Detroit Re-Signs Kronwall

Red Wings Lock Up Niklas Kronwall To A Long 7-Year Deal

Official Red Wings Press Release: DETROIT – The Red Wings have locked up a vital cornerstone to their future, signing defenseman Niklas Kronwall to a new seven-year contract extension Monday. Kronwall would have become an unrestricted free agent in July, but the 6-foot Swede wanted to remain in Detroit. And the Red Wings certainly wanted to keep him. A first-round pick in 2000, Kronwall’s extension that runs through the 2018-19 season is worth $33.25 million. With half of their defensive corps set to become unrestricted after this season, it was imperative for the Wings to get a deal done with Kronwall, sooner than later. “If you look at our defense, (Nicklas) Lidstrom’s unrestricted, (Brad) Stuart’s unrestricted, and we’re going through a little bit of a transition,” Wings general manager Ken Holland said. “We’re trying to rebuild a little bit, so signing Kronwall and keeping him here is a real important step for us in the next 12- to 24-month process of trying to figure out where we will be going forward.” Whether the 41-year-old Lidstrom decides to return next year for a 21st season or not, the Wings feel that Kronwall is the heir apparent to the captain’s throne. While Kronwall certainly isn’t in Lidstrom’s class – and nobody is – the 30-year-old’s physical play makes him a different kind of asset to the Wings. “We want him to play hard, but we don’t want him to play as physical, because he’s not a big guy; he’s an important guy, who plays big,” Holland said. “I think there’s more there offensively. But what I like about him is that he’s a big team guy. He probably could be on the first power-play, but he’s OK with being on the second power-play because it’s Ian White and Nick. But when you put a team together you want to spread your wealth. We have a guy who is a team guy.” Kronwall has proven to be a punishing hitter, but last season he set new personal highs for goals (11), power-play goals (5), game-winning goals (3) and shots on goal (131). “At some point down the road, I’m anticipating that Kronner will have a bigger role on our team, offensively,” Holland said. “But for right now, he’s comfortable with his role with the team. He’s formed a good pair with Brad Stuart, but we want him to continue being good defensively and making good outlet passes. “When you have a player who can play in any role or situation, and they are competitive, they’re hard to find.”

CONTRACT DETAILS: Length: 7 Years (2012-13)-(2018-19) Cap-Hit: $4,750,000 Pay-Out Details: 2012-13 $4,500,000 2013-14 - 2015-16 $6,000,000 2016-17 $5,500,000 2017-18 $3,500,000 2018-19 $1,750,000 **Bonuses: Receives a $1,250,000 signing bonus in 2012-13 Contract Clause Details: 2012-13 - 2016-17 Full No Trade Clause 2017-18 - 2018-19 Limited No Trade Clause  (player submits 10-team trade list)

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This is a great deal for the Red Wings, and I'm sure Kronwall is pretty satisfied with it as well. The cap-hit is excellent for a player of his stature, and if I was a Red Wings fan I would be ecstatic because this will open up some nice opportunities for them down the road with the extra space this deal will provide. I think some people over look Kronwall, but I am a big fan of his and I think its fair to say he is a top-10 defenseman in this league. He does everything a team could want coming from a top-pairing d-man. I am 100 percent sure that had he hit the open market, he'd get a lot more money than the amount he got from the Red Wings. Despite that, this is a good contract for Kronwall for a few reasons. Firstly, its a very front-loaded deal with 70 percent of his $33,250,000 contract being paid to him in the first four years of his 7 year commitment. Along with that he has a full no-trade clause until the 6th year of the contract where he begins a limited no-trade clause. These perks are huge to any player and when you consider how much Kronwall loves being a Red Wing it makes a lot of sense as to why he would agree to a deal like this when he could have gotten a lot more money as an unrestricted free-agent. Obviously the Wings are happy with this steal too, so the only real losers in this situation are the other pending free-agent defensemen because now after a guy like Kronwall gets so little the threshold has been set very low for others. It'll be interesting to see what the contracts look like for those other defensemen.

Isles Waive Gillies

New York Islanders Place Trevor Gillies On Waivers

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The Islanders have decided to place Trevor Gillies on waivers today and according to the Islanders official twitter account if he clears he will be reassigned to the Sound Tigers. Now I am no fan of having Gillies play against physically weak teams, but lets face it, we need a tough guy against teams like the Rangers and Flyers and this year we seem to have forgotten that. Last season the Islanders gained a "take no prisoners" attitude that helped the team grow together and win a few games and unfortunately it seems like the Isles management has broken that apart. No Konopka, no Haley, and now no Gillies. The Islanders better call-up Haley or this team is going to get their butt handed to them night in and night out. I am not 100 percent sure Gillies will clear because honestly if Brian McGrattan can get picked up so can Trevor Gillies, but personally I am hoping Gillies goes unclaimed so he will be able to protect the kids down in Bridgeport.

