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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" xmlns:georss="http://www.georss.org/georss" xmlns:geo="http://www.w3.org/2003/01/geo/wgs84_pos#" > <channel> <title>https://islesblogger.com</title> <atom:link href="http://www.islesblogger.com/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/</link> <description></description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 06 Sep 2019 12:14:55 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2</generator><site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2245984</site> <item> <title>5 Questions For The Islanders as 2019-20 Camp Opens</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/09/06/17236/5-questions-for-the-islanders-as-2019-20-camp-opens</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/09/06/17236/5-questions-for-the-islanders-as-2019-20-camp-opens#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 06 Sep 2019 12:14:47 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brassard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Clutterbuck]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dal Colle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dobson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[HIller]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ho-Sang]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Isles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ladd]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17236</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Every team has questions going into camp. These are the ones I feel need to be answered for the #Isles before he season opens. <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/09/06/17236/5-questions-for-the-islanders-as-2019-20-camp-opens" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/09/06/17236/5-questions-for-the-islanders-as-2019-20-camp-opens">5 Questions For The Islanders as 2019-20 Camp Opens</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. How ready are Cal Clutterbuck and Andrew Ladd?</h2> <p><a href="https://theathletic.com/1173731/2019/08/30/as-cal-clutterbuck-and-andrew-ladd-make-quick-recoveries-the-islanders-brace-for-big-roster-decisions/">According to reports</a> both Clutterbuck and Ladd are skating and should be ready to go at some point early in the season. Their health, and ability to contribute will answer a multitude of underlying questions. The Islanders’ roster of forwards are a series of question marks as a whole, but these two will go a long way to answer most of them. They will determine a big portion of the roster, the salary cap management, and the style of play for the third and fourth lines.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='9WCSt8QXTPJYoHno2BBcKA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/935397688' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'9WCSt8QXTPJYoHno2BBcKA',sig:'jgpUFVXM7lt0IXccvmaegYz4lona_Xc17IqD0vBvwWI=',w:'594px',h:'451px',items:'935397688',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <p>Andrew Ladd could be a big part of a third line centered by Derek Brassard. He could also replace Matt Martin in some versions of a bottom six rotation. Other options for Ladd would include some role in the top 6, on the second PP unit or on Long Term Injured Reserve. It appears that even after camp Ladd’s future will be evaluated on a daily basis.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='AO4_Fj3bQWJ5w7_YluuWuw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1137182891' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'AO4_Fj3bQWJ5w7_YluuWuw',sig:'MX-7WoxQurYuuMwuFtUIuGZJytlF1mmZ2u3v4rx3Ars=',w:'594px',h:'385px',items:'1137182891',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <p>Cal Clutterbuck has been a tireless contributor to The Best Fourth Line In Hockey. He does all the things you want a bottom six forward to do. He kills penalties, he isn’t afraid to play in front of the opponents well guarded net, he gets pucks deep, he finishes his checks, and he shoots the puck at every opportunity.</p> <p>Cal’s style of play definitely takes its toll, and he is definitely due for a regression in production. I don’t see him playing more than 50 games this year, but we hope for the best and prepare for the worst.</p> <p>I think both will be managed into limited use this year and will be factors in the usage of Michael Dal Colle, Thomas Kuhnhackl and Tanner Fritz. I fully expect both to be either on the injured reserve or in rehab assignments early so the Islanders can get an extended look at multiple prospects.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Who gets waived and when? </h2> <p>The Islanders <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/02/17192/lou-avoids-another-isles-exodus">currently have 26+ non waiver exempt players on the roster</a>, and the NHL only allows 23 on the active roster. Even if Ladd and Clutterbuck start the season off the active roster that would leave more than four non waiver exempt, and a few waiver exempt players competing for possibly 3 spots.</p> <p>This is the way I see the current roster</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="914" height="341" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/image.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17240" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/image.png 914w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/image-300x112.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/image-768x287.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 914px) 100vw, 914px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p>The most likely to be on the waiver wire is Ross Johnston, with the competition broadening to Dal Colle, Fritz, Ho-Sang and Kuhnhackl as Ladd and/or Clutterbuck returns. There are also the outside chances of Noah Dobson and Oliver Wahlstrom winning spots and widening the field even more. They are both waiver exempt, but Dobson would have to go back to the QMJHL.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. What will the third line look like?</h2> <p>Last year the most common version of the third line (or maybe more accurately the 3A line) was Val Filppula between Beauvillier and Komarov. Between free agency, promotions, injuries and demotions there is a good possibility that none of those players will be on the third line to start the season. </p> <p>Ladd is probably the best LW after Lee and Beauvillier when healthy. But I don’t expect that to be often, at least not at 100%. So there will be some competition between Dal Colle and Kuhnhackl early on. Kuhnhackl won that battle for a second line role in the playoffs, mostly because of experience and the ability to kill penalties. I expect Dal Colle to continue his evolution into a solid middle six forward. This will be something to watch.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='qfZ-gznwSTFTYXMPx8Oq3g' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/862132092' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'qfZ-gznwSTFTYXMPx8Oq3g',sig:'0hsbI-GmEFlrLhgmQ3kRuxSx1iMZhR9k2V0EMdzECWw=',w:'594px',h:'475px',items:'862132092',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/b/brassde01.html">Derick Brassard </a>was <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/12/17207/isles-summer-shopping-tips">signed expressly to address this center position</a>. Over the course of the season he may find some pressure from the AHL in Otto Koivula and Mason Jobst, but he will most likely start the season as C3.</p> <p>The biggest of the question marks will be at RW. I feel there are five candidates for this spot. Early on, the two Josh’s may battle for the RW spot with Lee and Nelson with the loser working on Brassard’s right side. Bailey isn’t going anywhere, but if Ho-Sang can’t win the second line spot he falls into a deeper competition for the two bottom six RW roles. He does not kill penalties, so he has to win the third line spot to stay on the 23. He is not waiver exempt, so this could mean the end of his Islander career.</p> <p>Clutterbuck will be competing for this role as well, if and when he’s healthy. Tanner Fritz who can kill penalties and take RH draws is also a candidate. I feel that Komarov will eventually be part of a more defensive fourth line, but he, as well will be vying for the spot. </p> <p>To start the season I see Bailey playing with Nelson, Ho-Sang with Brassard, Komarov with Cizikas and Clutterbuck’s time managed on IR or in Bridgeport on rehab.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. How will they manage Noah Dobson?</h2> <p>By all accounts Noah Dobson is ready for the NHL. The bigger question is, are the Islanders ready for Noah Dobson?</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='SvNz6Xd9TtdhIFRJT96JdQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/981646018' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'SvNz6Xd9TtdhIFRJT96JdQ',sig:'aaQnwOXGqvpuUHCGiCZz0V6qI0YRYKKBLEm2ITSsxnU=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'981646018',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <p>Noah finished up a tremendous junior season with his second straight Memorial Cup victory. In the playoffs he seemed to be on the ice more than the goalies, second only to the paint. There is only one thing holding him back from starting his NHL career. Competition.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nothing Left to Learn in Junior</h3> <p>Dobson has had a great Canadian junior hockey career. He’s one of the better 19 year old defensive prospects in North America. His competition is not only the three right handed defensemen who patrolled the blue line for the Islanders last year, but the NHL CBA.</p> <p>Noah would probably be a better fourth right handed option than Grant Hutton, and maybe even a better eighth defenseman than Sebastian Aho, who already has some NHL experience. The problem is he is also battling the terms of his Entry Level Contract. At 19, the Islanders can slide the start of his three year ELC to his 20YO season if he plays less than 10 games in the NHL. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Part-time Player/Full-time Price</h3> <p>For Noah to win a full time NHL job one of the top three right side defenders would have to go down with an injury, or they would need to move one of their seven current NHL defensemen in a deal.</p> <p>It would be a huge risk to waste an ELC year for a part time player, especially when there are capable NHL veterans who can do the job with little or no risk at all. I see Dobson staying with the team for 5-8 weeks, and playing 5-9 games, and then being sent back to the Q to prepare for the World Junior Championships and the QMJHL playoffs. This is what they did with Mat Barzal in 2016-17. They will have to manage the roster through injuries just to do that.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='J4IqxJ6kTP52pty5y8uxxA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1130214767' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'J4IqxJ6kTP52pty5y8uxxA',sig:'OrHTXlmH_cg3S1xtXncy3F650cI2VbyZ8QLPmKDM4Zc=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1130214767',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. How will they fix the power play?</h2> <p>The short answer is Jim Hiller. Hiller was hired in expectation of Lane Lambert leaving for an NHL head coaching job. That didn’t happen, but Hiller will be the Islanders assistant coach in charge of the power play. He held that role on Mike Babcock’s staff in Toronto, and I believe they go back to Detroit together as well. Needless to say, he was quite successful last year with a more talented group. This year will be a bit more of a challenge.</p> <p>The Islanders have also parted ways with assistant coach Scott Gomez. They made some personnel changes in the second half of last year that will probably carry over into this year’s power play. </p> <p>What Hiller will bring to the structure, and personnel will be something fun to watch for during camp. I hope they will deploy Ryan Pulock more on the top unit, and move Mat Barzal around more when he isn’t in possession of the puck. </p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/09/06/17236/5-questions-for-the-islanders-as-2019-20-camp-opens">5 Questions For The Islanders as 2019-20 Camp Opens</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/09/06/17236/5-questions-for-the-islanders-as-2019-20-camp-opens/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17236</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Isles Summer Shopping Tips</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/12/17207/isles-summer-shopping-tips</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/12/17207/isles-summer-shopping-tips#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jul 2019 17:48:43 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Free Agency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Prospects]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Signings]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sound Tigers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trades]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barry Trotz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brian Boyle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ho-Sang]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Isles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Jim Hiller]]></category> <category><![CDATA[John Tavares]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17207</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>As the free agent frenzy slows down I just wanted to take a look at what the Islanders need to contend. Do they really need as much as they think. Where Are We It’s July 12th and things have quieted… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/12/17207/isles-summer-shopping-tips" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/12/17207/isles-summer-shopping-tips">Isles Summer Shopping Tips</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As the free agent frenzy slows down I just wanted to take a look at what the Islanders need to contend. Do they really need as much as they think.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where Are We</h2> <p>It’s July 12th and things have quieted to a whisper on the Islander rumor front. There doesn’t seem to be<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/05/17194/why-offer-sheeting-marner-is-not-a-good-idea-for-the-islanders"> an offer sheet in the works for Mitch Marner</a>. It looks like Lou will be content with his 2018-19 roster with a few upgrades here and there.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" width="915" height="360" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-4.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17225" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-4.png 915w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-4-300x118.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-4-768x302.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 915px) 100vw, 915px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/02/17192/lou-avoids-another-isles-exodus">Lou has done a good job avoiding the usual two steps back</a> summer march the Islanders take annually in July. He has the roster back with the exceptions of Val Filppula who wanted to be back in Detroit, and Robin Lehner. Most fans, including myself, will miss Robin greatly. But Semyon Varlamov is an adequate starting goaltender and hopefully the proper pathway to Ilya Sorokin.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">So What Do We Really Need</h2> <p>The consensus is that the Isles need a top six goal scorer. But do they? Last year’s surge from a lottery team expectation to a playoff team reality didn’t come because they added goals. In actuality they scored 38 less goals. What really hurt them was scoring 25 less power play goals. They had 58 in 2017-18 and 33 last year. Their PP went from 23% to 14%. That may have been the biggest cost when John Tavares took his blankey and went home.</p> <p>The question may be, do we need a John Tavares type player to get those goals back. I’m going to say no. The important thing isn’t how many goals you score, or the amount you give up, it’s the difference between the two. It is also better to manage your resources (CAP space, prospects, draft picks) to increase your goal differential, rather than focusing on your goal production.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Big Picture</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" width="792" height="642" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-5.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17226" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-5.png 792w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-5-300x243.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-5-768x623.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 792px) 100vw, 792px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p>This is a look at the regular season 5v5 scoring per 60 minutes. The Islanders were first in goals against. The two Stanley Cup finalists were second (Boston) and fifth (St. Louis). They are all three in the middle third of the league when it comes to 5v5 scoring. The Islanders are about where they need to be there. I wouldn’t spend too much to increase scoring, especially if it costs defensive responsibility. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Power Shortage</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="388" height="640" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-6.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17227" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-6.png 388w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-6-182x300.png 182w" sizes="(max-width: 388px) 100vw, 388px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p>This is most likely what kept the Islanders from winning the Metro Division last year, and advancing further in the playoffs. Their anemic power play could never get on track. Economically, though, they don’t want to spend to get to the top of this list. They really only need to be in the middle of it. There are plenty of teams in the top 10 that didn’t make the playoffs, or where out in the first round. This is not what buys you success. It definitely makes it easier, but superior defense is how teams succeed. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">So Doctor, What Do We Do?</h2> <p>Last year the prescription was simple. Fix the penalty kill, then work on overall defense. That’s what Lou did. Almost every player he brought in killed penalties. Most fans felt nauseous when they heard names like Komarov, Filppula and Kuhnhackl. They did their job, and the addition of Robin Lehner and a superior coaching staff did the rest. They fixed the PK, and the overall defensive structure of the team. That shouldn’t be something that is messed with just to score goals.</p> <p>This year the prescription is pretty much the same. Just fix the power play. But much like any remedy, you don’t want it to come with side effects that are worse than what you are fixing. Nobody wants to lower their cholesterol by ten points at the cost of “anal seepage”. </p> <p>Lou has already added Jim Hiller to Barry’s coaching staff. I could see him replacing Scott Gomez behind the bench, or as an “eye in the sky” to help diagnose in game issues. </p> <p>We’ve already seen some improvement when Devon Toews replaced Nick Leddy on the first unit. It was written that they avoided moving Ryan Pulock to that spot because they wanted him to focus on his 5v5 play. That should not be the case this year, and hopefully Ryan will have improved his accuracy.</p> <p>Beyond that, there are some internal and external options to improve the man advantage units. Michael Dal Colle was scarcely used on the second unit, and Jordan Eberle didn’t really find his touch until later in the season. </p> <p>Maybe their biggest power play problem was their zone entries. The previous year they had Mat Barzal carrying the puck and retaining possession, with John Tavares as a key distribution point. That has been lost. Both Leddy and Barzal were not good at all retaining possession after an entry. What made that worse was their face-off record with the man advantage was horrible. </p> <p>Toews will help their entries. Ho-Sang could help their entries as well. Maybe letting Cizikas take PP face-offs could help, or maybe trying to sign a guy like Brian Boyle as your fourth center could do the trick. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wrap It Up</h2> <p>1 Don’t spend too much money. The first priority should be to avoid CAP issues next year when you have to sign Barzal, Pulock and Toews.</p> <p>2 Don’t try to do too much. We want to fix the PP, but not at the expense of superb 5v5 play.</p> <p>3 Try to fix things internally. The Islanders have prospects that need to take the next step. Josh Ho-Sang and Michael Dal Colle are no longer works in progress. They are no longer waiver eligible, so if they can’t stick with the Islanders they will be gone. If they can pass through waivers they probably aren’t going to be back. They need to be part of the solution. There are also marquee prospects, Noah Dobson and Oliver Wahlstrom who might surprise.</p> <p>4 <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/laddan01.html">Andrew Ladd</a> and <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/cluttca01.html">Cal Clutterbuck</a> will help the team when they are healthy, but they will make managing roster and cap concerns difficult all year. This also adds to the importance of low cost internal solutions.</p> <p>5 I’d target <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/b/boylebr01.html">Brian Boyle</a> as a UFA, or a similar player with tradable assets such as Nick Leddy or any of the LH defensive prospects. Lou has to be careful here, as any term could interfere with next year’s RFA signings. </p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/12/17207/isles-summer-shopping-tips">Isles Summer Shopping Tips</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/12/17207/isles-summer-shopping-tips/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17207</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Why Offer Sheeting Marner Is Not A Good Idea For the Islanders</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/05/17194/why-offer-sheeting-marner-is-not-a-good-idea-for-the-islanders</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/05/17194/why-offer-sheeting-marner-is-not-a-good-idea-for-the-islanders#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 06 Jul 2019 01:48:12 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Free Agency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Off Season]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Roster Moves]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Rumors]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barry Trotz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lou Lamoriello]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Maple Leafs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mitch Marner]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Offer Sheet]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Toronto]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17194</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Why offer sheeting Mitch Marner would be the worst idea ever. <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/05/17194/why-offer-sheeting-marner-is-not-a-good-idea-for-the-islanders" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/05/17194/why-offer-sheeting-marner-is-not-a-good-idea-for-the-islanders">Why Offer Sheeting Marner Is Not A Good Idea For the Islanders</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Rumors of Lou Lamoriello tendering an offer sheet to Mitch Marner have been circling on #Isles twitter recently.<br />I’m not saying it won’t, or it can’t happen. I am saying that it will not be a good plan in the very near future.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Cost</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Salary</h3> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/m/marnemi01.html">Mitch Marner</a> is rumored to want somewhere in the neighborhood of $12M per year for his remaining Restricted Free Agent years. Those numbers are insane. Five years and $60M for a player who will probably be at his athletic prime in three years. The whole idea of the previous CBA’s were to structure salary controls for players under 27 years of age. A few GMs broke the seal, and now it’s the norm.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Compensation</h3> <p>For a player in that price range you must give up 4 of your next five first round draft picks. This is also insane. Even if these picks are all busts they have a value all on their own, pre-draft. A solid pending UFA usually goes for a first, a roster player and prospect at the deadline. You would be out of those conversations for four years.</p> <p>If one of those years you have goalie or injury or goalie injury issues you could very well give up a top three pick. Think of what your press releases would look like if it happened two of those years. Your team would be right back in the dumpster fire.</p> <p>Odds are that something like that will not happen. But it could, and the Islander are just getting out of the dumpster, the last thing you need is to get back in before you have time to even shower and shave.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='cOwTNYLCQslDwso6xHXmZg' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1141033357' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'cOwTNYLCQslDwso6xHXmZg',sig:'bYYFtLvHrlbIJMDQXCloO6zZAN0iLp12c2OqOz2x4Ck=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1141033357',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Not The Islanders In Particular</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="920" height="365" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-2.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17208" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-2.png 920w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-2-300x119.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-2-768x305.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p>Here is the Islanders current roster, with projected 2019-20 CAP hits. They can manage adding Marner at $12M. They would need to move a player or two, and manage the IR from day one. Both Ladd and Clutterbuck expect to be back this season so LTIR is not an option at the moment. You might, however, lose some players to waivers should the need present itself.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="920" height="351" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17209" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-3.png 920w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-3-300x114.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-3-768x293.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p>This is the 2020-21 roster with some conservative estimates for raises to Mat Barzal, Ryan Pulock and Devon Toews. That bottom line does not include $12M for Mitch Marner. So start crossing out players. It certainly could be done through player movement and LTIR. But that’s $17M for players you now HAVE to replace on your roster with very low contracts. Those are contracts you usually benefit from when you have first round draft picks.