Dee Karl: Tavares Leads -- As Usual Isles end losing streak - for now.

I saw the Grabner breakaway on replay this morning. A (frank)ing travesty that nothing was called on that play. The one guy hit him twice in the balls. I also wish one of the Isles would have done something about it as well........

--Clebo99

It was the last play of overtime... What did you want them to do? Jump the Ranger bench while Torts writes his shootout lineup??
Absolutely a cheap play but, he didn't get caught so, good move by him distracting Grabs. (not like Grabs needs to be distracted to miss a breakaway)

Good Game, far from perfect, but we got the Win & we need to build off this one.

XxNYIxX

I have no problem with Boulton getting into the lineup. He's not going to score, we know that. But I do think his toughness is important. I'd rather see Ullstrom play and KO sit if Boulton is going to be dressed. Finley looked pretty good last night. I'm still convinced A-Mac is overrated by this coaching staff. Cizikas is starting to grow on me. I love his energy and his willingness to go into the tough areas. KO could learn a thing or two from Cizikas...

It was the last play of overtime... What did you want them to do? Jump the Ranger bench while Torts writes his shootout lineup??
Absolutely a cheap play but, he didn't get caught so, good move by him distracting Grabs. (not like Grabs needs to be distracted to miss a breakaway)
- brodydog29

You're 100 percent correct. The refs aren't making that call on the very last play of the game unless its totally egregious, like a hook that would have pulled Grabner down. The defenseman hooked at him twice but it was far from a penalty. Right non-call, imo.

It was the last play of overtime... What did you want them to do? Jump the Ranger bench while Torts writes his shootout lineup??
Absolutely a cheap play but, he didn't get caught so, good move by him distracting Grabs. (not like Grabs needs to be distracted to miss a breakaway)
- brodydog29

You're 100 percent correct. The refs aren't making that call on the very last play of the game unless its totally egregious, like a hook that would have pulled Grabner down. The defenseman hooked at him twice but it was far from a penalty. Right non-call, imo.

Bottom line- they got ripped a new a**hole after the first period, as they should have, and they responded to that. I'm glad they won- being a Jersey and PA guy for most of my life, beating the Rag$ doesn't excite me as much as it does some of you who have to deal with the a**holes every day. I just want them to beat ANYONE, as often as possible, and so I am happy with the result.

THAT said, I'll say it again...

They REALLY need to learn how to play defense....seriously. Another example- at the end of the regular game, Streit skated into his zone along the left wing boards, with a Rag on his butt. Instead of just doing the one of two things he SHOULD HAVE done to get the puck out of the zone, he inexplicably tried to make a play with the puck, resulting in the puck staying in the defensive zone for nearly 30 more seconds- 29 more than it should have. It's little things like that which cost you hockey games, and this team needs to learn that. At that time, with the way the Rag$ were coming on, you just want to make sure you get out of the building with a point. They all add up at the end of the year- there's no need for a "Hail Mary" when the game is already tied.

I'm thinking Ullstrom is not the only one who should be benched for a game for playing like cr*p- that "toughness" line was nonsense. Ullstrom was directly responsible for one goal in each of the previous two games, and thus he watched the game, instead of playing in it. Mark Streit isn't above that either, IMO. It's time for Capuano to get tough with these guys- you'd think that if he REALLY LIKES his job, he'd make that happen. No more blown assignments, lazy play, or brain fart passes that should be simple clearing attempts, or else you watch the next game from the press box- until you learn how to play defense. It's at that point now.

This team has too much offensive talent and a decent enough goaltender to be in a situation where it can't make a run at the dance. The best teams in the conference have looked quite pedestrian so far, for the most part. All they need to do is play with effort and discipline in their own end of the rink. As I said, true Cup contention will have to wait until some more high end quality is patrolling their rear guard, but there's no reason why they can't at least grab a spot in round one, at this point. Just MHO....

Had a feeling Tavares would take matters into his own hands after how dejected he looked following the Carolina game. Still can't believe how fortunate we are to have him on this team.

They have to put Grabner on a better line than he was. He's a waste 5-on-5 out there with Aucoin. Their styles don't compliment each other at all, and Grabner shouldn't be getting less ice time than Colin McDonald and Okposo.

If Evander Kane was on every team in the league, Hamonic would be one of the best defensemen in the NHL. Looks like Boyle is the player that lights a fire under Finley. First halfway decent game he's played.

We don't need 1:36 of Boulton. He took more minutes in minor penalties than he had in ice time. Ullstrom on his coldest day adds more value.

Okposo, until he gets it together, probably shouldn't get more ice time than Martin and Cizikas. They contribute significantly more at the moment.

You can blame Nabby on the third goal, but I don't think the game goes to OT without him bailing out the team late in the third.

double

You're 100 percent correct. The refs aren't making that call on the very last play of the game unless its totally egregious, like a hook that would have pulled Grabner down. The defenseman hooked at him twice but it was far from a penalty. Right non-call, imo.
- potvin05

I disagree but I can't say I was up in arms about it. It's Grabs so he was going to miss anyway . That said, both hooks were in the groin area while the player was on a breakaway. It's one thing if this happens while players are battling in the corners or even in the neutral zone but on something as obvious as a breakaway, that call has to be made. That said, I don't know if I'd call it a penalty shot but rather a 2 minute hooking. So for a 9 second pp, I don't see it as a big deal.

