Last night, I did something that I haven't done with this team all year. I ignored them. I had the chance to catch up with some friends over college hockey, beer and pizza and I took the chance to have a great night out. I stayed off twitter, and only check my phone for scores every so often. As a result I had a very enjoyable evening as the Islanders continue to sink to the bottom of the NHL's standings losing to the Flyers 5-2.
Honestly, I think we all need a break from this team and I recommend doing the same. Go out with friends, start your Christmas shopping, maybe check out The Hunger Games or Thor; do something other than watching this team. I watched the game this morning and it’s the same old song and dance.
Frankly; I am running out of adjectives to describe how poor this defense is. Islanders' goalie Kevin Poulin was by no means great last night but there are players WIDE open, EVERWHERE. I understand the frustration that everyone has with this team and without changes; coaching staff and or personal, this isn't going to get any better. I have already started to dig deep into the 2014 NHL Entry draft.
Islanders' General Manage Garth Snow rolled the dice on this defense and he has crapped out. There has to be a change if this season is to be saved. Now with Thomas Hickey out they will add another kid from a struggling Bridgeport team. Maybe its Calvin deHaan or Scotty Mayfield but they aren't saving the season.
I guess you have to look at it two ways. If you can trade a Grabner or Bailey for a top 4 dman, it has to be done. I can't ask Islander fans to stay patient; not after twenty years of dismay. We all know help is on the way and if three of these twelve defensive prospects pan out and reach their projections, everything will be coming up roses. However; asking a fan base that has been in an abusive relationship with its team since the mid 90's is simply unfair.
Changes have to be made if this season is going to be saved. The "defensive system" is not working with this team. So either a change of system or a change of the players running it has to occur and maybe both need an overhaul.
I wish there was an easy answer folks, I really do. At this point all I can suggest for your sanity is to take a night out for yourself once in a while and put this train wreck on the back burner. It will still be there once you get home. As always for more on all things hockey please follow me on twitter at @DanDanNoodles78.