Harris, Torrey, Botta, Draft & Fedotenko

NYI Fan Central — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 20:25:07 -0400

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New York Islander Fan Central looks at the following for its 6/2 blog update:

* A Los Angeles Times article from Helene Elliott on former Islander Dave Lewis, how he was traded for Butch Goring in March 1980 and was with the Wings between Scotty Bowman and Mike Babcock.

* NHL.com's feature from Brian Compton where Bill Torrey talks about how current Wings Senior Vice President & Alternate Governor Jimmy Devellano came to New York as a scout long ago and helped build a New York Hockey dynasty, along with the great job he has done in Detroit working with Wings GM Ken Holland.

* Tsn.ca's comparison of the core Wings players to some of the great dynasty teams in league history, including New York.

* THN.com's Brian Costello looks at the top picks in the 2008 draft and why he feels this group will eventually go down among the best ever, as he makes comparisons with the class of 1979 after the WHA disbanded.

* Chris Botta's Point Blank blog & his upcoming feature he wrote recently for THN.

* A separate blog season-ending review and grade of forward Ruslan Fedotenko. A review of Trent Hunter's season is also scheduled for release.

* Blog changes to include the Lighthouse feeder & upcoming community events.

* Prospect center changes to reflect the lack of a transfer agreement for the European prospects from 2006 who would have been required to sign by 6/1 under the old agreement.

Notables:

New York Islander Fan Central updates most days, depending on what's happening but I may not be able to update here. The site has most if not all of the major feeders for information on the team and the league in its media section or links to those sites on days I am not available.

The blog itself time-releases some information, or I simply edit a blog already written and indicate the time of the update. Things happen quickly.

No, I am not a member of the media, my blog comments are my own and not from any kind of insider perspective, nor will I pass them off as such. I do not have aspirations to become a member of the media.

Rumors and gossip, you will not find there. We'll use professional media sources only for articles & information. Trade rumors I prefer to be dead last and 100 percent correct. I'm not into the scoop business but will blog and tell if you professional media sources report something could happen regarding the club.

All New York Islander information from the NHL, AHL, Prospects & Europe to the teams media coverage is covered.

Thanks for reading.