Warning! Long Post Alert!

Happy Turkey Day to my American readers, I hope you aren't all suffering from the post Thanksgiving sleepiness that happens from eating turkey – like I am.

Having lost to the Montreal Canadians last night by a score of 4-1, here are a few of my thoughts on the game.

I felt the defense sat back a bit after that first goal (under a minute in) and as soon as it happened – I knew we were in trouble. The defense let too many Montreal players get to the puck first and they generated a lot of pressure on DiPietro.

That being said, when we had possession of the puck – we actually seemed to cycle the puck very well – we just couldn't generate any pressure of our own.

The power play was absolutely dismal, I don't know how many shots we generated over the course of the 5 chances we had – but I know we did not shoot enough.

It really drives me nuts when the team (in Billy Jaffe’s words) takes low percentage shots and makes low percentage plays. Mike Comrie was guilty of a few of these low percentage plays – coughing up the puck trying to be too pretty with it.

Berard had a few great chances on the power play, even hitting the post twice. The bounces and breaks just didn't work in our favor. I feel the team really needs to get back to what worked at the very beginning of the season – put pressure in front of the opposing goalie, get shots through and work those rebounds. Don't look for the perfect pass or play, just get it to the net when you have no other option. Keeping possession of the puck and cycling in the zone on the power play is great, but it's a waste of time when you can't generate anything.

Some positives, Witt dropped the gloves last night – taking on Long Island native Mike Komisarek behind the Islanders net. Witt landed a HUGE punch at the end of the fray, earning him a clear victory in what would've been a draw otherwise.

The penalty kill is still working, having let up only one power play goal in several chances – at least that percentage continues to shine.

Mike Comrie got on the board in the last few minutes – granted it was too little too late, but he is one player that needs to get his offensive game going.

This was the first time I went downstairs after a tough loss, so it was definitely an experience. The mood in the locker room was as if someone had stolen the team’s puppy – very quiet with a feeling of disgust and let down. If the mood had been any different, I would be concerned. It shows me that this group of players really cares about playing and winning.

As the group of Media and Bloggers was huddled around Mike Sillinger (as he is the go to guy in tough situations), Corey Witt tapped me on the shoulder and asked why I wasn't in there recording the interview. I told him I wouldn't do much with the interview anyway, as 14 other people would be covering that side of the story. I did not want to write about the same thing, so I was just watching player’s reactions and mannerisms more than anything – given I can't take pictures in the locker room. He smiled at me and acknowledged my point. I then said it was like taking a mental picture, so I can write about this later instead.

So what did I see? In no particular order:

Bryan Berard, looking extremely annoyed and wishing he had another 20 minutes.

Richard Park, slamming (emphatically) the top to his foot locker down gritting his teeth as he walked passed me – which is odd because that guy always has a smile on his face.

Mike Comrie in what felt like 15 minutes to take his equipment off, drinking some sort of protein shake and tossing bits of equipment in his bag in disgust. I think he knew I was staring at him – as he had a look of discomfort on his face. (Trust me Mike, I understand… I would be freaked out too)

After Sillinger was done with the interview and the sea of reporters and bloggers dissipated (to interview DiPietro) – he turned to Comrie and commented on the quality of their socks (which drew a laugh out of me at least). Once again, I witnessed a seasoned veteran giving advice to a younger player. Although this time, it was an attempt to get Comrie from lamenting over the loss. To me, that is one of the things that make this blog worth while the most.

When I am in the locker room and I look around, I get to see the guys who I love to watch – but in a different environment. In the smallest way, it makes me feel like I am part of the team – because we share the same interest in the team, their success and the sport of hockey. It's like walking into the locker room after one of my games – there is conversation on the game, banter, laughter and of course – the smells of hockey that only a hockey player can enjoy.

For that, I cannot thank the Islanders, Chris Botta and Corey Witt enough – I hope I do them proud.

Lastly, I only took maybe 3 pictures during the post game press conference – I will post them up in a few (as well as the rest of the pics from the game prior – oops).

Enjoy the rest of your holiday – let’s get 4 points out of this home and home boys!

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The guys over at Hockey Night on Long Island have invited me to be a guest on this Saturday's (11/24) show – which will air at 3:30pm. This is the first time I will be interviewed – anywhere, so please don't laugh too hard at my expense!

I will make another post when Saturday is a bit closer, but you can access the show by clicking the button below.

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In the meantime, please check out their The Tiger Track.

I can't wait for Saturday!

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Well, where do I start?

Let me first apologize for not posting much on the past few games – I really hate missing out on them.

