Dee Karl: Slide or Free Fall? Another game, another chance?

That a win in Anaheim would "get their confidence back" is a stretch. It would have to be a dominant performance by many players to even make a dent in the confidence issue. Can't remember when I have been so discouraged so early in the season. That's the problem with expectations.

In the 70's the west coast trips were where you picked up points because the teams were inferior but now the tables are turned.

As far as .500 record well they had one until Viz and Nabby went down. Also the second and third line players and reserve players are not as plentiful because the pay in the KHL is higher for that level of player and the Europeans feel more allegiance to those leagues now.

I don's see any great mystery here, especially when you have so many players pushed up one line higher and d pair higher plus the goal situation.

In the 70's the west coast trips were where you picked up points because the teams were inferior but now the tables are turned.

As far as .500 record well they had one until Viz and Nabby went down. Also the second and third line players and reserve players are not as plentiful because the pay in the KHL is higher for that level of player and the Europeans feel more allegiance to those leagues now.

I don's see any great mystery here, especially when you have so many players pushed up one line higher and d pair higher plus the goal situation.
- Fan101

agreed....well said

Unfortunately anything involved with this team (from owners/coaches/players to the fans) seems to be backed into a corner right now. What trade could actually improve conditions? Is it even worth it at this point?

Also, I would love to hear more opinions on the fact that it is constantly reported Snow is inquiring about goalies. Am I the only one that thinks that Poulin and Nilsson have done enough to at least focus on the 2nd/3rd lines and defense debacles?

At this point I think the fans (although completely warranted) are exasperating the situation. I'm not a supporter of the comments that portray Wang as content with losing - the guy is consistently losing loads and loads of money. He might be clueless as to how to run a sports franchise, but let's not assume he's happy burning cash. He's a business man and this seriously can't be sitting well with him. The credit I do give him is for stepping into a messy situation and at least trying to improve it, regardless of whether his attempt is on target or not.

I'm also over the never ending speculation that the Vanek trade was the reason this team went into this slide. The team was already playing .500 win one/lose one hockey before the trade. I think it is very unfortunate that we didn't embrace Vanek and show him that the fans are there and excited. Instead he got met by a large percentage of fans lambasting the trade, and now it seems to me he's playing well enough to warrant a decent contract elsewhere next season, but not get hurt again.

Let's focus on the cold hard stats that Grabner hasn't scored in 25/26 games now I believe? Bailey in 18? These stats are horrific. I say award chances to the young kids in Bridgeport and call this season a wash (who knows maybe we'll get a top 10 pick next draft and keep it due to the conditional pick of the Vanek trade). I'd rather see the up and coming players have a chance in the NHL then another 25 scoreless games for guys that are supposed to be your 2nd line scorers.

Onto my last point. Garth Snow. His restraint has been admirable to not overpay and he refuses to ship out prospects - but it also has shown no GM chops at all. You can probably count on one hand the trades he's done, and as far as free agent signings - how many high profile signings has he facilitated? You can argue the prospect pool was a mess from the Milbury era, but at this point it's my completely non expert opinion that he lacks vital skills to be a GM.

The phrase "kicking the tires" on potential FA's makes me nauseous whenever I hear it now, and the Islanders are literally almost NEVER a true contender to pull off a trade. First round draft picks and waiver pickups for 7 years does not equal a legitimate GM. If Wang still has a heavy hand in the operations of the team, then any GM worth a damn would not continue to support such a broken system. I also lose confidence in someone who often and concretely and says he has full confidence in this team to perform the same (if not better) than last year. This is our GM who is supposed to see his vision come together better than anyone else. Is this his vision? How can he explain this current situation? We all analyze and give opinions, but the whole "top secret - isles business is a matter of national security" is old, frustrating, and ducking the responsibility of having to answer for this shortsightedness.

Inactivity isn't better than, or preferred to, trades that could go wrong. It doesn't show a strength to never pull through on anything other than picking up outcast players and signing guys that have an inherent loyalty to the team because they came up through the draft or "have something to prove". It belittles the franchise and makes the team a destination only for those that want a stepping stone to a "real winner" by having a chance to show other teams what they can handle. At least it's been a while since the Islanders were a huge destination where veterans that have nothing left to prove get a couple of more seasons out before retirement - although arguably there are some on the team that can be categorized as this now.

