T-Minus two.

Yep, this is the second to last home game of the season – a season unlike last year in terms of injury and countless streaks of ineffectiveness. Instead, the Islanders have been entertaining to watch, sometimes dominating teams they had no business winning against – at least on paper.

It’s been about the kids, and not just the young players on the Islanders – but throughout the organization. The Islanders have a core group of young players coming up through the ranks, it’s nice to see players down in Bridgeport get their look up here and give us a taste of the future – and what Garth Snow and Ryan Jankowski have been doing behind the scenes the last few seasons.

The Islanders are coming off back to back impressive wins at home against the Flyers and the Ottawa Senators – should they win tonight it would be one very impressive three-peat. While I love to see my Islanders do well, I also have no problem with losses, as it gives us a better chance at a top five draft pick.

Sitting here typing up this pre-game piece; the Montreal fans are ALREADY loud. They always show up in droves, regardless of what time of year or what day of the week it is. Unfortunately this time, there are a few directly behind me so it’s a bit frustrating trying to concentrate with them yelling at my ear level.

The scratches tonight for the Islanders, Bruno Gervais and Jeff Tambellini. Islanders goaltender, Martin Biron.

First Period

7:11pm Islanders control the opening draw and take it deep into the Go Habs Go zone….ooops I mean Habs zone.
7:13pm Bailey sits for two minutes for interfering with Kostitsyn
7:16pm Islanders kill off the penalty and only allow two shots on goal.
7:19pm Isles have had a few scoring chances, but Halak has been up to task. You would think we were in a battle for playoff position with the Habs the way the fans are yelling all game.
7:27pm Lots of back and forth action – but it’s not very exciting so far, more like a tennis match.
7:30pm Islanders score! Bergenheim with a great behind the back pass to Comeau who rips a shot past Halak for a 1-0 lead. Bergy gets the lone assist.
7:37pm Oh baby, Park just looked up to the heavens because he was robbed on a great chance in front.
7:39pm Gill hooks Bailey who falls into Halak and we have a power play. Gillies popped Gill in the face, then another random player – no penalties. Talk about an agitator.
7:41pm Islanders come up short on the power play, but did manage to get some decent shots off on Halak.

End of the First Period

Another slow start to the first period, but the Islanders manage to finish the period with a 1-0 lead and hold the edge in shots 15-5. They kept the Habs from even getting a shot on goal for periods of 4 and 6 minutes respectively this period. If they continue their strong play into the second, there is a good chance they get into the third still up at least a goal.

Second Period

7:59pm Second period underaway, Islanders had some pressure early now the Habs are mounting an attack.
8:03pm Okposo with a diving jab at a pass to break it up – don’t know how he got that one as it was mid-air.
8:06pm Habs are waking up for sure, they have two shots….this period.
8:09pm Well, Montreal finds a way to tie this game up on their 10th shot – it’s all tied up 1-1 and the Habs fans awaken from their slumber.
8:12pm Bailey with his second penalty of the night, this time for hooking
8:13pm 2-1 Habs, PP goal and like that the Islanders collapse
8:15pm Tavares leads a two on one, but got jammed up and couldn’t get a pass off.
8:21pm Reese gets in the way of a point shot by the Habs and it trickles right to Biron who covers it for a stoppage. Shot count is now 21-16 in favor of the Islanders.
8:27pm Some penalties here, Hunter for the Islanders and Markov for the Habs – looks like two each, Hunter for roughing, Markov for slashing.
8:31pm Sim takes some contact and then a cross check from Gomez – Islanders power play with 1:32 remaining in the second period.

End of the Second Period

Well, that did not go according to play at all. The Islanders are going to the locker room down a goal for the first time in over six periods – can they find what it takes to rally and finish out their 28 seconds worth of power play?

Third Period

8:51pm Islanders win the opening draw again, carry it out and lose control – Habs dump it back into the Islanders zone and the power play is over.
8:54pm Bergenheim goes inside outside on a Habs defender alone and BLASTS a shot over Halak’s glove off the crossbar to tie the game. I mean, BLASTS. Assisted by Reese (who has a point streak now).
9:01pm Tavares was robbed by Halak on a point blank chance.
9:02pm Habs come back and get the go-ahead on Biron to make it 3-2
9:09pm Jackman was just leveled near the Habs blueline – he got up and hit the first person he was near.
9:15pm Biron with a big glove save through traffic – chants of Biron in both French and English rain down from the stands – oddly enough.
9:21pm Frans Nielsen with the game tying goal with two minutes remaining. Assisted by Park and Bergenheim.

End of Regulation

Ok, so two times tonight I was talking about how it would be nice to take a loss like tonight – hard fought and a close entertaining game. What do the Isles do? Tie the game with two minutes left. Figures.

Overtime

9:27pm Some chances each way the first minute here in overtime, Biron with a big blocker save to deflect the puck out of play.
9:29pm Team defense saves a goal for the Isles, Bailey gets robbed the other direction. Would’ve been his third overtime winner this season.
9:30pm Islanders power play – Kostitsyn for hooking
9:32pm Timeout Montreal – Okposo just had the entire blocker side high and shot it right into Halak’s crest.

End of Overtime

Heading into a shootout, Islanders are 0/3 on the power play

Moulson – GOAL
Lappierriere – NO GOAL
Nielsen – GOAL (Patented backhand)
Cammallieri – NO GOAL

Islanders win 4-3 in a shootout

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Good afternoon.

It’s sunny, it’s warm and that only means one thing. The season is coming to a close.

Today the Islanders take on Andy Sutton and the Ottawa Senators. Walking around the concourse there are a TON of Sens fans. I love seeing fans make the trip south from Canada to Long Island. That’s a dedicated hockey fan and it makes me wish I had the time to travel around to see my team!

The Isles are all but eliminated from the playoffs at this time, they are playing for pride and respect mostly – and also giving the younger players and veterans alike the chance to rally together and build on their growing trust and sense of teamwork.

The Islanders played great the other night against Philly, it should prove to be an interesting afternoon for sure.

Not sure I can stick around for the entire game or the post game today, I have my own ice hockey game at 6:30 tonight.

First Period

2:15pm And we’re off. Islanders get the puck out of the zone and take it down into the Senators end.
2:17pm Blake Comeau already with a shot from the point today, may have been blocked but he’s really come on strong here at the end of the season.
2:20pm Sim with a big hit on Carkner
2:22pm Bergenheim with time and space in the slot, he missed the net
2:23pm Hunter’s shot blocked from the blueline – Senators are doing a good job of stepping in front of shots.
2:28pm Biron with a big save through traffic, there was a scrum in front and the Islanders may be going on a power play – Ruutu for roughing.
2:30pm Some nice passing down low finds Moulson at the doorstep but he was denied.
2:32pm Comeau with another shot towards the end of the power play, Islanders are now 0/1. There was also a penalty on Bergenheim in the offensive zone for high sticking.
2:36pm Senators power play looks great here, thankfully Biron and the penalty killers have been equally strong.
2:40pm Tavares going to the box for interference, it was a bad call – they were battling for the puck. He was getting an explanation from the referee as well – at least he wasn’t pitching a fit.
2:43pm Streit with a great block on the penalty kill.

Final Minute

Wow Bergenheim and Foligno fight after the end of the period, it was more of a wrestling match for Bergy – who caught a few punches to the head.

After one period, both teams remain scoreless and the shot count remains relatively close, 12-7 giving the Senators a slight edge over the Islanders. There hasn’t been much going on otherwise this period, no great chances either way – as both teams appeared flat here in the first. The team who scores first will most likely leave here this afternoon victorious.

Second Period

3:08pm Islanders win the opening draw and control the puck in the Senators zone to start the period.
3:10pm Comeau gains the zone and makes a nice move to get room and finds Tavares streaking to the net and roofs it over Elliott to give the Islanders a 1-0 lead. Assists to Comeau and Okposo.
3:11pm Hunter with a chance down low right after the Islanders goal, Elliott made a big save.
3:13pm Great pass to get into the zone, Reese comes down the wing and fires a shot, it may have been tipped and the score is now 2-0
3:15pm Goal by Reese assisted by Park and Meyer
3:25pm Hillen scores, assisted by Park and Jackman

I just realized I was completely into this game and have forgotten to live blog.