I understand that the refs weren't going to allow themselves to be the deciding factor in a rivalry and well spirited game like this but there were a few other calls they missed late in the 3rd as well.

Wow! That was one exciting game. And a terrific win.

My unsung player for the Isles was Finley. His TOI was 19:03. He hit. He was a physical presence and as awkward as he sometimes is. Played some pretty good "D".

On the Ice for no goals either way but made some nice defensive plays. Clearing the puck while under pressure and braking up a few passes.

I think this guy just needs to be eased along and we'll have that nasty #5-#6 "D" man.

OK boys. Now tell me I'm crazy.

You're 100 percent correct. The refs aren't making that call on the very last play of the game unless its totally egregious, like a hook that would have pulled Grabner down. The defenseman hooked at him twice but it was far from a penalty. Right non-call, imo.
- potvin05

Agreed. My kids were up in arms when the play went uncalled. I told them to calm down. That brief bit of stick work didnt prevent Grabner from making a play.

Let the boys play hockey. You cant take all the physicality away from the defenders.

With Grabners reputation on Breakaways. I doubt he'd have scored even if he were all alone. []

Wow! That was one exciting game. And a terrific win.

My unsung player for the Isles was Finley. His TOI was 19:03. He hit. He was a physical presence and as awkward as he sometimes is. Played some pretty good "D".

On the Ice for no goals either way but made some nice defensive plays. Clearing the puck while under pressure and braking up a few passes.

I think this guy just needs to be eased along and we'll have that nasty #5-#6 "D" man.

OK boys. Now tell me I'm crazy.
- SCLI

I think anyone who gives up on Finley or Hickey this early are seriously jumping the gun. Defensemen take a long time to develop especially a big guy like Finley. Chara sucked for the first few years in the NHl. It really wasn't until he ended up in Boston that he became a force.

I was thrilled to see Finley not only showing a bit of nasty edge towards Boyle but the fact that Boyle seemingly backed down from him twice. If they can have this kid play angry on a consistent basis, his development will become that much easier.

I think anyone who gives up on Finley or Hickey this early are seriously jumping the gun. Defensemen take a long time to develop especially a big guy like Finley. Chara sucked for the first few years in the NHl. It really wasn't until he ended up in Boston that he became a force.

I was thrilled to see Finley not only showing a bit of nasty edge towards Boyle but the fact that Boyle seemingly backed down from him twice. If they can have this kid play angry on a consistent basis, his development will become that much easier.
- keaner17

I mentioned last night no way I give up on Finley that quick. Isles need to show patience with him. It's hard not to compare to the Chara situation. I'm not saying Finley will be Chara just that the Isles cannot give up on him right away.

Matt Martin is very underrated. He was a difference maker on the penalty kill and setting the tone all over the ice. That first shift of the second period was exactly what the Islanders needed and that line came through. Great contract extension by Snow on getting Martin signed. Kid is heart and soul player. Doesn't make up for Snow extending KO and letting PA walk, but it is a start lol

I mentioned last night no way I give up on Finley that quick. Isles need to show patience with him. It's hard not to compare to the Chara situation. I'm not saying Finley will be Chara just that the Isles cannot give up on him right away.
- ses111

I think at this stage in his career he's a better skater than Chara was. Chara may have been stronger though. His farther kept him in pretty good shape with wrestling.

Matt Martin is very underrated. He was a difference maker on the penalty kill and setting the tone all over the ice. That first shift of the second period was exactly what the Islanders needed and that line came through. Great contract extension by Snow on getting Martin signed. Kid is heart and soul player. Doesn't make up for Snow extending KO and letting PA walk, but it is a start lol
- the ceez

PA Parenteau is what Willis was talking about

I have no problem with Boulton getting into the lineup. He's not going to score, we know that. But I do think his toughness is important. I'd rather see Ullstrom play and KO sit if Boulton is going to be dressed. Finley looked pretty good last night. I'm still convinced A-Mac is overrated by this coaching staff. Cizikas is starting to grow on me. I love his energy and his willingness to go into the tough areas. KO could learn a thing or two from Cizikas...
- Jethro09

-matt martin is once again the guy that goes out every night, puts his head down and does his job...he is a max effort guy every game; ive been saying it since he started playing. the guy has heart!
-finley surprised me... he was not bad which was a major improvement from the previous games hes played.
-100% about amac, said it just a few games into the season...guy is majorly overrated and very replaceable... if he can be packaged, id deal him in a heartbeat.
-Cizikas is cut from the same cloth as matt martin...hell bring his game every game. id love a team of JT, MM, and CC
-KO actually looked decent yesterday. would have been nice if he hit the net once in a while but he was hustling and bustling out there which is an improvement from every other game this season.
-aucoin must go!!!