I'm not even going to get into coaching other than the simple fact that maybe, JUST maybe, it's time to stop going against the grain and TRY to bring in a hockey stalwart that has experience and accomplishments to use as leverage against guys that might try to take advantage of the type of coaches that have been primarily in and out of this organization. With the inexperience of owners and GM, maybe an experienced and proven coach might not be such a bad idea. But again, what hockey guy would put up with how the front office is run?

Hopefully these next couple of games produce something, even if it is some sort of statement from the Isles brass. Otherwise, until then fellow Islanders fans, let's try to stick together and bring some positives to our beloved team...sorry for the long rant!

Unfortunately anything involved with this team (from owners/coaches/players to the fans) seems to be backed into a corner right now. What trade could actually improve conditions? Is it even worth it at this point?

Also, I would love to hear more opinions on the fact that it is constantly reported Snow is inquiring about goalies. Am I the only one that thinks that Poulin and Nilsson have done enough to at least focus on the 2nd/3rd lines and defense debacles?

At this point I think the fans (although completely warranted) are exasperating the situation. I'm not a supporter of the comments that portray Wang as content with losing - the guy is consistently losing loads and loads of money. He might be clueless as to how to run a sports franchise, but let's not assume he's happy burning cash. He's a business man and this seriously can't be sitting well with him. The credit I do give him is for stepping into a messy situation and at least trying to improve it, regardless of whether his attempt is on target or not.

I'm also over the never ending speculation that the Vanek trade was the reason this team went into this slide. The team was already playing .500 win one/lose one hockey before the trade. I think it is very unfortunate that we didn't embrace Vanek and show him that the fans are there and excited. Instead he got met by a large percentage of fans lambasting the trade, and now it seems to me he's playing well enough to warrant a decent contract elsewhere next season, but not get hurt again.

Let's focus on the cold hard stats that Grabner hasn't scored in 25/26 games now I believe? Bailey in 18? These stats are horrific. I say award chances to the young kids in Bridgeport and call this season a wash (who knows maybe we'll get a top 10 pick next draft and keep it due to the conditional pick of the Vanek trade). I'd rather see the up and coming players have a chance in the NHL then another 25 scoreless games for guys that are supposed to be your 2nd line scorers.

Onto my last point. Garth Snow. His restraint has been admirable to not overpay and he refuses to ship out prospects - but it also has shown no GM chops at all. You can probably count on one hand the trades he's done, and as far as free agent signings - how many high profile signings has he facilitated? You can argue the prospect pool was a mess from the Milbury era, but at this point it's my completely non expert opinion that he lacks vital skills to be a GM.

The phrase "kicking the tires" on potential FA's makes me nauseous whenever I hear it now, and the Islanders are literally almost NEVER a true contender to pull off a trade. First round draft picks and waiver pickups for 7 years does not equal a legitimate GM. If Wang still has a heavy hand in the operations of the team, then any GM worth a damn would not continue to support such a broken system. I also lose confidence in someone who often and concretely and says he has full confidence in this team to perform the same (if not better) than last year. This is our GM who is supposed to see his vision come together better than anyone else. Is this his vision? How can he explain this current situation? We all analyze and give opinions, but the whole "top secret - isles business is a matter of national security" is old, frustrating, and ducking the responsibility of having to answer for this shortsightedness.

Inactivity isn't better than, or preferred to, trades that could go wrong. It doesn't show a strength to never pull through on anything other than picking up outcast players and signing guys that have an inherent loyalty to the team because they came up through the draft or "have something to prove". It belittles the franchise and makes the team a destination only for those that want a stepping stone to a "real winner" by having a chance to show other teams what they can handle. At least it's been a while since the Islanders were a huge destination where veterans that have nothing left to prove get a couple of more seasons out before retirement - although arguably there are some on the team that can be categorized as this now.

I'm not even going to get into coaching other than the simple fact that maybe, JUST maybe, it's time to stop going against the grain and TRY to bring in a hockey stalwart that has experience and accomplishments to use as leverage against guys that might try to take advantage of the type of coaches that have been primarily in and out of this organization. With the inexperience of owners and GM, maybe an experienced and proven coach might not be such a bad idea. But again, what hockey guy would put up with how the front office is run?

