The same line was repeated by Viktor Kozlov and Miro Satan in separate interviews after practice Friday afternoon in Montreal. “It’s just one game.” Each was talking about new rookie linemate Jeff Tambellini, and you should have seen how they smiled at the mention of his name.
Clearly, the energy and excitement Tambellini created with three assists in the Islanders’ 5-2 victory Thursday night in Atlanta is contagious. When captain Alexei Yashin was put on the injured list to recover from knee tendinitis, Randy Robitaille moved from Kozlov’s line to take Yashin’s place between Jason Blake and Chris Simon, and Tambellini was called up from Bridgeport to play left wing with Kozlov and Satan.
The anxious rookie drew a holding penalty 48 seconds into the game, but from there on out, he put the pedal to the metal, and Kozlov and Satan jumped to keep up. Kozlov had the opening goal, the closing empty-netter and an assist on Trent Hunter’s power-play goal, and Satan had a goal and two assists.
“It’s only one game,” Satan said. “I don’t want to get too excited. But I had a good feeling about Jeff because I saw him in training camp, and you could see he worked very hard over the summer. He was shooting the puck hard and making plays. He has a lot of energy, so I had a good feeling he might fit with us.
“He was the first guy on every puck in the corner, and he gave us a chance to get there and help him out and start a forecheck, basically, and prevented them from making the play and getting out. We spent much more time in the offensive zone as a result of it. That’s why we had such a good game.”
Kozlov was equally effusive with his praise for Tambellini’s speed and for his ability to read the game. Asked if that meant Tambellini understood where Kozlov and Satan wanted the puck, Kozlov said it went beyond that.
“No, no, no. I think he is like a natural,” Kozlov said. “Some guys know, they feel where to be. You cannot teach that. That’s why I like it. He is always in a good position to give him a pass or to get the puck. It’s just one game, but I hope we can play the same way.”
Tambellini had such a great training camp that it forced coach Ted Nolan to include him in the opening night lineup in Phoenix. But the plan was to develop him in Bridgeport, and he was sent down after that reward. At the time of his callup, Tambellini was leading the Sound Tigers with 22 goals and 22 assists.
Against the Thrashers, Tambellini played with so much pent-up emotion that it looked as if he’d just been released from prison and couldn’t wait to get going with his first real opportunity to stick with the Islanders. “Right now, there’s an open hole in the lineup, and that’s what guys hope for – the one chance,” Tambellini said. “I’m going to do everything to help my two linemates produce. Those guys are phenomenal players, so, it’s up to me to get them the puck early and go to the net and bring that energy and that speed to the line.”
He’s only 5-11, 186 pounds, but Tambellini crashed the net hard against the Thrashers, once ending up in the net after being knocked down. He was relentless. It reminded Kozlov of an exhibition game they played together.
“Yes, of course I remember,” Kozlov said. “We had a game, and I got a two-on-one with me and Jeff. All of a sudden, he just passed the defenseman going so hard to the net. I remember that. He was like that in the beginning…Of course, the energy is shared with the team. It kind of pushes you up, too. You have to do something better.”
With the game in Atlanta at 1-all in the second period, Tambellini played a huge role in what might have been the best shift of the season. Hunter had the puck pinned deep on the right wall in the Thrashers’ zone when his linemates went off and Tambellini and Kozlov skated on. Tambellini joined Hunter, and the two of them fought to keep the puck down low for what seemed like ages. They momentarily lost control, and one of the Thrashers tried to make a clearing pass that was knocked down inside the blue line by Islanders defenseman Sean Hill.
As Hunter skated off to let Satan come on, Tambellini swept back toward the right point, got his stick on the puck and sent it past the left post, where Satan could get to it behind the net. Then, Tambellini scooted down there to join the fight. He said Satan tried at first to get the puck to him, but in the end, he was able to chip it to Satan near the left post.
“I had a little advantage when I got in the battle because I was fresh,” Satan said. “The guys on the ice were a little tired. It’s just hard work by all those guys, especially Jeff behind the net. I don’t remember every detail of the battle, but it was two-on-two behind the net. Somehow, the puck came out a little bit, and I just tried to reach from behind the net and shoot it and it surprised the goalie, I guess. It was over his pad but under his glove.”
That gave the Islanders a 2-1 lead at 11:11 of the second period, and they were able to play with a lead instead of being forced to fight from behind going to the third period. “You get enough pressure in their zone, and something’s going to break down,” Tambellini said of that play. “That’s what you’ve got to do. You do that enough games and you’re going to come out ahead for sure.”
There’s no telling how long Yashin might be out, but he will return at some point and a decision will have to be made on what to do with Tambellini. If he can sustain his chemistry with Kozlov and Satan by bringing the same effective energy game after game, Tambellini won’t be going anywhere.