</p> <p>Within the 5 years every UFA on the current roster will be graduating to RFA w/arbitration or UFA, or will have signed a deal with term selling a few UFA years. The GM will be limiting his movement in trades, waiver claims and free agency for the full term of the deal.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Islanders Do Need Help</h2> <p>Last year the Islanders went from the worst defense in the league by goals against, to the best. They allowed 100 less goals in one season. This was not solely because of player acquisition.<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow"> It was done because Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz ushered in a new culture</a>. </p> <p>This culture isn’t going to evolve back into the highly aggressive offense of Doug Weight. It’s going to be a very similar, though evolved, five on five structure where the team plays a conservative forecheck, and takes advantage of neutral zone mistakes to generate offense.</p> <p>Mitch Marner will make the Islanders better. There is no debating that fact. I will say that the Islanders may even make Mitch Marner a better player. But I also contend that Mitch will be less productive at 5v5 hockey. </p> <p>Why does that matter? Because if I need a can of peas I don’t go to Costco. A can of peas is $1.50. A dozen cans of peas is $18 at the corner market. They might be $10 at costco. But I’ll never use eleven cans of peast. So I’ve saved $8 at the same time I’ve wasted $8.50. *** I obviously don’t do the shopping in my house.</p> <p></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Solution</h2> <p>The Islanders have plenty of options, both internally and externally. They have a few prospects that could certainly help their anemic power play. The likes of Oliver Wahlstrom, Kieffer Bellows, Otto Koivula and Josh Ho-Sang will have an opportunity to make the Islanders within the next two years.</p> <p>They also have a surplus of left handed NHL (Thomas Hickey, Nick Leddy) and AHL (Sebastian Aho, Parker Weatherspoon, Mitch Vande Sompel) to use as trade bait. </p> <p>There are also UFAs still available, and some other RFAs that could be shaken loose because of the very cap constraints that the Islanders should avoid.</p> <p>We also have a group of management, coaches and scouts that have the wheel. I’m fully confident that all of the above information has been processed by them. If an offer sheet is tendered, I’ll trust that it was the best move for the organization. I will withhold judgement with cautious optimism.</p> <p>But there will be the possibility of this article being being retweeted regularly from the dumpster. </p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/05/17194/why-offer-sheeting-marner-is-not-a-good-idea-for-the-islanders">Why Offer Sheeting Marner Is Not A Good Idea For the Islanders</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/05/17194/why-offer-sheeting-marner-is-not-a-good-idea-for-the-islanders/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>3</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17194</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Lou Avoids Another Isles Exodus</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/02/17192/lou-avoids-another-isles-exodus</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/02/17192/lou-avoids-another-isles-exodus#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 02 Jul 2019 13:25:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Free Agency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anders Lee]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brock Nelson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Isles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[islesblogger]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Jordan Eberle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[JPinVA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lou Lamoriello]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17192</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Lou Lamoriello showed his expertise through June and on day one of the NHL free agency period. History There have been several free agent exodus situations in the Islanders recent history. The first was a sort of a mutually agreed… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/02/17192/lou-avoids-another-isles-exodus" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/02/17192/lou-avoids-another-isles-exodus">Lou Avoids Another Isles Exodus</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='RdUDfgjXQLlGufDxdRJalw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/543010230' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'RdUDfgjXQLlGufDxdRJalw',sig:'PTJg-w85-gxEvtvXOBHD5LSEEnH92lpCl3BeB4mH6EI=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'543010230',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <p>Lou Lamoriello showed his expertise through June and on day one of the NHL free agency period.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">History</h2> <p>There have been several free agent exodus situations in the Islanders recent history. The first was a sort of a mutually agreed upon house cleaning in 2007. That basically led to the turning point drafts of 2008 and 2009. It had a decent ending, but it was definitely two years of pain, with more to follow. </p> <p>The second of note was in 2015. After their first playoff series win in over two decades the Isles let key players walk. In that July the Islanders lost Kyle Okposo, Frans Nielsen and Matt Martin. It took awhile for the team to figure out how to kill penalties without Nielsen and they fell too far to recover. That Fall, like the 2007 exodus cost a coach his job.</p> <p>The third was last year when the team lost their captain, John Tavares, and Calvin deHaan to free agency. The only saving grace was that they were able to acquire GM Lou Lamoriello, coach Barry Trotz and the core of Barry’s staff. If not it surely would have been back to the drawing board for ownership.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='UhJWEBioR3BMSa9kHtVqSA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1142442115' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'UhJWEBioR3BMSa9kHtVqSA',sig:'ES2uiTA2VBw-2il2xK7BMT78ylLP1YlVcR-4gOcdXms=',w:'594px',h:'406px',items:'1142442115',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Present</h2> <p>This year had all the earmarks of 2015. The Islanders could have easily lost their captain [again!], their most experienced center, their Vezina candidate goaltender, their top right handed shot wing, their third line center and some depth pieces that were instrumental in their playoff push.</p> <p>Lou did not let that happen. He took care of business with the two most likely to leave in June. He got Nelson and Eberle done relatively early. He then made sure his roster had solid flexibility by signing Fritz, then Kuhnhackl. This was key to the future management of likely IR candidates Andrew Ladd and Cal Clutterbuck. </p> <p>Casey Cizikas clearly showed he was ready to take on more responsibility, so it was easy to see why they let Val Filppula walk. He had a very good year, but the Isles were clearly looking to add more offence.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Very Strange Path To Continuity</h3> <p>Lou held off on signing his captain, and his number one goaltender. It was my assumption that he wanted to keep some cap space available for bigger fish. If he landed the fish (<a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/p/panarar01.html">Artemi Panarin</a>), then he’d have to move some players to create space to sign those two. The team doesn’t want to announce that, but in the aftermath that seems to have been the plan.</p> <p>Lou missed on Panarin. But even though Panarin accepted less to play for the Rangers, he was offered more than if the Isles weren’t in the fishing hole.</p> <p>This all comes full circle when Lou signs Lee for more term and AAV than anybody thought was possible. He also let’s Robin Lehner walk to sign another client of Panarin’s agent, Semyon Varlamov. Paul Theofanous represents July 1st targets; Sergei Bobrovsky, Arteri Panarin and Semyon Varlamov. He also represents Islander prospect Ilya Sorokin.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='3IeUtRajSbBkugKGyTTM_A' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1146361840' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'3IeUtRajSbBkugKGyTTM_A',sig:'jB7NGWd1D5D_vc9dQUw2xkCsZbE2oHAheoreDPVmVyc=',w:'594px',h:'413px',items:'1146361840',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stability</h2> <p>Some will say the team is no better today, than it was yesterday. On paper maybe that’s true. Here’s what the roster looks like with none of the key RFA’s signed.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="919" height="364" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17195" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image.png 919w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-300x119.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-768x304.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 919px) 100vw, 919px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span> <br></figcaption></figure> <p>This roster plus Anthony Beauvillier, Michael Dal Colle and Josh Ho-Sang is certainly capable of continuing the Islanders’ successful run of 2018-19. That is something that wasn’t available to the teams in 2007 and 2015. There won’t be a dramatic coaching change in 2019, like there was in 2018.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='u2XkzSHsTupJxG_7CEpqzw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1089944900' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'u2XkzSHsTupJxG_7CEpqzw',sig:'As5qTKblnkCwPWHy-sggZoy0Vpo5AiYPEIQbSM7EJno=',w:'594px',h:'367px',items:'1089944900',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Future </h2> <p>In the immediate future there are more fish to fry. As of me writing this there are some UFA forwards available that could easily fit in the ~$8M of cap space retained on July 1st.</p> <p>Brian Boyle is a possible target for a team looking for a bottom six center that can kill penalties and help with the power play.</p> <p>If this is the last deal this summer the Islanders are still in very good shape. They have two 2018 draftees that may make their NHL debuts this year. Oliver Wahlstrom is headed to Bridgeport. Ollie can play 9 games in the NHL without having his first ELC year counting. We can count on those games being used to evaluate his readiness if he has a good camp.</p> <p>Noah Dobson is in a similar “ELC Slide” situation. He has dominated the QMJHL, but at 19 he can’t go to the AHL. I can see the Islanders using his 9 games as well. They should have enough flexibility to utilize both early in the season if Andrew Ladd and Cal Clutterbuck are both still healing in October.</p> <p>The best way to improve the roster might be through a series of trades. The exceptional play of <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/t/toewsde01.html">Devon Toews</a> and <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/p/pelecad01.html">Adam Pelech</a> have made Nick Leddy and/or Thomas Hickey expendable. Thomas Greiss, as a pending UFA is also expendable. In turn there are several teams that are scraping or above the cap ceiling that should be willing to shed some salary.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="304" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-1-1024x304.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17196" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-1-1024x304.png 1024w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-1-300x89.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-1-768x228.png 768w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/image-1.png 1281w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span> Courtesy of @CapFriendly</figcaption></figure> <p>The possibilities for a roster upgrade are many. The best part of this is that we have a HOF GM running the show. He also should have confidence in the fact that his future HOF coach will be able to <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow">take the ingredients he provides </a>and once again challenge for the Metro division. This because the New York Islanders did not take a step backwards today.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/02/17192/lou-avoids-another-isles-exodus">Lou Avoids Another Isles Exodus</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/07/02/17192/lou-avoids-another-isles-exodus/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17192</post-id> </item> <item> <title>2019 Islander Inventory</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/05/13/17160/2019-islander-inventory</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/05/13/17160/2019-islander-inventory#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 13 May 2019 17:47:42 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Draft]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Free Agency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anders Lee]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anthony Beauvillier]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brett Leason]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brock Nelson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Jordan Eberle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Robin Lehner]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17160</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>On Friday May 3rd 2019 the Islanders' season officially ended. The Islanders need to work on putting the team back together. This is how I see it happening <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/05/13/17160/2019-islander-inventory" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/05/13/17160/2019-islander-inventory">2019 Islander Inventory</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On Friday May 3rd 2019 the Islanders’ season officially ended. The Islanders need to work on putting the team back together. This is how I see it happening</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">2018-19</h2> <p>I’ve assembled a roster whiteboard to better understand the roster construction of the Islanders. This will break down the team by its 23 roster spots and their on-ice roles. This is what the 2018-19 Islanders looked like under that prism.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="918" height="364" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/image-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17166" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/image-1.png 918w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/image-1-300x119.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/image-1-768x305.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 918px) 100vw, 918px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p>YELLOW indicates pending UFA, GREEN indicates pending RFA and RED indicates possibly 2019-20 IR candidate.</p> <p>The team had over $10M to use all season for trades or free agent signings. They were unable to find suitable upgrades without giving up significant assets and ended the season with that money unused. That will probably not be an option in 2019-20.</p> <a id='zDqQShYFTBRFSbnC9qlFAQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1135865642' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'zDqQShYFTBRFSbnC9qlFAQ',sig:'taabJIn4erVm5Rlh61vheMUZd83k13Ce5Bcftrt5s2o=',w:'594px',h:'435px',items:'1135865642',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Free Agency</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Unrestricted Free Agents</h3> <p>The Islanders are currently in what could be a mass exodus year. They have seven UFA’s that spent the majority of the season on the 23 man roster (highlighted in YELLOW above) and Tanner Fritz, who was an important piece, even though he only played eight NHL games with the teams before falling to injury. </p> <p>Entering UFA status this year are:</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/anders-lee">Anders Lee</a> : The Islanders’ captain and only 40 goal scorer will be a highly sought after LW. I fully expect him to be Lou’s number one priority. The team is stacked with LH forwards, but Lee’s work on and off the ice has made him a fan favorite and the pinnacle of team leadership.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/brock-nelson">Brock Nelson</a>: Entering the 2018-19 season there were a lot of questions about where Brock would be with his new responsibilities under a new regime. Nelson answered all of the questions positively and proved to be the teams most valuable center. He played big minutes in all situations was in a virtual tie with Mathew Barzal for the lead in TOI amongst forwards. Brock is also among a select few “top 6” centers that will be available on July 1st. I expect him to be an Islander next year, but I also expect him to use that leverage to it’s fullest.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/robin-lehner">Robin Lehner</a>: Robin signed a one year deal last year at bargain basement rates. He was coming off a season of turmoil with the Buffalo Sabres and had more question marks in his resume than Frank Gorshin. Much like Nelson he answered all of those questions positively. He and Thomas Greiss will share the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_M._Jennings_Trophy">Jennings Trophy</a> for the least goals allowed by a team, and is a finalist for the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vezina_Trophy">Vezina Trophy</a>. He is the third UFA that I expect back in 2019-20. His leverage has gone up, but he would probably benefit from a shorter deal as one year with a highly defensive system and under the best of coaching teams is just a step in rebuilding his reputation amongst NHL GMs. I expect a 2-3 year deal in the neighborhood of $5M AAV.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/jordan-eberle">Jordan Eberle</a>: This may be a bit of a surprise to some. I started the season expecting Eberle to be gone at the trade deadline. The team’s success kept him in blue and orange this year, and he second half success will probably keep him on the island a bit longer.<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/03/17086/5-reasons-why-jordan-eberle-should-be-a-ny-islander-next-year"> I wrote on this a while back</a>. Looking at the right handed forward options available, Jordan will have good leverage going into July. The Islanders would do well to sign him for 5 years in the neighborhood of $7M AAV. </p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/tanner-fritz">Tanner Fritz</a>: Yes, I am listing Tanner ahead of Val Filppula and Tom Kuhnhackl. Fritz checks two very important boxes for the Islanders. He can play center and he’s a right handed forward. He will also come in about $2M AAV less than Filppula. He showed at the end of the season that he can handle decent minutes, kill penalties and will dd speed to a roster that desperately needs it. Tanner will make the 23 more flexible.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/tom-kuhnhackl">Tom Kuhnhackl</a>: I do not expect Tom back. He had a very good season, and an even better playoff run as the Isles’ 13th forward. They are flush at LW, and with the emergence of Michael Dal Colle as a restricted free agent he would just be an expensive waiver wire walker in a healthy year. They have a few left handed forward prospects behind him in Otto Koivula and Kieffer Bellows. Kuhnhackl has probably earned himself a $2M AAV contract somewhere, but most likely not on the Islanders.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/valtteri-filppula">Val Filppula</a>: I’d really like to see Val back, but I just see too many scenarios where this is not going to happen. The Islanders could replace him with somebody like <a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/kevin-hayes">Kevin Hayes</a> or (if Lou can find a phone booth with a cape in it) <a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/matt-duchene">Matt Duchene</a>. Both would truly stretch the Islanders CAP budget, and be miracle signings in a 31 team market. I expect the Islanders to re-sign Nelson, and elevate Cizikas. They’ll then have a few years to work with Fritz, Koivula and other prospects to elevate through the system. If Val returns I expect it to be a very short term deal. 1-2 years, and around the same $3M AAV. </p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/luca-sbisa">Lucas Sbisa</a>: Sbisa will cause me to have massive stroke should he be resigned. The emergence of Devon Toews made him expendable during the season and with the Islanders probably spending to within $5M of the salary cap it would be hard to imagine a 23 man roster with him on it.</p> <a id='XXYeUDhqSNxgsokJHHdfxQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1137665925' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'XXYeUDhqSNxgsokJHHdfxQ',sig:'5N8ZneIGplh67tXmdQlTvZbZVYYbzyIgTcYQFfnTZSQ=',w:'594px',h:'347px',items:'1137665925',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Restricted Free Agents</h3> <p>There are three key restricted free agents this year. They will all cause some thought when they are qualified. They will all be talked about as part of trade deals, but most likely they will all return to the Islanders organization, or at least their rights will.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/anthony-beauvillier">Anthony Beauvillier</a>: This is Beau’s first year of restricted free agency and with that comes very little leverage. He is a 20G forward and does have some value on the offer sheet table. I’d expect $2-2.5M AAV for 1-2 years so he can build his leverage, and work towards his arbitration deal. A longer deal is possible. If the Isles want to buy some of his arbitration and UFA years his AAV could go as high as $3.5-4M.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/michael-dal-colle">Michael Dal Colle</a>: Much like Beau this is Michael’s first RFA year. Unlike Beau, Dal Colle has not built the same leverage. He had a good rookie year in the AHL, but regressed in his second. This year was outstanding. He dominated at the AHL level and did everything he was asked in the NHL. It’s a small sample size though and I expect he’ll sign a one year deal for somewhere between $1M and $1.5M AAV. He should have a lot more leverage next year.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/joshua-ho-sang">Joshua Ho-Sang</a>: I couldn’t possibly document the scope of, nevermind the actual opinions on where and what Josh could be in this organization. So I’ll just express my own. He is a highly talented hockey player who doesn’t want to color inside the lines. He is in an organization where coloring inside the lines was made the standard the day Lou Lamoriello was named President/General Manager. The team will probably qualify him at the minimum, and shop him on draft day. If he accepts their offer he’ll probably spend another unhappy year in Bridgeport, or be traded. If he doesn’t he might find himself much happier in Europe If the team is unable to sign or replace Eberle and Oliver Wahlstrom isn’t ready for his first call-up, we might see another NHL stint for Mr. Ho-Sang. Hopefully he can work things out. He would be a fine addition to the team if he could just accept being an addition to a team.</p> <a id='e2sCIf_SQoB2RpiAqDmgIA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1124308238' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'e2sCIf_SQoB2RpiAqDmgIA',sig:'HA_s9gi4vcFFGp42zvOCvXkSuPs2TpWI9jlaqZ1IsVE=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1124308238',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Draft Day</h2> <p>It would be almost impossible to speculate accurately about the 2019-20 roster before the 2019 draft. Not that any draft pick would be on that roster, but that day is often a time for NHL GM’s to move surplus role players, prospects, salary and picks for needed role players, picks and prospects.</p> <p>The Islanders have two general role surpluses. Left handed defensemen and left handed forwards. They have need at center, right handed forward and right handed defensemen. In that order.</p> <p>I expect a number of players to be in play. There are some health concerns as well. I look at prospective draft day trades with the health of Andrew Ladd and Cal Clutterbuck in mind. Both could be issues next season. I’d also add Johnny Boychuk to that list, but I do expect him to at least start the season, and like the past few seasons, soldier through.</p> <p>They should either target a wing with their available assets or target <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17UHFI5_VWs">Brett Leason</a> in the first round. Leason is a 6’5″ 200LB 20 year old right handed center who was passed over in the previous two drafts. He can immediately take his new found scoring touch to the AHL where he would join Otto Koivula as prospective pivots for the fourth line, or a replacement for Clutterbuck.</p> <p>With that in mind I feel <a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/nick-leddy">Nick Leddy</a> is the most valuable, and expendable asset the Islanders possess. After that there is Beauvillier, Aho, DalColle, Bellows and Mitch Vande Sompel. I don’t expect them to trade any of the 2018 draft class. Those players have shown some success in the NHL or NHL readiness to where they should have some value in trade talks. Depending on which UFA’s have signed by draft day Lou will be wise to fill as many of the remaining holes with trade targets. Going into July 1st with a roster that looks like swiss cheese is not wise. Especially for the Islanders.</p> <a id='BF9B9zYXT99w3EDRjoC_Wg' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1145694365' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'BF9B9zYXT99w3EDRjoC_Wg',sig:'PF0xyS0JKDsK84bAV5mvGYxTnNVEpiiTXzKh7n5R1d0=',w:'594px',h:'418px',items:'1145694365',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">2019-20</h2> <p>I suspect that every GM goes into each off season managing their team’s cap space for the following three years, or at least he tries. For the optimum result Lou will have to move three salaries. Leddy will most likely be shopped hard on draft day. Ladd and Clutterbuck are almost untradeable, but if they come back they’ll have some value. If they can’t they have to be put on LTIR so their cap space can be recaptured. </p> <p>I’ll use the projected salaries I expect for returning UFAs as a basis for the below 23 man roster. Of course, there are a lot of variables. For one, I use a $7M/5yr deal for the three top returning UFA forwards, and $5M/3yr deal for Lehner. This would be the base going into July 1st:</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="915" height="361" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/image-2.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17168" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/image-2.png 915w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/image-2-300x118.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/image-2-768x303.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 915px) 100vw, 915px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span> <br></figcaption></figure> <p>If those deals are done before July 1st, then the team can go into the market with three spots to upgrade on and over $12M to spend. That money quickly disappears if any of the UFAs get outrageous deals, or if Lou is unable to manage the three contracts mentioned above. In my scenario, the Isles would be shopping for a 2/3 center, a 4th RHD and a RH forward. </p> <p>There is still room to manage the return of two of the three contracts I’ve removed. Leddy’s $5.5M, Clutterbuck’s $3.5M and Ladd’s $5.5M. This plan would not work if all three were to return.