3:27pm Hunter in the box for boarding. Islanders need to kill this penalty to keep momentum in their favor.
3:30pm Islanders kill off the penalty, Sens had some good chances – shot count is 16-15 Sens
3:40pm Bergenheim with a big hit along the far side boards on Kelly.

End of the Second Period

Who is this team?

Islanders came out in the second period flying and scored three quick goals the result of some really great passing. They have now played well for 40 minutes, can they come out the same in the last 20? This game has a lot of the same feel as the Flyers game.

Oh by the way, Campoli has deflected two of the Islanders shots tonight….so technically he has two Islanders goals. Different team, same problem. Sorry Campy.

Stay tuned.

Third Period

4:00pm Islanders chasing the puck for the start of the third period.
4:03pm Some fighting going on, started by Neil – Gillies and Carkner. Senators should have some extra penalties. Ruutu had Nielsen down on the ice and threw punches at him. Ruutu got a 10 minute misconduct. Going to take time to sort this one out. Gillies also got a 10 minute misconduct and was just yelling at Neil as he skated past the box.
4:09pm Bergenheim finds the rebound and buries it for a 4-0 lead. Assists to Tavares and Comeau
4:15pm Neil went in to hit Meyer and missed, he went headlong into the boards and play needed to be stopped. Poetic justice in my eyes.
4:18pm Sim must have said something good to Sutton, he got a rough, cross check and a game misconduct for his response. Isles have a 4 minute power play.
4:27pm Senators on the board, Biron gave up a shot high glove side – even after all the strong glove work the last two games.
4:35pm Gillies ready to vacate the box, as soon as there is a stoppage (well if). 1:16 left

Final Islanders 4 – Senators 1

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Back in action once again tonight, this time it’s the season wrap up against the team the Islanders just cannot seem to figure out – the Philadelphia Flyers. The Islanders have not beaten the Flyers in a staggering 15 games – straight. Per the Islanders preview of tonight’s game, they have also been outscored 51-25 in that span of games. No wonder why they’ve been dominated.

Perhaps that all will change tonight though, the Flyers come into the Coliseum confident and hungry for the points as they find themselves looking to claim one of the final three playoff positions in the Eastern Conference. Can the Islanders play spoilers? It would be a nice confidence boost for this young squad for sure.

Right from the Flyers head coach, Peter Laviolette had this to say on the very subject:

“Any team is capable of beating any team on any given night. The team that works the hardest and executes better usually wins the game.

“I know that the Islanders are capable of beating us, so we better be ready to make sure we’re ready to beat them. They have a good hockey team and play hard, so it won’t be easy.”

If the Islanders come out tonight playing like they did for the first 20 minutes of the loss to the Rangers the other night, for 60 minutes – they should have no problem beating these Flyers tonight.

I guess we are about to find out.

One lone blogger I be, tonight. Boo.

First Period

7:08pm Flyers control the opening draw. As some kids sprint behind me almost knocking me over in the sacred Blog Box area.
7:11pm Islanders appear to have scored from a point shot, under review currently (for what I do not know exactly).
7:12pm Tavares mat have tipped in Comeau’s shot, they are checking to see if it was hit with a high stick.
7:15pm After a lengthy review, it was not hit with a high stick – 1-0 Islanders lead with 17:33 remaining in the first. Goal scored by Comeau assisted by Tavares, now we know why it wasn’t a high stick.
7:20pm Islanders have tested Boucher early and often, he is all over his crease tonight.
7:35pm WOW two goals in less than a minute and it’s 3-0 Islanders.

Second goal scored by Comeau assisted by Tavares
Third goal, scored by Nielsen assisted by Sim and Hunter

7:34pm Flyers just iced the puck for the fourth or fifth time, safe to say the Isles forecheck is effective tonight. Flyers are beginning to show some life though, Islanders need to stem the tide and continue their strong play.
7:37pm Hunter with a hard shot on Boucher, it was the Isles first since their third goal.
7:38pm Okposo going strong behind Biron gets hauled down by Hartnell, Islanders power play coming up.
7:47pm Final minute
7:48pm Islanders have iced the puck with 7.2 seconds remaining.

Before I get all ahead of myself, that was ONE HECK of a period by the Islanders. However, as we have seen time and time again this season, the Islanders need to put in more than 20 minutes of an effort if they want to win here tonight.

What about that guy Blake Comeau?

He has two goals tonight, two goals against the Rangers and this is his second time scoring multiple goals in back to back (and even back to back to back) games this season. He really must love those new sticks.

The team needs to stay sharp defensively, keep the pressure on with the forecheck, and generate shots – lots of shots, but not just from anywhere – they need to be from scoring areas as they have been doing. If they can keep everything up, no reason why they cannot go into the locker room with a lead after 40 minutes of hockey.

Second Period

8:06pm Second period underway, Flyers carry the puck right into the Islanders zone and put pressure on before they are able to swing it back down briefly.
8:08pm Jackman gives up his body in an attempt to block a shot, it wound up trickling wide.
8:09pm Bailey was hit up high and raised his arms in frustration.
8:10 Bergenheim scoresssss makes it 4-0 How about this line of Tavares, Comeau and Bergenheim?
8:12pm Bergenheim from Streit – it was the second flukey goal scored on Boucher tonight. This time it was banked in off his skate and between his pad and the post. Great play in my eyes.
8:14pm Meyer to the box for roughing.
8:17pm Islanders kill off that penalty and do not allow a shot on goal.
8:20pm Biron with a great save on an opportunity by Hartnell. He came all the way across his crease to make a pad save.
8:22pm Gillies and Cote have a few words and then Gillies destroys Cote. They are still talking in the box, will we see round two?
8:28pm Bergenheim nails Bartulis along the nearside boards. Islanders have been stepping it up in the hits department this period.
8:37pm With 1:45 remaining in the second period, the Islanders are headed to the power play, interference called on Leino.
8:39pm Moulson and Tavares each had great shots on net, but were both robbed by Boucher.

End of the Second Period

Another great period, but not as great as the first. The Islanders allowed the Flyers to get back into the game, although they scored another goal themselves – the lead stays at three goals (Isles lead 4-1).

We saw a little bit of everything this period, great penalty kill, a power play that was getting some shots off and lots of hitting. They Islanders have out played the Flyers for 40 minutes, can they come in strong for the final 20? We shall see.

Third Period

8:59pm Flyers win the draw, enter the zone and take a shot that is deflected into the crowd by Biron.
9:00pm Islanders are now 0/2 on the power play tonight.
9:03pm Hunter scores! Assists to Nielsen and Sim. Hunter’s goal was the result of great hand eye coordination by Sim, who knocked the puck out of the air and started the rush. Flyers yank Boucher who has allowed 5 goals on 24 shots.
9:05pm Islanders on the penalty kill, Okposo for high sticking.
9:05pm After a marvelous defensive play by Hillen, van Riemsdyk slides a rebound through Biron’s legs and it’s 5-2.
9:12pm Islanders are now being out shot by the Flyers 29 to 24.
9:14pm Islanders power play, Hartnell to the box for goaltender interference.
9:18pm Islanders are now 0/3 on the power play. They have also iced the puck two times since their PP expired. 9:06 left in the third.
9:20pm SIM SCORESSSSS. What a game by Sim tonight. 6-2 Islanders, Double Chili!! Assists to Bergenheim and Reese
9:21pm Gillies sticks Cote in the back of the leg going to the bench and gets called for a slash after the play is over. They exchanged words as he headed to the box. Good for him for trying to get him going.
9:26pm Biron just caught a puck to the mask off a slap shot and it deflected out of play. He just shrugged it off and said “All in a days work!”.
9:29pm Briere scores on a wraparound that was decided a goal well after the play. 6-3 in favor of the Isles.
9:31pm Flyers score another, make it 6-4

The streak ends at 15 for these Islanders, as they have FINALLY defeated the Flyers by a score of 6-4.

Shot total Flyers 35 – Isles 28

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Hello Islanders Fans!

It seems I say this often, but in any case – it’s a rainy windy night here on Long Islander and the game should be a great one regardless. It is the final meeting this season between the cross own rivals and this game isn’t any less important than it was last week at Madison Square Garden.