“That’s determined by how I play,” Tambellini said. “If you earn your spot and play well enough, they’re going to give you even more of a look. So, that’s all in my hands right now.”
Comments (48)
:::::::::Yawn::::::::::
I hope this serves as an example of the impact that a young player can have on a predominantly veteran team. The energy was great. That said, I'd love to see more of the young guys like Nilsson and Comeau.
I totally agree with Chris. I mean we've all been saying it and it's great to see it happening. Jeff was all over the place and even if he doesn't register a point today he still should be up here. Nilsson should be aswell ...all year I've been saying Comeau should be up here, but if he finishes the year at the Bridge I'd be ok with it because this is really his 1st year there ...but I think the Isles have a really bright future if Snow plays his cards right ...
I like the energy a young player like Tambellini brings to the table and the other young players should take note. Tambellini earned his way to to the Islanders by putting up numbers in Bridgeport. This is all part ot the culture change that Snow and Nolan are instituting. They are not going to make call ups just to make a call up. Nillson, Cuomeau etc are not producing at the AHL level yet and need time to get their game up to speed and thier intensity and compettivness which are big characterisitics that the organization is looking for. Nillson was drafted in 03 at only 18 yts old. He is still only 22 now and another year or two in Bridgeport will not hurt and I would not give up on him because he is that skill guy the Islanders will need down the road. So Tambellini has set the bar for all the other Islander prospects: Compete, be intense and produce and you will make it to the NHL. Simple as that.
See, I told you that the Isles should see what they had in Bridgeport before they made a rash decision like Isbister and Raffi Torres for Janne Ninnimaa. I don't think that they'll bring up Nillson though because they want to use him as trade bait and don't want him flopping at the NHL level. I hope they are buyers. It looks like they have a surplus of Defensmen and I wonder which one would be the odd man out.
Guggie,
At 6:15, when you posted your message the Isles were far from a "surplus" at defense. With Gervais, Poti and now Martinek out they are pretty thin on the blue line. I think Rourke needs some more time to develop, and we'll probably see Berry, wotton or Mitchell while Snow dangles Franz in front of some GM's for a more experienced "D".
In Oct they looked strong on the blueline, but not now...I wonder what their options are with Grebeshkov next year. Maybe Logan can tell us what's going on with him and Bergenhiem.
What a great game today... even with Marti going down they pressed the Habs in the third period for a solid win against a team they needed two points from. NOLAN is doing a terrific job, and the additions to the team this year like Witt, Hill and Simon have added some attitude that the team has been missing for 15 years.
Well said jp... is any one else thinking that hunter is a dominant force whenever he's on the ice... his second goal tonight proves that he's confident... I mean just turning and ripping it without even looking at the goal... dp was alright too, but this guy gives chest pain at least 5 times a game... but I love the guy anyway... he needs to stay in his net and stop flopping every time someone skates by his short side...
Does anyone know the status of gerbecktov and nikilainen.... those guys really impressed me last year... why aren't they given a shot with the big club
The talented young players WILL pay dividends if Ted sticks with them. Too bad about Marty but now guys like Tambellini and Campoli can now show their vast potential. Too bad injuries and a delayed benching of Yashin had to happen to force the issue.
Question for everyone ...
If you could create the top two PP units - consisting of people who are already on the team or in the minors - what would they be?
Mine would be these ...
Nilsson-Kozlov-Hunter
w/ Poti-Campoli
Tambellini-Sillinger-Satan
w/ Meyer-Hill
I ask this question because every now and then I'll see some guys on the PP unit and I can't figure out why they get time (Simon) when there are guys in the system with some potential to help the PP (Nillson and Tambellini) ...Jeff has 7 PP goals in the minors I believe ...I guess I just think it couldn't hurt at this point ...if they can get the PP going this could be a very tough team to beat because they already play well 5 on 5
Kozlov-randy r.-satan w. Poti&martinek
Hunter-sillinger-blake w. Campolli&hill
I also agree with azs about some players that shouldn't be on the pp... but at this point the pp has been horrible across the board, so maybe nolan's trying to mix things up and create a spark...
One thing I can't understand is dp's flopping as the oposition skates by his short side.... that's how wash. Scored their first goal... on either side... don't get me wrong... the guy has made tremendous strides in his skill, but this is an area that I feel has gotten worse
PP 1 -
Sillinger
Blake
Nilsson
Poti
Hill
PP2 -
Kozlov
Satan
Hunter
Campoli
Meyer
Although our defense gets taken to task a lot this year, the play of Poti and Hill have been above my expectations for this year and I like the youth in Gervais and Campoli. Fata seems like a better fill in then Rourke and Witt has been a great pick up, he's really stabilized the unit.