Coyotes Acquire Cal O'Reilly

Trade Details:

The Phoenix Coyotes acquired Cal O'Reilly from the Nashville Predators for a 4th-round draft pick in 2012.

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Phoenix Coyotes Acquire:

C- Cal O'Reilly CONTRACT: $1,050,000 Cap-Hit (Expires: 2012) Important Facts: - His first full NHL season (2010-11) was shortened to only 38 games due to a right leg injury that forced him to miss 44 regular season games and 12 post season games. - Ryan O'Reilly of the Colorado Avalanche, is his younger brother

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Nashville Predators Acquire:

Fourth Round Draft Pick (2012) Important Facts: - Coyotes own pick

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Analysis:

This pretty much seals the deal (in case you somehow didn't believe yet) that Kyle Turris will not be returning to the Phoenix Coyotes any time soon. The Coyotes had a big hole down the middle left in Turris' absence which they had to plug up soon. Enter Cal O'Reilly; a twenty-five year old center, who has put up big numbers in the AHL and before his injury last season was doing well in the NHL. He does a great job at distributing the puck, and when he has good line-mates, he racks up the points. I do believe he must become a little bit more well rounded in regards to his play in his own zone and with out the puck on his stick, but I think he could do it if he's given the proper guidance by the Coyotes. While the Coyotes were trying to build some depth, the Predators were trying to make some room. With Martin Erat returning from the IR, the Predators had to move someone and because they also recently got Mike Fisher back to the line-up, they knew that it was going to be one of the centers that gets the gate. The choice was really between Blake Geoffrion or Cal O'Reilly, but because Geoffrion is more suited for the fourth line (where the empty spot was)style of play, he would be the better candidate to remain. So that ultimately led to O'Reilly's departure for a mid-round pick in this years draft which is nothing to scoff at give in the fact that this years draft is seemingly the deepest the NHL has seen in a long..long time.

10/29/2011 Islanders Game Review

Islanders 2011-2012 Game 9 Vs. Sharks Review:

OT/SO LOSS: Isles 2-3 Sharks

Record: 3-4-2

Summary:

This was a very frustrating game mainly due to how it ended, but overall it was a pretty well-played game (aside from the first period) by the Islanders. The night started off with the ceremonies devoted to the 1993 NY Islanders team, which were very nice. Honestly though, I felt a little embarrassed from it for two reasons. One was that the stadium was only half-full which was terrible for a special event on a Saturday night. Even though some will blame it on the weather, I don't think its as big a factor as some made it out to be. The other embarrassing aspect of it, was the fact that we are celebrating a team that didn't win, which just goes to show you how little this team has achieved in the past two decades or so. Anyway on to the game…it was a rough start for the team and in particular Rick DiPietro. This was Ricky's first game of the season and the Islanders faithful were giving him an earful, booing at every opportunity. To make it worse, within the first minute or so, DiPietro gave up a semi-bad goal which made the entire arena turn on him. The first period was not the team's best, but as soon as the 2nd began the team began to look like the same one that beat Tampa Bay and the Rangers on home-ice just a few weeks ago (I know it feels like years ago). They came out strong and were able to put two goals up on the board. Unfortunately, the Islanders allowed the Sharks to tie it up only a few minutes after the 2nd goal. It stayed tied into overtime when the referees would make a disgusting call against the Islanders. Less than a minute into OT, Travis Hamonic flipped the puck into the air from his own end, and it went out of play. It clearly deflected off of the glass, but the linesman who originally had the right call, was overruled and the two referees and two linesmen decided to call delay of game on Hamonic. The entire Islanders bench was livid including assistant coach Doug Weight who according to Islanders staff was still slamming and breaking things as the team went to the locker room following the game. Despite the protest by all Islanders, the call stood and the Sharks preceded to score the game winning goal just a few seconds into the power play. Tough way to lose, but in this one I don't blame any Islanders for the loss.

Three Positive Players Of The Game:

1- John Tavares- 

I don't know how many times he will end up as my number one player of the game, but I am 100 percent sure he will have the most of any Islander and for good reason. He looked great tonight, but surprisingly it wasn't his goal or offense that had me happy with him, it was his play in his own zone which was extremely impressive, he was doing great.

2- Blake Comeau- 

His best game of the season by far, he looked a lot better. He was throwing his body around all night and forced quite a few turnovers. I was hoping he'd put up some points, but they will come if he continues to play with that same tenacity. 

