Brutal week for Isles...

It was a brutal week for the Islanders as the dropped all three games including two to the rival Penguins. Two of the games they dropped were by one goal. This was a major issue last year as the Islanders lost over 24 one goal games last season. If the Islanders aren't going finish games then they definitely aren't going make the playoffs.

Another issue is the carousel of goalies. I know GM Garth Snow is a former goalie but using three different goalie rotation is a little crazy. The Islanders need some consistency in net (thought none of them have played great or terrible). Personally, I've always like Nabakov but I think he could be used in a trade to bring in another forward with another team. Last year before he was claimed off waivers by the Islanders he was on his way to Detroit. I think that would be a good fit for him, and they could give a young forward. I really think the Islanders need a passer to set up their scorers because right now they just aren't putting the puck on the tape.

Also, the Islanders honored the 1992-93 Islanders. I remember that team not having big stars but a lot of heart and grit.

Finnigan' sports Cards featured on blog

I've been hear a few times to get some cards. Great place and Great atmosphere. He doesn't deal in commons as much as I've needed but gives me free reign to pick through and find cards I need. He never over charges either.

Tough week for the Isles

The Islanders lost two road games in Florida this week. However, they still look really strong including John Tavares who had 2 more points (1 goal, 1 assist) last night.

One disturbing issue for the Islanders is lack of production from their second line. Nielson, Grabner, and Okposo only have 4 points between the three of them. Okposo has yet to score a goal but has had his chances especially against the Lightning when they missed place a puck in front on the net and instead of going high over the laid out goalie Garon, he shot the puck into him.

Another issue is the shuffling of net minders. Last Saturday night Nabakov was awesome against the Rangers and the thoughts were he'd get another start against the Lightning. However, Montoya got the start and looked mediocre (previous to that game Montoya had great career stats against Tampa). I'm a believer in playing the hot hand sticking with a goalie until he has a bad game.

Next week the Islanders have two tough games against Pittsburgh who is getting healthier by the day, and have been playing tremendous hockey. Should be a good test.

Fan packs w/e 10/22

Here are the fan packs I got last week:

Johns Hopkins University (NCAA), Boston University (NCAA), Eastern Illinois University (NCAA), Baltimore Orioles, Florida Everblades (ECHL), Arizona Cardinals, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles (Aussie Rugby)

Isles look strong after 3-1 start

After a 2-0 opening night loss last Saturday the Islanders look extremely strong, and have rolled off three straight wins. Leading the way has been John Tavares who is noticeably stronger and faster. Tavares has 8 points in this last 2 games. Much of his success is contributed to the chemistry with line-mates P.A. Parenteau & Matt Moulson.

The goaltending has been exceptional with Al Montoya being a steady force the first 3 games. Evegeni Nabakov made a surprise start last night against the Rangers and showed no rust from not having played in an NHL game in over 500 days.

One factor I noticed with the Islanders is that they aren't panicking when something goes wrong. Numerous times last night the Islanders had the lead and the Rangers tied it up and it seemed as the though momentum had swung. Especially, when the game was tied and the Rangers went on a power play. The Islanders didn't panic and just played their game. Last season they would try to press and ultimately make a mistake leading to a goal the other way.

Next game is Thursday night against Tampa Bay

Wichita Falls vs. Amarillo Line Brawl

Drew Pelto makes the call...

Fan packs 10/14/11 & 10/15/11

Got some Fan packs yesterday and today:

10/14/11
Toldeo Mudhens, Toledo Walleyes, Atlanta Falcons, San Jose Sharks,Odessa Jackalopes (NAHL) Lynchburg College, University of the Redlands, Illinois College, Millikin University, Delaware Valley College

10/15/11
Chicago Steel (USHL), Cal. Lutheran