</p> <a id='WGpZbo91QbVypVOdIDwNdg' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1146983892' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'WGpZbo91QbVypVOdIDwNdg',sig:'KGzZ0t1MRBuS78dsihvbXs4GYwN4-4Mj6BeoINJF6yg=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1146983892',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">UFA Options</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Center</h3> <p>If Lou is unable to bring back Nelson his options for an “upgrade” are limited. Matt Duchene is the obvious choice, but he will most likely command over $10M AAV and that will be very difficult to manage as soon as next year when Mat Barzal, Ryan and Ryan Pulock will be looking for substantial raises. </p> <p>Kevin Hayes could also be a target. I see him more as a lateral move from Nelson, or a substantial upgrade on the third center role. To go into the season with Barzal, Nelson, Hayes and Cizikas down the middle would be a fine accomplishment. </p> <p>They could also target <a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/nazem-kadri">Nazem Kadri </a>in trade talk on Draft Day. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Right Handed Forward</h3> <p>There isn’t much after Jordan Eberle on the free agent list. There is a slim chance they land Artemi Panarin or Mats Zuccarello. I would suggest the Islanders focus on solving this issue on Draft Day. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Right Handed Defenceman</h3> <p>There are some decent RHD on the UFA list this summer. I’d eliminate any player looking for more than 2 years. The Islanders don’t need a high priced, long term solution. One of their positives is that role is in a god place with the drafting of Dobson and Wilde last year. </p> <p>What they need is somebody willing to share time with Scott Mayfield and Johnny Boychuk. They may have filled that role with Grant Hutton as a college free agent at the end of the 2018-19 season. They could also use Dobson or Wilde for 9 games without burning their first ELC year. </p> <p>Dobson was probably ready for that last year, but the new coaching staff opted to sign Lucas Sbisa. The team has established their ability to handle Trotz’ system, so I see Dobson as a seventh defenceman early in the season. If he can handle the minutes he may earn a full time NHL role.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">External UFAs</h3> <p>Here’s a list of the most prized UFA’s this summer. The order is my own based on Islander needs.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/matt-duchenehttps://www.capfriendly.com/players/matt-duchene">Matt Duchene</a>: Matt would immediately displace Barzal or Nelson as the Islanders number one center. He’d also need to be paid as such, and would devalue Nelson. So this couldn’t truly happen if Nelson was re-signed. Being strong up the middle is something the Islanders should strive for every year, and Duchene would help that cause for quite some time. The main issue is salary. Giving Matt over $10M AAV would almost immediately make the Isles top heavy in terms of CAP space, as Mat Barzal will get paid next year.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/artemi-panarin">Artemi Panarin</a>: The bread man cometh, most likely to the Florida Panthers. If that can’t be worked out, then Lou has to take a swing here. In the scenario I lay out above there is room for all the returning UFA’s and Panarin. That would be the power ball in the 2019 NHL Summer Lottery. He will most likely demand over $10M AAV and extended term, and is one of the top three on this list because it’s somebody who they should try for, even if the cap future is sketchy.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/erik-karlsson">Erik Karlsson</a>: I didn’t put him in the RHD category because I didn’t think he would be a realistic fit. But if Lou could convince him to sign with the Islanders they could move other pieces and make it work. He’d have to deal with CAP hell later.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/kevin-hayes">Kevin Hayes</a>: Hayes is also a part of the 2010 draft class reaching their first year of UFA status. As a center in that class, much like Brock Nelson, Hayes will get paid. Unlike Duchene, I think Hayes and Nelson can co-exist on the same roster with Mat Barzal. I don’t, however, think that Kevin has Long Island as one of his preferred destinations. I hope I am wrong in this, but it will remain something to look for until he signs.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/mats-zuccarello">Mats Zuccarello</a>: Zook was a Ranger favorite. He was moved in their fire sale and helped the Dallas Stars for a few minutes before sustaining a season ending injury. His play in the playoffs, plus his natural leadership qualities make him a good fit to stay in Dallas. If he becomes available in July I’m pretty sure Lou will fire a shot that way. He’d be a nice fit with the Islanders, especially if they lose Eberle to free agency and/or Clutterbuck to injury. </p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/jeff-skinner">Jeff Skinner</a>: Skinner would be a huge addition to the Islander roster. At the moment it appears he will stay in Buffalo. Skinner, like Anders Lee, has scored over 100 goals over the past three seasons. Two of those years were with the goal scorer oppressing Carolina Hurricanes. Skinner is going to get paid on July 1st regardless of where he lands. If he were to land on Long Island it would probably be for over $8M AAV with extended term. It’s something that could be done. I only see it if they miss with Lee and/or Eberle.</p> <p><a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/players/jake-gardiner">Jake Gardener</a>: Gardener will be out there, and the Islanders should have ZERO interest in him unless they have traded away multiple left handed D with much more valuable contracts. Keep him in your sideview if some combination of Pelech, Hickey and/or Leddy are dealt on draft day.</p> <a id='59ZtgvNfRXtyv0jy-oPgkQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/543010230' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'59ZtgvNfRXtyv0jy-oPgkQ',sig:'bJpXlC25UbWT6PhjTNYDBCO8kSruVW0gzdhCfDHPPP0=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'543010230',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Summary</h2> <p>It appears that Lee and Nelson will be the first dominoes to fall. If they are, or are not, signed by the NHL Draft will determine their trade strategy and the targets in free agency. The Islanders have not done well historically on July 1st. Hopefully Lou is successful bringing back the bulk of his own UFAs. I would like him to start with $7M AAV and 5 years as a target for all three. If he hits or exceeds that target Islander fans should be very happy.</p> <p>The Islanders have gone through two mass exodus July’s in recent history. In both 2007 and 2006 the following season was a disappointment after a playoff season. The Islanders can’t afford that step backwards while still dealing with arena issues.</p> <p>Another thing to keep in mind is that Lou stepped in last June and made some very questionable personnel moves. He replaced John Tavares, Nikolai Kulemin, Calvin deHaan and Jaroslav Halak with Val Filppula, Leo Komarov, Lucas Sbisa and Robin Lehner. The addition of Barry Trotz and staff made those moves from an almost certain decline in standings points to 100 less goals against and 23 more standings points.</p> <p><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow">Lou has certainly changed the culture of the New York Islanders</a>. What was not clear to Isles’ fans last summer should be crystal clear to them this year. Don’t necessarily root for the expected. Let Lou do his magic. He knows hockey, and he understands the type coach he needs to teach it, and the players he needs to execute it. </p> <p>Islander fans have great confidence in Lou Lamoriello getting the job done. This off season will define his Islander legacy as he has so many spots to fill this summer. It will not be easy, but he does have an opportunity to move the team forward.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/05/13/17160/2019-islander-inventory">2019 Islander Inventory</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/05/13/17160/2019-islander-inventory/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17160</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Islanders 5 Keys to Beating the Canes</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/26/17152/islanders-5-keys-to-beating-the-canes</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/26/17152/islanders-5-keys-to-beating-the-canes#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 26 Apr 2019 14:31:33 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gameday]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playoffs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barry Trotz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bunch of Jerks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Casey Cizikas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Huricanes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Justin Faulk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Rob Brind'Amour]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sebastian Aho]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17152</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>For the NY Islanders the game plan will be the same. The keys will be execution. Here's what I see. <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/26/17152/islanders-5-keys-to-beating-the-canes" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/26/17152/islanders-5-keys-to-beating-the-canes">Islanders 5 Keys to Beating the Canes</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For the NY Islanders the game plan will <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/09/17114/islanders-vs-penguins-matchups">be the same</a>. The keys will be in the execution. They will need to stress these points. Here’s what I see.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">1 Line Matchups</h3> <p>For the Islanders the matchups will be driven by zone start as they have all year. <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/cizikca01.html">Casey Cizikas</a> and <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/f/filppva01.html">Val Filppula</a> will take the bulk of defensive zone faceoffs, and <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/n/nelsobr01.html">Brock Nelson</a> and <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/b/barzama01.html">Mat Barzal</a> will handle the offensive zone starts.</p> <p>What will be a little different this series is that <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/coaches/brindro01c.html">Rod Brind’Amour</a> doesn’t key his lines on the zone starts. He will also shuffle lines. This will make it a little more difficult for Trotz, especially on the road if he wants to line match. I don’t see that happening. I think these are two teams that trust their line rotation. Brind’Amour will be more apt to shorten his bench though.</p> <p>The only match up the Islanders should avoid is when Lee, Barzal and Eberle find themselves on the ice with Leddy and Hickey against the Sebastian Aho line. I trust the other three lines to shut Aho down, but this line will have to outscore them, and that will be quite a task. They should do well with the support of the other two defensive pairings. </p> <p>I think the Islanders have more balance and if this becomes an on the fly game the fact that the blue and orange can roll four lines with impunity will serve them well. Expect the Casey Cizikas line to take advantage of mismatches and be more productive offensively than they did last series.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">2 Goaltending</h3> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/m/mrazepe01.html">Petr Mrazek</a> had a decent season (2.34 GAA/ .914 SAV%), but this was supported by Carolina’s shot suppression. <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/lehnero01.html">Robin Lehner</a> on the other hand had a season (2.13 GAA/.930 SAV%) somewhat driven by shot quality against. I see the same thing here. </p> <p>With the exception of Aho and Teravainen the bulk of Carolina’s shots will come from their D (Hamilton and Faulk). The best goaltending will be from the Islanders D and the layer which protects tips and blocks out for rebound control. Missing Boychuk will hurt to some extent so look for the Islanders centers to be more active. </p> <p>The Islanders have the better goaltender. But the battle will be for the high danger areas, and I think Islanders have the advantage in getting there with all four lines, and will be equally matched in protecting. The bulk of even strength goals may come with DeHaan or Hickey on the ice.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">3 Special Teams</h3> <p>Carolina had an above average PK (81.6%) and below average PP (17.8%). The Islanders were PK (79.9%) and PP (14.5%) respectively. The key here is to stay out of the box. The Islanders were able to stifle a 25% PP against Pittsburgh, and I don’t don’t think quality will be an issue here unless quantity becomes a problem. </p> <p>The Islanders will have to avoid obstruction penalties with solid neutral zone defense. The Hurricanes will have to avoid more aggressive penalties due to the frustration that is brought on by being hit every time you touch the puck.</p> <p>Carolina has an advantage here with better overall special teams. The key is the Islanders neutralizing that advantage with discipline. They have also started to find more PP success. If that continues the Canes will find themselves in trouble early. If the Islanders power play disappears again it could be enough to turn the series around.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">4 Neutralize The Defense</h3> <p>Carolina has one of the better defensive groups in the league. Not because they are solid defenders, but because they are adept puck movers. They are not easily intimidated. The Islanders will try to frustrate them in their defensive zone. The Canes are good at skating the puck away from trouble and passing accurately under pressure. Too much pressure will allow for some odd man rushes, and speed through the neutral zone. </p> <p>The key here is for the Isles to play a LESS aggressive strategy and rely on neutral zone turnovers. They will not win a track meet with the Canes. </p> <p>In the same vein, the Islanders forwards must help the defense move the puck out of their own zone. Carolina will aggressively forecheck and try to pressure the Islanders youngish D. This isn’t the same D that Carolina faced earlier in the season, but the Islanders will be facing a more cohesive unit as well. </p> <p>The key here is for the Islanders to keep it boring. Turnover goals can be exciting, but not when they are happening to you. Station to station hockey and gap control will be how the Islanders have to play here. Eventually they can wear down the Carolina forecheck with Pulock, Leddy and Toews proving their worth in escaping their defensive zone. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">5 Coaching</h3> <p>Rob Brind’Amour has done an outstanding job in his rookie season. The Canes are motivated and have well outplayed their talent. Barry Trotz has given the Islanders a blueprint for success, and they’ve run with it. What’s left is a chess match.</p> <p>The key here is preparation and adjustments. I don’t think either team will change much from their last series to this one. What I do think is that Trotz will be better at identifying weaknesses and translating that to gameplan. If both teams play to their strengths the Canes can win this series. Trotz won’t let that happen. </p> <p>Watch the evolution of the Islanders break outs. If the Canes are neutralizing their defensive zone escapes look for Barry to start releasing forwards to get behind the Canes D. This will allow the Islanders to dump pucks from their own zone while avoiding icing. This might also affect some lineup changes mid-series to remove some of the less fleet of foot Islanders. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Summary</h3> <p>I expect a long and exciting series. The Canes can certainly bring it, but they are not a perfect team. It will come down to execution, and adjustments. I expect the secondary units to be the stars here. Look for a 3+ goal series from Casey Cizikas and Brock Nelson. One or both of these two players will steal the show from Jordan Eberle. If the Canes are successful it will be because they get goal production from Hamilton and Faulk. The Islanders must stop that from happening.</p> <p>Islanders in six.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/26/17152/islanders-5-keys-to-beating-the-canes">Islanders 5 Keys to Beating the Canes</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/26/17152/islanders-5-keys-to-beating-the-canes/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17152</post-id> </item> <item> <title>All The Right Moves</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/11/17123/all-the-right-moves</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/11/17123/all-the-right-moves#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 11 Apr 2019 13:43:14 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playoffs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Casey Cizikas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Isles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Josh Bailey]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Penguins]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Robin Lehner]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Tom Kuhnhackl]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17123</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz seemed to have prepared for this from day one. Adding the proper spice to an existing inventory has been successful. They have created the most competitive team in the shortest amount of time possible. <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/11/17123/all-the-right-moves" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/11/17123/all-the-right-moves">All The Right Moves</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz seemed to have prepared for this from day one. Adding the proper spice to an existing inventory has been successful. They have created the most competitive team in the shortest amount of time possible.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="617" height="318" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/XandO.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17142" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/XandO.png 617w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/XandO-300x155.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 617px) 100vw, 617px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Game Plan</h3> <p>In my last post I went over the <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/09/17114/islanders-vs-penguins-matchups">matchups for this series</a>, and what I thought coach Trotz would do to counterbalance his team’s lack of playoff experience. I think I pretty much nailed it. But if a slightly more than casual observer could break down a strategy to beat the Penguins, that strategy has to be rock solid. It certainly was no secret.</p> <p>The external hero of last night was Josh Bailey. If you read the matchup post you know the real hero was <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/cizikca01.html">Casey Cizikas</a>. Each one of the other three line combinations had a<a href="http://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20182019&game=30141&view=limited"> CF% lower than 50</a>. Casey, Martin and Clutterbuck (MC^2) were 55.56%. Sidney Crosby, Guentzel and Rust were 25.93%. That is one helluva job by Casey, and to some extent the other lines. Casey matched up against Sid in almost all of the defensive zone starts. </p> <p>With the top line neutralized the strategy is to keep the shots from the perimeter, and your fingers crossed. Robin Lehner certainly won the goaltending battle. Both teams had similar shot distribution 5v5, but the Penguins shot with more frequency(37 to 24). </p> <p>What we saw last night were two pretty evenly matched teams, with vastly different attributes. What does that even mean?</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='xERN39nDSE1I71XEU4Upzw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/981680106' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'xERN39nDSE1I71XEU4Upzw',sig:'z4GgRRm2EPDh5frgMX6rkk_f1Qhni_XClLZMyTuz5Ao=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'981680106',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Personnel</h3> <p>When the season started the Islanders were in a bit of a hole. They had just lost their star center, and were ready to move away from their 12 year general manager and a failed coaching staff. I won’t go into the details of that, but I will trace the key steps. </p> <p>Lou Lamoriello was hired as President and General Manager. Much like the creation story he was given about seven days. The first thing he did was turn the lights on, and the second thing was to hire Barry Trotz.</p> <p>Barry Trotz was not only the best coach that had been available to the Islanders since Al Arbour retired, he was the most in line with Lou’s “<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow">Burger Barn</a>” mentality. What we are seeing today is the dinner cooked by two guys who went shopping with the same menu in mind.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/LeanCuisine.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17144" /></figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lean Cuisine</h3> <p>The Islanders historically do not attract high end free agents. To the contrary they repel them. So when the dynamic duo put this roster together they had that in mind. You don’t go after $10M superstars to replace John Tavares. Nobody has ever won a Stanley Cup with John Tavares on the roster. But they have with Tom Kuhnhackl. If you shop at Walmart you can get Kuhnhackl, Lehner, Filppula and Komarov for less than $10M. </p> <p>Those four served as the main ingredients in a menu created to fix the Islanders defensive woes, and more than anything their horrible penalty kill. That’s it. The rest would be on structure and execution. They had a few rounds in the chamber like Ho-Sang and Toews, but those four were really the only talent brought in from outside the organization.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='j9blv_PTSyN3lgbLVmB53A' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1133932018' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'j9blv_PTSyN3lgbLVmB53A',sig:'miR_NK0KVqtzf2MKm2mmduBvvA5VFsR3-incpOT-L20=',w:'594px',h:'440px',items:'1133932018',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trotzformation</h3> <p>This has taken the full 82 games. It certainly appeared to be the first Islander meritocracy of the past decade or two. Barry started with his cast of veterans, and allowed his younger talent to flow in as injuries occured and they earned their opportunities. </p> <p>We saw some fail. Even though Josh Ho-Sang had good possession numbers in his stint with the big club, he didn’t produce offensively. When Eberle returned, he was demoted to work on what we could only define as “Josh Things”.</p> <p>We also saw some succeed. <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/d/dalcomi01.html">Michael Dal Colle</a> went from being an obscure high first round bust to an AHL all-star almost overnight. When he was given an opportunity in the NHL he embraced every role and proved himself worthy of a full time roster spot.</p> <p>We also saw one player super succeed.<a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/t/toewsde01.html"> Devon Toews</a> was called up as a replacement for an injured Thomas Hickey. He not only proved himself worthy of a roster spot, but won Hickey’s playing time. He’s even earned the spot as the first power play quarterback. The power play certainly can use some work, but it has improved with Toews’ reflexive puck distribution and his above average shot from the point.</p> <p>The minor personnel changes and the overall philosophy of defense first instead of “defense, what the heck is that” transformed this team from a lottery team to what now looks like a team on the cusp of cup contention.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Choices</h3> <p>In selecting <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/k/kuhnhto01.html">Tom Kuhnhackl</a> over Dal Colle Barry Trotz selected a player who had over 40 playoff games and two Stanley Cup rings with his current opponent. Kuhnhackl rewarded him by putting the puck in the net twice. Both goals were disallowed, but that doesn’t discount the fact that he beat Matt Murray twice. Kuhnhackl also gave the Islanders a minute and a half of penalty killing. He was on the ice for the Penguin’s lone power play goal, but you can’t fault him for a shot tipped in by Adam Pelech. Those things are just going to happen when you are playing 4 on 5 against an all-star team.</p> <p>The clear choice for goal last night was <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/lehnero01.html">Robin Lehner</a>. He was the hot hand and the Islanders rode his goaltending into a home ice advantage in the first round. There’s no telling what the game would have been like if the choice went the other way, but Lehner rewarded them with a stellar performance. He allowed one 5v5 goal by one of the premiere shooters in the league and two goals at a man disadvantage. One was deflected and the other from a blind shot through heavy traffic. The key was Robin made key saves all night, and a ton of them. The Islanders were outshot 33-44 and never trailed. NOT FOR ONE SECOND.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Results</h3> <p>I fully expect the same lineup for game two. I also expect the same strategy choices throughout the first round. Even when Trotz does not have last change in Pittsburgh, he will deploy his lines similarly. Casey and Filppula for defensive zone face offs, and Brock and Barzal for offensive zone starts.</p> <p>He’ll try to get Pulock and Pelech out against Crosby as much as possible, but all three pairings can handle the skating aspect of covering that line. Their breakdowns came mostly from well execute cross-ice drops and the creation of time and space by a very talented group of Penguins.</p> <p>My original prediction, Islanders in six, still stands. I’m just a little more confident in their future. Not only this playoff year, but beyond that. This team may not win another game this year, but they have already proven that they should be taken seriously as a Metro Division contender, and with some maturation and possibly an addition or two, a Stanley Cup contender as well.