The Isles have played well these last 7 games but if we have a realistic shot at the playoffs they are going to have to continue with this pace. Every point is crucial.
Our offense is still suspect. Do any of you think the Isles will be "buyers" this season? I'll say this now, I would not surrender Nilsson in any potential trade for a rental player. If you want to give him for a Bertuzzi and then sign him maybe, but not for Guerin or any of those guys that are one and done. That said, I would LOVE to see Simon Gagne come here if Philly is dumping. That's a very skilled in his prime scorer.
PP...
1. Has anybody noticed the most successful PP unit has been the three biggest forwards. Hunter, Kozlov and Simon have put together the best PP time since they've been together.
You EARN PP time.. and I find it hard to believe that you can earn NHL PP time fromt eh AHL. Nilsson and Tambellini will be on the unit someday, but not right now. I'd like to see Nolan just roll the two hottest lines on the PP. Sillinger-Hilbert-Hunter, and Kozlov-Satan-Tambellini/Blake. I really don't want to see Simon on the PP either, but if he gets results who are we to complain.
Another "good" loss by the Isles. Getting a point with that lineup after the ordeal at the airport was big.
I wish I knew how Fata earned a spot in front of Berry (or any other defenseman for that matter). But I've come to expect NOTHING from Newsday. Come on Greg, don't they have tolls to Bridgeport in your budget?
I don't care if the injuries have been real or contrived; it's great to see us finally inserting our young talent into the lineup. Maybe a few more delegates to the IR and the rebuiding will begin in earnest.
It's definitely good to see some young legs that can contribute at this juncture of the season. But I'd rather have a HEALTHY Yashin, playing the way he was in October and November. I'd also like to have a healthy Poti, and DEFINITELY want to see Radek back ASAP. The team has a good chance now, but they can't afford to lose too many more man-games to injury.
Bates may have lost his spot on the team next year. It might just be me, but it looks like he's been spending too much time at the late night drive thru at Wendy's. I'm pretty sure they have Wendy's in Boston and Columbus...
Hopefully they can get 2 from Philly and the infirmed will start rolling off the IR.
BTW> Did anybody see the great check Hill put on Ove(rated)chkin... he gave him NOTHING coming up the left wing, then he slammed him into the boards... all the time Over-rated was trying to dipsy doodle, twist and turn... then SLAM! I love that stuff!
If not for the dumb penalty he took against Semin, Hill was probably the player of the game.
JP- I was at the game yesterday and while I'd hesitate to call Ovechkin overated, I do remember the play and turning to my son to say, "That was a really nice play by Hill," (reminded me of Brad Park, Play the Man).
Btw, anyone concenrned about Islander turnout at the NVMC should go to a game in D.C. This is my second game this yera in the cavernous Verizon Center--and talk about empty and no life. And there is no way there was 12,000 in that building--even with its multiple levels and boxes.
My, my, my... it sure looks like my fellow islander fanatics are in a good mood today. So am I (we can't help ourselves after a good road trip), but I'm also sober enough to understand that very little is different today than it was just a week ago when we were all in a frenzy about the lack of offense on this team. Tambellini is a welcome sub for Bates, but he's certainly not the offensive messiah people have been looking for - there's no such thing. The PP is still pathetic (notwithstanding Hunters excellent backhander in Montreal), and now we have a potential back-breaker in the loss of Marty. Let's all keep it real enough to understand that the only things separating us today from despair rather than elation is just one point-blank shot magically finding its way into Dunham's glove, and one of a number of monsterous DP saves against the Habs.
Probably the one thing that we all should take away from this latest stretch is that this team has balls. And I mean BIG ones. And that's because more and more each day they are reflecting the personality of their coach and buying into his gospel of maximum effort, passionate play and a take-no-prisoners attitute. (Yashin might not be quite there yet, but perhaps another week or so of pine will finally do the trick).
Now the question for us as starving-for-a-winner Islander freak-heads is... Do we also buy into Nolan's creed? Don't be so quick to answer "Yes". I must admit that I'm just a recent (and reluctant) full convert to Teddy's philosophy. Do you still feel that Nilsson should be in the lineup rather than Hilbert? Park? Simon? If so, then you're not quite on on board yet. Nolan has stuck to his guns from day 1 in training camp: no passion? no play. No sacrifice? no play. No lockerroom spirit of team first? say hello to Bridgeport. He values the INtangible over the apparent tangible assets of a player. And he does so at the risk of occasionally getting outclassed by the talent of the league and incurring the rath of you, me and his boss. That's why $7 million is sitting on the bench right now.