Hopefully these next couple of games produce something, even if it is some sort of statement from the Isles brass. Otherwise, until then fellow Islanders fans, let's try to stick together and bring some positives to our beloved team...sorry for the long rant!
- WolfmanIsles

Well written and stated.

Unfortunately anything involved with this team (from owners/coaches/players to the fans) seems to be backed into a corner right now. What trade could actually improve conditions? Is it even worth it at this point?

Also, I would love to hear more opinions on the fact that it is constantly reported Snow is inquiring about goalies. Am I the only one that thinks that Poulin and Nilsson have done enough to at least focus on the 2nd/3rd lines and defense debacles?

At this point I think the fans (although completely warranted) are exasperating the situation. I'm not a supporter of the comments that portray Wang as content with losing - the guy is consistently losing loads and loads of money. He might be clueless as to how to run a sports franchise, but let's not assume he's happy burning cash. He's a business man and this seriously can't be sitting well with him. The credit I do give him is for stepping into a messy situation and at least trying to improve it, regardless of whether his attempt is on target or not.

I'm also over the never ending speculation that the Vanek trade was the reason this team went into this slide. The team was already playing .500 win one/lose one hockey before the trade. I think it is very unfortunate that we didn't embrace Vanek and show him that the fans are there and excited. Instead he got met by a large percentage of fans lambasting the trade, and now it seems to me he's playing well enough to warrant a decent contract elsewhere next season, but not get hurt again.

Let's focus on the cold hard stats that Grabner hasn't scored in 25/26 games now I believe? Bailey in 18? These stats are horrific. I say award chances to the young kids in Bridgeport and call this season a wash (who knows maybe we'll get a top 10 pick next draft and keep it due to the conditional pick of the Vanek trade). I'd rather see the up and coming players have a chance in the NHL then another 25 scoreless games for guys that are supposed to be your 2nd line scorers.

Onto my last point. Garth Snow. His restraint has been admirable to not overpay and he refuses to ship out prospects - but it also has shown no GM chops at all. You can probably count on one hand the trades he's done, and as far as free agent signings - how many high profile signings has he facilitated? You can argue the prospect pool was a mess from the Milbury era, but at this point it's my completely non expert opinion that he lacks vital skills to be a GM.

The phrase "kicking the tires" on potential FA's makes me nauseous whenever I hear it now, and the Islanders are literally almost NEVER a true contender to pull off a trade. First round draft picks and waiver pickups for 7 years does not equal a legitimate GM. If Wang still has a heavy hand in the operations of the team, then any GM worth a damn would not continue to support such a broken system. I also lose confidence in someone who often and concretely and says he has full confidence in this team to perform the same (if not better) than last year. This is our GM who is supposed to see his vision come together better than anyone else. Is this his vision? How can he explain this current situation? We all analyze and give opinions, but the whole "top secret - isles business is a matter of national security" is old, frustrating, and ducking the responsibility of having to answer for this shortsightedness.

Inactivity isn't better than, or preferred to, trades that could go wrong. It doesn't show a strength to never pull through on anything other than picking up outcast players and signing guys that have an inherent loyalty to the team because they came up through the draft or "have something to prove". It belittles the franchise and makes the team a destination only for those that want a stepping stone to a "real winner" by having a chance to show other teams what they can handle. At least it's been a while since the Islanders were a huge destination where veterans that have nothing left to prove get a couple of more seasons out before retirement - although arguably there are some on the team that can be categorized as this now.

I'm not even going to get into coaching other than the simple fact that maybe, JUST maybe, it's time to stop going against the grain and TRY to bring in a hockey stalwart that has experience and accomplishments to use as leverage against guys that might try to take advantage of the type of coaches that have been primarily in and out of this organization. With the inexperience of owners and GM, maybe an experienced and proven coach might not be such a bad idea. But again, what hockey guy would put up with how the front office is run?

Hopefully these next couple of games produce something, even if it is some sort of statement from the Isles brass. Otherwise, until then fellow Islanders fans, let's try to stick together and bring some positives to our beloved team...sorry for the long rant!
- WolfmanIsles

BRAVO......best post i've read here in a LONG TIME. I'd like to highlight the entire post.....cause i couldnt agree more.