The Rangers are still searching for those valuable points to sneak up on the last and final playoff spot, as are the Islanders – who have a tougher path if they hope to make the playoffs.

Back tonight for the Islanders is Andrew MacDonald, whom was injured immediately following his contract extension by the Islanders. It comes at a good time because his reliability will come in handy tonight against the Rangers, who will be without Avery, Gilroy and Ryan Callahan. Should the Islanders win, they will have six points in their last three and 10 over their previous 10 games played.

Your scratches tonight are Jeff Tambellini and Bruno Gervais.

In other news, Rick DiPietro was shut down for the remainder of the season having only played in 7 games, due to knee swelling. He has not played much over the last two years and my faith in him ever regaining full health is fading fast. I should have a post up on this over at Bleacher Report in the next day or so.

First Period

7:08pm And they’re off.
7:10pm Islanders power play, too many men on the Rangers. Huge opportunity.
7:11pm Power play goal Islanders on a blast from Streit that may have been tipped before it reached the net.
7:13pm Goal was Streit’s, from Nielsen and Tavares
7:16pm Richard Park carries the puck into the zone and gets a shot off that’s stopped by Lundqvist.
7:22pm Roloson absorbs some contact from Gaborik and Christensen and let’s them know what he felt about it. It hemmed both of those players in the zone for the entire Islanders breakout.
7:23pm Meter still playing way bigger than his frame, he had three hugs hits on his last shift before going off due to a broken stick.
7:27pm Blake Comeau with a big shot coming down the left wing, hits Lundqvist in the shoulder and crosses the line to make it 2-0!
7:29pm Assists go to Jackman and Park
7:32pm More sharp play by Roloson in his own end, power play upcoming for the Islanders. Prust sits for a crosscheck on Moulson.
7:35pm Okposo called for an offensive zone penalty, hooking – even up for a minute.
7:37pm Two more penalties, Jokinen holding for a and MacDonald also for a hold. Rangers now on a short power play.
7:40pm Final minute of the period.

That right there was a great period. Islanders capitalizing on turnovers due to their strong forecheck. They are playing huge defensively, as is Roloson. They scored on the power play AND held the Rangers to just four shots despite giving them a short power play of their own. It’s up to the Islanders now to come up in the second period in the same way they came out for the first.

Impressive so far, leaps and bounds better than their showing last week at MSG.

Second Period

7:58pm Islanders win the opening draw, and promptly go offsides.
8:01pm Rangers get one back on a shot by Prospal that gave Roloson trouble glove side. 2-1 Isles
8:03pm Islanders power play, Rozsival for slashing.
8:05pm Prust just boarded Tavares really bad, 5 on 3 for a minute plus.
8:05pm Tavares is out on the PP so he isn’t too shaken up I guess.
8:07pm Islanders fail to convert on the five on three and the remainder of the second penalty due to tooooooooooooo many passes.
8:18pm Islanders defense is not clearing out the front of the net. Roloson is continuously absorbing contact and at one point got the stick RIPPED out of his hands – no calls.
8:22pm BAD turnover in front by Okposo, Rangers pick it up and fire it past the now screen named Okposo and past Roloson to make it 2-2
8:25pm Islanders getting chances breaking into the Rangers zone, but they are now breaking up every play and keeping them to the perimeter which is something they did not do in the first period.
8:28pm Bergenheim with a great self pass to earn the slot area but that space was taken away just as quickly.
8:3pm And like clockwork, the Rangers make it 3-2, three unanswered goals. (Goal by Gaborik (40))
8:32pm Gillies two minutes for roughing, Rangers power play

Final Minute

8:33pm Roloson stands on his head for the remainder of the penalty kill. Gillies gathers the puck out of the box and barely musters a shot. End of the period.

Like I said after the first period, it was up to the Islanders to come out ready in the second. It’s not that they failed to do so, they just cannot match the Rangers tempo.

First period > Second

Third Period

8:53pm Third period underway.
8:58pm I feel like I am watching a tennis match, lots of back and forth action.
8:59pm Make it four unanswered goals. Nice passing play gets Roloson moving and an almost effortless goal.
9:03pm If the Islanders plan on staying in this game, they need to come back from this TV timeout with a quick goal, otherwise just pack it in.
9:08pm Great shift by Bergenheim, kept the puck in the Rangers zone and Streit was fed with the puck for a point blast that beat Lundqvist but not the iron. It was a heavy, heavy clang.
9:16pm Islanders are now allowing the Rangers to get shots through on Roloson regularly, thankfully they have not been the best of scoring chances and he’s been able to see them.
9:17pm Islanders march back into the Rangers zone, Bergenheim to Comeau and it’s a 1 goal game 4-3 with six and a half remaining. Assists to Bergenheim and Flood.
9:26pm Final minute of the third.

Final score, Rangers 4 – Islanders 3

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Good evening everyone!

Tonight the Islanders are set to take on the Calgary Flames at the Coliseum, fresh on the heals of a decent western swing but also the night following a horrible showing in Madison Square Garden.

It will be a big night for at least one Islander though, as Defenseman Mark Flood was recalled from Bridgeport on an emergency basis to play in place of Dustin Kohn. Kohn, was hurt last night the result of Avery nonsense that went – unpenalized. Go figure. Good luck to Flood tonight!

The Flames are on the cusp of a playoff spot, only four points in back of 8th place Detroit in the Western Conference. This is not going to be an easy game for the Islanders by any stretch, one for the “Rangers Hangover” and two, because the Flames should come out hungry. I know this isn’t the type of thing that fans want to root for, but I would be completely OK with the team losing out the final games of the season if it meant a shot at the coveted number one draft pick once again. We can sure use the help.

Just a note of importance, there is NO POWER here in the Blog Box, so I am not entirely how sure my laptop will last on the battery. We shall see…

Your scratches: Trevor Gillies and Dustin Kohn

First Period

7:07pm Opening draw lost by the Islanders, iced by the Flames – forecheck working?
7:10pm Flames iced the puck again after some effective pressure by the Islanders.
7:13pm Islanders own the first three shots here so far, nothing really an amazing scoring chance though. Or even memorable.
7:16pm Just as I hit update, Jack Hillen with a howitzer from the point goes wide, followed by great pressure and another great point shot by Nielsen that is gloved down.
7:19pm Islanders forecheck is REALLY effective tonight, but they have still be unable to get great pressure on a consistent basis.
7:22pm Hunter scores. Gritty goal, bangs in a rebound. Assists to Nielsen and Sim
7:24pm Less than a minute later, Calgary notches the equalizer, even before the Isles goal was announced.
7:28pm Calgary scored on it’s second shot of the game. And, the Islanders are going to be a man down. Okposo for hooking.
7:31pm Islanders kill off Okposo’s penalty, start the game off the way they SHOULD have last night at MSG.
7:32pm Islanders headed back to the box, delayed penalty.
7:33pm Okposo back to the box – holding and unsportsmanlike conduct – equating to a double minor.
7:38pm Islanders have held the Flames to just two shots over the course of 6 minutes of penalty kill time.

Final Minute

Overall, that was a decent period, but then again anything would be a decent period compared to what we saw last night. Islanders hold the lead in shots, by a count of 12 to 6. Islanders have to stay out of the box, but credit is due to the penalty killers – they held the Flames to 3 shots on Okposo’s three penalties. They need to keep up the good work in the second and pot a goal or two to take the game over.

We got power here in the Blog Box, by the way!

Second Period

8:01pm Second period underway. Flames have gone offsides two times in a row.
8:03pm Tavares with a great pass to the late man coming in, whom waited and skated around a sliding d-man and the Isles did not get a shot off.
8:09pm Jon Sim just gave Kiprusoff a handful, should have drew a penalty and then got a Flame to drop the gloves on the way to the bench. He simply skated away laughing as always – it was pretty funny actually.
8:16pm Blake Comeau gets the gate for boarding. No penalty for the retaliatory shot to the face though.
8:16pm Fourth straight penalty kill for the Islanders
8:23pm Flames score, play was under review but stands – goal to Eric Nystrom. I hope he remembers the huge hits I had on him in High School – I miss those days.
8:27pm Kiprusoff makes a save on Hillen from the point, through traffic – made it look easy.
8:28pm Okposo draws a tripping penalty, first power play of the game for the Isles. About time.
8:3pm It looks like it is the Islanders first power play of the season, let alone the game.