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/11/17123/all-the-right-moves">All The Right Moves</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/11/17123/all-the-right-moves/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17123</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Islanders vs Penguins Matchups</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/09/17114/islanders-vs-penguins-matchups</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/09/17114/islanders-vs-penguins-matchups#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 09 Apr 2019 18:44:36 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playoffs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Isles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Penguins]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playoff Preview]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sidney Crosby]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17114</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The New York Islanders are the least favored two seed in the NHL playoff matchups this year. This is based on one thing, Sidney Crosby. Let’s break this down and see if this is truly the case. The Rosters When… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/09/17114/islanders-vs-penguins-matchups" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/09/17114/islanders-vs-penguins-matchups">Islanders vs Penguins Matchups</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The New York Islanders are the least favored two seed in the NHL playoff matchups this year. This is based on one thing, Sidney Crosby. Let’s break this down and see if this is truly the case.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Rosters</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="815" height="307" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/image.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17124" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/image.png 815w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/image-300x113.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/image-768x289.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 815px) 100vw, 815px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p>When you look at the rosters as a whole the Penguins have a huge advantage based on playoff experience, and their top six forwards. There are an awful lot of Stanley Cup rings over there, and they should be given credit for every one of them. They’ve earned that right. They also have two of the top ten centers in the league, a patchwork of highly skilled defenseman, and one of the best playoff goalies of the past three years. How do you combat that?</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Matchups</h2> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='HP_db0lzQ2J0q-5Chprz7w' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1135204787' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'HP_db0lzQ2J0q-5Chprz7w',sig:'TNog5gBc6LCNKLdB2qY9nvpWNUOJkapjGYsUf8dc2pI=',w:'594px',h:'449px',items:'1135204787',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Islander Defensive Zone Starts – Cizikas vs Crosby</h3> <p>This is the matchup you’ll probably see at the beginning of the game and in most IDZ (Islander Defensive Zone) starts. The Penguins will want <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/crosbsi01.html">Sidney Crosby</a> out there to take advantage of the position, and the Islanders will want the best fourth line in hockey out there to defend. You will also see a lot of Ryan Pulock and Adam Pelech in these situations. This will keep Pulock’s offensive abilities somewhat muted, but that pairing’s ability to breakout under pressure will keep the Islanders from sustained pressure by the Penguins top line. If this matchup breaks down the Islanders will be in for a short series. If the Islanders win this will have been the key matchup of the series.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='ol15Bj2jRA5xLBQ9v8aacg' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1137346193' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'ol15Bj2jRA5xLBQ9v8aacg',sig:'t86182wohIKGTwNEOg231g4SUea1APTHTZfqojTplco=',w:'594px',h:'402px',items:'1137346193',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Islander Offensive Zone Starts – Barzal vs Cullen</h3> <p><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free">Barzal, Eberle and Lee </a>are the three most offensively productive Islanders. They are not the three best defensive forwards on the team. Barry Trotz will try to get them on the ice for IOZ (Islander Offensive ZOne) starts as often as possible. Matt Cullen is deployed almost exclusively in a defensive zone role. I expect to see a lot of this. </p> <p>In these situations I see the Islanders as having a slight advantage because <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/cizikca01.html">Casey Cizikas</a> is having such a good offensive season he may be able neutralize the Crosby line and add some offense when they break down. The Barzal line is rather new, and has been on a positive trajectory of production. These two situations should, surprisingly favor the Islanders.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='1g1UyJesStNIskR3SlY7jA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1091822420' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'1g1UyJesStNIskR3SlY7jA',sig:'cWvJbgSUJhvSoZ3wvzduoHAsoBGI0enU23Fb5m3IDLk=',w:'594px',h:'455px',items:'1091822420',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Middle Six</h3> <p>I see a lot of Filppula vs Malkin and Nelson vs Bjugstad. The Islanders are in a more defensive role in both of these matchups, and that is not good. It’s how they’ve operated all season and they’ve made it work with solid five man defensive strategies and great goaltending. That will have to continue for them to have any chance here. </p> <p>The one bright spot for the Islanders is the poor defensive showing of the <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/m/malkiev01.html">Evgeni Malkin</a> line. The Islanders will have to exploit this with some combination of Nelson and Bailey or Filppula and Beauvillier. If it is not working by game three they may have to switch from a defensive approach with Kuhnhackl to a more offensive one with Michael Dal Colle.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='ilUdpOyYSp1nrfcTNaC9GQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1135012045' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'ilUdpOyYSp1nrfcTNaC9GQ',sig:'_zKn2QTWiUSks1ZLP7SJ7bdX-7x7rSee5EWBhtsiB8A=',w:'594px',h:'458px',items:'1135012045',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Defense</h3> <p>The upside is that all six Islanders defenders can be deployed against any of the four lines without there being a clear mismatch in talent. The Penguins can boast the same claim. The difference is the Islanders have not been able to say this in any of their previous playoff matchups. </p> <p>I think they will try to get Pulock against Crosby, and Boychuk against Malkin as often as possible. I could see Letang being assigned to Barzal, but they may also want to match up a more physical defender like Gudbranson or Johnson with Lee. </p> <p>The Islanders may have a slight advantage here because of their neutral zone structure, and the fact that all six defenders can skate, and match up physically with all four of the Penguin lines. The Penguins will have some difficulty with the speed of Barzal paired with the physical nature of Lee. It’s almost a similar threat as Ovechkin on the same line as Wilson…and we all know how that turned out for the Penguins.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='_tT0k7lzQYt3ZugbYTPzZA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1139786287' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'_tT0k7lzQYt3ZugbYTPzZA',sig:'ruQA3x9ogQ5Akzl8NB7sru-E-s84gCz5rDqTRRM5UMI=',w:'526px',h:'594px',items:'1139786287',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Goaltending</h3> <p>By the numbers the Islanders have the advantage in 2018-19. Lehner and Greiss have been the best tandem in the NHL Matt Murray has two Stanley Cup rings and has been through this before. Advantage Penguins… until proven otherwise.</p> <p>This may be the matchup that turns the series. The Islanders’ goalies have outperformed all others during the regular season. This isn’t the regular season. Thomas Greiss won a playoff series with the Islanders, but has not been in the dance for past two years. Robin Lehner had a cup of coffee in the playoffs with Ottawa and played well, but it’s been six years for him. These two might be outstanding, but there is no recent evidence of such. I expect Lehner to get the nod in game one due to recent play. He’ll probably play until he loses two in a row. </p> <p>The Penguins have a pretty big advantage here. But the Islanders have the potential to turn that around. It’s a lot of pressure to put on <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/lehnero01.html">Robin Lehner</a>. But Robin put a lot of pressure on himself this year, and he has battled through all of it and come out on top. I like those odds.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Special Teams</h3> <p>The <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/PIT/2019.html">Penguins</a> have a huge advantage here. If Barry Trotz tries to steer this ship into the “physical” waters it will be a disaster. While both teams have penalty kill units operating at about league average (80%) the Penguins have a far better power play. The Penguins are successful 24% of the time and the Islanders only 14%. What that translates to is if they both had 4 PP chances per game in a seven game series the Pens would outscore the Islanders about 7 to 4. That would be a tough deficit to overcome 5 on 5.</p> <p>The<a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/NYI/2019.html"> Islanders</a> will need to lean towards a skating series and try to limit the Penguins to two chances per game. That could keep the special teams deficit to a minimum. That means staying on the right side of the puck to avoid obstruction penalties. The must avoid touching Sidney. This is where we will see the experience bias. Barzal will get pounded at every opportunity because the Penguins will not fear retribution of the Islanders anemic power play. On the other hand the Islanders will have to avoid playing Sid and Gino physically. </p> <p>This could turn the series if Barry Trotz allows it to happen. I don’t think that will be the case, but it is something to watch.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/NYCBLive.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17131" /><figcaption>Home Ice Advantage</figcaption></figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h3> <p>The Islanders must shut down Sidney Crosby. The last line of defense, the goaltenders will be the deciding factor. The Islanders’ Best Fourth Line In Hockey and their Jennings Trophy winning defense and goaltending must hold up for this series. </p> <p>It also doesn’t hurt to have the first two, the fifth, and the seventh games played at Fort Neverlose. It’s an advantage they fought for through 82 regular season games. I expect the building to be rocking and the crowd to be “<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/02/17102/a-lot-of-heart-fate-and-good-vibes">Jacked</a>“. </p> <p>If the Islanders stay out of the penalty box, and the goaltending maintains its regular season form the Islanders have the advantage. <br>I could see the Islanders taking the series in six games. </p> <p></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/09/17114/islanders-vs-penguins-matchups">Islanders vs Penguins Matchups</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/09/17114/islanders-vs-penguins-matchups/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17114</post-id> </item> <item> <title>5 Reasons Why Jordan Eberle Should be a NY Islander Next Year</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/03/17086/5-reasons-why-jordan-eberle-should-be-a-ny-islander-next-year</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/03/17086/5-reasons-why-jordan-eberle-should-be-a-ny-islander-next-year#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 03 Apr 2019 14:26:26 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Free Agency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Prospects]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Signings]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Isles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Jordan Eberle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Josh Ho-Sang]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Oliver Wahlstrom]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17086</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Since October my opinion on this subject has definitely evolved. I thought for sure Jordan Eberle would be ex-Isled by the trade deadline. Here's why I think both parties would be better off if he stayed. <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/03/17086/5-reasons-why-jordan-eberle-should-be-a-ny-islander-next-year" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/03/17086/5-reasons-why-jordan-eberle-should-be-a-ny-islander-next-year">5 Reasons Why Jordan Eberle Should be a NY Islander Next Year</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Jordan Eberle is a pending unrestricted free agent. He can walk away from the organization on July 1st 2019. The Islanders will have to make some tough decisions before then. Since October my opinion on this subject has definitely evolved. I thought for sure Jordan Eberle would be ex-Isled by the trade deadline. Here’s why I think both parties would be better off if he stayed.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='cYJ8NI6vQdZvgLfo6VoPAQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1091819928' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'cYJ8NI6vQdZvgLfo6VoPAQ',sig:'GSJ1PJqEA2LncAiLczyNDVI4WYUfciV_fUh9Cay33EQ=',w:'581px',h:'594px',items:'1091819928',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">1. The Devil You Know</h3> <p><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow">Lou [Cipher] Lamoriello knows hockey</a>. He also knows hockey players. So if Jordan isn’t the “Devilish” type, then you can disregard the rest of this post. I think he is, and I also think he fits into the Islanders’ plans for the future. </p> <p> <br>Lou and Barry have had a full season to manage expectations from Jordan. They have not taken away responsibilities from the veteran right wing. Even though he has struggled at times he is now on the first true TOP LINE the Islanders have had in quite a while.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">2. Pairs Well With Barzal</h3> <p>Lee, Tavares and Bailey were pretty good, but they lacked somebody who could move the puck fluently from zone to zone. That has been the missing ingredient since the weeks of Vanek, Tavares and Okposo. Now they have Mat Barzal to carry the mail. The combination of Barzal and Eberle worked very well last year with Anthony Beauvillier. That line had excellent speed and spent the majority of their time in the offensive zone. It lacked a true net front presence.</p> <p>This year Lee, Nelson and Eberle were deployed as the top line early in the year. The three vets could be trusted executing Barry Trotz’ simple neutral zone defense and they broke out well from the defensive zone. Nelson doesn’t have the speed or the skills that Barzal does, but he knows where to be and how to get there. They worked well as a five man unit, but they didn’t produce offensively like a first line is expected.</p> <p>When Lou decided to tinker<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free"> I assumed he would move Barzal to Nelson’s wing</a>. That would put a puck mover, with retriever and sniper and hopefully there would be chemistry and more goals. But the answer was simpler than that. Just put Barzal between the two vets and see if you could spark their output.</p> <p><a href="http://www.naturalstattrick.com/linestats.php?fromseason=20182019&thruseason=20182019&stype=2&sit=5v5&score=all&rate=n&team=NYI&vteam=ALL&view=wowy&loc=B&gpfilt=none&fd=2018-10-03&td=2019-04-06&tgp=2000&strict=incl&p1=8474586&p2=8475754&p3=8478445&p4=8475314&p5=8478463">Winner winner</a>. In just over 160 minutes together the Lee, Barzal and Eberle line has generated a CF% of over 56, a GF60 of 3.36 and a SC60 of 38.52. The Lee, Nelson Eberle line had been together for 500 minutes. Their respective numbers were CF%(48.7), GF60(2.01) and SC60(28.17). A first line has been born. Nelson has since been joined by Michael Dal Colle and Josh Bailey and has resumed similar offensive output, with similar defensive acumen. A little more offence, no loss in defense.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">3. Right Wing Extremist</h3> <p>In October there are two positions where the Islanders were organizationally weak. center and right shot forward. Their center depth has improved with the signing of Val Filppula, the development of Otto Koivula, and the evolution of Tanner Fritz. </p> <p>It was fully expected in October that Eberle would walk and his shoes would, to some extent, be filled by <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/h/hosanjo01.html">Josh Ho-Sang</a>, or their 11th overall 2019 draft pick <a href="http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=196151">Oliver Wahlstrom</a>. Both have proven that their accelerated development was over-exaggerated. There is nobody currently in the system that could step into Jordan’s RW1 role. Not even <a href="http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=89753">Josh Bailey</a>. Josh is a very good hockey player, he just doesn’t score goals. There is a chance to get 80+ goals out of that first line. 80 goals can go a long way when you’re battling for the lowest goals against in the league.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='_SjTR13iTad6DIOiYtGF1A' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1085907090' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'_SjTR13iTad6DIOiYtGF1A',sig:'OEYbVGTEw1udNJvOomKc8AQdUnbwWRvfiZBXeOV6LDI=',w:'594px',h:'395px',items:'1085907090',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">4. Prospects in Park</h3> <p>The Islanders currently have four very good prospects. They have all either hit speed bumps or will need at least a year or two more of development before they could step into a key role on this team.</p> <p>Josh Ho-Sang had a few good games in the NHL this year. He even showed he could handle a more defensive role by putting up great possession numbers with less than stellar linemates. But then Ho-Sang did Ho-Sang things and since his demotion his production hasn’t been stellar either. Nobody could justify replacing Eberle with Ho-Sang at this juncture. He might make a good puck mover for Nelson some day. But not today.</p> <p>Oliver Wahlstrom seems to have a good amount of skill. His resume wreaks of immaturity. In games I’ve watched he shows flashes of brilliance, but a lot of invisibility. Hopefully Brent Thompson can get the inner Anders Lee/John Tonelli out of him, but right now he’s a puppy with big paws.</p> <p><a href="http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=177778">Kieffer Bellows</a> is left handed. I don’t think that makes a whole lot of difference, especially when paired with a right handed center like Barzal or Fritz but I’m not a big fan of the three left thumb principle. Keiffer, like Wahlstrom left Boston University after his freshman year. Unlike Ollie, he decided to play junior hockey in the WHL with the Portland Winterhawks. He excelled were he was in the top tier of a restricted age group. Something he has failed to graduate from, yet. </p> <p>Keiffer’s rookie year in pro hockey was a bit of a disappointment. His 11 goals and six assists were nothing to be ashamed of, but his overall play did not scream “NHL Prospect”. That is okay as well. The team was veteran heavy and a few other prospects with more experience emerged this year. His time will come. But it won’t be early next year.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">5. The Content Commuter</h3> <p>One thing I’ve learned as a NY Islander fan is to not expect too much in July. Over the last 20 years the team’s best unrestricted free agent signings have all been re-signs. With the exception of Mark Streit and a few past their prime defensemen the Islanders really haven’t gotten much help from the UFA market. So when you have somebody that works you gotta try to keep him.</p> <p>If Jordan Eberle is willing to put up with another 2+ years on the LIRR (or however he gets from Nassau County to Brooklyn), then there should be an offer for at least twice as long on the table. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Some Pros and Cons</h3> <p>(Eberle Pro) A five year $35-40M deal would keep him from having to move. Not only his home, but from a very comfortable situation with Lee and Barzal. Hopefully both of them will be on Long Island for the next five years and beyond. We’re gonna have to create a cool name for the line. I am leaning towards the Earth(Lee) Wind(Barzal) and Fire(Eberle) line. It’s too bad that <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gs069dndIYk">September</a> isn’t really an important hockey month.</p> <p>(Eberle Con) There will probably be a 7 year $55M+ offer out there. There are plenty of teams with cap space that will be willing to overpay for Eberle’s 20G consistency. The Islanders can’t afford to go that high or that long.</p> <p>(Isles Pro) Scroll up.</p> <p>(Isles Con) Adding $7M+ to the annual budget will make it tough to keep some of their current RFA players as they evolve into $4-6M players over the next 2-4 years. </p> <p>I don’t have a lot of confidence in this happening because of the three (Anders Lee, Brock Nelson and Robin Lehner) other UFAs the Islanders HAVE TO sign. But if Lou can get them all to buy into the future of this club under Barry Trotz it could happen.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/03/17086/5-reasons-why-jordan-eberle-should-be-a-ny-islander-next-year">5 Reasons Why Jordan Eberle Should be a NY Islander Next Year</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/03/17086/5-reasons-why-jordan-eberle-should-be-a-ny-islander-next-year/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17086</post-id> </item> <item> <title>A Lot of Heart, Fate And Good Vibes</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/02/17102/a-lot-of-heart-fate-and-good-vibes</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/02/17102/a-lot-of-heart-fate-and-good-vibes#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Michael Schuerlein]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2019 12:40:43 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Hot Headlines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anthony Beauvillier]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[islesblogger]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Johnny Boychuk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Josh Bailey]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Michael Schuerlein]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New York Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Robin Lehner]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Super Jack]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomas Greiss]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17102</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>If you didn’t see this yesterday, then you probably don’t look at social media very often – because this was literally everywhere. It was also on the telecast, and this mornings Newsday too, so you likely did hear about it… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/02/17102/a-lot-of-heart-fate-and-good-vibes" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/02/17102/a-lot-of-heart-fate-and-good-vibes">A Lot of Heart, Fate And Good Vibes</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/jack-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17108" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/jack-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/jack-300x225.jpg 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/jack-768x576.jpg 768w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/jack.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/admin">Michael Schuerlein</a> | Islesblogger</span> Super Jack completed his list</figcaption></figure> <p>If you didn’t see this yesterday, then you probably don’t look at social media very often – because this was literally everywhere. It was also on the telecast, and <a href="https://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/islanders-robin-lehner-1.29261097" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="this mornings Newsday (opens in a new tab)">this mornings Newsday</a> too, so you likely did hear about it at some point.</p> <p>I am talking about Jack and his exceptional story.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/NYIslanders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NYIslanders</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nhl</a> – let’s get Jack to be an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isles?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Isles</a> for a day! I won’t stop until I see him lead the team at practice! <a href="https://twitter.com/leeberr09?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@leeberr09</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/joboych?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@joboych</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Barzal_97?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Barzal_97</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/zeeker11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zeeker11</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mattymarts17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mattymarts17</a> <a href="https://t.co/E7KJH5aQI6">https://t.co/E7KJH5aQI6</a></p>— Michael Schuerlein (@islesblogger) <a href="https://twitter.com/islesblogger/status/1112700207500791814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2019</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div></figure> <p>The best part about all of this is the attention that it earned. Every national media outlet that covers hockey got involved in some way – to the point that Robin Lehner went on Twitter and replied with:</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="qst" dir="ltr">100%<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/2764.png" alt="❤" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> <a href="https://t.co/APoBxnx6sU">https://t.co/APoBxnx6sU</a></p>— Robin Lehner (@RobinLehner) <a href="https://twitter.com/RobinLehner/status/1112488986168180736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2019</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div></figure> <p>When I saw this yesterday, I couldn’t help but reach out to Jack’s Mom, Lauren to see if there was anything more I could help them with. </p> <p>We got to talking and I learned all about Jack’s history, his hockey life – defying all the odds. It was AMAZING. She even told me about her brother, Michael an FDNY Firefighter who perished in the 9-11 attacks. More on this in a minute.</p> <p>I reached out to my buddy Sean (<a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="@BCKT106 (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.twitter.com/bckt106" target="_blank">@BCKT106</a>), whom you know as the amazing artist who draws the images of Islanders players by hand, to see if he’d be willing to work something out for Jack. He was on board.