Me as Snow:

Trade PMB, Nabby, Amack....imediately for whatever I can get.
Fire Cappy... hire Lavy.

Put a contract in front of Vanek.. this is what I can do... yes or no? No... trade him the next day for the best I can get. (then see below..). If yes.. boom done.

Probably demote or trade Regin too... preferably trade but who am I kidding.
Trade Radek if anyone wants him.. b/c he isn't playing anymore.

Trade for a D-man if there is one out there worth it.. anyone sallary dumping? I just took about 8 mill off the top.

Bring up Strome, Lee...

Lines..
Vanek (maybe)/ JT/ Brock
Ok/ Nielsen/ Grab
Bailey/Strome/Lee
MM/CC/CC

(If we trade Vanek.. I call Moulson's agent.. and see what they want for 3 year deal.. If we trade for him.. etc. Then get him back.. )

Unfortunately anything involved with this team (from owners/coaches/players to the fans) seems to be backed into a corner right now. What trade could actually improve conditions? Is it even worth it at this point?

Also, I would love to hear more opinions on the fact that it is constantly reported Snow is inquiring about goalies. Am I the only one that thinks that Poulin and Nilsson have done enough to at least focus on the 2nd/3rd lines and defense debacles?

At this point I think the fans (although completely warranted) are exasperating the situation. I'm not a supporter of the comments that portray Wang as content with losing - the guy is consistently losing loads and loads of money. He might be clueless as to how to run a sports franchise, but let's not assume he's happy burning cash. He's a business man and this seriously can't be sitting well with him. The credit I do give him is for stepping into a messy situation and at least trying to improve it, regardless of whether his attempt is on target or not.

I'm also over the never ending speculation that the Vanek trade was the reason this team went into this slide. The team was already playing .500 win one/lose one hockey before the trade. I think it is very unfortunate that we didn't embrace Vanek and show him that the fans are there and excited. Instead he got met by a large percentage of fans lambasting the trade, and now it seems to me he's playing well enough to warrant a decent contract elsewhere next season, but not get hurt again.

Let's focus on the cold hard stats that Grabner hasn't scored in 25/26 games now I believe? Bailey in 18? These stats are horrific. I say award chances to the young kids in Bridgeport and call this season a wash (who knows maybe we'll get a top 10 pick next draft and keep it due to the conditional pick of the Vanek trade). I'd rather see the up and coming players have a chance in the NHL then another 25 scoreless games for guys that are supposed to be your 2nd line scorers.

Onto my last point. Garth Snow. His restraint has been admirable to not overpay and he refuses to ship out prospects - but it also has shown no GM chops at all. You can probably count on one hand the trades he's done, and as far as free agent signings - how many high profile signings has he facilitated? You can argue the prospect pool was a mess from the Milbury era, but at this point it's my completely non expert opinion that he lacks vital skills to be a GM.

The phrase "kicking the tires" on potential FA's makes me nauseous whenever I hear it now, and the Islanders are literally almost NEVER a true contender to pull off a trade. First round draft picks and waiver pickups for 7 years does not equal a legitimate GM. If Wang still has a heavy hand in the operations of the team, then any GM worth a damn would not continue to support such a broken system. I also lose confidence in someone who often and concretely and says he has full confidence in this team to perform the same (if not better) than last year. This is our GM who is supposed to see his vision come together better than anyone else. Is this his vision? How can he explain this current situation? We all analyze and give opinions, but the whole "top secret - isles business is a matter of national security" is old, frustrating, and ducking the responsibility of having to answer for this shortsightedness.

Inactivity isn't better than, or preferred to, trades that could go wrong. It doesn't show a strength to never pull through on anything other than picking up outcast players and signing guys that have an inherent loyalty to the team because they came up through the draft or "have something to prove". It belittles the franchise and makes the team a destination only for those that want a stepping stone to a "real winner" by having a chance to show other teams what they can handle. At least it's been a while since the Islanders were a huge destination where veterans that have nothing left to prove get a couple of more seasons out before retirement - although arguably there are some on the team that can be categorized as this now.