3- Kyle Okposo- 

Along with Comeau, this was my favorite game by Okposo this season. He was skating well and working very hard. There was one sequence of plays that stood out in my mind; the Islanders sent the puck down the ice and it looked like it was going to be an icing, but Okposo skated hard and beat it out and then he was fighting along the boards for the puck and was playing physical and playing that "power forward" style we need to see from him. Unfortunately he was handed a penalty for something in that board battle, but I won't complain because he was doing what we need him to do.

Three Negatives Of The Game:

1- Refs- 

Horribly officiated game (even before the OT controversy). That call in OT was a freaking joke…they need to answer to someone for that. 

2- Andrew MacDonald- 

I miss old Andrew MacDonald…he looks like a completely different player (in a bad way). Way too many turnovers and he doesn't look as poised as he did last season.

3- Steve Staios- 

His actual play wasn't bad at all, but he took some really dumb penalties that really were unnecessary. He needs to be a bit more disciplined.

10/27/2011 Islanders Game Review

Islanders 2011-2012 Game 8 @ Penguins Review:

OT/SO LOSS: Isles 2-3 Penguins

Record: 3-4-1

Summary:

This was a tough loss for the Islanders as they squandered a two goal lead in the third period to ultimately lose in the shoot-out. The Islanders played decent in the first period and were able to come out with the lead with a late 1st period goal by Frans Nielsen. During the second period, the Islanders looked unimpressive, but luckily Evgeni Nabokov was standing on his head and able to keep the Penguins scoreless going into the third. Then 45 seconds into the 3rd period, Matt Martin was able to slide the puck under Fleury to make it a two goal game. The Islanders weren't playing great, but it seemed like the bounces were going there way. Immediately following the Martin goal, the Penguins were able to answer with a goal from Chris Kunitz. Once that happened the game changed and the Penguins grabbed a hold of the momentum. They were pressing hard in the Islanders end and were able to force some turnovers that eventually led to a James Neal game-tying goal. Regulation and overtime ended even and the Islanders were on to their first shoot-out of the season. In one of the oddest moments of this young season, the Islanders took Nabokov out for the shoot-out and opted to put in back-up Rick DiPietro, who hadn't played once this season. He surprisingly wasn't bad, but it wasn't enough for the Islanders as they were unable to score once in the shoot-out. 

Three Positive Players Of The Game:

1- Travis Hamonic- 

At only twenty-one years of age, this kid is already a top-pairing defenseman. He looked like one in this game, and personally my confidence in him is probably greater than any other Islanders defenseman. He blocked five shots in this one game alone and his play at both ends of the ice was impressive.

2- Matt Martin- 

I am a big Matt Martin fan, and this game shows what he really brings to the table. He threw his body around all game (as usual), and he was really effective offensively. He made some nice passes, but his goal was great. It may not have been the most beautiful, but it was a good hardworking one.

3- Frans Nielsen- 

He looked pretty good in this game, and his goal was nice. He has gotta keep playing like this because thus far he has been a bit of a disappointment. 

Three Negative Players Of The Game:

1- Blake Comeau- 

C'mon man, you gotta pick it up. Blake has been bad this season, he has no confidence in himself and his play is truly suffering. He is trying to do WAY too much by himself and its leading to many turnovers in the offensive zone. 

2- Brian Rolston- 

He looks horrible, slow, and unmotivated. The Islanders are paying him BIG bucks, he's gotta start performing soon.

3- Kyle Okposo- 

I love Okposo, but he has gotta pull his **** together, because right now he is playing like a third liner. Hopefully he gets his feet under him soon.

News & Notes-10/28/2011

News & Notes-10/28/2011:

Steve Bernier signs AHL contract with Albany Devils.

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Steve Bernier was once a very highly regarded NHL player, but with nearly 400 NHL games under his belt, he has been forced to swallow his pride and agree to sign a contract with an AHL club. The Devils offered him a two-way contract after training camp, but he declined to sign a two-way deal and now he is signing a straight out minor league contract. Unfortunately for him, I don't believe we will see him in the NHL this season at all, but if he is able to play well in the AHL maybe an NHL club will take the chance on him.

Jets WAIVE:  Brett MacLean

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I am shocked MacLean is having so much trouble sticking in the NHL. This kid is very talented and he has put up huge numbers at every level he has played. I not only hope another team picks him up, but I hope its the Islanders. The Islanders are desperately in need of a spark especially to their offense, and a player like MacLean might be exactly what the doctor ordered. I am hoping the Islanders put some serious thought into claiming him.

Avalanche WAIVE: Cedrick Desjardins

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Cedrick Desjardins is one of the better goalies out there that is not playing in the NHL as a starter or a back-up. Eventually someone is going to have to give this kid a chance because he has the tools to be successful at the NHL level. I would definitely not be surprised if someone claimed him, especially given the fact that there has been many goalies who have already suffered major injuries.