Final Minute

Islanders gave up two, TWO breakaway’s here in the last minute. Biron came up HUGE on the second one, first missed the net completely.

The tale of two teams lives on. Let’s see if they come out with legs in the third, I don’t even know what to write about here.

Third Period

8:51pm Third period underway, Isles deep in the zone MOULSON SCORES 2-2!! Assists to Streit and Okposo
8:57pm Heads up play by Streit with a diving poke check on a 2-1 in front of Biron
9:04pm Islanders have had some great shots here in the third, something hit the iron a little while ago and they have been in the Flames zone for a decent amount of time down low.
9:05pm Calgary gets called for hooking, Islanders power play!
9:07pm Power play is much better in terms of movement and passing, but they still cannot….wait a minute Gervais just scored!!! Assisted by Streit.
9:10pm Jackman is in the box here….apparently there will be a penalty kill upcoming. Two for high sticking.
9:12pm Freddy Meyer clears the crease in front of Biron with a vengeance – he looked bad ass, per twitter.
9:15pm 7th penalty kill for the Islanders tonight.
9:20pm 2:32 remaining in the third and the draw is deep in Calgary’s zone.
9:22pm Timeout Calgary – draw is deep in the Isles zone and the Kiprusoff has vacated his crease with 1:38 remaining.

3-2 Islanders, Final Score.

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Good afternoon Islanders Country!

Here we are on this windy and rainy Sunday for a early evening game. Matt Martin is back tonight, as I posted earlier this afternoon. He was just on the scoreboard talking about his call-up sporting a brand new haircut, or should I say lack of a haircut – he was sporting a shaved head.

This is the fourth and final meeting of the Islanders and Leafs this season. However, it is the first time the Islanders are facing the new look Leafs, given GM Brian Burke was extremely busy before the Olympics and at the trade deadline revamping his squad. The Isles are 2-1 so far this season against the Leafs.

Coming off the heels of their 4-2 win over New Jersey last night, the Islanders should be riding high and looking to give the Leafs a taste of things to come for their club. It should prove to be a great game. Should the Islanders manage to defeat the leafs, they will stop short their win streak as they go for four in a row tonight here at Nassau Coliseum.

Martin Biron is your starter for the Isles, J.S. Giguere for the Leafs.

First Period

5:11pm Opening draw pulled back into the Islanders zone, where the Leafs intercept and take control immediately.
5:12pm A non call on a trip in the Leafs zone, they march down the ice and it’s 1-0 a minute into the game.
5:16pm Islanders fourth line ties it up! Jackman bats in a loose puck. Assists to Park and Gillies
5:19pm After two major defensive breakdowns, the Islanders seem to have figured out they were actually playing today, taking the puck right to the front of Toronto’s crease and playing a bit chippier.
5:26pm Matt Martin gets called for boarding and instigating, Lundmark for the Leafs two for unsportsmanlike – they were going to throw down but were stopped. Islanders on the penalty kill.
5:27pm Leafs turnover at their blueline, Park picks up the puck and scores shorthanded. Second consecutive game the Isles have notched a shortie. 2-1 Isles Assists to Comeau and Hillen
5:30pm Islanders power play, Kulemin for high sticking, 2 minutes
5:34pm Leafs killed off the power play. Even strength.
5:36pm Jack Hillen two minutes for holding
5:36pm Meyer leveled someone along the bench side boards and Caputi (who he may have hit) came after him. Two minutes for roughing and we are even up for a minute, Isles will have a minute of power play time after the Hillen penalty expires.
5:44pm Islanders back on the power play, after the abbreviated one expired – Kulemin for interference.
5:46pm Islanders failed to score on that power play, although they had a few shots. Final minute of play in the first.

Great period, but the Islanders really need to capitalize on those power plays.

Third Period

Sorry for missing the ENTIRE period, I met up with a friend for her birthday and wouldn’t you know it – we missed an entire period.

7:20pm Islanders with a 3-1 lead, looks like they are playing great defensively.
7:26pm Islanders stemming the tide of the late rush by Toronto, Biron has been extremely solid. Four minutes remaining here in the third, Islanders power play upcoming.
7:29pm Moulson on the power play and its 4-1 assists to Bailey and Comeau on the PP
7:31pm Sim gets the gate with a minute 20 remaining for hooking. Islanders will be short handed for the remainder of the period.

Final Minute

Islanders win 4-1

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Howdy Islanders fans!

As the season slowly winds down here in a post trade deadline manner, our Islanders seem to be slipping deeper and deeper into a hole in several ways. The team has remained somewhat competitive, remaining in games and always having some chance, they just have not been able to finish well – which is something we have seen all season long.

Another area they are slipping, or should I say falling into – is regarding injuries. Last year the Islanders suffered a record breaking amount of man games lost to injury. Thankfully, that little gem earned us John Tavares. While the Islanders do not earn that awful statistical record this season, their health has suddenly become an issue.

Earlier this season it started with the annual loss of Radek Martinek, Rick DiPietro returned, left, and returned – only to leave again. Andrew MacDonald played outstanding, earned a four year extension and then two games later is lost for the remainder of the season with a broken foot. Trent Hunter seemed to be playing better and he is lost for a few weeks with an upper body injury. The one and only Rob Schremp who has earned praise by this blogger as well as others and countless media types was felled to a torn meniscus in his right knee in loss to Philly this week.

Tough break, pardon the pun.

Tonight, the Islanders are set to face off against a rare opponent in the St. Louis Blues. The Blues are hot on the road, with a record of 18-10-4 but they are still out the outside of the playoff picture in the west. They have not played since the weekend so they are rested and likely hungry for those two points.

Scratches for the Islanders: Rick DiPietro, Jeff Tambellini

Roloson (Change of plans apparently) Biron in net for the Isles and Mason in net for the Blues.

First Period

7:08pm And we are off, instant pressure off a faceoff win in the Blues zone.
7:10pm Gillies with a nice clean check in the Isles end
7:13pm Gervais and Biron miscommunicate and botch a pass, they both speak French. What’s the problem?
7:21pm What a boring game so far, at least Gillies and Kohn are making things interesting for us in their own end.
7:27pm Biron tested a few times this period, but nothing has really been a great scoring chance. Shot count is 7-3 in favor of the Blues. See how boring the game is?
7:36pm Gervais with a good defensive move along the crease to block a cross ice pass. Biron clamped down the glove because he had a clean look.
7:37pm Islanders power play, need to capitalize here, they are behind on shots.
7:38pm Weight with a nice shot walking into the slot and Mason with an even better glove save.
7:40pm Islanders catch Mason moving, Streit threw it from the point and Moulson with a redirection over Mason’s right shoulder. 1-0 and that is the end of the period.

Well, boring period aside the Islanders turned their man advantage into a goal, they generated pressure and got some extra shots on, but still trail 11-6.

There really wasn’t much momentum, but the Blues found themselves taking the puck to the Islanders net freely and were able to keep it deep. The second period could be anyone’s game, here is to hoping the goal lifts the Islanders and their energy when they emerge from their locker room.

Second Period

7:58pm Blues carry the puck straight to Biron, where some contact ensues along with a scuffle.
8:03pm Biron makes a stop through traffic and the puck gets stuck in the feet of an Isles d-man, surprisingly they did not redirect it in and instead managed to clear the puck.
8:05pm Penalty on the Islanders, Jackman gets two for hooking.
8:07pm You knew it was coming the way that the Blues have been moving the puck – game all tied up 1-1 off a power play goal.
8:08pm Islanders going on the power play, high sticking
8:13pm Nothing going for the Isles on that man advantage. Nothing.
8:17pm Islanders short handed again, Sim for slashing. Biron makes two saves in the first 20 seconds of the penalty kill.
8:19pm Tripping call on the Blues, even up for a 1:05
8:22pm All penalties over, Nielsen had a glorious chance, Mason out waited him and then blocked the wraparound attempt.
8:27pm Islanders showing more intensity this period, they are shooting more, intercepting more passes and just generating a lot more offense. They clearly have stepped up the forecheck in this period.
8:30pm And with that, Weight is called for boarding – shorthanded. Final minute of the period.