I'm not even going to get into coaching other than the simple fact that maybe, JUST maybe, it's time to stop going against the grain and TRY to bring in a hockey stalwart that has experience and accomplishments to use as leverage against guys that might try to take advantage of the type of coaches that have been primarily in and out of this organization. With the inexperience of owners and GM, maybe an experienced and proven coach might not be such a bad idea. But again, what hockey guy would put up with how the front office is run?

Hopefully these next couple of games produce something, even if it is some sort of statement from the Isles brass. Otherwise, until then fellow Islanders fans, let's try to stick together and bring some positives to our beloved team...sorry for the long rant!
- WolfmanIsles

Does not get any better than this post.

As a Sens fan, I feel the pain of Isles fans. Seems like a surprisingly bad season for both teams, who were both in the middle of a bit of a resurgence.

There's some feelings out there that a trade would shake things up in Ottawa and some think the Islanders would be a good partner. Specifically, we have Craig Anderson, a top-flight goalie just a year ago, who I think is ready to be moved.

For the record, I disagree with moving him, as he's played poorly this year and is capable of way more (thereby bringing in a bigger return).

Ottawa is also looking to ship out Michalek, Greening, Gryba. Not exactly a tantalizing group, but some decent pieces to round out a roster.

Who are you guys looking to move (don't say Regin - been there, done that)?

As a Sens fan, I feel the pain of Isles fans. Seems like a surprisingly bad season for both teams, who were both in the middle of a bit of a resurgence.

There's some feelings out there that a trade would shake things up in Ottawa and some think the Islanders would be a good partner. Specifically, we have Craig Anderson, a top-flight goalie just a year ago, who I think is ready to be moved.

For the record, I disagree with moving him, as he's played poorly this year and is capable of way more (thereby bringing in a bigger return).

Ottawa is also looking to ship out Michalek, Greening, Gryba. Not exactly a tantalizing group, but some decent pieces to round out a roster.

Who are you guys looking to move (don't say Regin - been there, done that)?
- sensano

as far as available players? based on what we feel on these boards, you could make us an offer for any of these:

amac
martinek
carkner
regin
bouchard
bailey
grabner
nabby
clutterbuck

anyone other than JT is available, but these above are definitely in need of a new home, fresh start or a kick in the ass.

If you wonder why certain players are always kept in the lineup, it's because they're being paid to produce as everyday players. http://www.capgeek.com/islanders

It's easy to think this is a fantasy team but you can't simply cut and paste a lineup unless you are the one actually with the team and see how these players practice and work.

It may sound ridiculous but last year having a vet center like Reasoner (who produced 0 goals) did count when it came to having a vet to practice with the team, ditto Bill Guerin's presence not just with the Isles but when he got traded to Pitt to work with Crosby and co.

I think the Vanek trade made sense by having a high skill player with the team as well and raise their level. Didn't like Moulson going but maybe he wanted to break up the chummy relationship with JT. Teams develop cliques. Tavares problem may be his age and personality but maybe Snow felt he had to develop more interaction with the team. Ditto Bailey and Nielsen who not only look vacuous on the ice sometimes but probably are not too interactive as well.

Maybe they need to suit up grandpa beetlejuice goring to practice with the team?

If you wonder why certain players are always kept in the lineup, it's because they're being paid to produce as everyday players. http://www.capgeek.com/islanders

It's easy to think this is a fantasy team but you can't simply cut and paste a lineup unless you are the one actually with the team and see how these players practice and work.

It may sound ridiculous but last year having a vet center like Reasoner (who produced 0 goals) did count when it came to having a vet to practice with the team, ditto Bill Guerin's presence not just with the Isles but when he got traded to Pitt to work with Crosby and co.

I think the Vanek trade made sense by having a high skill player with the team as well and raise their level. Didn't like Moulson going but maybe he wanted to break up the chummy relationship with JT. Teams develop cliques. Tavares problem may be his age and personality but maybe Snow felt he had to develop more interaction with the team. Ditto Bailey and Nielsen who not only look vacuous on the ice sometimes but probably are not too interactive as well.