Bruins looking to shake up the team through trades

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In the first intermission of the Leafs-Rangers game, Bob McKenzie said that Boston is looking to make a trade to shake the club out of this slump. In regards to what would be moved, it was not clarified, but he made it clear that they are considering a decent size trade to get this team awaken from this hangover.

BLOG UPDATE

BLOG UPDATE
Things have been a little slow with the blog lately, and I'm sorry about that. School and work has been taking up a lot of my time, but I am hoping to make some more time for this....Next week I will get back to posting at least once a day. Sorry about the lack of posts lately once again....
Have a nice weekend everyone

10/25/2011 Islanders Game Review

Islanders 2011-2012 Game 6 Vs. Penguins Review:

LOSS: Isles 0-3 Penguins

Record: 3-4-0

Summary:

Another poor effort and honestly there isn't much to talk about in this one. Very similar play as the previous two losses before this particular game. The same players underperformed, and the same players showed up to play. This is only the 2nd home loss of the season so it was surprising to see such a bad effort back at home. I just felt like I was watching a team that didn't care and that is what scares me the most. They need to show up on there Thursday night game because this losing streak is becoming a problem.

Three Positive Players Of The Game:

1- John Tavares- 

**I don't have to explain anymore. Every game he has the same spot, and every game he continues to carry this team (unfortunately he can't do it alone).** 

2- Matt Martin- 

Looked good on both sides of the puck, and threw some big time hits

3- Josh Bailey- 

He is starting to play the game a bit more simpler which is exactly what he needed to do. We will see if he can carry that along.

Three Negative Players Of The Game:

1- Mike Mottau

2- Brian Rolston 

3- Marty Reasoner

10/22/2011 Islanders Game Review

Islanders 2011-2012 Game 6 @ Panthers Review:

LOSS: Isles 2-4 Panthers

Record: 3-3-0

Summary:

Back to .500 on the season, and in a very disturbing way. The Panthers announced a major trade almost immediately prior to the game, and the team was in a very vulnerable state. The Islanders were able to come out right off the bat and put a puck in the net with a PP goal just a minute into the game. The Islanders had set themselves up well, the Panthers were already distracted and possibly demoralized by the surprising trade announced just a short time before and were already down on the scoreboard early in the game. Had the Islanders continued to press and play a good hockey game, I believe the Panthers would have been put down easily by the Islanders, but instead they stopped working hard. All period long they played the same style that hurt them in the season opener and in their game against the Lightning on Thursday. In the first period, the Islanders had a lot of trouble generating any offense and their breakouts where nonexistent. The Panthers kept the puck in the Islanders defensive zone for most of the period and after peppering Nabokov with shots, they were able to get one in late in the first. The shot totals really tell you a lot about that period, and for that matter, the game. In the first period the Islanders were outshot 14 to 5, and aside from the third period the Islanders didn't get much to the net (10 shots through two periods). The 2nd period was similar to the first, but slightly better from an Islanders perspective, but by far the third period was the best played for the Isles. Ironically, that was the only period they did not score a goal, and ultimately lost as the Panthers put up two unanswered goals. As he has been almost every game this season, John Tavares was great. He had one goal and one assist for two points and he played good all-around game despite his line-mates' poor efforts. Mark Streit, like Tavares, has been great all year and tonight was no exception. Now its great that guys like Streit and Tavares are playing good every night, but it doesn't mean much when they are the only ones producing. The secondary scoring for the Islanders has been nonexistent to say the least. Aside from Streit, there has not been much offense coming from the back-end either. Last season, the Islanders were terrific offensively, but struggled with keeping the puck out of their own net. This season however it has changed dramatically at least thus far. Aside from the first line, there has been little to no production, but the goaltenders have done a good job and had they had the production from last year with this goaltending we'd be winning a lot more games.

Three Positive Players Of The Game:

1- John Tavares- 

I don't have to explain anymore. Every game he has the same spot, and every game he continues to carry this team (unfortunately he can't do it alone).

2- Mark Streit- 

Looked great offensively, and was brilliant on the Power Play. He was average in his own end (sometimes even below average as his minus-3 would attest to), but what really stood out to me was his play with the puck.

3- Kyle Okposo- 

People have been giving Kyle a lot of garbage lately, and in some cases it was well deserved, but in this game I felt as though he really elevated his game. He was working hard along the boards and won a few puck battles. He created some nice offensive plays, but unfortunately none of them materialized into anything of substance. It was still a positive game for Kyle.

Three Negative Players Of The Game:

1- Blake Comeau- 

Ok this is your first game back from being a healthy scratch in two important games, and you play like that? Not the kind of effort you would hope to see from Comeau. He turned the puck over quite a few times and was being lazy on his hits.