So, are we all on board the Nolan express yet? It's probably best not to answer until the next time they only score a few goals in a stretch of games with a few tough losses. For what it's worth, my 2 cents are with the coach. I'm willing, this year at least, to let him keep true to his principals no matter what the outcome. That's why I firmly believe the Islanders should be a SELLER at the end of this month. It's a great way to realize some good value for the dead wood that ultimately will be cleared out one way or another,
Exciled in Cincy, I suggest you stay put exactly where you are. How can you justify the Isles being sellers at the deadline. They have proven that they can play with and beat any team in this league. They have shown a tremendous amount of heart all year, especially recently, in beating a handfull of 1st place squads and other above average teams, while they are missing some of their core players. We're 4 points out of the 6th spot in the playoffs and have games in hand on most of the teams ahead of us. Sellers? What a joke. In saying that the Isles should be sellers, you show that you are hardly "with the coach." I can guarantee that Ted Nolan doesnt want to be a seller come the trade deadline, nor does any other true Isles fan.
Eric and Exiled,
You both make valid points, but I think I have to agree with Exiled on this. They did a really good job of clearing the cupboard last year at the deadline and got tambellini, grebeshkov and a sack of draft picks. Does anybody miss parish, Kvasha or Lukawich? I think they could do without rubberguy and bates. I thought they should have picked up jurcina from boston, but the caps scooped him up. I thought that yashin played with some fire for 60 days... Time will tell if it's his knee or his heart that has him riding pine.
I too am exiled (in VA), so any insight on the games is greatly appreciated.
I am also on the Nolan bandwagon, but I thought that Tambellini played with fire last year and in his one game... and you couldn't argue with the numbers. Nilsson may not be there yet, but Bergenhiem and Nokie played tough last year as well... I'd like to see one of those guys grow into solid power forwards, but we don't even know if the Isles can get bergie back from europe before next season...and how him and grebeshkov are doing on the other side of the pond.
Either way getting Nolan was the best move the Isles have made in 25 years.
Eric: Your rationale for being a buyer at the trade deadline is as full of holes as the defense you've been playing lately.
So you think Nolan wants to be a buyer at the deadline? Tell me, Einstein - who do you think he wants to trade to purchase those players? Some of the "core" guys who missed those last few games? If so, point out someone who might be willing to part with that hard-working, passionate (remember Teddy's criteria) and productive winger in exchange for the priviledge of taking on the $28 million owed to Yashin, or $1.2 million per year owed to Bates. Or do you want to rid yourself of Poti and Hill and thin out the back line experience in front of your 15-year golden boy?
Oh, I get it. You want to trade some of our young guys and prospects instead. Which ones? Tambellini? Nilsson? Gervais? Campoli (watch out, you'll have to answer to Miggsey)? If so, you must be a top student in the Mibury school for general managing.
Forgive me. Now I undertand. The only way to support Nolan and be a real Isles fan is to stay put with what we have. Of course!!! What was I thinking? A 10% PP average is more than enough to advance deep into the playoffs. And after all, when Yashin comes back from his benching, er, injury, he's gonna finally catch fire and show that Briere, Drury, Jagr, Crosby and everyone else just what a top-tier player really is!!! And after that, monkies are gonna fly out of my butt!!!
Listen, skippy. The only joke is your grasp on reality and the idea that you have any understanding of what it means to be a true Islander fan. You want to refute my assertion of why the Isles should be sellers? Do so. But do it with a sound, well thought-out and respectful argument rather than throwing insults about not really being a fan if I don't agree with your point of view. Otherwise you need to stick to knock-hockey.
Merrick,
I really don't think Ovechkin is over-rated. He's a solid player. Living in the DC area for a while I just can't stand anything about this team. I was very suspicious of getting Witt and especially "THE CHIEF".
I can definitely see the team starting to gel now, and those guys plus Hill, Sillinger (WHAT A GREAT PICK UP) and Hilbert (another tremendous addition) are such character (LEADERS) for this team. I really wish Bouchard could have stayed healthy... he would have been a nice "character" 7th defenseman.
What kills me about that play, Merrick, is that if the man and the puck are seperated it can be called interference. campoli made a great play in MON the other night that cost him 2 mins... Sometimes I think the NHL wants to see 10-15 PP's per game... Damn DEVILS!!!
Now just relax there exiled you jackass, you might have an aneurism. By simply saying that the Isles shouldnt be sellers I am not advocating being substantial buyers. So before you put words in my mouth about trading young talent away and provide your deep and truly ingenious comparisons to Mike Milbury, blah blah blah, go ahead and just simmer down. My point is that the Isles have a competitive team as is and dont need to make any moves in order to reach the playoffs, and make some noise when they get there. Satan, Hunter and Kozlov have all been playing great recently which should help the power play.
