Late August and it’s “back-to-school” prep-time on Long Island from pre-school to college. But for NHL players with families, they are sitting in limbo right now not knowing if, or when, the new NHL season will start leaving their families wondering where they should live and enroll their children in school.
“Oh boo-hoo for the wealthy hockey players” you may say, but if you have a family yourself, you know how stressful this time of year can be. Look at the human element in this and then think --
Maybe the human elements will get a deal done sooner rather than later. There are so many of them, and many not even related to the players themselves. I hope someone takes their plight into consideration as they negotiate.
So, it is only six days before many schools on Long Island open and it’s 16 days before the lock-out deadline. Both sides are talking and proposals are being tabled; a good sign. But can they get it done in time for Islander camp to open on September 22nd? If cooler heads prevail, it may be possible.
It is also only a few days before ex-Anaheim Duck and hopefully NEW NY Islander Lubomir Visnovsky has his day in front of the arbitrator. According to Art Staple of Newsday, (who will be vacationing the next three weeks)
Arthur Staple@StapeNewsday
Regarding Visnovsky hearing on 9/4, #Isles GM Garth Snow hopes for an expedited ruling prior to 9/15 so team can plan accordingly.
Yes, “plan accordingly,” as all of their plans are currently (like everyone else’s) in limbo. Some players have begun to come back to Long Island and are skating at Ice Works in preparation for camp. (Welcome back Michael Grabner and your amazing Twitter skills) But listen closely around the league; many players have not renewed their home leases and have not returned to their club’s home city, instead waiting it out. This could end up being a mad scramble in the end.
I have asked a few times how the lock-out will affect the Sound Tigers training camp and was told Tigers camp will open as planned. I suppose it will just have more attendees if the NHL camp doesn’t open on time. I was also told the Isles are progressing as if there will NOT be a lock-out but for sure there’s a plan B. There’s always a plan B and probably a C.
I have also asked if a contingency plan for the Brooklyn game has been made but have not heard anything concrete. I’m guessing no decisions will be announced until after the 9/15 deadline. Sadly, I believe that also relates to Matt Martin’s pending contract.
And so… we wait… in limbo… with everyone else.
In other news, “Fabulous Freddy” Meyer has been named assistant coach of the Manchester Monarchs. Keep an eye on that as we may only have AHL hockey come October. Good luck to the New Hampshire native back in the Granite state.
Charles Wang is reportedly attending the RNC in Tampa. I wonder if he’ll wear one of those funny hats I saw on the convention floor. Where’s BD Gallof’s photo-shop expertise when you need it.
Sadly, that’s it for now.
New York Islanders Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»