2- Michael Grabner- 

WAY too many turnovers in this game, in particular on the 5 on 3 in the 3rd period, he coughed the puck up at least four times. His play has not been at the same level it was at last season, and I am really hoping we see the old Grabner back soon.

3- Trevor Gillies- 

He is a waste of a roster spot against a team like Florida, I don't get why we dress him over a guy like Haley. Haley can play the game and fight and Gillies can clearly only fight. So far this season he has zero fights, so in my eyes he has had zero games that he's been effective.

Canucks And Panthers Announce Four Player Trade

Trade Details:

The Vancouver Canucks have acquired David Booth, Steve Reinprecht and a third round draft pick in 2013 from the Florida Panthers in exchange for Mikael Samuelsson and Marco Sturm.

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Vancouver Canucks Acquire:

LW- David Booth CONTRACT: $4,250,000 Cap-Hit. Includes A Limited NTC (Expires: 2015) Important Facts: - Has had some MAJOR concussion problems that have affected his career dramatically  - Of his five NHL seasons, three had him finish the year with at least 20 goals. - During the 2010-11 season, he had the second worst plus/minus in the NHL with a -31

LW- Steven Reinprecht CONTRACT: $2,050,000 Cap-Hit (Expires: 2012) Important Facts: - Currently playing in the AHL - Last season was loaned to Adler Mannheim of the DEL - 11 year NHL veteran

Third Round Draft Pick (2013) Important Facts: - Originally Vancouver's own pick

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Florida Panthers Acquire:

RW- Mikael Samuelsson CONTRACT: $2,500,000 Cap-Hit (Expires: 2012) Important Facts: - Has had at least forty points in each of his last four seasons and at least fifty points in each of his last two seasons. - During the 2009-10 playoffs, he led the Canucks with 15 points in 12 playoff games.

LW- Marco Sturm CONTRACT: $2,250,000 Cap-Hit (Expires: 2012) Important Facts: - Injuries have been a huge problem especially with his knee.

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Analysis:

This trade left me scratching my head a bit especially from the Panthers perspective. For the Panthers, they move out salary (which is probably the main motive behind the move), but lose a quality player in David Booth as well as a mid-round draft pick. Booth has struggled with concussions in his career, but has proven himself as a consistent producer at the NHL level. Last year he was able to play a full 82 game season, concussion free, and put up 40 points on an awful 2010-11 Panthers team. With a more talented Vancouver team, he should do even better. Ultimately I think the Panthers traded Booth because of the money he makes and the length of his contract. He makes $4.5 Million per year for the next four years which was a little more than the Panthers were willing to pay for a "post-concussion" version of  Booth. Along with Booth, the Canucks acquired Steven Reinprecht which is basically dead money, because Reinprecht will be playing in the AHL, but because he has a one-way deal the Canucks will have to pay his entire $2.05 Million salary while he plays in the minors. As Bob McKenzie pointed out, the third round pick that the Canucks also received was probably included to persuade them to accept a deal including Reinprecht which McKenzie called "buying a draft pick". On the other side the Panthers acquired two veteran wingers in Mikael Samuelsson and Marco Sturm. Samuelsson is a thirty-four year old winger who is going to really help this young Panthers club. He will put up a good amount of points especially with the increased minutes that the Panthers will give him. Along with his solid offensive production, he is very good in his own zone. He plays a very strong two-way style that makes him valuable to a team that needs some versatile players. The other player acquired by the Panthers was Marco Sturm, who has really struggled thus far. The Canucks decided to take a chance on the thirty-three year old winger, and were extremely unimpressed with his play in the first six games. Maybe with some increased ice-time he will find his game, but honestly I am not sure if he has much more in the tank. Both of the players that were sent to the Panthers will be UFA's following this season which means they will have a lot of extra cap space if they decide to let them go. All-in-all this trade see's a very high quality player in David Booth and a third-round pick move to Vancouver for a pair of aging wingers who are probably just place holders for the Panthers. 

10/20/2011 Islanders Game Review

Islanders 2011-2012 Game 5 @ Lightning Review:

LOSS: Isles 1-4 Lightning

Record: 3-2-0

Summary:

I really don't understand this team. One night they look incredible, the next night they look like a lottery team. In this particular game, it was the lottery team that took the ice. From the moment the game began, the Islanders looked "off". Of coarse there was one player that came to play, as he has every game this season. John Tavares, despite being held off the score sheet, had another good game. He was back-checking hard and had a handful of quality scoring chances. The only other player that looked good was Mark Eaton, who made some very nice defensive plays and was in great position all night. Unfortunately the rest of the team looked awful especially the defensemen. One of the worst was Mike Mottau, who has been just dreadful thus far. Another defenseman that stood out negatively to me was Andrew MacDonald, who played one of his worst games I have ever seen him play. I am really concerned about MacDonald, thus far this season he has looked unimpressive and for a guy that is essential to the Isles defensive corps, it has greatly impacted the team. The rest of the defensemen were not good, but weren't noticeably bad. Along with the needed improvement of the defense, the Islanders forward group must improve. Brian Rolston has been a HUGE disappointment, and in this game he looked useless. Honestly the fact that he won't be playing against the Panthers (wife is giving birth), might be a positive for this team. I also feel like it was very obvious in this game that dressing Trevor Gillies over Blake Comeau was a big mistake. I'm all for having toughness in the line-up, but against a team like the Lightning, who has no real big enforcer, its a bit pointless. Either way, the entire team NEEDS to pick up their play if they want to be successful.

Three Positive Players Of The Game:

1- John Tavares- 

Even though he was held of the score-sheet, he had a great game. He played well in all three zones and created many nice scoring chances.

2- Mark Eaton- 

Was really well positioned all game, and made some very impressive defensive plays that stood out in my mind. 

3- Michael Grabner- 

Once he scored his goal, he once again turned on. He was speeding around the ice and created some chances, but by that time it was too late.

Three Negative Players Of The Game:

1- Mike Mottau- 

UGH…he is just awful. He looked absolutely horrible in this game, and I am hoping that Jurcina can get back ASAP because Mottau has been a hindrance for this club.

2- Kyle Okposo- 

I am really disappointed in Kyle, his play has been subpar and his level of play has been much lower than the Islanders management and fans have expected. 

3- Andrew MacDonald- 

He has been disappointing and I am really hoping he starts to look like he did last season because (like I have said) he is essential to the Islanders success.

Blake Comeau Healthy Scratched

Comeau Speculation Running Rampant As He's Scratched Again

Blake Comeau openly stated that he was under the assumption that he was a member of the Islanders group of "core" young players. Unfortunately for him, it appears he was wrong. The Islanders announced earlier today that Comeau will be sitting out his second straight game, in favor of Trevor Gillies. Gillies being the tough S.O.B. that he is, was a player that needed to be dressed against the Islanders heated rival, the Rangers, but in a game versus the Lightning, a team that has no real tough guys, whats the point? Don't get me wrong, I like having Gillies in the line-up, but at the expense of Blake Comeau, I'm against it. Comeau is a proven NHL'er who last season netted 24 goals and 22 assists for 46 points. That type of production from a player who played 3rd line minutes is terrific. Being this early into the season, its hard to imagine that Comeau would have already gotten into Capuano's dog house. You would have to think that there is something going on here, whether it be a pending trade or not, his future on Long Island doesn't seem as bright as he would have hoped.

Blue Jackets Shopping Brassard

Blue Jackets Panicking; Brassard May Be On The Move

The Blue Jackets are in a lot of trouble right now and their management knows it. They have been looking at making some moves, especially after their last lost. Right now it looks like Derick Brassard will be the likely candidate to be traded and according to hockeybreak, there are a few Eastern Conferences teams that are pushing hard for him. If the Jackets continue to struggle look for him (and possibly others) to be shipped out fairly soon. Brassard is twenty-four years old, and has still not realized his potential that made him the 6th overall pick in the 2006 NHL draft, but despite that he is still an effective NHL player. Every year that he has been in the league, his point total has increased, as well as his overall play. If he continues to grow and play more consistently, he could be a good 2nd line player. I expect there to be a good amount of interest and a solid return coming back to the Jackets if he were to be moved.

10/15/2011 Islanders Game Review

Islanders 2011-2012 Game 4 Vs. Rangers Review:

WIN: Isles 4-2 Rangers

Record: 3-1-0

Summary:

Ahh winning is SWEET, especially against the NY Rangers. As usual, the Rags fans were all over the Coliseum, but unlike most Islanders-Rangers games in the past few years, I felt as though the Islanders fans never let them truly take over the building. That resilience off the ice, mirrored exactly what was taking place on it. The Islanders played a really good game at both ends of the ice, even without Rangers killer, Blake Comeau, who was a mysterious healthy scratch. Offensively they poked wholes through a broken-down Rangers defense, and in their own end, they were able to keep the Rangers offense in check effectively. This game seemed to be a bit less physical than most Islander-Rangers games, but it had a very competitive feel to it, as the Rangers answered each goal the Isles scored up until the third period. The Isles played a textbook third period (which in recent years has been the teams downfall) in which they took the lead early and then shifted to a much more defensive orientated style to ensure the win in Evgeni Nabokov's first game as an Islander. Nabokov stopped 29 of 31 shots and had a decent outing. For a guy who hadn't played an NHL game in over a year, his angles were surprisingly good and his only noticeable problem was his five-hole, which looked weak throughout the night. Nabokov had a lot of help though, as I thought the Islanders defense played a good game, and the Isles forwards back-checked hard all night. Of the Islanders defensemen, Mark Streit stood out (as usual) and was quiet (a good type of quiet) in his own end, but offensively he was distributing the puck terrifically which earned him two assists. Also Travis Hamonic played a great defensive game, I really feel like this kid is a budding top-pairing defenseman. He looks so comfortable out there. But once again it was the Islanders first line that made the most positive impact for the club. John Tavares was magnificent again, this time putting up three goals and one assist. P.A. Parenteau is quickly forcing me to change my opinions on him as he too looked great. He put up three assists for his third multi-assist game of the four game season. His strength looks to have improved tremendously as well as his skating. One thing I have noticed about nearly every player on the team is that their skating has improved a lot over the off-season. I have praised P.A. and Tavares on their games, so I cannot leave out Matt Moulson, who continues to put up points. I believe through the past few seasons, there has not been one Islander more consistent than Matt Moulson. Every night he goes out to play, and he rarely gets stuck in a slump. Players like him are extremely valuable. Its great to see the team finish off the early home stand on such a high note, beating their heated rivals. Hopefully the team can avoid the "Ranger hangover" and pull out a win on Thursday in Tampa Bay.

Three Positive Players Of The Game:

1- John Tavares- 

SUPERSTAR….its the only way to describe him. HE HAS PUT UP 8 POINTS IN TWO GAMES. He looks unstoppable out there. He is hard on the puck, getting a ton of scoring chances, and coming back to help on defense. His skating once again looks terrific, and his vision on the ice was just incredible. There is NO reason why he shouldn't end the season with 90 points. 

2- PA Parenteau- 

Once again, a great game by a player that USED to be my whipping boy. He looks like a different player out there and so far has earned the time he's been given, unlike last year. He has thrown his body around and is currently 3rd on the team in hits with 8 and has been extremely productive offensively.

3- Mark Streit- 

His return has been a HUGE boost to this team and this game was a huge indication of that. He played a good game in his own end and was also very effective on the offensive side of the puck. Both of his assists were great plays by him and I look for his impact to be felt all season long.

Three Negative Players Of The Game:

1- Mike Mottau- 

I'm sorry, I know Mottau loves being an Islander and is a respected veteran, but he has been just awful thus far. He was the ONLY Islanders defenseman in this game to have a minus rating on the night, with a minus-2 and looked lost during much of his time on the ice. I hope that Jurcina gets back soon and Mottau can be pushed to the press box.

2- Marty Reasoner- 

For a guy that I was happy about signing, he has been disappointing thus far. He has not contributed at all offensively and has gotten caught flat footed defensively pretty frequently. In this game in particular he made an awful turnover and it directly led to a Rangers goal. He has got to pick it up a bit.

3- Andrew MacDonald- 

He wasn't awful, but he was not good, which is where I would expect him to be. He is one of the real deciding factors of this team because if his play goes to hell or he is injured, this Isles defense collapses. So far this season he has not looked like himself so one would hope he finds his game soon.

The Real Kirill Kabanov

The Summer Of Kirill:

The Story Of How I Got To Know The Real Kirill Kabanov

Two years ago, I was led to believe Kirill Kabanov was a heartless, selfish person and player. Every single day another hockey columnist would put out another negative article portraying Kabanov as a troubled soul with no chance of becoming anyone in this world. That negative connotation continued up to the 2010 NHL draft where one of the biggest story lines was Kirill's drop from a potential first overall selection to a 3rd round pick. People blamed the drop on an irreparable attitude and some of the "worst pre-draft interviews they've ever seen". The Isles took a chance and immediately following the selection Kirill promised everyone that he would prove the others wrong and reward the Islanders for picking him. I'll be honest with you right now, I did not believe him. Throughout the summer months Islanders fans argued amongst themselves what Kirill Kabanov really had in him and if he would ever become someone of value. I was on the fence as I truly had no clue what to expect, but my views drastically changed around September. 

My house had some problems and I was forced to live in the Marriott (next to the Nassau Coliseum) for a week. It just so happened that it was smack dab in the middle of training camp so I really wasn't too upset. Everyday after school I went to the bar at the hotel to get some food, and one day I saw the young Kirill Kabanov. He was sitting by himself, so I thought "what the heck, I might as well" and joined him. I talked to him a bit, informed him of my situation, and the thing I noticed was he was not ANYTHING like the media was portraying him to be. He seemed like a really nice person and more than once he wanted to make sure me and my family didn't go back to the house until it was safe. It was a nice little encounter, but time went on, he went to Moncton (and then quickly to Lewiston) and I went back to my house.