</p> <p>We set out between the second and third periods to meet up with Lauren and Jack. We talked about everything, got to hang out with Jack and as Lauren told Sean about her brother – things got “interesting”, which is where the fate part of the story comes in.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/me_jack_sean-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17110" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/me_jack_sean.jpg 768w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/me_jack_sean-225x300.jpg 225w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/admin">Michael Schuerlein</a> | Islesblogger</span> @islesblogger, @bckt106 and Super Jack</figcaption></figure> <p>Earlier in the day, Lauren told me that every time their family has been blessed with kindness, a Michael is usually involved. I am a strong believer in fate and that everything happens for a reason. Fast forward to introducing Sean – we get on the subject of Michael and Sean knew him! </p> <p>Seriously.</p> <p>Not only did he know him, Sean drew a portrait of him in 2002 that hangs at the Hempstead firehouse. </p> <p>Coincidence? No. It’s Fate.</p> <p>Sean and I were invited down after the game to hang out with our new friend as he waited to check off the third box on his list. And check it off he did.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’m so happy for everyone involved here. You’re the best Robin. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isles?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isles</a> <a href="https://t.co/9SRnAbu8aJ">pic.twitter.com/9SRnAbu8aJ</a></p>— Michael Schuerlein (@islesblogger) <a href="https://twitter.com/islesblogger/status/1112996991930417152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div></figure> <p>As you can see by all the smiles in these photos, Jack did everything he wanted to and more. He got a stick from Robin Lehner, he also got one from Thomas Greiss. Johnny Boychuk came out to say hello, so did Josh Bailey, and Anthony Beauvillier.</p> <p>It’s a day that Jack and his family won’t ever forget. I know I won’t forget it either. I had trouble sleeping last night because of the endorphins, but it was 100% worth it.</p> <p>More on Jack’s condition, his Mom Lauren says the disease he suffers from has no cure. He’s had numerous surgeries over the course of his short life, the first coming at 4 days old. His second at 4 months old and third at 2 and a half years old. She adds he may eventually need a transplant one day. But for now, they live life every day allowing Jack to live out his dreams.</p> <p>His list obviously checked off a few boxes last night.</p> <p>Not to be lost in all of this is the amazing story about Robin Lehner that should’t be missed. He’s been a huge surprise this season after his recovery from substance abuse and mental illness – something I will also be writing about in short time. Little things like this make you like him and root for him even more, especially playing as great as he has been.</p> <p>Jack and Lauren are going to be coming on the <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="The Isles Faith Podcast (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.theislesfaithful.com" target="_blank">The Isles Faith Podcast</a> to talk about all his experiences, stay tuned for that. If you don’t subscribe to the podcast, head over to the website and <a href="http://www.theislesfaithful.com/subscribe-to-podcast" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="subscribe (opens in a new tab)">subscribe</a>!</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/02/17102/a-lot-of-heart-fate-and-good-vibes">A Lot of Heart, Fate And Good Vibes</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/04/02/17102/a-lot-of-heart-fate-and-good-vibes/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17102</post-id> </item> <item> <title>10 Reasons Islander Fans Shouldn’t Panic</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/27/17084/10-reasons-islander-fans-shouldnt-panic</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/27/17084/10-reasons-islander-fans-shouldnt-panic#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 27 Mar 2019 15:46:28 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Call Ups]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Draft]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Free Agency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playoffs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Prospects]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barry Trotz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lou Lamoriello]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ryan Pulock]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17084</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Why #Isles fans shouldn't panic with 5 games left.<br />@IslesBlogger<br />@JPinVA<br />@FaithfulIsles <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/27/17084/10-reasons-islander-fans-shouldnt-panic" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/27/17084/10-reasons-islander-fans-shouldnt-panic">10 Reasons Islander Fans Shouldn’t Panic</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Here are my top 10 reasons why NY Islanders fans shouldn’t panic with five games left. There is plenty of good news to go around.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">1. The Standings</h3> <p>The Islanders are currently tied for second place with Pittsburgh in the Metro division. They are three points behind first place Washington, and four points ahead of Carolina who has a firm grip on the top wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. They are still seven points ahead of Columbus who is in ninth and on the outside of the playoff picture looking in. The playoff bubble projects to be 96 points. The Islanders would only need one win to eclipse that number. The maximum bubble is 99 points because Montreal plays Columbus on Thursday, and that is what the loser can obtain, even with the loser point. The Islanders would only need to play NHL .500 in their last 5 games to eclipse that total.</p> <table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td>TEAM</td><td>W </td><td>L </td><td>OT </td><td>P </td><td> PPG </td><td>PRJ</td><td>GR</td></tr><tr><td>ATL</td></tr><tr><td>TBL</td><td>59</td><td>14</td><td>4</td><td>122</td><td> 1.584 </td><td>130</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>BOS</td><td>46</td><td>21</td><td>9</td><td>101</td><td> 1.329 </td><td>109</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>TOR</td><td>45</td><td>25</td><td>6</td><td>96</td><td> 1.263 </td><td>104</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>MET</td></tr><tr><td>WAS</td><td>45</td><td>24</td><td>8</td><td>98</td><td> 1.273 </td><td>104</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>NYI</td><td>44</td><td>26</td><td>7</td><td>95</td><td> 1.234 </td><td>101</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>PIT</td><td>42</td><td>24</td><td>11</td><td>95</td><td> 1.234 </td><td>101</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>WC</td></tr><tr><td>CAR</td><td>42</td><td>27</td><td>7</td><td>91</td><td> 1.197 </td><td>98</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>MON</td><td>41</td><td>28</td><td>8</td><td>90</td><td> 1.169 </td><td>96</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>OUT</td></tr><tr><td>CBJ</td><td>42</td><td>30</td><td>4</td><td>88</td><td> 1.158 </td><td>95</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>PHI</td><td>36</td><td>32</td><td>8</td><td>80</td><td> 1.053 </td><td>86</td><td>6</td></tr></tbody></table> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">2. The Schedule</h3> <p>The last five games of the season will be tough no matter who they are playing. These games will be particularly tough, but will serve as a good experience for a young team with little to no playoff experience. </p> <p>@<a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/WPG/2019.html"><strong>Winnipeg</strong></a><strong> </strong>The Islanders lost their only game against the Jets this year, but the Jets are a pedestrian 6-4-0 in their last 10. </p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/BUF/2019.html">Buffalo</a></strong>. They have split their season series so far. Both home teams have won 3-1. The Sabres are a mithir serable 1-8-1 in their last 10. If the Isles lose this one at home you might want to start looking for the panic button.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/TOR/2019.html"> Toronto</a></strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/TOR/2019.html">.</a> They are 2-0 against Toronto this year and have outscored them 10-1. There’s another narrative at play here as our favorite ex-Islander may be shooting for his first 50 goal season. Toronto is a meh 4-4-2 in their last 10. This is a good matchup on paper, but there will be a lot of emotions on the ice and in the stands. It should be a fun one.</p> <p>@<strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/FLA/2019.html">Florida</a>.</strong> As exciting an atmosphere April 1st will be at the NVMC, is about how dull I expect the arena to be on April 4th in Sunrise. Florida was done months ago and they’re 5-5-0 in their last 10 and on a current 3 game losing streak. The scary part… The Islanders are 0-1-1 against them. Barry Trotz will need to find some motivation to get his clearly superior team to defeat their ex-coach. Panther’s assistant, Jack Capuano, probably knows the Islanders better than he knows his own team at this point. There are some scenarios where this game can clinch playoffs, or home team advantage. That should be enough motivation because you don’t want to go into the last game of the season with those things hanging over your head.</p> <p>@<strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/WSH/2019.html">Washington</a></strong>. The final game of the season can mean so much… or it can just be 60 minutes of practice for two teams preparing for the playoffs. Unless it is for first place in the Metro, let’s hope it’s the latter. The Isles are 1-2-0 against the current Metro leaders and they have been playing well of late. The Caps are 6-3-1 in their last 10 and the current Stanley Cup champions seem to be firing on all cylinders going into this year’s tournament.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='93F_CAjATORapYXMS3tD8A' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1133932918' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'93F_CAjATORapYXMS3tD8A',sig:'sZa1OWDBxYVJMHPMpwaT6z4xvROtrSs1gmOmGfOWw-E=',w:'594px',h:'417px',items:'1133932918',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">3. Barry Trotz</h3> <p>If there is one thing that has made this season vastly different than any other since 1994 it’s Barry Trotz. For the first time in 25 years the Islanders have been led by an experienced, Stanley Cup winning coach. The results so far have been fantastic, and there’s no reason to doubt their future. The defense first philosophy brought in by Lou Lamoriello has been embraced by every member of the organization. It may not be pretty to some, but winning is.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='_zDfABUzTJljMgcFdEc_UQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1138026665' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'_zDfABUzTJljMgcFdEc_UQ',sig:'JrsuZ1zjfHwtNQ6BRNOdbUHb4V8pCVSx4-li5GZJy3I=',w:'594px',h:'402px',items:'1138026665',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">4. The Goalies</h3> <p>Currently the Islanders have given up 188 goals against. That is the lowest in the Eastern Conference and tied with Dallas (who has played one fewer game) for the league lead. This is mostly due to the overall defensive strategy. You don’t get their from the team with the worst GA total in the league without stellar goaltending. <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/lehnero01.html">Robin Lehner</a> and <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/g/greisth01.html">Thomas Greiss</a> have been, by far, the best goalie tandem in the league. They are third and fifth respectively in save percentage in the league. More importantly they are first and second in the eastern conference. It appears that Robin will be the “hotter” of the two as they enter the final five, and the playoffs. There will be almost no drop off in expectations should the first starter fail. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="810" height="176" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/image-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17088" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/image-1.png 810w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/image-1-300x65.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/image-1-768x167.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span> <br></figcaption></figure> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='C07bVgVsT3xnM73ii0cwNw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1129201293' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'C07bVgVsT3xnM73ii0cwNw',sig:'N86jOH8WBsOI4Srz3Kd0TwruSIZTTJjSqcRddvKrRVU=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1129201293',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">5. The Defense</h3> <p>For the first time in over a decade, maybe two, the Islanders have SEVEN NHL caliber defensemen. The improvements of the young four at the core over the past four months has been exceptional. <a href="https://theathletic.com/877374/2019/03/19/goldman-why-under-barry-trotz-ryan-pulock-is-progressing-into-a-top-defenseman-for-the-islanders/">Ryan Pulock</a> is a legitimate top pairing defenseman who has shown he can play in all situations. That was expected since his pro debut in Bridgeport. But it wasn’t expected from the rest of what could be considered the rest of the top four. Adam Pelech, Scott Mayfield and especially Devon Toews have performed well within the scope of being called NHL “Top Four” defenders. That is status earned by the other three defensemen (Nick Leddy, Johnny Boychuk and Thomas Hickey) years ago. Going into the playoffs with seven NHL defenseman is unfamiliar territory for the NY Islanders. It will present a strong foundation for whoever their opponent might be.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='i9V5rzFRSE9S6D0wJ8w9WQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1091822420' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'i9V5rzFRSE9S6D0wJ8w9WQ',sig:'ttoOk3a8a-8JAYjvi7eqsMpgxG2C66_i4ZjnndfsoCA=',w:'594px',h:'455px',items:'1091822420',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">6. The Centers</h3> <p> The most worrisome part of the team in October was their center group. After losing their 2009 number one overall selection to free agency the organization went into panic mode. They had last year’s Calder Trophy winner, a perennial 20 goal enigma, and the pivot of what was once considered the best fourth line in hockey.</p> <p>If nothing else, Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz are astute assessors of hockey talent. Lou went out and acquired Val Filppula and Jan Kovar to compete with Stephen Gionta and Tanner Fritz for their vacant center roles. They also had some prospects that needed some AHL development. All we, as fans had, was hope and fear… not particularly in that order.</p> <p>What transpired over the next 5 months shows what good leadership and instruction can create from, well, not much. Instead of trying to break scoring records Lou immediately identified the need for two way play by subtracting Kovar from the roster. Barry Trotz has done masterful work transforming Nelson and Barzal into defensively conscious 200 foot players, though young Mr. Barzal is still a work in progress. The acquisition of Filppula was the highlight in hindsight. He became the long sought after replacement for Frans Nielsen by almost every measure. Stephen Gionta basically proved that his time had come and gone.</p> <p>The top four centers have been identified. Nelson, Barzal, Filppula and Cizikas got this team to first place in the Metro Division. They also created some depth at the position. Something nobody thought would ever happen this year.</p> <p>They cut Tanner Fritz late, but knew that he could play in the NHL He’s been proving that as a replacement for injured Val Filppula.</p> <p>One of the more pleasant surprises from Bridgeport this year was the development of Otto Koivula after moving him from wing to center. He still needs some work, but with an off season to work on his skating and another year of AHL work the Islanders could have a legit middle six center in the wings. </p> <p>If they sign Nelson, Filppula and Fritz they should be in a good place going forward. They could fish for something better in July, but more importantly they will probably target a center in June. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">7. The Playoffs</h3> <p>If you’ve gotten this far you understand that the Islanders are playing for position in, rather than to be in, the playoffs. Given their October expectations this is all gravy. It is well beyond even the most optimistic predictions. I consider myself among the most optimistic of fans, and still only had them as a bubble team, about where Columbus is now. Any entry, even a “back in” has got to be looked at as a victory given that lens.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">8. The Draft</h3> <p>Currently the Islander project to be well within range to pick up one of the top centers in the draft. I like the choice presented in TSN’s Mock Draft <a href="http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nhl/news/nhl-mock-draft-2019-senators-rangers-ducks-gain-stock-trade-deadline-edition/4n62ocox915e1374vojas1odx">here</a>. They should have a wider selection earlier in the draft unless they have an incredible playoff run. The one good thing about <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath">“standing pat”</a> at the trade deadline is that they still have all their prospects, and their 2019 first round pick. This may also be a time to shed some contracts (Nick Leddy) for a few more picks. It should be a positive few days for Islanders fans, especially with their scouting staff’s recent June successes.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">9. Free Agency</h3> <p>There are currently 9 <a href="https://www.capfriendly.com/teams/islanders">pending unrestricted free agent</a>s on their roster. They also have over $30M in cap space for 2019-20. I expect them to sign 5 of their UFA’s (Lee, Nelson, Lehner, Filppula, Fritz) at a cost of around $23M per year. Possibly shedding a contract or two, and Andrew Ladd’s likely LTIR status should give them some ammunition to target big game on July 1st. This hasn’t been the case for decades, but the team may be a bit more attractive thanks to the new attitude ushered in by ownership, Lamoriello and Trotz. July will bring, if nothing else, some heightened interest for Islander fans.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">10. 2019-20</h3> <p>Just scroll up. The team should start next season without the 20 game learning curve they had this year. Their biggest question mark might still be their power play. Their defensive and penalty killing issues were certainly addressed and mostly resolved. They should be able to start the season in competition for the Metro Division. Something they didn’t really avail themselves to until December. They already have half their home games scheduled for the Nassau Coliseum and hopefully this year’s success will help improve attendance numbers at Barclay’s Center.</p> <p>Things are looking good. This is no time to panic. It’s time to celebrate a season of improvement and the beginning of the playoff season… something we’ve missed the past two years.</p> <p>Let’s Go Islanders!</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/27/17084/10-reasons-islander-fans-shouldnt-panic">10 Reasons Islander Fans Shouldn’t Panic</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/27/17084/10-reasons-islander-fans-shouldnt-panic/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17084</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Playoff Prep</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/08/17058/playoff-prep</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/08/17058/playoff-prep#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 08 Mar 2019 16:57:07 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playoffs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Roster Moves]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anders Lee]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Michael Dal Colle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[NHL Metro Dicision]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Nick Leddy]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17058</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The Islanders have 15 regular season games remaining before the playoffs. The Metro, and the Eastern conference are too tight to really narrow down an opponent at this point. So let’s look at how the team might best improve themselves… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/08/17058/playoff-prep" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/08/17058/playoff-prep">Playoff Prep</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Islanders have 15 regular season games remaining before the playoffs. The Metro, and the Eastern conference are too tight to really narrow down an opponent at this point. So let’s look at how the team might best improve themselves for the road ahead.</p> <a id='AaeM-neqRqNsxLVbGT80GQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1085109714' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'AaeM-neqRqNsxLVbGT80GQ',sig:'AOVr2Y7_7l3SyB2DbOxxRak_M1JnSDhLahpbjb3iJD4=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1085109714',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Power Play</h2> <p>This has been the achilles heel of the team all year. They are currently operating at 15.63%. That’s more than 4% below the NHL average. There is too much talent on this team to have such an anemic power play. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Power Play Problems</h3> <p><strong>Nick Leddy might be the worst power play point in the league.</strong> He seems to be on the first power play unit solely for zone entries. I’m not really sure why you need your top two centers and a speedy one dimensional defenseman on your first power play unit for zone entries. The Islanders have two other defensmen who can handle zone entries. Either Ryan Pulock or Devon Toews should be able to handle that responsibility. Plus, they both have much better shots, and distribute the puck with much less hesitation.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="772" height="503" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Blocks.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17067" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Blocks.png 772w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Blocks-300x195.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Blocks-768x500.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 772px) 100vw, 772px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure> <p><strong>Creativity is seriously lacking.</strong> The Islanders have one of the more dynamic puck moving and playmaking centers in Mat Barzal. Once possession has been established in the offensive zone his ability to orbit the zone is neutralized. Nothing is gained by circling the perimeter. Passing the puck accomplishes the same thing much faster. There needs to be more movement north and south between the three middle options. This would create more and clearer passing lanes through the “<a href="https://www.msgnetworks.com/2015/03/06/the-royal-road-to-the-future-of-goaltender-analytics/">Royal Road</a>“. It also offers more options to more skilled passers. This is another reason for removing Leddy from the first unit. They could have three primary shooting targets (Pulock, Nelson and Lee) with two distribution hubs (Toews and Barzal) if they’d just give up their tired love affair with Nick Leddy.</p> <p><strong>The second unit could use a boost</strong>. If you remove Toews and Pulock from the second power play unit it will need some “umph”. They will probably still employ the 1-3-1 style as they have in the past. The two units could have very similar features, regardless of players’ position. </p> <p>Barzal and Filppula would be my two low distribution points. Pulock and Eberle would share the RH shot on the LW spots for each unit. Lee and Ladd would be the net front guys, with Nelson and DalColle on the RW. The high D would be Toews on the first unit, and… Thomas Hickey on the second.</p> <p>If this strategy was deployed each piece would be interchangeable between the units. That could serve as a positive in a long series should injuries arise, or just to reward a hot hand. Sometimes just putting a different body out there confuses a defender who may rely on tendencies.</p> <a id='9TuyhVMyS71XWuiUoJmgGQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1097133046' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'9TuyhVMyS71XWuiUoJmgGQ',sig:'2X9-8EDmN2qaXzBBr5TKMR2oEDMebqG30zaHBeER8lk=',w:'594px',h:'431px',items:'1097133046',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Roster</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tweaks</h3> <p><strong>The season can really be broken down into three slices for a playoff team.</strong> The first twenty games or so a coach will try to find the best 23 to ride for the meat of the season. The next forty he lets those players do their best to show they deserve their playing time. The last 20 he either has to ride those 23, or use whatever he’s learned in those 60 games to put together his best nightly lineup for the playoff push. I think that’s where we are now.</p> <p><strong>Michael Dal Colle has earned some trust</strong>, and may offer some offensive upside over Matt Martin. Physical play does not diminish at crunch time, but the ability to find time and space is more sorely needed. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Martin be a healthy scratch in more than 5 of the last 15.</p> <p><strong>Tom Kuhnhackl over Cal Clutterbuck.</strong> There is no denying that Cal is a big part of the success of the “best fourth line in hovkey”. There’s also no denying that he is a step slower the past few years, and it is hurting what could be one of the more productive middle six lines in the league. Any roster change has to be done in respect to special teams. With that in mind we have seen Cizikas paired with Kuhnhackl a little more often as Clutterbuck has been scratched. I think this is a way for Trotz to give himself more roster flexibility going forward.</p> <p><strong>They have to create a real offensively threatening first line.</strong> All year we have seen Mat Barzal switch linemates. There have been the “Killer B’s” (Beauvillier and Bailey) and last year’s highly successful (Beauvillier and Eberle) and currently (Beauvillier and Dal Colle). He’s even played with Ladd and Komarov some. All the while Nelson has been pulling the heavy weight as the number one center.</p> <p>It’s time to try a true number one line. One that can play solid 200 foot hockey, with a puck mover and distributor, and three forwards who can shoot the puck. There has been a reluctance to deploy Lee, Nelson and Barzal on one line because the Islanders have been short a showcase center since that other guy left. Just like Leddy is not a first power play quarterback, Mat Barzal is not a top line center in the NHL just yet. But he could be the right wing for the most dynamic line going into the 2018-19 playoff season. It’s about time we see if that can build some chemistry.