Islanders vs. Rangers 11/19/07 2-1 Road Win

Overall I thought this was one of the most solid road wins of the season. Jagr and co. were kept silent all night, even being limited to one shot on goal a piece from Jagr and Drury. The defense was very sharp and didn't give into any of Avery's antics. The Islanders had some trouble getting started though, icing the puck numerous times until they managed some pressure through the neutral zone.

Fedotenko and Vasicek continue to prove everyone wrong – which makes me laugh harder and harder at the predictions bestowed on the Isles this year. I'll be honest, it is a long season and things can change – but for now they continue their roll over division rivals thought to be tougher than they are.

DiPietro had his 100th career win, another great game by a goaltender that doesn't get nearly enough credit. With guys named Broduer and Lundquist right across the river – I guess it can be easy to forget Ricky…..

Mike's Rant

After I catch my breath from the hysterical views of the press on the Islanders – I am forced to reach for an oxygen mask when I see local media members thump their chest for the teams they cover. Homerism is very rampant in NY sports – which makes me wonder why everyone is scared of bloggers and what the Islanders have done this season with the Blog Box.

Two blatant homers if there ever were a pair – Al Trautwig and Larry Brooks of MSG and The NY Post respectively. One expects a bit of support for the "home" team when you are assigned the task of covering that team for your media outlet – but lets be real, there will be times in your career that you will have to give a nod to the opposing team. Neither of these chaps are capable in any capacity of doing so. Trautwig has even gone as far as to mock Islander fans on the air and Brooks (even as a past Isles beat writer) goes out of his way to kick dirt on the organization whenever he see the opportunity.

As a blogger, I am fully aware of the shadow of doubt and concern cast upon us by the "Big Boy Media", but come on – I know when to call a spade a spade and I also know how to keep things respectful enough not to cross any lines. Chris Botta obviously trusts the bunch of us and I love how as a PR guy – he isn't afraid to point out the wrongdoings himself.

I really need to post more often because I can't imagine keeping that stuff bottled up too long – I might just explode.

[/RANT]

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Not that this is a big surprise to anyone, but our boys Bill Guerin and Rick DiPietro are near the bottom in the vote counts on this years All-Star ballot.

Head on over to http://fanballoting.nhl.com/ and get your vote in TODAY!

Let's get our boys into this years game!

Here are the current tallies (Courtesy of NHL.com)

Eastern Conference
(as of 11/19/07)

Forwards

Player NHL Club Votes
Sidney Crosby Pittsburgh 94,118
Daniel Alfredsson Ottawa 41,198
Daniel Briere Philadelphia 32,751
Alex Ovechkin Washington 30,686
Vincent Lecavalier Tampa Bay 28,615
Dany Heatley Ottawa 27,121
Ilya Kovalchuk Atlanta 26,628
Evgeni Malkin Pittsburgh 18,015
Saku Koivu Montreal 17,891
Maxim Afinogenov Buffalo 17,782
Jaromir Jagr NY Rangers 16,604
Chris Drury NY Rangers 15,600
Mats Sundin Toronto 14,046
Jason Blake Toronto 13,317
Simon Gagne Philadelphia 12,394
Jason Spezza Ottawa 11,902
*Mike Richards Philadelphia 10,315
Thomas Vanek Buffalo 9,701
Patrik Elias New Jersey 9,358
Eric Staal Carolina 8,746
Marian Hossa Atlanta 8,648
Martin St. Louis Tampa Bay 7,546
Brendan Shanahan NY Rangers 7,057
*Alex Kovalev Montreal 5,990
Bill Guerin NY Islanders 5,805
Vyacheslav Kozlov Atlanta 4,651
Justin Williams Carolina 4,611
Olli Jokinen Florida 4,466
Scott Gomez NY Rangers 4,304
Marc Savard Boston 3,205
Brian Gionta New Jersey 2,909
*Nik Antropov Toronto 2,373
Brad Richards Tampa Bay 2,275

Defensemen
Andrei Markov Montreal 48,134
Zdeno Chara Boston 45,949
Tomas Kaberle Toronto 36,125
Brian Campbell Buffalo 33,857
Kimmo Timonen Philadelphia 30,951
Wade Redden Ottawa 29,457
Ryan Whitney Pittsburgh 27,028
Jay Bouwmeester Florida 23,454
Chris Phillips Ottawa 19,174
Bryan McCabe Toronto 18,840
Dan Boyle Tampa Bay 17,255
Henrik Tallinder Buffalo 12,702

Goaltenders
Henrik Lundqvist NY Rangers 30,324
Martin Brodeur New Jersey 29,631
Martin Biron Philadelphia 27,849
Cristobal Huet Montreal 24,515
Ryan Miller Buffalo 14,112
Ray Emery Ottawa 11,752
Cam Ward Carolina 10,565
Rick DiPietro NY Islanders 10,352
Tomas Vokoun Florida 6,949
Olaf Kolzig Washington 5,623

*write-in candidate

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Some interesting Islanders news regarding Neil Smith’s brief time as GM last summer, it turns out that Bettman doesn’t believe the Islanders owe him any money. Smith began work on building an Islanders team without ever signing a contract, something I am sure he regrets after both sides parted ways.