Maybe they need to suit up grandpa beetlejuice goring to practice with the team?
- Fan101

Dude... you are comparing Bill Guerin to Reasoner? Please stop... the Issue with Reasoner, Pandolpho and this years Wonder boys Regin, PMB.. .is they bring NOTHING to the table. Do they score... no. Do they hit... no... do they play excptional defense? no... Do they win face offs.. no? Fight? No... so they essentially bring nothing to the table.. other than the fact they have played in the league a while and are a "veteran".

Guerin Scored, Hit, fought, won face offs... and was a LEADER. He dropped the gloves with Brashear to stick up for a teamate. He did everything and then some... and that is why Pitt wanted him to play with Crosby. (it's also why they won the cup that year).

If you wonder why certain players are always kept in the lineup, it's because they're being paid to produce as everyday players. http://www.capgeek.com/islanders

It's easy to think this is a fantasy team but you can't simply cut and paste a lineup unless you are the one actually with the team and see how these players practice and work.

It may sound ridiculous but last year having a vet center like Reasoner (who produced 0 goals) did count when it came to having a vet to practice with the team, ditto Bill Guerin's presence not just with the Isles but when he got traded to Pitt to work with Crosby and co.

I think the Vanek trade made sense by having a high skill player with the team as well and raise their level. Didn't like Moulson going but maybe he wanted to break up the chummy relationship with JT. Teams develop cliques. Tavares problem may be his age and personality but maybe Snow felt he had to develop more interaction with the team. Ditto Bailey and Nielsen who not only look vacuous on the ice sometimes but probably are not too interactive as well.

Maybe they need to suit up grandpa beetlejuice goring to practice with the team?
- Fan101

There's definitely an entire side of this that us as fans can not comprehend. I found myself wishing I could just hear one of these "closed door meetings" - I mean what possibly is said and by who? Do they all just sit there silent and pout? Is the same PR friendly prewritten talking points thrown out in the locker room as well? I would LOVE to know if Capuano ever lost his temper and went absolutely insane on them. Internal dynamics of the team are such a tightly held secret, unless someone else has true knowledge (which I would kill to hear), I can't come up with a wishlist of players to ship out.

Arguments can be made all around:

(1) Are a lot of the players on the team so bad and hopeless? The complete lack of consistency and mental lapses, maybe they are just that bad.

(2) Does this roster still have potential but the coach's strategy isn't adapting to their strengths? Capuano has shown on many occasions that he doesn't look like he has any idea of how to fix it.

(3) Is the GM that incompetent? After pledging confidence in everything that's in place, the current situation is making that confidence look foolish and just plain wrong.

Art Staple, god bless him and all bloggers and journalists that still lend credence to this team still, had an article about another rebuild. It's a sickening idea, but is it that far fetched?

When talking about trades, I don't think any GM is going to cut Snow a deal. None of the current players in question are showing a return value and the team is in dire straights (for the season at least). Unless there's a GM out there with a "good heart," the business side of things will prevail and everyone will exploit the Islanders situation. Half the players could probably safely be put on waivers to make room for prospects to be given a shot.

If we are questioning all 3 of these things, it's time for people to be held accountable. It's time for the fans to hear some answers from the people that have been putting this together. It's time for those in charge to face the decisions they made, the things they said, and to stop sweeping everything underneath the carpet.

Wishful thinking, I know...sadly, what is the answer?

There's definitely an entire side of this that us as fans can not comprehend. I found myself wishing I could just hear one of these "closed door meetings" - I mean what possibly is said and by who? Do they all just sit there silent and pout? Is the same PR friendly prewritten talking points thrown out in the locker room as well? I would LOVE to know if Capuano ever lost his temper and went absolutely insane on them. Internal dynamics of the team are such a tightly held secret, unless someone else has true knowledge (which I would kill to hear), I can't come up with a wishlist of players to ship out.

Arguments can be made all around:

(1) Are a lot of the players on the team so bad and hopeless? The complete lack of consistency and mental lapses, maybe they are just that bad.

(2) Does this roster still have potential but the coach's strategy isn't adapting to their strengths? Capuano has shown on many occasions that he doesn't look like he has any idea of how to fix it.

(3) Is the GM that incompetent? After pledging confidence in everything that's in place, the current situation is making that confidence look foolish and just plain wrong.