</p> <table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td> </td><td>LW</td><td>C</td><td>RW</td></tr><tr><td>L1</td><td>27Lee</td><td>29Nelson</td><td>13Barzal</td></tr><tr><td>L2</td><td>18Beauvillier</td><td>12Bailey</td><td>07Eberle </td></tr><tr><td>L3</td><td>16Ladd</td><td>53Cizikas</td><td>14Kuhnhackl</td></tr><tr><td>L4</td><td>28DalColle</td><td>51Filppula</td><td>47Komarov </td></tr><tr><td>FR</td><td>15Clutterbuck </td><td>17Martin</td><td>32Johnston</td></tr><tr><td> </td><td>LD</td><td>RD</td></tr><tr><td>D1</td><td>03Pelech</td><td>06Pulock</td></tr><tr><td>D2</td><td>04Hickey</td><td>55Boychuk</td></tr><tr><td>D3</td><td>25Toews</td><td>24Mayfield</td></tr><tr><td>DR</td><td>02Leddy</td><td>21Sbisa</td><td>##Seidenberg</td></tr><tr><td>GOAL</td></tr><tr><td>01Greiss</td></tr><tr><td>40Lehner</td></tr></tbody></table> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Pros</h2> <p><strong><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free">Roster flexibil</a>ity</strong> is always a good thing. The two big surprises are obviously swapping Bailey and Barzal positionally, and making Leddy and Hickey interchangeable. </p> <p>Let’s face it, Bailey takes the important draws, and plays the defensive role when with Barzal anyway. A RW can be rather effective as the puck mover and distributor. If you don’t believe that, please stop asking for the Islanders to promote Josh Ho-Sang. He’s never going to be a center.</p> <p>I doubt we’ll see a full time move from Leddy to Hickey. More subtly I think the change will be moving Hickey in for Pelech. The roles should change on special teams. Hickey can handle Pelech’s PK minutes, and add to the second PP unit. Hopefully the addition of Toews and Pulock to the first unit will make folks forget about Leddy. Leddy adds little to the PK, so if you then move Pelech back in, you improve all three phases of the game.</p> <p>The long term gain there is that you might be able to get a late first rounder for Leddy in June. The Islanders now have Toews, Pelech, Hickey, Aho, Wotherspoon and Vande Sompel to play the left side. That $5.5M might come in handy if they are going to sign all of their UFAs and shop for somebody like Duchene in July. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Cons</h3> <p>Mat Barzal, Anthony Beauvillier, Michael Dal Colle, Adam Pelech and Devon Toews have zero NHL playoff experience and Ryan Pulock was mostly a healthy scratch in 2015-16. There will be some learning to do. But what better time to give these kids some experience. This is a season that nobody expected anybody to be adding to their playoff resumes.</p> <p><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath">Upsetting the apple cart</a>. This roster, flawed as it may be, has been good enough to earn first place in the Metro division. Though I understand that, every “playoff” team in the east is playing better in the second half. The Islanders have hit a bit of a lull over the past few weeks. One way out of the lull is by getting back on the horse and playing through it. Another way is to get on a fresh horse. The benefit of the fresh horse is that it will give you a good look into what you have for next year. It may also surprise your opponents. It’s a gamble.</p> <p></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What’s In Store</h2> <p>The Islanders have 15 games left. Only four of them are against teams that are out of playoff hopes. Six if you include the Flyers who are hanging by the thinnest of threads. Let’s say there are nine games left that will test their ability to compete against playoff competition.</p> <p>Their main focus will be to win the Metro Division. That accomplishment comes with home team advantage in the first two rounds. Something they haven’t enjoyed in two decades. To accomplish this they will either need to win out, or they will need some help. They only have one gaim remaining with their closest rivals, the Washington Capitals. That is the last game of the season, and could very likely be the first game of the playoffs.</p> <p>They do have some matchups with possible first round opponents:</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/CBJ/2019.html">(03/11/19) (03/26/19) Columbus.</a></strong> After shoving all their chips into the center of the table the Blue Jackets have been somewhat disappointing. If they lose the second game of thier back to back to Pittsburgh they would really need Montreal to help them out if they want back into the race. </p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/MTL/2019.html">(03/14/19) (03/21/19) Montreal. </a></strong>These two games might mean more to Columbus and Montreal respectively than they do the Islanders. But they will both be stern playoff tests as they are both battling for their playoff lives.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/TOR/2019.html">(04/01/19) Toronto</a></strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/TOR/2019.html">.</a> If Toronto has fallen to the Wild Card spot by this time, this game will be way more important to them, than to the Islanders. They should be preparing for a tough first round with the Bruins. </p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/WSH/2019.html">(04/06/19) Washington</a></strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/WSH/2019.html">.</a> There are a few ways this could happen. The idea that either Pittsburgh or Carolina would pass both teams to win the Metro is highly unlikely (but I’m knocking on my wooden desk, just in case), but it is possible. </p> <p>Our most likely first round opponent is the team currently in that position. The Carolina Hurricanes. They would earn that honor by being the top wild card team. If Washington wins the Metro, they could also finish third and be our first round opponent. Pittsburgh could also do either. We have no games remaining with either team.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="353" height="245" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Scream.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17071" srcset="https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Scream.png 353w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Scream-300x208.png 300w, https://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Scream-250x175.png 250w" sizes="(max-width: 353px) 100vw, 353px" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What To Look Forward To</h2> <p>Hopefully over the next 15 games Barry Trotz and his staff will explore some of these ideas. They may not all work. Maybe none of them will. Some of them may even cause damage to the team’s confidence. But they will keep me from screaming at the TV… especially when I see Nick Leddy continually fumble the puck on the point during an important power play.</p> <p></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/08/17058/playoff-prep">Playoff Prep</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/08/17058/playoff-prep/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17058</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Game Review 20190301 VS WAS: Dead Leg Isles Fall to Caps 1-3</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/02/17023/game-review-20190301-dead-legs-against-washington</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/02/17023/game-review-20190301-dead-legs-against-washington#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 02 Mar 2019 05:01:25 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Capitals]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ovechkin]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17023</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The most important game to date for both the Islanders and Capitals. The Islanders finally played the back end of a back to back like you’re supposed to… tired. Washington finally break the Isles’ D, and Greiss in the third.… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/02/17023/game-review-20190301-dead-legs-against-washington" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/02/17023/game-review-20190301-dead-legs-against-washington">Game Review 20190301 VS WAS: Dead Leg Isles Fall to Caps 1-3</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The most important game to date for both the Islanders and Capitals. The Islanders finally played the back end of a back to back like you’re supposed to… tired. Washington finally break the Isles’ D, and Greiss in the third. A PP goal, a fluke fowl (Emblem joke) tip, and an own goal empty netter by Bailey.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="295" height="251" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Burger.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17055" /><figcaption><span class="media-credit"><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/author/jpinva">John Palmieri</a> | Islesblogger</span></figcaption></figure></div> <p>The IslesBlogger.com game reviews are being done in restaurant review form based on this post about <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow">Lou’s Burger Barn</a>. I hope you enjoy the format. If you have any suggestions or critiques please do so in the comments section. Thanks.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Staff (Lineup Changes)</h2> <table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td> </td><td>LW</td><td>C</td><td>RW</td></tr><tr><td>L1</td><td>27Lee</td><td>29Nelson</td><td>07Eberle </td></tr><tr><td>L2</td><td>18Beauvillier</td><td>13Barzal</td><td>12Bailey</td></tr><tr><td>L3</td><td>32Johnston</td><td>53Cizikas</td><td>15Clutterbuck </td></tr><tr><td>L4</td><td>14Kuhnhackl</td><td>51Filppula</td><td>47Komarov </td></tr><tr><td>FR</td><td>16Ladd</td><td>17Martin</td></tr><tr><td> </td><td>LD</td><td>RD</td></tr><tr><td>D1</td><td>03Pelech</td><td>06Pulock</td></tr><tr><td>D2</td><td>02Leddy</td><td>55Boychuk</td></tr><tr><td>D3</td><td>25Toews</td><td>24Mayfield</td></tr><tr><td>DR</td><td>04Hickey</td><td>21Sbisa</td><td>##Seidenberg</td></tr><tr><td>GOAL</td></tr><tr><td>01Greiss</td></tr><tr><td>40Lehner</td></tr></tbody></table> <p><strong>Kuhnhackl in for Ladd</strong></p> <p><strong>Johnston in for Martin</strong></p> <p><strong>Greiss starts back end of B2B</strong></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lou’s Burger of the Game (Hero)</h2> <p><strong>Thomas Greiss</strong> played a solid game. There was no real hero here. This team looked exhausted all night. With the exception of a few bursts they played the whole game in their defensive zone. When you do that you’re goaltender hast to keep you in the game. He did.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Into the Chili (Goat)</h2> <p><strong>Josh Bailey.</strong> As much as I would have liked this to have been Nick Leddy for officially becoming the Islanders SIXTH defenseman, I couldn’t do it. Bailey scored an own goal empty netter. You gotta get the goat when you do that. You just have to.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Salad Bar (Random Thoughts About the Game)</h2> <p><strong>No legs. </strong>We’ve seen it a few times. The Islanders just had no legs tonight. They played way too much of the game in their own zone.</p> <p>The goaltending matchup was Thomas Greiss vs the pipes. Three posts hit by the Islanders. Greiss played well. He let up two but it could have very well been 5-1 even before the third started.</p> <p>The Killer B’s (Beau-Barzal-Bailey) look like they’re gonna be around to generate offense. This could be the first line, or it could be the fourth line. It all depends on how other teams match up. If they clog up the neutral zone, like Washington is going to do, then they are not net effective. Too many neutral zone turnovers because of too many bad neutral zone decisions.</p> <p>I had to watch the Washington feed because CAPS games are blacked out in my area on NHL.TV. Have to take two aspirin per period to listen to Laughlin. He spent a whole hour talking about how the Kuhnhackl goal was offsides… thank Bossy they scored their fluke goal (Ovechkin’s Foul Tip) so he could stop whining.</p> <p>I get the feeling that Barry Trotz knows <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/w/wilsoto01.html">Tom Wilson</a> is afraid of Ross Johnston. He gave Matt Martin the night off after a very physical game against the Leafs. Tom Wilson responded by being a pussy cat all night. Make a note of that if the two teams should meet in the playoffs. </p> <p>The war of attrition. These games have gone back to being neutral zone battles. The Caps clearly won the majority of those battles tonight. I’m not sure if they will should both teams battle rested. Ladd and Martin will make a difference in that regard. </p> <p>Ii think this game was evidence that the road to the cup will be going through Long Island. Even on a hangover night, the Isles kept Washington off the board for 40+ minutes.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bubbly (Playoff Status)</h2> <table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td>TEAM</td><td>W </td><td>L </td><td>OT </td><td>P </td><td> PPG </td><td>PRJ</td><td>GR</td><td>LCD</td><td>PO</td></tr><tr><td>ATL</td><td>A0</td></tr><tr><td>TBL</td><td>49</td><td>12</td><td>4</td><td>102</td><td> 1.569 </td><td>129</td><td>17</td><td>20</td><td>A1</td></tr><tr><td>BOS</td><td>38</td><td>17</td><td>9</td><td>85</td><td> 1.328 </td><td>109</td><td>18</td><td>12</td><td>A2</td></tr><tr><td>TOR</td><td>39</td><td>21</td><td>4</td><td>82</td><td> 1.281 </td><td>105</td><td>18</td><td>11</td><td>A3</td></tr><tr><td>MET</td><td>M0</td></tr><tr><td>NYI</td><td>37</td><td>20</td><td>7</td><td>81</td><td> 1.266 </td><td>104</td><td>18</td><td>10</td><td>M1</td></tr><tr><td>WAS</td><td>37</td><td>21</td><td>7</td><td>81</td><td> 1.246 </td><td>102</td><td>17</td><td>9</td><td>M2</td></tr><tr><td>CBJ</td><td>36</td><td>24</td><td>3</td><td>75</td><td> 1.190 </td><td>98</td><td>19</td><td>8</td><td>M3</td></tr><tr><td>WC</td><td>W0</td></tr><tr><td>MON</td><td>35</td><td>23</td><td>7</td><td>77</td><td> 1.185 </td><td>97</td><td>17</td><td>7</td><td>W1</td></tr><tr><td>PIT</td><td>33</td><td>22</td><td>8</td><td>74</td><td> 1.175 </td><td>96</td><td>19</td><td>8</td><td>W2</td></tr><tr><td>OUT</td><td>XX</td></tr><tr><td>CAR</td><td>34</td><td>23</td><td>6</td><td>74</td><td> 1.175 </td><td>96</td><td>19</td><td>8</td></tr><tr><td>PHI</td><td>31</td><td>26</td><td>8</td><td>70</td><td> 1.077 </td><td>88</td><td>17</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>FLA</td><td>28</td><td>25</td><td>10</td><td>66</td><td> 1.048 </td><td>86</td><td>19</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>BUF</td><td>29</td><td>26</td><td>8</td><td>66</td><td> 1.048 </td><td>86</td><td>19</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>NYR</td><td>27</td><td>27</td><td>10</td><td>64</td><td> 1.000 </td><td>82</td><td>18</td><td>2</td></tr><tr><td>NJD</td><td>25</td><td>32</td><td>8</td><td>58</td><td> 0.892 </td><td>73</td><td>17</td><td>-2</td></tr><tr><td>DET</td><td>23</td><td>32</td><td>9</td><td>55</td><td> 0.859 </td><td>70</td><td>18</td><td>-3</td></tr><tr><td>OTT</td><td>22</td><td>37</td><td>5</td><td>49</td><td> 0.766 </td><td>63</td><td>18</td><td>-6</td></tr></tbody></table> <p>The Caps move into a tie with the Isles for first, but the Isles have a game in hand.</p> <p>Montreal beat the Rangers tonight to jump ahead of PIT and CAR for the first wild card position. They would be the Islanders’ first round opponent if the playoffs started today. That will probably change every time I do a game review.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dessert (What’s Coming Up)</h2> <p><strong>PHI (03/03/19)</strong> The Flyers are hanging on to their playoffs hopes by a thread. They can only lose four games with 18 remaining to make the bubble. They know where they are, that’s why Simmonds is in Nashville.</p> <p><strong>OTT (03/05/19) </strong>Since my last review OTT fired their coach Guy Boucher and replaced him with fiery Marc Crawford. Seems a little odd to name an interim coach at this point. I think we can all assume that Ottawa is just getting a jump on the next five years. </p> <p><strong>@OTT (03/07/19)</strong> Home in home with the wounded dog.</p> <p><strong>@PHI (03/09/19) </strong>Philadelphia could be completely out of the race by the time we get an eyeful of Gritty, or they could be back in it. A lot will depend on the Islanders and the Capitals not playing down to their level. But they have been awfully hot lately. </p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/02/17023/game-review-20190301-dead-legs-against-washington">Game Review 20190301 VS WAS: Dead Leg Isles Fall to Caps 1-3</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/02/17023/game-review-20190301-dead-legs-against-washington/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17023</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Post Game 20190228 VS TOR: We Don’t Need You</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/01/17012/20190228-vs-tor-we-dont-need-you</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/01/17012/20190228-vs-tor-we-dont-need-you#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 01 Mar 2019 05:23:35 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barry Trotz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Casey Cizikas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[John Tavares]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Toronto Maple Leafs]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=17012</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The return of John Tavares to Fort Neverlose was something special. A 6-1 Victory that was nothing short of spectacular.   LW C RW L1 27Lee 29Nelson 07Eberle  L2 18Beauvillier 13Barzal 12Bailey L3 17Martin 53Cizikas 15Clutterbuck  L4 16Ladd 51Filppula 47Komarov … <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/01/17012/20190228-vs-tor-we-dont-need-you" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/01/17012/20190228-vs-tor-we-dont-need-you">Post Game 20190228 VS TOR: We Don’t Need You</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Thinker.png" alt="" class="wp-image-16913" /></figure> <p><strong>The return of John Tavares to Fort Neverlose was something special. A 6-1 Victory that was nothing short of spectacular. </strong></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Staff (Lineup Changes)</h2> <table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td> </td><td>LW</td><td>C</td><td>RW</td></tr><tr><td>L1</td><td>27Lee</td><td>29Nelson</td><td>07Eberle </td></tr><tr><td>L2</td><td>18Beauvillier</td><td>13Barzal</td><td>12Bailey</td></tr><tr><td>L3</td><td>17Martin</td><td>53Cizikas</td><td>15Clutterbuck </td></tr><tr><td>L4</td><td>16Ladd</td><td>51Filppula</td><td>47Komarov </td></tr><tr><td>FR</td><td>32Johnston</td><td>14Kuhnhackl</td></tr><tr><td> </td><td>LD</td><td>RD</td></tr><tr><td>D1</td><td>03Pelech</td><td>06Pulock</td></tr><tr><td>D2</td><td>02Leddy</td><td>55Boychuk</td></tr><tr><td>D3</td><td>25Toews</td><td>24Mayfield</td></tr><tr><td>DR</td><td>04Hickey</td><td>21Sbisa</td><td>##Seidenberg</td></tr><tr><td> </td><td>GOAL</td></tr><tr><td> </td><td>40Lehner</td></tr><tr><td> </td><td>01Greiss</td></tr></tbody></table> <p><strong>Mayfield in for Hickey</strong></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lou’s Burger of the Game (Hero)</h2> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/cizikca01.html"><strong>Casey Cizikas</strong></a><strong>.</strong> There are a lot of candidates for the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_New_York_Islanders_award_winners#Bob_Nystrom_Award">Bobby Nystrom Award</a> this year, but it’s nights like tonight that people will put on the highlight reel when they hand him that award. 19th goal is a shorty. Shut down Johnny Pajama when they were on the ice together, and smiled every second of the game. Man that guy must go through a ton of toothpaste.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Into the Chili (Goat)</h2> <p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Gruden">Joh<strong>n Gruden</strong></a><strong> and </strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/leddyni01.html"><strong>Nick Leddy</strong></a><strong> are gonna share this until </strong>there is a spectacularly bad game by an Islander, or an opponent. They share it because Nick Leddy should not be on the PP1. He is there for zone entries. But even when he makes a nice one, he becomes the dog that caught the car. “Okay, now what do I do?” . He is now officially the 6th defenseman.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Salad Bar (Random Thoughts About the Game)</h2> <p><strong>The much anticipated crowd reaction to John Tavares’ return to the barn did not disappoint.</strong> When Tavares had the puck the crowd booed enough for it to be audible on the TV broadcast. “We Don’T Need You” pretty much says it all. In his defense, as he was until July 1, 2018 Johnny Pajamas was a class act all the way. Acknowledging the Islanders, and the fans after the tribute and sulking through the post gamer… Stan must be in Israel.</p> <p><strong>The</strong><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/leddyni01.html"><strong> Islanders controlled momentum</strong></a><strong> for last two thirds of the game.</strong> I’d say they were on the right side of the puck, and playing physically for at least 45 minutes. That’s the way it’s got to be until June. By HDCF% the momentum swing didn’t happen until the second period, but by physicality it started within a minute of puck drop.</p> <p><strong>The chants of “A-Hole” were a little much.</strong> I think “We Don’t Need You” was a HR. “A-Hole” was a foul tip third strike. a.k.a. a bad bunt with bases loaded and two outs.</p> <p><strong>The hits just keep on coming.</strong> The #Isles have been know for their physicality ever since the first time MC^2 was put together. It’s been a while, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen a game this one sidedly violent, with so few penalties. Great job!</p> <p><strong>Barry Trotz understands the value of momentum.</strong> This team had hit a bit of a lull. This game was going to be incredible no matter what 18 he threw out there, or how he threw them out there. But he’s starting to show why standing pat at the<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath"> deadline</a>, was able to <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free">generate offense for free</a>.</p> <p><strong>Mayfield and Toews are playing out of their minds.</strong> The balance of a strong stay at home defenseman and an offensive minded D is special. It’s what was in mind when the Isles first paired Leddy and Boychuck. But Scott and Devon are starting to build something special. Because they both have enough of their counter-attributes to show those talents every night. Mayfield had at least three rushes from the defensive zone through the offensive zone, that result in a shot, or good possession time. I’m looking right at you Nick Leddy. We know you have it in you.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bubbly (Playoff Status)</h2> <table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td>TEAM</td><td>W </td><td>L </td><td>OT </td><td>P </td><td> PPG </td><td>PRJ</td><td>GR</td><td>LCD</td><td>PO</td></tr><tr><td>ATL</td><td>A0</td></tr><tr><td>TBL</td><td>49</td><td>12</td><td>4</td><td>102</td><td> 1.569 </td><td>129</td><td>17</td><td>20</td><td>A1</td></tr><tr><td>BOS</td><td>38</td><td>17</td><td>9</td><td>85</td><td> 1.328 </td><td>109</td><td>18</td><td>12</td><td>A2</td></tr><tr><td>TOR</td><td>39</td><td>21</td><td>4</td><td>82</td><td> 1.281 </td><td>105</td><td>18</td><td>11</td><td>A3</td></tr><tr><td>MET</td><td>M0</td></tr><tr><td>NYI</td><td>37</td><td>19</td><td>7</td><td>81</td><td> 1.286 </td><td>105</td><td>19</td><td>11</td><td>M1</td></tr><tr><td>WAS</td><td>36</td><td>21</td><td>7</td><td>79</td><td> 1.234 </td><td>101</td><td>18</td><td>9</td><td>M2</td></tr><tr><td>CBJ</td><td>36</td><td>24</td><td>3</td><td>75</td><td> 1.190 </td><td>98</td><td>19</td><td>8</td><td>M3</td></tr><tr><td>WC</td><td>W0</td></tr><tr><td>PIT</td><td>33</td><td>22</td><td>8</td><td>74</td><td> 1.175 </td><td>96</td><td>19</td><td>8</td><td>W1</td></tr><tr><td>CAR</td><td>34</td><td>23</td><td>6</td><td>74</td><td> 1.175 </td><td>96</td><td>19</td><td>8</td><td>W2</td></tr><tr><td>OUT</td><td>XX</td></tr><tr><td>MON</td><td>34</td><td>23</td><td>7</td><td>75</td><td> 1.172 </td><td>96</td><td>18</td><td>7</td></tr><tr><td>PHI</td><td>30</td><td>26</td><td>8</td><td>68</td><td> 1.063 </td><td>87</td><td>18</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>FLA</td><td>28</td><td>25</td><td>9</td><td>65</td><td> 1.048 </td><td>86</td><td>20</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>BUF</td><td>29</td><td>26</td><td>8</td><td>66</td><td> 1.048 </td><td>86</td><td>19</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>NYR</td><td>27</td><td>26</td><td>10</td><td>64</td><td> 1.016 </td><td>83</td><td>19</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>NJD</td><td>25</td><td>31</td><td>8</td><td>58</td><td> 0.906 </td><td>74</td><td>18</td><td>-1</td></tr><tr><td>DET</td><td>23</td><td>32</td><td>9</td><td>55</td><td> 0.859 </td><td>70</td><td>18</td><td>-3</td></tr><tr><td>OTT</td><td>22</td><td>37</td><td>5</td><td>49</td><td> 0.766 </td><td>63</td><td>18</td><td>-6</td></tr></tbody></table> <p><strong>The bubble is currently 96. </strong>The Islanders only need 15 points with 19 games to go. This is no time to coast, but they could. Making the playoffs is not a concern at the moment. What they will do battle for every night is HTA.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dessert (What’s Coming Up)</h2> <p><strong>WAS (03/01/19)</strong> The Islanders are now two points ahead of the Washington Capitals with only a game in hand. This will be the most important game to date for Barry Trotz’ Isles. This game will probably determine whether it’s a two team race for first, or a battle between WAS, CBJ and PIT for home team advantage in the Metro’s second playoff pairing.</p> <p><strong>PHI (03/03/19)</strong> The Flyers are hanging on to their playoffs hopes by a thread. They can only lose four games with 18 remaining to make the bubble. They know where they are, that’s why Simmonds is in Nashville.