The Globe and Mail ran a story today about this decision, here is a quote: “A source says NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has ruled Neil Smith is not entitled to any meaningful compensation for his brief run as the New York Islanders general manager.

A source told The Globe and Mail that while Bettman’s ruling is not final because not all parties have signed off on it, the commissioner did make his decision known to the parties involved. An NHL spokesman said that Bettman has not rendered a decision and has not held an official hearing and a settlement could still be reached.”

The article is goes further into detail, so if you are interested, please head over to The Globe and Mail to check out the rest.

Mind you, this could all change – but it is news. Personally, I felt Smith should have just signed a contract before he began work – that’s the logic most people follow regarding contracts. Wang is a smart businessman, it is no wonder he and his lawyers found the magical loophole in this one.

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But maybe that streak will allow the Islanders to continue on their streak against the Rangers.

What's my problem tonight? Well, I mentioned a few times that I built a new apartment recently, everything is new.

I noticed a stain on the brand new ceiling last night, and upon investigation – the radiator in my sisters room was leaking. Unfortunately (fortunately?) I am an A/C and Heating mechanic, so I get to fix it up. It's not in an easy spot mind you – but Murphy's law always comes into play.

So if I don't get a post out until the end of the first or second period – that's why. I have not even had a chance to eat dinner yet.

I just can't win.

Let's go Islanders!!!!

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Not exactly the best description, but it is what it is. I missed the game last night because I was at a wedding rehearsal dinner. My cousin is getting married today, so I am not going to be able to catch tonight's game either as I will be at the wedding. Did I hear someone say Slingbox? Yes, normally I would be Slinging the game – but the cable/internet has yet to be installed at my new apartment.

I really hate missing a game and not being able to post – but like I said when I started the blog, I would try to cover as much as possible when life doesn't get in the way.

In an attempt to get Miro going for tonight's game – check out these different angle pictures from the game winner over NJ last week:

And of course my shot from the game:

That should get the Hockey Gods going.

Let's go Islanders!!!!

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I don't know if anyone else is a fan of what the guys over at The 2 Man Advantage are all about – or even know who they are, but I do. These guys are absolute hockey freaks and obviously love to have a good time. Think hockey interviews, part humor and hijinx – yet compelling all at the same time and you have The 2 Man Advantage.

Who the heck is The 2 Man Advantage? A crazy group consisting of Scotty, Nemmy, Bressler, Esq. and Artem.

2007 has been the “Year of the Blogger”; for the Islanders organization, having seen the introduction of the NYI Blog Box. The 2 Man Advantage is a group of video bloggers – in a manner of speaking, but they also have a regular blog – so it’s only natural that these crazy guys get the love from the Isles as well. What’s even better? The fact that the guys are from Long Island, and happen to be Islanders fans!

Check out their latest video, which is up on the Islanders Site.

Keep up the great work guys, see you at the game!

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You know you have had a long weekend when you fall asleep in between periods. I turned the game on about midway through the first, and as soon as I did Upshall scored to give Philly the lead.

The game is now tied off a Sillinger goal, assisted by a perfect pass from Park. Richard Park is filling in for an injured Guerin and doesn't look out of place so far. Bergenheim is also back from his shoulder and finger injuries – and he is right back to playing the way he did before he went down.

The Islanders are starting to work down low a bit better, they looked ok during the first and it's a shame that a miscue by Fedotenko lead to a goal. Upshall was in the right place at the right time.

Upshall just scored his second to make it 2-1. Gervais collided with Upshall and he took off and made a pretty move to beat DiPietro.

Satan with an almost, Simon finds the rebound and gets it in!

Shortie by Philly – bad bad bad

DiPietro delay of game – just getting worse here.

The shorthanded goal is what did the Isles in tonight, once Philly went up a goal they tightened up and the Isles had a problem getting anything to the net. Comrie was hauled down and missed a scoring chance – which lead to another Power Play, but it fizzled and the Isles could not convert.

Not the way I would've wanted to see them start this important road trip, but they did play a fairly decent game. They need to put it behind them and get ready for Pittsburgh.

Can't win them all I guess.