-matt martin is once again the guy that goes out every night, puts his head down and does his job...he is a max effort guy every game; ive been saying it since he started playing. the guy has heart!
-finley surprised me... he was not bad which was a major improvement from the previous games hes played.
-100% about amac, said it just a few games into the season...guy is majorly overrated and very replaceable... if he can be packaged, id deal him in a heartbeat.
-Cizikas is cut from the same cloth as matt martin...hell bring his game every game. id love a team of JT, MM, and CC
-KO actually looked decent yesterday. would have been nice if he hit the net once in a while but he was hustling and bustling out there which is an improvement from every other game this season.
-aucoin must go!!!
- LetsGoIsles

I agree for once with you and you are right about Amac he is just not that good.

Also Vis was all over the place last night and is actually playing really well for us. Another note Nabby i thought stole the game for them last night and finally KO I am done with. that whole line was horrible last night and the only line doing nothing.

I think at this stage in his career he's a better skater than Chara was. Chara may have been stronger though. His farther kept him in pretty good shape with wrestling.
- keaner17

He does seem to be the better skater than Chara was. Finley can have some real promise if handled right. The whole Chara thing should scare the Isles into not giving up on him.

-matt martin is once again the guy that goes out every night, puts his head down and does his job...he is a max effort guy every game; ive been saying it since he started playing. the guy has heart!
-finley surprised me... he was not bad which was a major improvement from the previous games hes played.
-100% about amac, said it just a few games into the season...guy is majorly overrated and very replaceable... if he can be packaged, id deal him in a heartbeat.
-Cizikas is cut from the same cloth as matt martin...hell bring his game every game. id love a team of JT, MM, and CC
-KO actually looked decent yesterday. would have been nice if he hit the net once in a while but he was hustling and bustling out there which is an improvement from every other game this season.
-aucoin must go!!!
- LetsGoIsles

Very hard to argue. I would love to see guys like Martin, JT, and Hammer keep guys honest if they are not giving it there all. These three can really add leadership. I'd love for the coach to be able to do it but with Jack it does not seem likely.

I agree for once with you and you are right about Amac he is just not that good.

Also Vis was all over the place last night and is actually playing really well for us. Another note Nabby i thought stole the game for them last night and finally KO I am done with. that whole line was horrible last night and the only line doing nothing.
- kasperrko

MM/JT/Boyes - Thought that line looked pretty good last night. Boyes seems to have some chemistry with MM and JT.

Bailey/Frans/Okposo - They seem lost... KO is done, Bailey seems to be getting better every game. Frans seems like he is trying to do to much. He needs to simplify his game.

Grabner – Aucoin – Boulton - Grabner needs better linemates... I like him on the 3rd line cuz his speed creates opportunities by itself but if Aucoin isnt winning faceoffs, he is almost uselss. Boulton is Boulton and there is no need to comment on him.

McDonald– Cizikas – Martin - Simply the Best line last night... Hit everything, relentless forecheck and got the momentum swinging in the Islanders direction. This line has 3 "balls to wall" players and this line should keep getting more ice time as long as they are producing.

Streit - to much uneven play, makes a great play followed up by a play leaving you guessing what he was thinking.

Vis - looked great again. He really knows when to jump in the play.

Finley - Finally played with a meanstreak and looked pretty decent.

MacDonald - had an aweful give away but again the Isles hav him playing #1/#2 minutes when he is probably a #4 d-man.

Hamonic - played ok, but I think he needs to take the body more. Loved when he flattened Boyle (I think thats who is was.)

Strait - played solid. That penalty that lead to the Haglin goal I thought was very weak.

Nabby - Started off a little shaky but then bailed the Islanders out big-time and looked great in the shootout.

I agree for once with you and you are right about Amac he is just not that good.

Also Vis was all over the place last night and is actually playing really well for us. Another note Nabby i thought stole the game for them last night and finally KO I am done with. that whole line was horrible last night and the only line doing nothing.
- kasperrko

The problem is not that Amac is not that good. The problem is that we rely on Amac to be a top 4 defenseman when thats not who he is. I have always said that when this team is good Amac should be a 5-6 d man. He would be a very steady and reliable 3rd pair D man. The only part of his game that really drives me nuts is his shots are constantly blocked. He never gets the puck to the net

Very hard to argue. I would love to see guys like Martin, JT, and Hammer keep guys honest if they are not giving it there all. These three can really add leadership. I'd love for the coach to be able to do it but with Jack it does not seem likely.
- ses111

Anybody else find it interesting that weight was the one who ripped into them during the 1st intermission? Maybe cappy was heating up a calzone or something

Very hard to argue. I would love to see guys like Martin, JT, and Hammer keep guys honest if they are not giving it there all. These three can really add leadership. I'd love for the coach to be able to do it but with Jack it does not seem likely.
- ses111

exactly...and id include cizikas in that trio and turn it into a foursome. cizikas is extremely aware of the situation at all times; plays hard nose and gives everything he has for every shift...the guy simply doesnt take a shift off.

he showing me signs of a ryan callahan type of player...