Much better period all around, which is evident in the shot count – 21-17 in favor of the Blues. Score is tied, lots of penalties this period which lead to odd man opportunities per side, strong defensive play by each. Third period is up for grabs, pretty even match up through forty minutes of play.

Third Period

8:55pm Sorry for the delayed start to the third, I got caught up with some friends. Islanders power play!
8:57pm Weight to Nielsen, denied. Bergenheim with a chance, also denied.
9:01pm Park with a bone headed offensive zone penalty, cross checking.
9:02pm First faceoff of the penalty kill and Gervais is injured. Needed to be helped to the runway to the room. I think he got hit with a shot.
9:12pm Tavares in the box, not happy about it. Decent kill thus far for the Isles, they are keeping them to the outside and allowing Biron to see everything.
9:16pm Good, no GREAT penalty kill late in the third.
9:22pm Late calls against the Isles game after game, why should tonight be any different? Park in the box with 1:40 remaining for high sticking.

And that’s the end of regulation. Islanders have to kill off 20 seconds of a power play going into overtime. Playing for that “loser” point once again tonight.

Overtime

9:27pm Even strength, defensive zone draw.
9:28pm Draw is lost, by Park. Save Biron. Another draw to Marty’s left by Nielsen this time a win.
9:30pm Islanders power play, Nielsen was boarded. Pretty much the remainder of overtime, well there will be less than 30 seconds of time left after it expires.

I should have known this game was destined for a shootout.

Shootout

And we are headed into the Skills Competition (as Howie Rose says).

Nielsen – NO GOAL
Oshie – GOAL
Moulson – NO GOAL
Boyes – GOAL

Game over.

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Hockey is back!

Even though it never really went anywhere, it sort of shifted into full on Olympic mode/mania!

Not much has changed here in Islanders country, unless you consider Mark Streit coming home medal-less, head coach Scott Gordon returning with a silver medal in tow for assistant-coaching Team USA to second place in the round robin, the trade today of Andy Sutton to the Ottawa Senators for a second round selection in 2010 and two minor league trades – something…. Oh, lest I forget the re-re-re-shutdown of DiPietro. Time frame, unknown.

In any case, Sutton – thanks for everything you have done here on Long Island. I hope your stay up in Ottawa is only temporary and we will see you retake your office at the near blue line pounding opposing player to oblivion as always – back HERE on Long Island come 2010/11.

And before I forget, congratulations goes out to Team USA for winning Silver this past weekend in Vancouver!

Moving on, Dustin Kohn has been recalled from Bridgeport to take the place of Andy Sutton (I hope he realizes the size of the shoes he has to fill here on out). Jack Hillen may be making his return tonight, Roloson and Biron are back as your goalie tandem with DiPietro’s shutdown.

Scratches: Sean Bergenheim, Jeff Tambellini and Rick DiPietro

Islanders are only six points out of a playoff spot and are looking to make up some lost ground. This should be an interesting night for sure.

Curious about the Bergenheim scratch, does that mean his days as a New York Islander are near an end? One never knows this time of year.

First Period

7:10pm Islanders lose the opening draw, Hawks came in and got the first shot on goal right off the draw pretty much.
7:12pm Roloson looks strong early, making a stick save low after a flurry in front. Islanders have not shown much life, this is all Hawks so far – 5 shots already for them.
7:15pm Jack Hillen out on this shift with a full cage, had a scoring chance. That whole sequence is a testament to his toughness.
7:17pm Doug Weight engaged in a lengthy discussion with one of the referee’s – likely about off ice stuff, just my guess.
7:25pm Dangerous situation for Roloson, Byfuglien’s skate came up towards his head as he crashed into the crease. Luckily, nothing came out of it.
7:27pm Roloson makes a glove save but the puck squirted back out at a sharp angle and onto Campbell’s stick – 1-0 Hawks.
7:30pm Despite being out shot by a wide margin, Hawks turnover leads to a Comeau goal 1-1
7:31pm And now the Islanders are shorthanded, Park to the box for a judo-chop to a stick, slashing.
7:33pm Comeau’s 10th of the season, assisted by Schremp, that’s three straight games with a goal for him.
7:34pm Hawks convert on the gift wrapped power play. You feel shame Richard Park.
7:36pm Shot count: 21-5 in favor of Chicago
7:42pm Final minute of the period.

Well, that went as well as we could’ve hoped I suppose. The lack of Sutton is clearly evident as the Blackhawks are just going to the crease every single time they can. They have also gotten just about every shot through, perhaps the move was miscalculated some – especially given Garth’s comment today stating they still plan on making a playoff push.

The Islanders are being outplayed in every facet, which could partly be caused by the long layoff….but more so because the Hawks are a much better club. Shot count after one period is 22-9. The Islanders started to come back later in the first, but if they want to save face and earn those points they need a much better effort in the second. That’s kind of obvious though, you don’t need me to tell you that much.

Second Period

8:01pm And we are underway.
8:04pm Comeau ties it up with his second of the game and it’s aallllll tied.
8:05pm And now it’s 3-2 Islanders…
8:06pm Hawks just yanked Niemi and put in Huet.
8:07pm Comeau from Schremp and Streit on the 2nd goal.
8:08pm Third Islanders goal belongs to Jon Sim from Park and Kohn.
8:11pm Park streaks down the near boards and fires a laser that beats Huet to make it 4-2. Assists go to Moulson and MacDonald.
8:17pm It’s important to note here (I am dizzy with the way this game has gone this period, I digress) – This is Comeau’s second consecutive two goal game and he has 5 goals in three.
8:21pm The game has slowed down a pace here, I wouldn’t expect the scoring to continue at the pace that it has. Shots are 26-17 Hawks.
8:23pm Islanders are going to be a man down, Park off for tripping.
8:27pm Great penalty kill by the Islanders, at the heart of it all – Comeau and Okposo
8:28pm Sometimes I think these Islanders players THINK and even BELIEVE they are better players then they really are, they make passes that shouldn’t be made and think it will work. Keep it simple, stupid.
8:34pm Final minute of the period
8:37pm Comeau completes his FIRST CAREER HAT TRICK to make it 5-2. Delay of game here as the staff cleans up all the hats and giveaway thrown on to the ice. 6 goals in 3 games now for Comeau! He is on FIRE! Assists go to Streit and MacDonald.

Wow. What a period.

Bit of trivia, when was the last Isles four goal period? I sure don’t know.

That was just about as good of a period (offensively) as I have seen all season long. Defensively I would hope they come out sharp as a tack in the third and really prevent any last bit of momentum that the Hawks can muster. A three goal cushion is big going into the final twenty, but it’s not enough for them to sit back and play it safe against the likes of Kane and Toews.

Blake Comeau 3, Islanders 2 – Hawks 2

Shot count, Hawks 30 – Isles 10

This should be fun.

Third Period

8:58pm Islanders won the opening draw cleanly.
9:00pm Scoring change on the Islanders fourth goal – second assist changed to Weight.
9:00pm Roloson just made a HUGE stop. Jackman with a scoring chance right after.
9:04pm Blackhawks were putting on a clinic for the Isles, had them pinned in the zone without being able to clear the puck for about two minutes with a constant cycle – Roloson was forced to make a few stops.
9:05pm Okposo drives to the net with a power move and makes an attempt to go around Huet, Tavares crashed the net for the rebound that was covered quickly.
9:08pm Roloson is making save after save and getting very lucky in the process – Hossa snapped a stick on a beauty of a scoring chance.
9:10pm Blackhawks thought they scored, it was waved off due to goaltender interference. Another lucky break, look for the Hawks to pressure even more now that they have weakened the Isles perimeter….so to speak.
9:15pm Roloson just stopped Hossa at the doorstep – he is playing outstanding tonight.
9:23pm Islanders are going to be shorthanded for half of the remaining 4:39 here in the third – Okposo is in the box for holding.
9:25pm Just like that, Hawks score on the power play just like they did on the last one – on a play generated from behind the Islanders net that caught Rolloson out of position.
9:28pm Shot count now Hawks 41 – Isles 23
9:32pm Huet was pulled for the empty net, Hunter had a layup and hit the post.
9:33pm Huet back in net for the second time as the draw was deep in Chicago’s zone.