</p> <p><strong>OTT (03/05/19) </strong>Since my last review OTT fired their coach Guy Boucher and replaced him with fiery Marc Crawford. Seems a little odd to name an interim coach at this point. I think we can all assume that Ottawa is just getting a jump on the next five years. </p> <p></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/01/17012/20190228-vs-tor-we-dont-need-you">Post Game 20190228 VS TOR: We Don’t Need You</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/03/01/17012/20190228-vs-tor-we-dont-need-you/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17012</post-id> </item> <item> <title>The Stars Align For Tavares’s Return</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/27/16998/the-stars-align-for-tavaress-return</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/27/16998/the-stars-align-for-tavaress-return#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Michael Schuerlein]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2019 16:26:25 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Ex-Isles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Hot Headlines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anders Lee]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barry Trotz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[islesblogger]]></category> <category><![CDATA[John Tavares]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Kevin Connolly]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mat Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New York Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[NHL]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ralph Macchio]]></category> <category><![CDATA[The Isles Faithful]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=16998</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>This is it, well just about. We’ve waited 7 months for tomorrow night – the return of all returns, or the biggest revenge game in a long time, at least. I’m talking about John Tavares’s return to Long Island, to… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/27/16998/the-stars-align-for-tavaress-return" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/27/16998/the-stars-align-for-tavaress-return">The Stars Align For Tavares’s Return</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/image.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17003" width="350" height="194"/></figure></div> <p>This is it, well just about.</p> <p>We’ve waited 7 months for tomorrow night – the return of all returns, or the biggest revenge game in a long time, at least. I’m talking about John Tavares’s return to Long Island, to where it all began at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.</p> <p>This season has been one for the record books in a sense, as the Islanders have been playing pretty solid hockey for large stretches of the season. Well, save for the recent struggles over the last five games.</p> <p>I say that because not a single person expected the Islanders to do what they’ve been doing this season. Not me. Not you. Not even the Coach and GM.</p> <p>Barry Trotz and his staff have had the Isles near the top and AT THE TOP of the Metropolitan Division for a while now. Yes, the Capitals are now tied in points, but the Islanders have fewer games played. They face the Caps on Friday, good times.</p> <p>Yesterday was a strange day for fans – News12 Long Island came out with the “video” that was the worst Dear John letter anyone could’ve asked for. It was embarrassing. (I refuse to link to it)</p> <p>So embarrassing that it went viral and seemingly all of the Canadian market ran with it. That’s the life of an Isles fan, the good times are barely covered, but when theres a chance to fire torpedos when theres a rough patch, well – it happens. Whatever, this too shall pass.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’ve never felt more misrepresented in my entire life. How about you guys? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isles?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isles</a></p>— Michael Schuerlein (@islesblogger) <a href="https://twitter.com/islesblogger/status/1100448280905949185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div></figure> <p>For the last few weeks fans have been speaking about what type of response JT should receive on his return. They’ve come up with various chants and taunts. I just hope it doesn’t get over the top. I’m not alone in this line of thinking, as some of the more well known fans of the Islanders have come out with similar sentiments over the last day or so. </p> <p>Here’s a Tweet by Long Island’s Kevin Connolly:</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dear Islanders fans,<br>Please don’t yell at me. I’m just thinking out loud. Maybe we should take the high road Thursday night when JT returns to the Coliseum. The future is bright for our team. Let’s show the league that we’re all class… (cue the mean tweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NYIslanders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NYIslanders</a></p>— Kevin Connolly (@mrkevinconnolly) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrkevinconnolly/status/1100515837759221760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div></figure> <p>And another by Ralph Macchio:</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">On board with that. I’ll be there to cheer the 2019 Isles. Best response to JT in the house. Win the game! <a href="https://t.co/laLmUn6KtE">https://t.co/laLmUn6KtE</a></p>— Ralph Macchio (@ralphmacchio) <a href="https://twitter.com/ralphmacchio/status/1100520748656013313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div></figure> <p>Even the former Calder Winning Islanders Defenseman Bryan Berard had this to say:</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Islanders fans I agree. <a href="https://t.co/L8MEluwa7x">https://t.co/L8MEluwa7x</a></p>— Bryan Berard (@BryanBerard) <a href="https://twitter.com/BryanBerard/status/1100592951896481794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2019</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div></figure> <p>I would love if we could take the high road. I know there are a lot of people who are upset about this, and I was too – I mean I created <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="The Isles Faithful Podcast (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.theislesfaithful.com" target="_blank">The Isles Faithful Podcast</a> because of John’s letter to fans. But after seeing what fans did against the Maple Leafs during the 2003 playoff series, I hope it doesn’t get to THAT level.</p> <p>I’m not going to tell you all how to feel – that’s not how I roll. But try to be respectable. I do know the Islanders plan to honor his years on the Island with a tribute video as well, so there’s going to be lots of emotions on both sides of the ice tomorrow night.</p> <p>I very much just want this all to be in the rearview, a blip in history that one day we can look back on and say – THIS was the moment that the Islanders as an organization turned the corner and got back to respectability. We’re certainly headed in the right direction there.</p> <p>John Tavares was supposed to be the Islanders savior. Instead, his leaving may have done more for saving the franchise then his staying put. Funny how life works sometimes. </p> <p>WINNING tomorrow is the best and most adequate response. As fans we just have to cheer the boys on and make the building as loud as possible for them.</p> <p>The next step, playoffs. Winning heals all wounds after all.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/27/16998/the-stars-align-for-tavaress-return">The Stars Align For Tavares’s Return</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/27/16998/the-stars-align-for-tavaress-return/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">16998</post-id> </item> <item> <title>NHL Trade Deadline 2019: The Aftermath</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2019 14:56:02 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Free Agency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playoffs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Prospects]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Roster Moves]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trade Deadline]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anders Lee]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brock Nelson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Josh Ho-Sang]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Matt Duchene]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Noah Dobson]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=16923</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p> What Happened at the Deadline? Today was Lou Lamoriello’s first trade deadline day with the NY Islanders. From all indications he pushed a few offers, but could not find the appropriate deal to add to the Burger Barn’s menu.… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath">NHL Trade Deadline 2019: The Aftermath</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> </p><h2>What Happened at the Deadline?</h2><p>Today was Lou Lamoriello’s first trade deadline day with the NY Islanders. From all indications he pushed a few offers, but could not find the appropriate deal to add to the <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow">Burger Barn’s </a>menu. Something that has happened in Islanders Country a lot over the past decade of deadlines.</p><p>Mike also details the day on the<a href="http://www.theislesfaithful.com/"> The Isles Faithful Podcast Episode 25</a>.</p><p>The last splash was in 2006 when Garth Snow sent a bag of non-magic beans to Edmonton for <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/s/smythry01.html">Ryan Smyth</a>. What he ended up with was poke check into the playoffs, and first round ouster by a superior Buffalo team. He didn’t give up much, and upon Captain Canada’s teary-eyed departure he didn’t gain much in return. Much like that day an adequate bargain was obtained. The Islanders gave up nothing, and got nothing in return.</p> <a id='hmGIM8DlSnBbFvdko46DcA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/981680106' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'hmGIM8DlSnBbFvdko46DcA',sig:'H8TBqZ32w4-enKDwWeFD6AZHjG7niH5gVDOkKaVRQFI=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'981680106',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why Did it Happen?</h3> <p>Lou has a relatively young first place team that isbuying into a new system. They’re not only in first, but they are on a post learningcurve trajectory that should keep them there. Even if other teams have improvedthemselves at the deadline, the Islanders GAVE NOTHING AWAY.</p> <p>Their biggest assets are still mysteries. But what we do know of them is that they all fit into the current scheme. Most would think that Anthony Beauvillier would have been on the block for some of the bigger fish. But I also assume that there would have had to be some kind of extension behind a deal involving Beau. Lou would not have given away a 20G RFA with center potential for a rental.</p> <p>The Islanders have been short on right handed defensemenfor as long as I’ve been a fan… and that’s a pretty long time. The other two itemson most price lists would have been Dobson and/or Wilde. You can flip a coin(it had better be three sided) because one of Pulock, Dobson or Wilde will beon a Norris list within five years. It’s too early to tell which one of the “prospects”will be on that list, so they’re both too valuable to be traded for a rental. </p> <p>As I pointed out<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining"> earlier this year</a>, there were some names that were most likely available. Lou just couldn’t find the right mix of picks, those prospects, a target and a seller’s consent. </p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/You-Are-Here.png" alt="" class="wp-image-16977" width="348" height="353"/></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Where Are They Now?</h3> <p></p> <p>The Islanders <a href="https://www.nhl.com/standings/2018/wildcard">lead the Washington Capitals by two points</a>, and have two games in hand. At this point it’s basically a three-horse race for first with Columbus making a late run. The Blue Jackets helped themselves immensely by not giving up any important roster players, and acquiring Matt Duchene, Adam McQuaid and Keith Kinkaid. This very well could become a dogfight or a walkover in the next two weeks. The <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/NYI/2019_games.html">Isles’ schedule</a> is littered with division rivals and they have two more games with Washington (3/1, @ 4/6) and Columbus (3/11 and @ 3/26). Those games will be paramount. The final game against Washington could determine home team advantage for the first round. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Where Do They Go From Here?</h3> <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbhCPt6PZIU">There are a few paths they can go by</a>, but in the long run… they need to think of building a team for their new arena. The first step in that is seeing what you have on the current roster. </p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Some Questions About The Future</h4> <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbhCPt6PZIU"></a>Where does <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/b/beauvan01.html">Anthony Beauvillier</a> fit in the Islanders’ future? Is he a top six wing? Can he be a bottom six center? Can he eventually replace a guy like Val Filppula? Can he become the next Butch Goring? Can he win a face-off? Will they ever use him to kill penalties?</p> <p>Will <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/h/hosanjo01.html">Josh Ho-Sang</a> ever get his act together? I’m not one who is going to say I know ANYTHING about Josh’s situation beyond what out on the surface. The young man has amazing talent, and when he throws that on the ice with full focus and the full effort of his physical abilities he’s a force. When he loses that focus, he has had some issues that keep him off the ice all together. I personally want to see him with guys like Ladd, Lee, Nelson and Beau. He has to earn NHL playing time to do that. Maybe there is one last gasp this season to see if they can put some trust in him. It will make a big difference to his first RFA deal, what they do with Eberle, and whether he is an Islander after June.</p> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/d/dalcomi01.html">Is Michael Dal Colle</a> a full time NHL player. He had a very good NHL showing. I think he earned a full time NHL gig next year. He might even make a cameo later in the season and possibly the playoffs. Does he have a “beast mode”. He certainly has showed it in the AHL, and he has shown plenty of “moments of confidence” against NHL vets. It will be fun to watch him evolve as a player.</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='5jaQTmyPRFdCJ17zN7-qhQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1067231240' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'5jaQTmyPRFdCJ17zN7-qhQ',sig:'WwgEW_46Qn4-ppxIZ2KC8ioezcvouASLmTptAKLtCis=',w:'594px',h:'437px',items:'1067231240',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Off The IR</h4> <p><a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/19/16758/ladd-hickey-depth-flexibility">How do they re-assemble the puzzle with their returning pieces</a>? I’m gonna push for the<a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free"> BrockLeeBar</a> line until it happens, or they give us BrockHoLee. Lee and Nelson have been very good with Jordan Eberle, but they are not creating scoring chances at a first line clip. The Isles have been pretty good at 5v5 scoring (but not defending) over the past 4 years. They need a number one line again.</p> <p>This year, neither top line has really stood out as a scoring threat. The Nelson line, however, has scored more than they have given up, and that is a rarity in recent Isles history. They need to shuffle that a bit. Andew Ladd will help that. I’m sure Trotz will be reluctant to break up what works with Lee+Nelson+Eberle. I expect to see it eventually. It could be a big boost in the second season.</p> <p>Hickey will eventually be paired with an recent partner. It could be with Mayfield as a solid enough third pair. When that happens you can create a single offensive pairing that can defend the neutral and defensive zones as well. Everybody that has watched Bridgeport games for the last four years knew it had to happen eventually. Pulock and Toews for 15 minutes a night at 5v5. Make it happen!</p> <div class="getty aligncenter"><a id='G6JeC37yTDdGAeQkl_7Xqw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1093309662' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'G6JeC37yTDdGAeQkl_7Xqw',sig:'xqc6ufEgH1y0NHSQaCdU_LopknD0vLKaBFrL640FnIQ=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1093309662',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">July?</h3> <p>We still have a handful of very important unrestrictedfree agents. Lou has passed the sell by date. Now he has a few months to signthem. No panic. My opinion… in order of importance.</p> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/leean01.html">Anders Lee</a>. He’s their captain. He’s our captain. Don’t let two consecutive July’s mark the Islanders losing a captain. This one would be worse than the last one. All evidence points to Lee being an Islander through and through… so it would be on Lou if they lost him.</p> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/lehnero01.html">Robin Lehner</a> was the biggest question mark when the season started. He has become the biggest exclamation point. He should be part of their goaltending future.</p> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/n/nelsobr01.html">Brock Nelson</a>. Even I thought he was a trade deadline goner in October. But Brock+structure+team buy in has been the biggest surprise of the season. If anybody thought in October that Lee, Nelson and Eberle would be the #1 line of a first place team raise your hand. Yeah, I didn’t think so. Brock has quietly (maybe invisibly) contributed 20G a year for 5 years. Now he’s in the locomotive, certainly not a passenger. He’s going to want conductor pay. Given the market for top six centers that can shoot and create from the forecheck, he’s going to get it. This is going to be a tough negotiation, but I think they come out with a solid 5 year deal.</p> <p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/f/filppva01.html">Val Filppula</a>. The Isles will have almost as many signed options at third line center next year as they did last year. None. I advocated for some AHL training for Beau, but that wasn’t popular. Now here we are. Val has been great. Way better than expected. They do not have another option ready in Bridgeport. <a href="http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=191466">Otto Koivula</a> will get games next year, probably. You can’t rely on him yet. I think Val will be an early July signing after Lou gets to troll the waters a bit. If he lands Matt Duchene they are done. They have the resources to do it.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Post-Apocolypse.png" alt="" class="wp-image-16978"/></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Post Apocalypse Outlook</h3> <p>All in all I’d say the Islanders came out of this okay.They go into the playoffs with a few new weapons to deploy. They also get tobattle test some players with very little or no playoff experience. If theycome out of it better players win win. If they win win, then Yes Yes Yes!!!</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath">NHL Trade Deadline 2019: The Aftermath</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/26/16923/nhl-trade-deadline-2019-aftermath/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">16923</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Isles Scouts Have Busy Month</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/20/16953/isles-scouts-have-busy-month</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/20/16953/isles-scouts-have-busy-month#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Michael Schuerlein]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2019 14:05:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trade Deadline]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Andrew Ladd]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anthony Beauvillier]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barry Trotz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brock Nelson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Casey Cizikas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Garth Snow]]></category> <category><![CDATA[islesblogger]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Leo Komarov]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lou Lamoriello]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Matt Duchene]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Michael Schuerlein]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New York Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[NHL Trade Deadline]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pro Scouts]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Robin Lehner]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomas Greiss]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomas Hickey]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomas Kuhnackl]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trades]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Valteri Filppula]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=16953</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>This has been an interesting season for the New York Islanders, in multiple areas. It’s been a whirlwind for sure, since the summer when you-know-who decided to go north to Toronto. Back then, fans and media alike thought that this… <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/20/16953/isles-scouts-have-busy-month" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/20/16953/isles-scouts-have-busy-month">Isles Scouts Have Busy Month</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This has been an interesting season for the New York Islanders, in multiple areas. It’s been a whirlwind for sure, since the summer when <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="you-know-who (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2018/07/03/16639/media-and-former-player-reaction-to-tavaress-departure-part-one" target="_blank">you-know-who </a>decided to go north to Toronto.</p> <div class="getty alignleft"><a id='-m4NhUdISn1jIs0TE6u2pw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1128785370' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'-m4NhUdISn1jIs0TE6u2pw',sig:'C8i4N--Akp3aZoDhVAlWh3Di7oTKuudUAaBbtGg9c4c=',w:'306px',h:'204px',items:'1128785370',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <p>Back then, fans and media alike thought that this season was going to be an off year as the Islanders re-tooled and licked their wounds from that free agency snafu.</p> <p>What everyone couldn’t expect was how Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz would take this team, and the “fourth line, grinder” singings of Valteri Filppula, Leo Komarov and Thomas Khunackl and whip them into a team that would be tough to play against, give up the fewest shots and goals against. Especially not after this team was dead last in the league in both categories last year.</p> <p>Who else would’ve guessed that Casey Cizikas could potentially hit the 20 goal mark? Or Brock Nelson would play well outside of <del>Brocktober</del>, I mean October. Same for the Vezina calibre play by Thomas Greiss and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Robin Lehner (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2018/10/09/16721/all-the-feels-lehner-earns-shutout-in-islanders-debut" target="_blank">Robin Lehner</a>? Nobody really. But that’s exactly what is happening, and more.</p> <div class="getty alignright"><a id='JY5rEvoXRHNvQAfqEO1eEQ' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1130522245' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'JY5rEvoXRHNvQAfqEO1eEQ',sig:'_VE-sRC2g1yFdyWIGH7i9ryEeP_-Dfo_4KJK_AAJYT8=',w:'306px',h:'194px',items:'1130522245',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <p><a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="The Islanders are first in the Metropolitan Division (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.theislesfaithful.com/2019/02/14/episode-24-jillian-fisher-talks-isles/" target="_blank">The Islanders are first in the Metropolitan Division</a>, and have sat here for the last few weeks. </p> <p>As <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="JP wrote here yesterday (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/19/16758/ladd-hickey-depth-flexibility" target="_blank">JP wrote here yesterday</a>, Thomas Hickey and Andrew Ladd are close to returning from injury. That <strong>COULD</strong> be a large boon for the Islanders as they approach the trade deadline in just five days. But will these be the only “acquistions”? I don’t think so. and neither does anyone else apparently.</p> <p>Let’s take a look at what the Islanders scouts have been doing this month (Disclaimer: Some of this could be advanced scouting as the Isles will see some of these teams in a week or two).</p> <p>From what I’ve been able to piece together – the Islanders have had scouts at the following games over the last week (and likely more if we go back further) :</p> <ul><li>2/11/19 – Penguins/Flyers</li><li>2/12/19 – Knights/Coyotes</li><li>2/14/19 – Canucks/Kings (Face Vancouver on this road trip)</li><li>2/16/19 – Blackhawks/Blue Jackets</li><li>2/16/19 – Kings/Bruins</li><li>2/17/19 – Ducks/Capitals</li><li>2/18/19 – <strong>Ken Morrow</strong> at Blackhawks/Senators</li></ul> <p>So what does this mean exactly?</p> <p>This Islanders team – isn’t the same one fans are used to. Not by a long shot. </p> <p>Under previous management, Garth Snow would come out this time of year and claim he “kicked tires” and “explored every option to improve the team” but only make small, non-impact moves – even when it was clear he needed to do more.</p> <p>This time around, with Lou Lamoriello at the helm AND when the team has a clear lead in the division while playing very well – fans can expect to see some addition down the stretch. There aren’t MANY holes to fill, but the opportunity to get help on the power play (a huge need right now), or add that veteran forward or defender will certainly be a help.</p> <p>Some names I’ve seen mentioned – Gustav Nyquist, Adam Henrique, Jacob Silfverberg, Ilya Kovalchuk, Tyler Toffoli, Marcus Johansson (A former Trotz guy!), Wayne Simmonds, Derek Brassard, Charlie Coyle. The obvious ones too, Artemi Panarin, Matt Duchene and Mark Stone. There’s always a chance a name is involved that nobody knows about, too.</p> <p>You even have reports that the biggest fish in the free agent pool will be willing to sign or at least discuss an extension with the team that lands him, not to say the Isles will target Matt Duchene – but it’s fun to think what his addition could do for the teams depth and play moving forward.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Per sources, assuming he's traded by the deadline, Matt Duchene is open to the idea of signing a contract extension with the acquiring team. <a href="https://t.co/Ehkt7BWBBG">https://t.co/Ehkt7BWBBG</a></p>— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheFourthPeriod/status/1097929945731477505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2019</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div></figure> <p>I still think the Islanders will be the most active with the larger pool of free agents this July, but with reports of the team willing to move their first round pick this summer and a few prospects in the pool the stage is set for some kind of move.</p> <div class="getty alignleft"><a id='dxq3ZkmFQ-NCZONuUm3eMw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1094714468' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'dxq3ZkmFQ-NCZONuUm3eMw',sig:'oeb2Zh3RxfaFFKEb37xi5DbC9Ww7AG_Y68FxiF9CdXM=',w:'282px',h:'306px',items:'1094714468',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></div> <p>I’ve mentioned a few times on Twitter that I think Beauvillier could be dangled along with the first, and maybe Ho-Sang with one of the kids down in Bridgeport for a deal. I don’t want to mortgage the future for a rental though, so the blue-chips are off the table for me unless theres an extension in place.