Once he arrived in Lewiston, people began to realize that this kid is not bad. On the ice, his regular season play was average, but he carried his club during the playoffs and proved to people he is a real NHL prospect, but what caught people off guard was what he was doing off the ice. His coach, J.F. Houle, openly stated that he had become a real leader in the locker room, and he was nominated for the QMJHL Humanitarian Award for his great work in the community. So much for that heartless and selfish person that the media made him out to be. I have to say, I was proud of the kid..he promised he would prove people wrong and he did and thats what I told him the next time I saw him. That was at the Islanders Draft Party, where he decided to come, not because the Isles asked him to, but because he thought it was his obligation. He and his mother arrived and he signed autographs and took pictures for hours. I was able to stop and talk with him a bit and catch up from almost a year prior, and eventually I decided to invite him to hang out with me and my friends. He said he would love to, but I didn't actually think he would follow through with it.

A few weeks went by and I hadn't heard from him, but almost immediately following his controversial tweet about being bored on Long Island he took me up on the offer. During rookie camp, he and Andrey Pedan (whom I have also become friendly with) decided to hang out with me and some of my buddies a bit. For a life long Islanders fan, I think at that time I wasn't hanging out with them because of their personalities, as much as I was because of who they were, little did I know that would change. Here and there, we would hang out, but it was still that same reason driving me. Then in one night that stopped as I really learned who K was as a person. He called me up to play roller hockey, I had no clue what he was talking about, but I decided to go anyway. He arrived at my house with his parents in the backseat, and when I say they were excited its probably an understatement. Even though they couldn't speak a lick of English, Kirill translated. After a long 30 minutes trying to figure out where this roller hockey rink was, we finally were there. This was the first time I really was able to observe K in this situation with so many fans, and I was beyond impressed. He was friendly with everyone and took time to converse with whoever was interested. It was a lot of fun, and everyone, including him, played a hard fought game. 

Even though playing pick-up hockey was great, it was what happened afterwords that made it so memorable for me. He skated towards the bench, and we discussed who we thought was the best player as Kirill promised that the person that plays the best will get to take home his stick that he used in the game. We both decided the girl who was playing goalie...Kirill handed her the stick and she was ecstatic. On our way back to the car, Kirill gave his dad a big hug and said "this was great". Once we got in and began to leave, he turned to me and said "did you see how happy that girl was?", I nodded my head, and he said back "Thats what made the night sick for me. I love seeing happy people". For me that was all you need to know about Kirill "the person". He has a great heart and in everything he does he means well. 

In the weeks following that, he and I became very good friends, and I was able to learn a lot of things about his past regarding the incidents that caused his draft stock to plummet. I won't go into them in detail with anyone, but I will say this, 99% of the things that happened were not his fault. There were many people that held control over his fate and in my opinion did not want to see him succeed. Anyway through the last weeks of summer and early weeks of September, Kirill and I, along with many of my friends went on many fun adventures. Whether it be getting lost in Manhattan with us and my friend Sal and not having any American money on us...we did have Canadian money, but apparently asking people on the street if they will trade American money for Canadian money doesn't seem to work. That was only ONE part of that ONE fun adventure, and there were dozens more fun times that me, K, and my friends were able to enjoy during his time here. 

As expected once training camp came close, Kirill could no longer hang out with us as frequently. Just like the columnists said he wouldn't do, he was doing. He knew that fun time was over, and now he must focus on THE most important thing for him; hockey. Despite the fact he could no longer go out really, on every Monday & Thursday after my internships at the Nassau Coliseum with the Islanders, I would head over to the Marriott, grab some food with K, and discuss what was going on with his potential destinations, etc.  Believe it or not, those discussions and updates helped me learn a lot about the more in depth aspects of what goes on off the ice between agents, GM's, and players. As someone hoping to get into that field that information will be invaluable for me heading forward. As I was told about a week ago, Friday night was going to be his last night on Long Island before heading to Shawinigan. He stopped by my house to say goodbye to me and my family...for the third time this summer he thought it was necessary to give me one of his sticks, despite my protests, I will admit they're really cool. It was not an easy goodbye, as Kirill has developed into one of my better friends, but as I have learned from Andrey Pedan's sudden departure early in training camp, its part of the business. 

Now sure, this story was very much about recapping a fun summer with a friend that I didn't actually expect to become a friend, but its also about showing who the real Kirill Kabanov is, during a time where it seems chirping him is the common thing to do. He is a young kid who works hard, and has a great heart...when these so called "hockey people" say things like "he doesn't have his head on straight", I always ask the question when did being somewhat indecisive become "not having your head on straight". For the important things in life, he has his priorities lined up perfectly. Not only is he a terrific person, and a sure-fire NHL'er, but he is one of my best friends.