Furthermore, while I am the farthest thing from a strong supporter of #79, the fact is he has showed he can contribute when healthy and he is under contract. You must forget the beginning of the season when he was playing some of the best hockey of his career. So boo f'n hoo that hes overpaid, we all know this but he's on the team and there is nothing that can change that this year.
Oh yea, and that "15 year golden boy" has been single-handedly winning games for the Isles all year, case in point the Montreal game, not to mention his effort in OT losses to Washington and Detroit. (they probably dont televise these in cincy)
I realize that the isles do not have much in terms of NHL players deeply desired by other teams as that fact has been pointed out repeatedly by analysts and is blatantly obvious. Thanks for pointing it out though. I think at this stage the Isles are in decent shape and there is no need to break up a team that currently has a shot of winning some hockey games. Now, oh genius my genius, where is the logic in breaking up a team that is winning games? I simply said that the Isles should not be sellers, nothing more. That and stay exiled in cincy.
Hey exiled... Are you really an isles fan?... Why are you so mad at this organization? I know it hasn't been the best for us since '93, but come on bro... you just want to sell the team... for what... to start all over again like we did this year or every year during the late 90's? I give you props for still loving the orange and blue even though you live in OH, but seriously... if you're that upset with the team maybe you should start supporting the rangers. Oh wait, they have less points than we do... or maybe columbus... so this way you can watch every game of a team that you think really sucks..
This team has been playing great hockey after the all star break... with no superstars on the roster. Personally, I've been impressed with each one of the past 6 games (yes even the fact that they somehow got a 3 goal lead on detroit). So exiled... you see its really not so bad... the rangers and flyers are worse off than we are... and they actually have superstars... and i hope we make the playoffs, and actually win a series so you can chill a bit
Hey Cincy,
There is no way in hell the Isles will be sellers. They will not make a major move either. They will most likely make a minor deal or two. We are definitely in the playoff hunt so why sell? I think Garth is constantly looking for a great deal, but if there is none than I hope he does nothing. I would be fine with staying put.
Isles should no doubt be sellers---we aint going anywhere regardless . Thus, get some value, unload any unfriendly salary and set ourselves up for the future. The isles are mediocre at best---why buy?
To Mr. “Anonymous Eric Cairns”: I finished my last post with these words – “You want to refute my assertion of why the Isles should be sellers? Do so. But do it with a sound, well thought-out and respectful argument rather than throwing insults about not really being a fan if I don't agree with your point of view.” Your response? You called me a jackass. And you want ME to relax? Perhaps you should spend some time in anger management class. Sheesh!! C’mon man, we’re both Islander fans – we’re passionate about the same team, remember? Please, go back and carefully read my previous posts again and I’m sure you’ll see that. This has been a great forum to voice some real good and well thought-out observations and opinions. Believe it or not, I’m even interested in reading yours. Just keep the name calling and insults to yourself. OK? Of course, please accept my apologies for referring to you as Einstein.
So give me your argument on this one: On 2/2/2007 you made this comment… “Listen, I also have lost patience with Yashin, but I feel that he can still have a role on this team… Yashin is strong on the puck and affective at keeping the cycle going. I honestly believe that he was rushed after the injury, and put back into the lineup too quickly. I know that he makes a lot of money, but cut the guy a break... you never [know?] we could be eating our words in the future.”
My response was this… “Sorry, but I can't see cutting him a break any longer. Keeping him counts 7+ million against the cap. Buying him out counts 2+ against the cap. $5 million puts us in the market for Briere or Drury [since Buffalo can’t keep both]. So, I'll let you choose... Alexi or Briere or any other $5 million player.”
You responded that “yashin’s contract won’t be bought out by the end of the year.” But what about in the off-season? You said he played some of his best hockey in the beginning of this season. Is it $5 million hockey? I don’t think so. As I said before, the choice is a no-brainer.
You mentioned that Satan, Kozlov and Hunter have been playing great recently, which should help the PP. So this, I assume, is part of your reasoning to keep Satan. But on 2/2/2007, when you were asserting how strong Yashin was on the puck, you said… “compare him to satan.. who loses the puck every time someone skates near him.” Satan costs us $4.25 million per. You still think he’s worth it? For me, I thnk it’s a toss-up right now on Satan. He’s definitely not worth $4+ million anymore, but how much in draft picks or top prospects can we score for him at the deadline? Isn’t it worth exploring? I’m definitely willing to listen if approached at the deadline, and I hope Garth is too.