Islanders win 5-2, this game represents what the Islanders need to do here through the stretch – hard work and timely goal scoring from everywhere. It was a well deserved two points, great game.

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Long time no see!

I am back in action here, there was a period of two weeks (since the last time I live blogged I think) where I was under the weather and haven’t been able to attend a home game. That’s totally out of character for me, I rarely miss a game all year and I have missed a few already this year.

In any case, I am live and direct from the Blog Box in Section 201 at Nassau Coliseum tonight to see if the Islanders can break their seven game losing streak and get a win tonight here on home ice against the Nashville Predators!

Some pretty big news the last few days regarding trades, none of which involve our Islanders….yet. The Islanders chose to look for help from within the organization by calling up the big Jesse Joensuu and equally large Matt Martin. The hope is that these two young, large players will get traffic in front of the opposing goalie and perhaps generate some offense that has been sorely amiss here the last who-knows-how-many-games.

Martin is making his NHL debut tonight, it should be exciting to watch him and the huge smile that will likely be on his face regarding this big step in his young career. He is wearing the number 46 and as he is saying on the big screen right now – he wants to throw the body and play HIS physical game.

Jesse Joensuu on being recalled:

Matt Martin on his NHL Debut:

Another big surprise, the Islanders are starting Martin Biron in goal tonight. Fresh off his two game AHL conditioning stint, perhaps the hope is that the shaky goal tending from Roloson and DiPietro will be repaired by sitting BOTH of those netminders…? In any case, it gives Biron a chance to shake off the rest of his rust as he awaits an inevitable trade that should come before this Friday’s Olympic trade deadline or the NHL trade deadline next month.

The Islanders need the most out of everyone tonight if they intend on breaking out of their funk.

First Period

7:08pm Puck drop and the Islanders push it deep into Nashville’s zone.
7:10pm As I complain about the chances the Islanders are giving up to the Predators, Mark from The View from 111 is with me in the blog box complaining about a missed chance. Interesting conflicting views.
7:12pm Matt Martin makes his presence felt early, laying a good shoulder check on the Nashville’s Jordin Tootoo
7:17pm Third line is buzzing for the Islanders – Martin, Park and Joensuu – I like how Park’s speed is on that line.
7:24pm Matt Martin has broken his cherry and received his first NHL penalty for interference. Islanders short handed. I wouldn’t count on the Preds taking a penalty tonight, they are the least penalized team in the league.
7:27pm GREAT penalty kill, Park and Bergenheim each blocked at least two shots and Streit had a few himself.
7:33pm Joensuu now on a line with Hunter and Schremp. It must have been a line change or a quick trial earlier. That or I mistook Comeau for Joensuu – how I don’t know…
7:35pm Surprise surprise, Thrashers called for interference – Islanders power play.
7:39pm Nothing really on the first part of the power play, but I love Martin’s positioning and shot placements tonight.
7:41pm Four on four coming up, Islanders for slashing (Bergenheim), Predators for diving. Interesting combo for sure. It will carry over into the second period.

End of the first period.

Islanders look like they started to wake up towards the end of the period. For long stretches again here tonight they appeared they had either forgotten they were in the middle of a game or just completely forgot how to pass and play offense. The only bright spots, the solid play by Matt Martin who doesn’t look out of place here in the NHL.

I actually think Martin owns all three of the Islanders shots here tonight so far – which they are behind the Predators who have NINE.

They have to go to the net, and clearly – get more shots on goal if they want to score.

Second Period

7:58pm Still four aside here for almost two minutes, Islanders control going out of the zone.
8:00pm Arnott takes a shot from the point that Biron fought off, but it fluttered over his head and the net, thankfully.
8:02pm Some good chances by the Islanders here in the second – Bergenheim looks hungry tonight.
8:05pm After some great pressure and missed chances, Schremp finds Meyer who walks in a finds the back of the net to make it 1-0 Isles
8:07pm Shot count is now tied at 11 – Islanders have had 8 this period.
8:12pm Islanders a man down, Nielsen called for hooking.
8:13pm Predators think they scored, goal is under review.
8:15pm NO GOAL, kicking motion. Preds still on the PP
8:17pm Islanders with another good kill, finish off with a short handed opportunity by Park and Bergenheim
8:18pm And NOW the Preds score – all tied at one.
8:21pm Islanders are allowing the Preds back into the game here, shot count is now 13-17.
8:24pm Islanders with a really bad change and it leads to a Predators breakaway and goal – 2-1
8:28pm Now I know why Tavares hasn’t played much tonight – he forgot how to play. He just flubbed two passes in two seconds.
8:31pm Islanders were on a power play, another was just called on the Predators – a five on three in favor of the Islanders here! For a minute 40
8:33pm Tavares digs and digs, winds up with the puck after his shot and then it was cleared.
8:34pm Okposo’s shot from the point gets through and is fought off.
8:36pm Schremp got the puck on and Gervais got the rebound – he scored! 2-2

End of the second period

Much better period, although the Islanders seemed to take about ten minutes off again before being awarded a five-on-three in which they converted and tied the game. Islanders had 18 shots and managed to tie in the shot count at 21 as well.

Schremp has two assists tonight, we also have goals by two defensemen….offense from places we need it most – from ANYONE.

Keep on the Predators and don’t give them much room by forechecking like crazy, limit and block their shots, and please – SHOOT the puck.

Third Period

8:55pm Islanders just announced the last Islanders goal, Gervais from Schremp and Martin. That is Martin’s first NHL point! Congrats to you!
8:57pm Comeau is called for cross checking, Islanders will be shorthanded
8:59pm Islanders are now down two men for :17 seconds. Bergenheim for high sticking.
9:00pm Comeau comes out and the Isles are only down a man again.
9:01pm Predators score on the power play, regain the lead 3-2
9:02pm Nashville penalty for tripping, Islanders pp (jeez there are a lot of penalties tonight)
9:05pm MacDonald hit the post and then on the next play had a nice pass that was fanned on in front. :34 seconds left on the power play.
9:08pm Another Islanders penalty, too many men – they have been horrible with line changes tonight.
9:15pm Islanders killed off the horrendous change penalty….still haven’t really done much since.
9:19pm Bergenheim drives to the net and get a shot off.
9:24pm Thrashers Dumont called for high sticking – Islanders power play – no blood, two minutes.
9:27pm Islanders powerless on their “power play”.
9:29pm Empty net Islanders, put pressure on and it leads to a power play. Timeout called by Gordon.
9:31pm Islanders score with the goalie pulled and on the power play with 6 second remaining to tie the game at 3!! Streit from Martin and Okposo – that’s Martin’s second assist tonight!

Overtime

Familiar territory here for the Islanders, let’s see if the boys can rally around their late goal and get the winner here!

Some great pressure here in overtime, goaltending is certainly on par with the chances though.

End of overtime.

Shootout

Nielsen – GOAL (patented shootout move)
Sullivan – NO GOAL
Schremp – NO GOAL
Legwand – NO GOAL
Moulson – NO GOAL
Erat – GOAL (Biron came out for a failed poke-check….)
Tavares – GOAL
Hornqvist – NO GOAL

Islanders win on Tavares’ shootout goal! The streak dies at 7…..

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Good evening everyone!

Home game number 26 brings us a match up between John Tavares and the New York Islanders and Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals, always a great time for sure.

I am going to apologize in advance, I am not feeling 100 percent tonight so I may not be so quick on the draw this evening. Enough about me though—onto the good stuff.

The Islanders find themselves jam packed in the Eastern Conference tonight, should they win and Montreal lose they will finish as high as 6th but a loss by the Isles and a Boston and Florida win will find them as low as tenth. Interesting parity as always in the East.

The Islanders will also leap frog the Rangers, whom they trail by one point.

Roster notables for the evening, Dustin Kohn finds himself back in Bridgeport now that Andy Sutton’s suspension is over. Josh Bailey is under the weather (maybe he has what I have) and no word on him yet, Jeff Tambellini appears to be scratched as well and of course Martin Biron is sitting comfortably in the press box as well.

Dare I say it, but let’s see if the scary Islanders team the Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau talked about in the pregame interview is the one that comes out in the first period.