</p> <p>The other story is team chemistry and what kind of player Matt Duchene is in the locker room – but those are problems for another day, and another story.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/20/16953/isles-scouts-have-busy-month">Isles Scouts Have Busy Month</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/20/16953/isles-scouts-have-busy-month/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">16953</post-id> </item> <item> <title>What Will Ladd and Hickey mean to the Islanders?</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/19/16758/ladd-hickey-depth-flexibility</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/19/16758/ladd-hickey-depth-flexibility#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2019 21:08:48 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Call Ups]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Roster Moves]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Adam Pelech]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Andrew Ladd]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barry Trotz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bridgeport]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Devon Toews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lou Lamoriello]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Soundtigers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomas Hickey]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=16758</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The Islanders will be clearing their Injured Reserve list shortly, and that means they’ll be adding some experience and a bit of scoring to their roster. These additions will be FREE, and we all like FREE. <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/19/16758/ladd-hickey-depth-flexibility" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/19/16758/ladd-hickey-depth-flexibility">What Will Ladd and Hickey mean to the Islanders?</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Price-Is-Right.png" alt="" class="wp-image-16924"/><figcaption>Lou Lamoriello, come on down</figcaption></figure> <p></p><p>The Islanders will be clearing their Injured Reserve list shortly. Andrew Ladd and Thomas Hickey are on their way and that means they’ll be adding some experience and a bit of scoring to their roster. These additions will be FREE, and we all like FREE.</p><p>Let’s take a look at what these two can add to a roster that has the NY Islanders first in the Metro.</p> <a id='DeAluDtDSI9HfiMTcg3vmw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1067028380' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'DeAluDtDSI9HfiMTcg3vmw',sig:'1YARwWNaaCWFUXutKfYbGkxZxHK5VY4GMll9v1JYQYg=',w:'594px',h:'398px',items:'1067028380',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2>Ladd and Hickey Add Depth</h2><p>Barry Trotz will [most likely] deploy <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/laddan01.html">Andrew Ladd</a> and <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/h/hicketh01.html">Thomas Hickey</a> as soon as he is able. That will be on Wednesday night against the Calgary Flames. Michael Dal Colle has already been loaned to the Bridgeport Soundtigers. I anticipate Lucas Sbisa being waived in an effort to move him to Bridgeport as well.</p><p>Dal Colle will be an easy recall, and will join Tanner Fritz, Joshua Ho-Sang, and Steve Bernier as forwards with NHL experience in the AHL. He can easily slot into any wing position in an emergency that Tom Kuhnhackl or Ross Johnston can’t fill.</p><p> </p><p>Hickey will allow Trotz to have Adam Pelech as their seventh defenseman. Adam has played really well of late, and is by far their best 7th guy this late in the season in decades. Sbisa, if not picked up off waivers, will join Sebastian Aho and Seth Helgeson as AHL defensemen with NHL experience.</p><p> </p> <a id='eW9C4PhBSLpJHVSvDVKwjA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/937004772' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'eW9C4PhBSLpJHVSvDVKwjA',sig:'fNadM1aZZ1vo-ht_xx1nLx3zA1wrbyscR9ulKsMNKqM=',w:'594px',h:'397px',items:'937004772',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h2>Roster Flexibility</h2><p>Both players definitely fit the <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow">Lou’s Burger Barn</a> menu.</p><h3>Ladd: Looking Out for Number One</h3><p>I see the two best fits for Ladd either with Barzal or Filppula. He has some chemistry with Mat Barzal and could be the “finisher” that line needs. He would be replacing Kuhnhackl in that role. Kuhnhackl would likely become the 13th forward, or at least share that role with Anthony Beauvillier for a while. Beau adds some creativity to that line, but Kuhnhackl adds defensive acumen and another penalty killer to the roster.</p><p>If they use Ladd with Flippula and Komarov it makes a few things possible. As I alluded to in a <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free" target="_blank" rel="noopener">previous post</a>, they could create the BrockLeeBar line which would give Barzal the best pair of finishers he’s been with as an Islander. That leaves a line with Bailey between Beauvillier or Ladd and Eberle. Bailey has assumed most of the center responsibilities (defense and face-offs) from Barzal anyway, and the line would have Beau and Eberle to share the puck moving responsibilities. If Beau falters in that role you could swap him for Ladd. The key is having a true number one line to create offense 5v5.</p><h3>Hickey: Everything is Better with Bacon</h3><p>Over the past two years we’ve seen both Ryan Pulock and Scott Mayfield enjoy greatly improved numbers when paired with Thomas Hickey. Either pairing at this juncture could be an improvement over the current roster alignment.</p><p><br>Don’t worry. Devon Toews isn’t going anywhere. If Hickey was to be paired with Mayfield it would allow Toews to be moved up with Pulock. Seeing how Toews has reacted to his promotion from the AHL makes me feel comfortable that he would handle the TOI upgrade with little downside. Toews is a more confident puck mover than Pelech and that should allow Pulock more time and space to get off that incredible shot. He also has a solid shot that finds the net more often than not. Having those two on the ice at the same time will also make any forward line more dangerous.</p><p>If they opt for the conservative approach you will see Hickey back with Pulock. The other two pairing will remain the same. Hickey will replace Pelech on the PK. The PK has evolved some since Hickey has been out. It will remain to be seen if Hickey can make the current kill better, or if it was Pelech’s evolution that made it better. I don’t mind this in the least, but I would really like to see Pulock with Toews at 5v5 before the playoffs start. </p><p> </p> <a id='VPYminB0TYVJRDux31WH0w' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/543010280' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'VPYminB0TYVJRDux31WH0w',sig:'TsBwW8tVh311mLrdbF6Lb_LZg6SoMTGKp1xBBfKPIyc=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'543010280',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Price is Right</h3> <p>This is the best part. They are both eligible to be added to the 23 before the trade deadline. If Lou <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining">decides to bring in a big name</a> it makes guys like Pelech, Aho, Dal Colle and Ho-Sang more “expendable”. The bigger issue would be roster spots. That bridge[port] could be crossed with guys like Johnston or Kuhnhackl when we come to it.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Next Step</h3> <p>Lou has a few days to ponder the cost of adding to the roster. This should settle some of his concerns about additional scoring or defensive depth. He needs to focus his attention on pending UFA’s. There are a few elephants in the room, and we’ll be talking about them soon. </p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/19/16758/ladd-hickey-depth-flexibility">What Will Ladd and Hickey mean to the Islanders?</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/19/16758/ladd-hickey-depth-flexibility/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">16758</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Islanders: Creating Offense For Free</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 15 Feb 2019 15:42:24 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Roster Moves]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trade Deadline]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders Trotz Nelson Lee Barzal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trotz]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=16910</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free">Islanders: Creating Offense For Free</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Thinker.png" alt="Offense...hmmm" class="wp-image-16913" /><figcaption>Offense…hmmm</figcaption></figure></div> <p> </p><h2>Free? I Like Free</h2><p>There is a lot of talk on #Isles twitter about who the Islanders can add offense to this roster at the trade deadline. I even wrote a piece about <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining" target="_blank" rel="noopener">who they might give up</a>. Well here’s one <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lou’s Burger Barn</a> menu item that wouldn’t cost a thing.</p><h2>Pure Rosterbation</h2><p><a id='hs_YZVyXSOVgi4VB3ue6lg' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1076195224' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'hs_YZVyXSOVgi4VB3ue6lg',sig:'Ii606LgpTUke630o_J6Vv7lfpHQ4RjYJJqHLFsiBNUE=',w:'594px',h:'411px',items:'1076195224',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/leean01.html">Anders Lee</a> <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/n/nelsobr01.html">Brock Nelson</a> <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/b/barzama01.html">Matt Barzal</a></h3><p><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/coaches/trotzba99c.html">Barry Trotz</a> doesn’t seem to like to move a lot of pieces around. To his credit there have been pairings together the whole season and he may move one wing amongst his core centers. So this rocks the apple cart just a bit.</p><p> Brock Nelson needs a puck mover to create offense. Anders Lee needs a distributor. Jordan Eberle is a jack of both trades, but master of neither. Matt Barzal is a master of both. In October I really thought we would get the BrockHoLee line. BrockLeeBar could be the best line of the Trotzformation.</p><p> I can see the reluctance of moving your C1 or C2 to RW. But why not? Barzal is the weakest of the four centers at things that define the position. He only wins 42% of his face-offs. He is built as an offensive force which often leaves him vulnerable defensively. Currently Josh Bailey handles a lot of those responsibilities from the RW position. Brock Nelson has been far better. 49% on faceoffs and he has a plus 14 rating.</p><p> What Brock Nelson has lacked his whole career with the Islanders is a puck mover. The short time he spent with Josh Ho-Sang to his right, may have been his most productive few weeks in terms of generating chances. Anders Lee has regressed offensively without Johnny Pajama and Josh Bailey obtaining the zone with possession and making sure he touches the puck with some space.</p><p> These three players were made to play together.</p><h2>Collateral Damage?</h2><p><a id='PxKoV2A7TExJgLlvT1wyeg' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1066577232' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'PxKoV2A7TExJgLlvT1wyeg',sig:'mJao9prb1o1KvVpdroodBnDHccEdBnxBFNO-2NkuM0g=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1066577232',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/b/beauvan01.html">Anthony Beauvillier</a> <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/b/bailejo01.html">Josh Bailey</a> <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/e/eberljo01.html">Jordan Eberle</a></h3><p>In this scenario Trotz could rotate Beauvillier, Ladd, Kuhnhackl and DalColle on left wing. There may be stretches where any of those players will add offense to the roster. I lean towards Beauvillier as I think he works best with both Bailey and Eberle. Beauvillier needs to evolve into a center, and this line will help him do that. He is the mover and distributor on the JoJoBeau line. When he is with Barzal there is only one puck, so he concedes that aspect of his game to the best on the team. When he’s with Flip n’ Leo there are two Fins, but no “finisher”. Eberle will be the target of his passes, and I believe they would create a formidable offensive triangle with Beau and Bails distributing the puck, and Ebs and Beau creating space and firing shots.</p><p>Josh Bailey was not the most productive center, but he does the things that define the position well. He wins 53% of his faceoffs. He has been the defensive component on a few of the better lines over the past decade. Josh’s defensive ability will pair nicely with the offensive abilities of “Ebs and Beau”. They might have some problems with wall battles and offensive zone puck retention. If that happens Trotz can promote any one of the other left wings.</p><p><a id='Ua_KJ4fBT-pE8n9lELZG1A' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/937004774' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'Ua_KJ4fBT-pE8n9lELZG1A',sig:'Ce7912Tt2IfZR-Olo5ik6SA-jwI6nZO0DoJ0MDzV3n8=',w:'594px',h:'419px',items:'937004774',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/laddan01.html">Andrew Ladd</a> <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/f/filppva01.html">Val Filppula</a> <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/k/komarle01.html">Leo Komarov</a></h3><p>Val and Leo have been together since the beginning of the season. They have made whoever they play with better. They make sure their end is covered, and create chances when they can. What this pair lacks is solid finisher. As they are the third line, that is not uncommon. Adding Andrew Ladd to this mix would give them the best two-way player with a history of finishing they’ve had to date.</p><p> </p><p>Filppula is good at winning faceoffs and handles his defensive responsibilities rather well. Komarov is almost like having a third defenseman on the ice at all times. His economy of motion also lends itself to him being in good places in the offensive zone as well. He’s just not a finisher. Ladd is a solid two way forward, who much like Nelson, would benefit from a puck mover and distributor. Filppula is not Matt Barzal, but he is “Weird Frans”. He can get the puck into the offensive zone, and he can make sure his wings have opportunities. They won’t have the space a Barzal, or Ho-Sang might provide. But he can create enough chances to create above average third line chances.</p><p><a id='xR_BLNAmQnlxWPID0OKaQg' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/1082134272' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'xR_BLNAmQnlxWPID0OKaQg',sig:'eXigIrsNJFSTtFKcUZm7UQ9kY7K-_wHwVsmPLsfnBWs=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'1082134272',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/m/martima02.html">Matt Martin</a> <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/cizikca01.html">Casey Cizikas</a> <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/cluttca01.html">Cal Clutterbuck</a></h3><p>I don’t think I need to go into too much detail on why this is the best fourth line in hockey, and why I wouldn’t want to change it. They have been creating offense all year. </p><h2>In Conclusion</h2><p>If Barry Trotz could give this 5 games when Andrew Ladd returns it could give other teams something different to defend going into the playoffs. Something that coaches will need to defend as a singular offensively aggressive force. They use the three together on the power play, so I don’t think chemistry will be an issue. If anything, their added time together 5v5 might build in game chemistry quicker, and make the two remaining spots on the powerplay more “dynamic”. I could really see the two top lines in this configuration being deployed with either of the top two defensive pairings, or Toews and Pulock to form an improved power play.</p><p>Hopefully this will create a bit more offense without costing them too much of what has made them so good this year.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free">Islanders: Creating Offense For Free</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/15/16910/islanders-creating-offense-free/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">16910</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Islanders: Understanding Prospect Mining</title> <link>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining</link> <comments>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Palmieri]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2019 17:29:35 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Draft]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Free Agency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[General]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Prospects]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trades]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Aho]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bellows]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dobson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Durandeau]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Golyshev]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ho-Sang]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ilya Sorokin]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Iskhakov]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Islanders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Koivula]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Linus Soderstrom]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Logan Cockerill]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pulock]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Salo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Skarek]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Toews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vande Sompel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wahlstrom]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wilde]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wotherspoon]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.islesblogger.com/?p=16790</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The Islanders have had their best string of drafts in the past six years. We are already seeing the talents of Pulock (2013) and Toews (2014) in the NHL. Their last six draft classes have either produced or will produce at least two full time NHL players. <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining" class="more-link">Continue Reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining">Islanders: Understanding Prospect Mining</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://islesblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Whats-In-Your-Wallet-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-16801" /><figcaption>What’s in your wallet?<br></figcaption></figure> <pre> </pre><h2>The Pool Is Deep</h2><p>The Islanders have had their best string of drafts in the past six years. We are already seeing the talents of Pulock (2013) and Toews (2014) in the NHL. Their last six draft classes have either produced or will produce at least two full time NHL players.</p><p> Still on schedule to be NHL players are:</p><p>2014 Ilya Sorokin, Linus Soderstrom</p><p>2015 Mitch Vande Sompel, Parker Wotherspoon </p><p>2016 Keiffer Bellows, Otto Koivula, Anatoly Golyshev</p><p>2017 Sebastian Aho, Robin Salo, Arnaud Durandeau, Logan Cockerill</p><p>2018 Oliver Wahlstrom, Noah Dobson, Bode Wilde, Ruslan Iskhakov, Jakub Skarek.</p><h3>Can They Afford To Rent?</h3><p> Sure they can. They have enough of a talent pool now to start shipping some of those “prospects” out for rentals, or vets that can make them better now. But throwing away too much for a high impact rental should not be a trend they start without careful consideration.</p><h3>CBA Economics 101</h3><p>Expiring assets from other teams will be available for no added cost in July. When you are looking at renting a player you really have to evaluate the economics of the deal. All of the players mentioned above except Toews($700K AAV) and Pulock ($2M AAV) are still on their Entry Level Contract (ELC) deals. Usually their first RFA contracts are under $2M. It’s those players that contribute the most for the least from ages 22 thru 27. Once a player hits 27 they become an Unrestricted Free Agent (UFA) and the one guarantee is that YOU WILL OVERPAY for their services.</p><p>As the team ages, players like Lee and Nelson are moving to their UFA status. These are the kind of players who produced on team friendly deals, and have earned value in free agency. One could say the same thing for Jordan Eberle, who has been a very productive player, even at his barely leveraged $6M AAV. </p><p>The structure of the league dictates that you be mindful of your salary cap structure. If you want to retain high end UFA’s and priced RFA’s like Barzal there has to be a balance. The roster must be supplemented with high potential ELC and RFA prospects. This should be the business model for <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/13/16741/islanders-lamoriello-snow" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lou’s Burger Barn</a> going forward.</p><h2> Who Should Be Available?</h2><p><a id='hV_9MROyT1RuyorpZTYvDw' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/902299094' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'hV_9MROyT1RuyorpZTYvDw',sig:'z9BlARtgmiSQb2sIXuLDd2fb54dbdcUM9_eBm0eXY6A=',w:'594px',h:'409px',items:'902299094',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/a/ahose02.html">Sebastian Aho</a></h3><p>Aho has already shown that he fits into the NHL game. He still has some growing to do, but a team receiving Aho could probably plug him into their NHL lineup upon arrival. His only deterrent with the Islanders is that they are stacked in the NHL and they have two left handed defensemen right behind him. He is a 2017 draftee, but he is the same age as a 2015 draftee because he was drafted at 20 instead of 18.</p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/v/vandemi01.html">Mitch Vande Sompel</a> and <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/w/wothepa01.html">Parker Wotherspoon</a></h3><p>Both left handed defensemen are in almost exactly the same circumstance as Aho, but they did not have the benefit of pro experience at an earlier age. They both have considerable value though.</p><p><a id='UUjzW0rpQOtJ19O7SvoDCg' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/451367218' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'UUjzW0rpQOtJ19O7SvoDCg',sig:'gfkoPEdeF8mW0katDw9bbg2fHWk3rrXnEHu-I4JrI7U=',w:'594px',h:'388px',items:'451367218',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/h/hosanjo01.html">Josh Ho-Sang</a></h3><p>He should be on the “untouchable” list due to his talent, but is probably on the “do not touch” list because of his perceived inability to be coached. Who knows the whole story with Josh, all we can assume is that if Lou can get any value for him at all he should do both player and team the service of giving Josh a fourth or fifth “second chance”. If any team would accept him in a rental package they should ship him faster than a Conner McDavid loop around the rink.</p><h3>European Prospects</h3><p>The Isles’ prospect list is littered with potential NHLers that are still developing on European rosters. I don’t have enough info on the list of skaters to determine which might be more highly sought after, but I would think that Robin Salo and Anatoly Golyshev head the list.</p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/d/dalcomi01.html">Michael Dal Colle</a></h3><p>MDC really turned his game around this year. He had a very pedestrian pro-rookie campaign in the AHL two years ago, then regressed last year. He worked on his game over the off season and has impressed all year. His expendable status is mostly due to the already signed group of forwards. They will also most likely extend Anders Lee. The Isles have a deepening surplus of high end forward talent. Dal Colle is probably the most valued “prospect” to have NHL games on his resume.</p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/b/belloki01.html">Kieffer Bellows</a></h3><p>I think Bellows and DalColle are eventually mutually exclusive in the talent pool. You do not have room for both in the 5 year plan, but you wouldn’t want to trade both. The Islanders have some time to make an ultimate decision, but they’ll probably lose one of them for nothing if they let Kieffer reach RFA status in the AHL.</p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/s/soderli01.html">Linus Soderstrom</a></h3><p>I believe Linus had shoulder surgery last year and a major setback this year. He has no trade value, but if he can recover he should be in Bridgeport for the Isles next year.</p><h2>The Untouchables</h2><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/s/sorokil01.html">Ilya Sorokin</a></h3><p>There is no way he is going anywhere for a rental. So this is where we really have to draw the line on trade deadline availability. </p><h3><a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/k/koivuot01.html">Otto Koivula</a></h3><p>He was a player to watch this year as he was going to be playing his first season of North American hockey. He had a decent start, but exploded as soon as he was moved from wing to center. You rarely find centers abundant among NHL prospect lists. Koivula has a tremendous amount of value right now, even though he may be more than a year away from being a full time NHLer. We might see him in the NHL for a few games towards the final weeks of the season. This would give him a feel for the NHL game. It would also prepare him for an emergency call up in a deep playoff run.</p><h3>2018 Draft Class</h3><p>The Islanders didn’t have a top ten draft pick. They did manage to get two players that were ranked in the top 10 (Oliver Wahlstrom and Noah Dobson). They also acquired a defenseman thought to be top 20 in the second round. They weren’t finished there either. They were able to pick up one of the highest ranked goalie prospects and some late blooming talent in the later rounds. Much like Arnaud Durandeau and Logan Cockerill from the 2017 draft, these are kids we might want to let develop a little to before we sell them off the bargain table. They aren’t “untouchable” per say, but they should be put off to the side. You never know when you might stumble upon a hidden Matt Moulson or Michael Grabner in your own garage.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining">Islanders: Understanding Prospect Mining</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.islesblogger.com">https://islesblogger.com</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.islesblogger.com/2019/02/14/16790/islanders-understanding-prospect-mining/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">16790</post-id> </item> </channel></rss> If you would like to create a banner that links to this page (i.e. this validation result), do the following:
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