I hate to admit this, because I'm a big Yashin supporter (there are a few of us), but it seems as if the team plays better without him at times. Tambellini's inspired play aside, to a man, everyone seems to step up their game. Guess it's the old Barry Melrose theory that an injury to your best player is sometimes a blessing in disguise for just this reason. This being said, however, the Isles are still a better team with Yashin in the lineup. After all, nobody was complaining early in the season when he was playing his best hockey as an Islander, helping step up Blake's game in the process. Unfortunately, Yash is one of these athletes who feels he has to be 100 percent healthy to give 100 percent effort. This is hard to do when you're playing hurt. Give the man some credit for trying to play through the knee injury when it was clear he rushed back too soon. For many Isles fans, he's damned if he does (plays hurt, but not as well) and damned if he doesn't (stays out of the lineup until completely healthy). It looks like Nolan has made the decision for him, for now. If the Isles are to make the playoffs, however, they'll need 79 on the ice.
I too haven't completely lost faith in Yash, but he'll need to produce when he gets back to keep me in his corner. Strong on the puck? Not a chance. But he doesnt have to be if he plays like he did during the first half of the season. I'm really impressed how we've responded in the face of adversity, and thrilled that tambellini has been brought up as a result of yashin being sidelined.
f the rags, another loss and we'll widen the gap tomorrow night. LGI
Yo exiled... this is 'themass'... I think you're getting my quotes confused with your boy anonymous eric cairnes... read the name at the and of the quotes bro...
Some good arguments going on in here. I echo the thoughts of Exiled in Cincy in that I'm of the belief that the Isles should be a "seller". While the team has played well of late, they do not have the firepower to play with the big teams in this conference if they qualify for the playoffs. They struggle to score goals and cannot skate with most teams unless they bring their "A" physical game to offset the lack of offense. I love the fact that Nolan has changed the culture around the organization and while I would like to see more of the young players here, I understand his criteria to play for the team has to include all of the things Exiled talked about.
Onto the "seller" part of my argument. The team is what it is, a .500 hockey team with an above average goalie, no offense and on the older side. Blake is a very valuable chip to play and he is at the height of his popularity around the league. He's having a career year and the Isles should be able to parlay that into a nice package of talent from a playoff bound team (i.e Anaheim, etc.). He's going to want too much money and too many years and he has leverage because of the year he's had here. We got him for a conditional 5th round pick and he's played well for us. Lets move him and get as much as we can for him. In the short term this will look like a step back, but I believe that with the young defense we have here (Campoli, Gervais) and the talent we have coming through the system (O'Mara, Okposo, Nilsson, Tambellini, Comeau) it would be a shame to invest more money in an older player (i.e Satan, Yashin). If you look at most successful oranizations in this league today, they have built around youth and through the draft. If we were only one or two players away from doing real damage in the playoffs then I would have a different perspective but I disagree with Anonymous's post that we have a real shot at doing some damage in the playoffs. I haven't seen any evidence of that.
Greg, is there any way to edit this blog so I can just read Cincy's comments? He contiually validates his points with clear facts yet he's subjected to arguements founded in quick sand. He's bang on about what talent we have, who we need to get rid of and what mode we should be in at the trade deadline. Good job Cincy; forgive them for they know not what they say.
Cincy:
I am not here to support or dissent on your argument that the Isles are "sellers". What I am here to tell you is that I think you have WAAAAAAYY too much time on your hands to be researching previous blogs for comments by anonymous bloggers just so you can prove the same anonymous blogger wrong.
It's the only way for Cincy to stop those bloggers who are wearing their Rose tinted glasses Eric. My guess is the vast majority of writers rarely watch or have played the game which would be an irritant to someone as knowlegeable as Cincy.
I think there is something weird going on between Cincy and Miggsey. Even their names rhyme......
Exiled, you got the wrong guy because the mass is the one who posted the comments that you have listed:
So give me your argument on this one: On 2/2/2007 you made this comment… “Listen, I also have lost patience with Yashin, but I feel that he can still have a role on this team… Yashin is strong on the puck and affective at keeping the cycle going. I honestly believe that he was rushed after the injury, and put back into the lineup too quickly. I know that he makes a lot of money, but cut the guy a break... you never [know?] we could be eating our words in the future.”
“compare him to satan.. who loses the puck every time someone skates near him.” Satan costs us $4.25 million per. You still think he’s worth it? For me, I thnk it’s a toss-up right now on Satan. He’s definitely not worth $4+ million anymore, but how much in draft picks or top prospects can we score for him at the deadline? Isn’t it worth exploring? I’m definitely willing to listen if approached at the deadline, and I hope Garth is too.
So again, please stop putting words in my mouth as the mass and I are two different people.