First Period

7:10pm Islanders lose the opening draw, taken by Richard Park
7:10pm Islanders forecheck is on point already, caused a turnover and forced Theodore to make a stop. Islanders find themselves with two shots on goal due to the turnover. Ovechkin accepts a feed and from his knees makes a wrist shot and almost scored.
7:11pm The Capitals are on the board first, a passing play that caught Roloson out of position. Morrison from Erskine
7:14pm Well, Josh Bailey IS dressed tonight, go figure.
7:16pm A Semin wrist shot makes it 2-0 Capitals. Where is Brendan Witt and Radek Martinek to shut him down when you need them?
7:17pm Morrison gonna sit for hooking, Islanders power play.
7:19pm Rob Schremp makes it a one goal game on the power play off a feed from Doug Weight
7:22pm Schremps 6th of the season from Weight and Hunter
7:26pm Capitals get a penalty for goaltender interference (Green), I thought for sure it was on Roloson
7:28pm 12 seconds remain on Green’s penalty, and now they have taken a holding penalty as well. Islanders extend their power play.
7:30pm Okposo looking for something down low, misses the net and it rims around and out. Regain control and are working down low. Islanders hit the post, not sure who shot the puck.
7:32pm Even strength, Capitals shoot and it’s deflected out of play.
7:36pm Tavares the recipient of a great Bailey pass and rang on off the iron. That’s now two posts for the Islanders this period.
7:41pm First Islanders penalty of the period called on Bergenheim for a hold. Jack Hillen was just BLASTED in the mouth with the puck. Ovechkin shot the puck….bloody mess.
7:46pm Capitals score on the power play, Roloson pissed he allowed them to hack away and get it through his pads.
7:48pm Another forward for the Islanders who cannot buy a goal, Frans Nielsen who missed the net completely unimpeded.
7:49pm Semin dances through the Islanders defense and then scoops a backhand over a fallen Roloson from behind the net. Great effort, but it’s now 4-1 Capitals.

End of the period.

I don’t have the energy to really break down the play of the Islanders this period. The Capitals are riding a hot streak and are leaps and bounds the better team.

Second Period

Rick DiPietro comes into the game in relief of Roloson.

8:07pm Islanders are underway, hopefully the change of a netminder gives them some confidence back as DP makes his first save of the game.
8:10pm Early reports are that Hillen was taken to the hospital by ambulance.
8:10pm Capitals score on fresh goaltender DiPietro to make it 5-1 on Erskine’s first of the season.
8:14pm Capitals called for hooking, Islanders fourth power play of the game, they are 1/3 right now.
8:18pm Nothing going for the Islanders on that power play. 1 for 4 on the evening.
8:22pm Islanders score on a nice play – Okposo from Tavares and Bailey 5-2 Caps
8:29pm DiPietro gives the team some life with a nice save moving post to post.
8:31pm Chimera’s hard wrister beats DiPietro to make it 6-2
8:34pm Capitals called for tripping, Islanders 5th power play of the night.
8:38pm Islanders all over the Caps that power play, DiPietro with two long passes to his forwards, three scoring chances but not enough quick shots.

Final minute of the period

Another not so great period by the Islanders, maybe they are all feeling the way I do tonight with the sneezing and burning eyes.

The Capitals are too good of a team, they block almost every shot and pass, they cause turnovers and they seem to be able to score from just about every single spot on the ice. DiPietro is doing his best to stem the tided, but he has allowed two goals himself this period.

All those power play opportunities have been wasted tonight, save for the first one of the game.

Maybe they can work a miracle in the third period?

Third Period

8:57pm Now in goal for the Capitals Michal Neuvirth
9:01pm Capitals beat writer Tarik ElBashir claims Neuvirth was warming up the end of the second period. Perhaps that second shot of the mask late in the second shook up Theodore.
9:09pm There aren’t many times I say this (and it’s more because of the way I feel tonight) – I cannot wait for the game to end. I should have stayed home tonight.
9:12pm Islanders get called for holding, MacDonald did all he could to prevent a Semin hat trick.
9:14pm Andy Sutton just cleared out Laich from in front, it looked like he gave him whiplash the way he moved him from the crease.
9:15pm Islanders kill off that penalty and MacDonald sprung from the box and chased down the puck and carried it into the Caps zone. He made a nice move and found Bergenheim streaking to the net, Neuvirth was there for the save though.
9:19pm I just realized that countless Islanders are invisible tonight. Matt Moulson was just out on the ice and I couldn’t remember when the last time I saw him was, then I said the same thing about four of five other players.
9:22pm Laich just danced around everyone and roofed a wrist shot past DP to make it 7-2
9:24pm If the Islanders cannot rise up and find the will to win a huge game like this tonight, how would they do in the playoffs?

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Good evening everyone, this should be an interesting night for sure!

Less than a week ago on home ice, the New York Islanders took on the New Jersey Devils and not only chased all star and hall of fame goaltender Martin Brodeur after two periods, but they completely dominated play and shut out the Devils 4-0.

The Devils have been struggling as of late, I guarantee beating them tonight will be no easy task. However, that said they are without the firepower they were once getting with Elias out of the lineup and Bergfors goalless in the last 11 games.

In that 4-0 win on Monday afternoon, Rick DiPietro was between the pipes for the Islanders and earned his first shutout in only his third start of the season. DiPietro is once again your starter, look for some magic in that area given his strong play that seems to grow the more his confidence returns.

In their home win on Thursday night over the Florida Panthers, several players were ALL over the ice—even though they were without points I liked what I saw. The line of Park, Weight and Bergenheim was awesome the other night, as was Jon Sim. Okposo, Shremp, Bailey, Tavares and Moulson all had chances—great chances as did Doug Weight who looks like he is about to break out offensively himself.

Dustin Kohn made his NHL debut and assisted on Blake Comeau’s second period goal, giving Kohn his first NHL point. I witnessed the PR guys shuttle the puck down the hall to Kohn after the game, it’s amazing how many times I catch important small acts like that the more I am around the team. I hope he continues to play the game that earned him a call up to cover for Andy Sutton while he serves his suspension.

The Islanders are on a streak here at home, winning six consecutive games—and it’s no secret to the crowd as this is the second consecutive sellout.

This is a big night, against a conference and division rival so the points are HUGE.

First Period

Delayed start due to some problems with the ice where the Elementary school sang the National Anthem. There was a big carpet near the zamboni door.

7:13pm Islanders pull the opening draw back, the Devils got to it and shot it, it was deflected out of play.
7:14pm Devils taking it to the Islanders early, they look a bit more focused tonight
7:17pm Okposo finds a streaking Streit and Brodeur makes a great save or it hit the post. Devils come right back down and DiPietro makes one of his own.
7:21pm Devils control the puck from behind the goal line and pass out to an awaiting Langenbrunner, stick cocked—Goal 1-0 Devils.
7:24pm 9 minutes into the first, the Devils are out shooting the Islanders by the wide margin of 9-1
7:27pm Devils penalty for slashing, this should jump start the Islanders—hopefully.
7:29pm What a horrible power play, we had one shot. Dis.Organ.Ized.
7:34pm They sure aren’t making Brodeur work much tonight.
7:36pm DiPietro finds a fluttering puck through traffic with his glove. Islanders needs to step up their play here, shots are 11-4 with 6 minutes remaining.
7:38pm Hillen beats his man to the puck for an icing, and then takes exception to Davis’ late hit.
7:45pm This game feels the same way the Panthers game did on Thursday, you know except for the 1-0 in favor of the opposition and everything.

End of the first period.

Islanders got outplayed in almost every capacity during the first period. The Devils must have studied nothing but the tape of the Islanders last three games because they aren’t allowing them to establish their forecheck or generate any shots. They are clogging the lanes and stepping in front of every shot and pass much like the Panthers did the first period on Thursday.

Hopefully Scott Gordon has some heated words of wisdom for the Islanders, they need to find their game—or at least a game that works.