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It really makes me laugh when all the “experts” talk down on any move the Islanders make – especially when the player signed happens to be playing beyond expectations. It’s no secret GM Garth Snow has had some winners (Richard Park, Victor Kozlov, Tom Poti), so why is the fact that there is success this year a surprise?

For 2007, one of the steals of free agency appears to be winger Ruslan Fedotenko. Fedotenko has been playing over 20 minutes a game and has been used in different game situations – proving that he is a valuable asset. He has also had almost a point a game from the start of the season.

The rumor going around today, via Spectors Hockey – is that Snow is trying to sign "Tank" to a contract extension. Having lost the players who found their games last season this past summer – it’s a great move by Snow trying to lock him in long term. It’s going to be a long summer trying to resign Comrie, Hunter and Bergenheim. If we get Fedotenko signed – that’s one less headache.

Get it done Garth!

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Let me first say that I know I have not been posting much the past few nights. I have literally been running around like a mad man with this move. I am pretty much completely into our new place, we just have some “junk” at the old place to sort through and throw out and we are done.

With that said, I know this post is about 24 hours later than I would normally get to (and also extremely long in hindsight) – but such is life.

What a game last night! The Islanders really did a great job honoring all the currently military members and veterans. It was great seeing the Navy Band play and all of the other service members in attendance. I thought the Air National Guard repelling in was great, much better than the Nassau SWAT team (Just looked better to me). As far as the game, I thought the Islanders played the Devils the way they need to – break the trap, get pucks through the neutral zone and get shots on Brodeur. I don't know if the Devils were tired because of all the games they played last week, but they seemed very flat to me. Either way, the Isles controlled the game for the most part, and did not take one single penalty for the first time this season (and well….who knows when the last time before that was).

How about that defense? Campoli continues to shine with 2 more assists last night. I think last night was also Sutton's best game as an Islander. He really kept DiPietro's crease clean and clear of any loose debris… although Witt inadvertently scored his first goal of the season last night – on us though. Gervais and Martinek also played outstanding.

Miroslav Satan!!

On the way to the locker room last night, we walked past FSN interviewing Miro – apparently I was very visible on TV last night because I had an email waiting from fellow Blog Boxer 7thWoman saying she saw me (Happy Birthday Dee!). I feel like a super star today – anyone have a copy of the video?

It was a slow night in the Blog Box last night, when I got over to Section 201 from my seats in 309, the only person there was Ken Rosenblatt of The Tiger Track came over from his seats. I think it was the smallest turnout yet from the group. Despite our small numbers, we did manage to cover the locker room interview and press conference very well. Ken asked questions to both Rick DiPietro and Ted Nolan – which made Isles PR VP Chris Botta comment to me “Hey, look at this!” with a big grin.

Once again, yours truly did not ask any questions, but I did want to ask Nolan if his game plan changed much between the Rangers and Devils, as they play similar styles. I really need to speak up.

Through Mike’s Eyes:

One positive of not asking any questions of my own, I am always observing what is going on in the locker room while the press is conducting an interview. While looking around the room last night, Brendan Witt was engaged in conversation with Bruno Gervais – and while I won’t divulge all the details – it was a case of a younger player asking for advice and feedback from an older seasoned veteran. It’s great to see that happen first hand, as you generally only hear how a team has come together via press releases or interviews. One other observation, Josef Vasicek quipped something in Slovak to Satan while being interviewed – and it must’ve been something good because he laughed right in the middle of talking. Too bad we will never get to the bottom of that one.

As always I took a bunch of pictures and continue my streak of catching the winning goal with my camera. Here is a picture of Miroslav Satan's 3rd consecutive game winning goal:

The Islanders now have a record of 9 and 4, and a game winning streak of 4 – the longest of the season so far. They denied Brodeur's 500th career win, which as much as I would like to see – I did not want it to be against the Isles. Ricky now has 98 career wins, so sometime in the near future we will see him reach 100.

I think that's about it for tonight, I will get to posting some other pictures from the game last night.

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I don't think anyone was expecting this one, but the Islanders re-acquired defenseman Freddy Meyer IV on re-entry waivers via the Phoenix Coyotes today.

Says Snow on this pick-up:

“The injuries we’ve recently had on our blue line prove you can never have enough depth,” said Snow. “We’ve always liked Freddy. He”s an intense competitor and he’s a very solid defenseman in all areas who is still just 26 years old. We only lost him earlier in the season because of a numbers game. We are very happy to have Freddy back as an Islander.”

More on the Islanders website.

I know I am probably late reporting this, but I was busy moving to my new apartment today. I was checking my email before heading out the door and noticed this bit of news.

More on tonight’s game when I get back!

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