Anyway, i do like Miro as he has been stepping up lately. I do think he takes time off in his own end on occasion which is unacceptable. However, the bottom line is he has been finding the back of the net recently and the Isles have been winning games as a result of his play and that of "the 15 year golden boy" as you put it, Ricky. I dont think he has proven that he is worth 4.25 mil per, this year, however when he put up 35 goals last year to lead the team he was very much so worth it and none of us were complaining.
No, Miro is not the strongest guy on the puck, however he is certainly not the weakest. Case in point the Atlanta game last week, during which the isles, and mainly Miro, Trent and Tambellini, battled throughout the offensive zone, maintaining control of the puck for over a minute, in what has been called the best shift of the season. That great shift, resulted in a big goal by Satan. He was pretty strong on the puck on that shift and has shown glimpses of his strength on occasion, but by no means consistently. The bottom line is he doesnt have to be that strong on the puck because he is not the tough and gritty power forward type, like a Trent Hunter, he is a finesse player. He isnt the power forward who drives to the net, and he has never been that type of player during his career. He is and always has been a sniper, paid to pick corners and make plays. Now before you come back and say you dont have to be a power forward to be strong on the puck, dont bother, because I realize this. However when you look at most European players that fit the role of snipers you would be hard pressed to prove that the majority of them are overly strong on the puck.
The only way we should give up Miro before the deadline is in a package that blows us away, which is not going to happen in my opinion. At this stage he is too important to the team, especially with "the captain" crying about the boo boo on his knee. The offseason is another story, in fact, I would be all for heavily shopping Miro in the offseason, however, now is not the right time.
Anyway, Im all set with this debate and it has been entertaining. I am content to wait and see what the Isles do at the deadline and where they finish up at the end of the season to support my argument.
Go Isles, Cairns is a beast
For the record, I am not the one posting under Eric either, only Eric Cairns because he is a beast
looks like ive given away my anonymity
Eric: Sorry I confused you with themass. Since you had already posted under 2 different names I just assumed themass was you too since his posts were also resorting to name calling.
Good points about characterizing Miro's talent as a "sniper". Indeed he is. Funny thing is, I actually think he IS strong on the puck and has entirely bought into Nolan's insistence on errort and sacrifice. But the reality is that his salary was negotiated under the old CBA and is way out of balance with his relative skills right now. This is all why I said keeping him is a toss-up. But I do think that better value can be realized by moving a guy at the deadline rather than the off-season. That's when shoppers are more motivated. And with so many buyers this year due to league parity, this might be the Isles best opportunity to stock the pipeline for the future.
Anyway - Cairns was indeed a beast.
That last comment just made my day...good things
who on this team is "sellable" :
Blake: This would DEVASTATE the team's chances of making the playoffs this year. That does affect revenue. I think Wang (and me) would like to keep Jason. He has been nothing but a 110% guy since he's been with the team. It just sends a bad message if you're not willing to pay a guy like that.
Yashin: find me a buyer
Satan: He hasn't been overly productive this year, but he has done everything asked of him since joining the team. He might also be the most valuable commodity they have. I wouldn't do it, but it would make sense going forward if Nilsson and Bergenhiem are ready.
Bates: I can definitely see them adding to this team by subtraction. He still has value on the market, and has easily been replaced on the roster by tambellini. I'd shop him right to the western conference for a second or third rounder.
Asham (my favorite Isle right now) is also expendable if Bergenhiem is NHL ready next year... or Nokilinen gets back what he had last year. but he's a bargain to this team for what he brings to the table.
They can't afford to "sell" a "D"... and Sillinger, Hunter, Hilbert, Park and Simon are all low cost High value guys... I don't see them going anywhere.
Using that logic i think Bates might be on his way out the door. And I don't think that hurts our playoff chances, and could bring defensive help to the bridge or a serviceable draft pick.
Any thoughts?
JP: Your analysis looks pretty good to me. Except for the following...
Satan: as I've already mentioned, we have a buyers market right now, so Satan could bring in some premium picks/talent. At least shop him.
Asham: He's always been one of my favorites. I couldn't stand to let him go.
Park: he's low cost, but not hig value. Great on the PK, but there are many who could step up to fill his shoes.
Simon: sorry to say, but i think the chief's best days are behind him. Make a good offer and he's expendable.
Alot of buyers, very few sellers - this is a great opportunity to prime the pump. Let's see what Garth can do, eh?
It will be interesting to see if Snow will pull the trigger on a major deal or is content to have made the Zhitnik and York trades already.
I think that if something can't be worked out with Blake and apparently they can't agree on the length of the deal, the Isles should see what his value is. I agree that he's been great for us, but he's a 33 year old winger currently in the middle of a career year. He's never scored more than 57 points in a season or 28 goals (he's currently on pace for 42 goals and 73 points). I'm just not willing to break the bank for Blake and give him more than what Miro is currently making, which is 4.25 million per year.