Second Period

8:04pm Devils control the opening draw this period and take it back into the Islanders end.
8:05pm Islanders strong on the puck, leads to another power play. They are 0/1 with one shot so far tonight.
8:09pm Islanders fail to convert that power play, but added four or five shots to their total.
8:10pm Park just rang one off the post behind Brodeur, poor guy cannot buy a goal.
8:13pm Just wanted to add, the Islanders have hit three posts tonight….
8:14pm Nielsen alone in front, takes a few swipes at the puck but Brodeur makes the save, and then three more for good measure.
8:15pm Islanders now hold the edge in shots 14-13, now only if they can notch a goal to knot this up.
8:20pm Bergenheim injured on a boarding play, Colin White assessed a 5 minute major and a game misconduct. 5 minute PP
8:21pm Okposo ties it on the Power Play! Still a man up for 4:42, they can score at will with the major penalty.
8:22pm Okposo from Tavares and Streit
8:24pm Islanders score again on the major 2-1
8:25pm Hillen from Okposo and Shremp
8:26pm DiPietro needed to stop a short handed breakaway.
8:28pm HUGE turn of events, Islanders really capitalize on the major power play and score twice to get the lead. Shot count 18-13 in favor of the Isles.
8:30pm I gather Lamaire didn’t see that Coyotes-Islanders game last week? He failed to put someone in the box and the Islanders had an extended five on four until a whistle.
8:36pm Gervais in the box for hooking
8:38pm :32 seconds left in the period, Devils tie the game on the power play, ending their 52 pp scoreless skid

End of the second period.

Well, that was quite different. A big power play for the Islanders after White boarded and injured Bergenheim gave them two goals. A note of interest, the Islanders—should they have been able to, could have kept the man advantage for as long as they kept the puck in play as the Devils failed to put anyone in the box for the penalty. Hopefully Bergenheim returns, he looked to be cut pretty bad but got up under his own power.

The Islanders had 13 shots that period, the Devils 1—the complete inverse of the first period oddly enough.

The game is tied going into the third, but given the turn of events it should be a great third period.

Third Period

8:56pm Islanders control the opening draw this period. They’re off.
8:58pm Report on Bergenheim as he has returned, full cage and broken nose.
9:05pm Devils controlling the flow to this point, not many shots but they have been in the zone a few times. Islanders FINALLY took a shot this period. Only took eight minutes.
9:13pm Shot did not count, almost 13 minutes into the third and the Islanders are yet to register a shot on goal.
9:14pm Bruno Gervais takes exception to a late hack on DiPietro and throws Salvador out of the crease.
9:17pm Devils take a 3-2 lead off a deflection and screen in front of DiPietro. The way he reacted makes me think he had no look at the puck.
9:19pm Two icings in a row, Scott Gordon needs to take his timeout soon.
9:23pm How this team can be so different from period to period escapes me.
9:28pm Devils make it 4-2 into an empty net.

Islanders managed 3 shots on goal through the last twenty minutes of play, inexcusable. Cannot wait to hear the post game tonight…..

Devils shots 14 and the Islanders 3 in the third.

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Good evening everyone!

Checking in as always live at Nassau Coliseum from the Blog Box located in Section 201 getting ready for another live blog. Tonight we have a special guest, Vancouver Canucks blogger Richard Loat is in town visiting family and came out to support the Islanders tonight as they take on the Florida Panthers.

You can read what he has to say tonight as he will be on Twitter giving plenty of updates. Follow @mozy19 and myself @islesblogger on twitter all night for constant updates there as well as here in the live blog.

Game News

Yesterday the biggest Islanders news was the two game suspension given to defenseman Andy Sutton for his hit on Pascal Dupuis in Pittsburgh, but that overshadowed another piece of news—Nate Thompson being placed on waivers in order to free up a roster spot for a defensive call up from Bridgeport. It was expected that Thompson would clear waivers, but he did not. The Tampa Bay Lightning plucked Thompson off of waivers and he is set to play for them tonight in Florida. It was a risk that Garth Snow needed to take, Thompson has played well for the Islanders but let’s face it he can be replaced. The biggest hit will come on the penalty kill, one of Thompson’s best qualities as a defensive forward.

Good luck Nate, it was always a pleasure dealing with you and I know I will miss what you brought to the Islanders the last two seasons.

To replace Andy Sutton tonight, the Islanders called up defenseman Dustin Kohn from the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the AHL. Kohn will wear number 56 tonight against the Panthers.

Your netminder tonight, Dwayne Roloson and expect Rick DiPietro to start on Saturday against the New Jersey Devils.

First Period

7:10pm Islanders push the opening draw forward and fail to gain full control, play down in the Islanders zone.
7:13pm Roloson makes his first save of the period, and then looked around to make sure he wouldn’t be called for a delay of game.
7:16pm Game is fairly even up to this point, granted it’s only five minute in. Neither team is setting a tone, for the most part.
7:18pm Bruno Gervais shows his rare rough side as pushes a Panther out of the crease after the whistle.
7:26pm Panthers are out shooting and out chancing the Islanders tonight, it looks like they are skating in mud.
7:32pm I hear this giant sucking sound, yea—that’s the Islanders tonight.
7:38pm Final minute of the first period. Note the lack of updates in my live blog….

Wow what a period! It took both teams a bit of time to get their legs moving but Florida has the edge in shots 14-6. Islanders looked better late in the first and had a few chances of their own, but they definitely need to generate more shots and offense. The forecheck isn’t really working tonight either, they need to wake up and perhaps hit up some Red Bull between periods. Let’s see what happens in the second frame.

Second Period

7:59pm Islanders once again fail to fully control the opening draw and allow the Panthers a chance down low.
8:00pm Moulson finds Nielsen alone out in front, but Frans fanned on the shot as the puck was bouncing.
8:03pm Islanders with several chances bunched up here in the second. Jon Sim looking to get involved physically and catches a cross check or two behind the Panthers net.
8:04pm The Park, Weight and Bergenheim line seems to be getting chances tonight at will.
8:07pm Panthers on the board first, 1-0
8:09pm Islanders spring back to life after the goal, who’s out there? Park, Weight and Bergy – they had maybe four scoring chances. However, Bergenheim should have shot instead of passed in the slot.
8:17pm Islanders tie the game on a nice slap shot by Blake Comeau – Dustin Kohn may have his first NHL point on the play.
8:18pm Comeau from Dustin Kohn and Gervais that is Kohn’s first NHL point! Congrats Dustin.
8:19pm Doug Weight absolutely robbed by Vokoun on a virtual empty net. Nice desperation save there.
8:29pm New line out there for the Islanders, Bailey, Tavares and Okposo – three first rounders (12th, 6th and 1st respectively).

End of the second period

Much better period all around, shot count is now 25-22 in favor of the Panthers. Islanders tied the game on some great work in the Panthers end. No penalties thus far, Jon Sim is being a pest in front of the net and they are not calling a thing on him or the players playing against him.

The Islanders are getting to pucks, passing, shooting and really outplayed the Panthers that period. As I said earlier I think they realized they were actually playing tonight. Let’s see if they can keep it up.

Third Period

8:50pm Islanders working hard already in the third, they need an early goal.
8:54pm Islanders have stormed back in the shot department and are one away from being equal at 26
8:58pm Of course, the Islanders get the first penalty of the game – 45 minutes in on a weak slashing call on Sim.
9:05pm Great pressure by the Islanders, but they called another penalty on Sim, this time for goaltender interference. Pathetic officiating tonight.
9:09pm Islanders kill off the second Sim call, but prior to that Nielsen and Okposo went in on a shorthanded two on one, Okposo gets crosschecked and taken down in front of the referee and there was NO CALL. Pathetic officiating and they hear it from the crowd in unison.
9:13pm Florida “FINALLY” commits a penalty….a high stick, two minutes.
9:16pm Weight with a chance in front but missed the net. Okposo and Tavares both crosschecked in the corner, no calls.
9:22pm Bergenheim just missed a wide open net.
9:23pm Roloson comes up big to preserve the tie late in the third.

And we are headed to overtime, what’s this the 40th time this season?

Overtime

9:27pm Islanders need to wrap this one up quick and sink these Panthers.
9:28pm Islanders penalty to Comeau for slashing. Bad, bad, bad.
9:31pm Hillen caught with a broken stick, Islanders make huge clears. Streit just rocked his man along the boards and we are even up.
9:33pm Odd man rush in the final minute and Vokoun makes the stop.

End of overtime, we are headed to the shootout.

Shootout

Nielsen – NO GOAL
Olescz – NO GOAL
Shremp – GOAL
Frolik – NO GOAL
Moulson – GOAL

Game, set and match – Islanders win in a shootout 2-1

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