Art Staple, god bless him and all bloggers and journalists that still lend credence to this team still, had an article about another rebuild. It's a sickening idea, but is it that far fetched?

When talking about trades, I don't think any GM is going to cut Snow a deal. None of the current players in question are showing a return value and the team is in dire straights (for the season at least). Unless there's a GM out there with a "good heart," the business side of things will prevail and everyone will exploit the Islanders situation. Half the players could probably safely be put on waivers to make room for prospects to be given a shot.

If we are questioning all 3 of these things, it's time for people to be held accountable. It's time for the fans to hear some answers from the people that have been putting this together. It's time for those in charge to face the decisions they made, the things they said, and to stop sweeping everything underneath the carpet.

Wishful thinking, I know...sadly, what is the answer?
- WolfmanIsles

The answer, sadly, is that this is what you get when you hire your back up goalie to GM. Year 6 of a rebuild, and 29th in the league. Somehow, Garths job is secure?

The answer, sadly, is that this is what you get when you hire your back up goalie to GM.
- kindlyrick

That's definitely what I'm feeling This goes way deeper than a "new building" and "uncertainty of the location" of this team. They have to reinvent the face of their operations and rebuild the reputation of the team.

First of all I wasn't suggesting Reasoner was Guerin; but Reasoner had a ton of NHL experience which got added to the culture of this young team.

As far as "fixing", it's more of a case of developing. Fans and blogger journalists who never played the game are clueless about how to develop a team but instead engage in fantasy sports speculation which I'm afraid the GM and owner do as well.

BTW like Reasoner Pellerin has 536 games of NHL experience along with Weight's 1000 plus but don't sell Capuano short who seems to be handling the stress at this point.

Yes we have a top flight young center in JT and wingers like Vanek and OK but please look around at the rosters of other teams and you will see quite a bit of talent in this league, so as I said the cut and splice approach buys very little.

Before the KHL there was usually a surplus of vet forwards and d you could acquire, but look around the league at the spare 3 skaters on most rosters and you will see the Isles are no less off.

That's definitely what I'm feeling This goes way deeper than a "new building" and "uncertainty of the location" of this team. They have to reinvent the face of their operations and rebuild the reputation of the team.
- WolfmanIsles

Ding Ding Ding. They may still be paying the price regarding what happened with Neil Smith and Patty and Nolan. They were not star players, but in 40 days Neil was able to bring in 4 solid FA's in the same lousy building.

mirtle: Islanders put Pierre-Marc Bouchard on waivers

mirtle: Islanders put Pierre-Marc Bouchard on waivers
- jimbro83

I see that with the plan to bring Strome up they are saying.....

mirtle: Islanders put Pierre-Marc Bouchard on waivers
- jimbro83

Staple reported on Twitter they tried to shop him around in a trade but no takers. That's exactly what I figured would happen, though I'm surprised they waived him and not Regin.

Regardless, Strome wants this chance and with how he's been tearing it up in Bridgeport, let's give a spark to this team!

Staple reported on Twitter they tried to shop him around in a trade but no takers. That's exactly what I figured would happen, though I'm surprised they waived him and not Regin.

Regardless, Strome wants this chance and with how he's been tearing it up in Bridgeport, let's give a spark to this team!
- WolfmanIsles

good move, but still doesn't address the worst defense in isles history.

bottom line......snow had no business bringing in bouchard or regin....

good move, but still doesn't address the worst defense in isles history.

bottom line......snow had no business bringing in bouchard or regin....
- kindlyrick

In my opinion they were insurance signings made out of desperation from the failure with FAs. Just like the off-season before where he went on a waiver pickup spree to fill in holes because their roster was very incomplete.

good move, but still doesn't address the worst defense in isles history.

bottom line......snow had no business bringing in bouchard or regin....
- kindlyrick

Exactly! The first time you make the playoffs in years and PMB and Regin cannot be your big offseason moves.

In my opinion they were insurance signings made out of desperation from the failure with FAs. Just like the off-season before where he went on a waiver pickup spree to fill in holes because their roster was very incomplete.
- WolfmanIsles

every year its a last minute crappy signing.......perhaps the problem is the guy whos managing the team.....just a thought. When snow says he believes in the guys on the room, and they're in 29th.....whats that say???