The one nice thing is that Hilbert, Park, Robitaille and Simon are all on one year deals, so they do have flexibility for next year.
Cincy,
I think it will be hard to get anything for third and fourth line guys... and I like the ones we have. Simon may be shipped, but I doubt shopped. The same goes for park, though I do see him as being highly valuable as a third line energy guy. To play 8-10 mins a game, mostly situational, and ALWAYS hit the round running is quite valuable. I think park is where blake was four years ago, only older.
I can see shopping Satan, but I don't see somebody stepping into his skates. He's a keeper in my book. Kozlov is more of a value guy who can be replaced with more intensity. I can see why GM's have been reluctant to let him go in the past, flashes of greatness, but no extended periods of FIRE. If you could somehow cross Park with Kozlov you'd have yourself one helluva player.
I've been on the Asham bandwagon since he arrived. He does everything... and when he got in Stirling's dog house is when I thought Stirling was the wrong coach for any team. I guess I was right about that. He can play on the top line, or the fourth. He throws the body with some impact. he plays both ends of the ice with the same intensity, and he seems like a good kid. The rangers just gave up Ward and prospects to get a guy like that... and I'd take Asham over avery anyday. But I'm biased.
Every team's dream is to win a Stanley Cup, but this group, even assuming some miraculous upside trade can be made, remains a longshot among longshots.
At the same time, the Isles were considered bottom feeders for this season--so whether you agree or disagree, any signficiant noise or buzz on the Island would probably be considerd a victory by the collective ownership/management team. Then the hope is that some of young guys can step up gradually to fill and improve the roles now held by so many of our interchangeable veterans.
In this light, my best guess is that we see some relatively minor trade with a non-contender to beef up depth at the blueline (e.g., a 4-5 defenseman) in exchange for a mid-level draft pick. And as a season-ticket holder with a strong interest in the team, if that's all they can do, I'd be happy with that. I'd be far unhappier if they put a lot of chips on the table with young talent in Bridgeport going for an inside straight.
As for the future, lots of us have mentioned Grebeshkov. If anyone has a lead on his plans after this season, I'd surely like to know.
Denis is playing for Yaroslavl in Russia (according to the internet hockey DB). He seems to have good numbers there, btu how can you tell. I think both he and Bergenhiem are still Islander property if they decide to play in the NHL next year (club's option). Both of them will want one way contracts.
I'd love to see soem more info from Newsday via Snow and some of the european scouts on this. their progress means a lot to what snow does in the next three weeks.
you're right on about making some noise. they were picked to be where the flyers are now. I don't see them getting too far in the playoffs, if they make it, but who knows. I definitely want to see them get there, and think that they can without a major overhaul. If they can get forseberg for Bates and a second round pick... who knows.. but they still need some blueline help... Jurcina would have looked nice in orange and blue. I hope that wasn't a result of having to wait on the "comittee".
As long as the Isles don't trade away their young talent as the past administration had no problem doing I'm OK. I think they have built up some depth in the organization and it's a matter of how those young players are developed that will count.
What is everyone's take on DiPietro this year? He has been up and down, but I think he's settled into his role nicely and has been playing the majority of the games. He flops a little too much for my liking and gets caught of position at time, but I like his progress and he has been good in the shootouts. All in all, I like the way he is playing.
In regards to DP, I think he has improved, but he needs so much more maturity. He wanders WAY too much. He is such an assett when he handles the puck that he forgets that he's responsible for a 6x4. That being said... 15 years.. it's done... but WTF. The NHL just stopped laughing about the Yashin deal.. You have to admire Wang's loyalty, but then they should have paid guys like Aucoin... why couldn't pickett give palffy 15 years... or turgeon... I would have liked to see Muller get 15 years... in county!
Yo jp... I agree about dp's contract... its important to have consistant goaltending though... 10 years would have still been funny, but easier to live with. That said, I believe that he is going to be world class within the next couple of years. You also have to appreciate his dedication to our squad.
Maybe we should be sellers... maybe not... but at this point we are only a few points out of the playoffs... if we go on a skid in the next 4-6 games then yeah... unload. On the flip side of that coin, if we continue with the current trends I say take a chance... any team can get hot in the playoffs, and we do have a goalie who is capable of getting hot in the spring and early summer
THIS IS A POST FOR JEFF TAMBELLINI, IF YOU HAPPEN TO READ THIS (LOL) I MET YOU IN A CAB GOING TO BINGHAMTON AIRPORT THIS MORNING, AND I FORGOT TO ASK YOU ARE YOU CLAIMED ALREADY? texastopnotch4u@yahoo.com
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