Former Islander and current New York Rangers defenseman signed to SKA St. Petersburg of the Russian Superleague. In the final year of an exorbinant contract the Rangers are now able to shed much of the $3.1 million they were to pay him this season.
This could very well be the end to his 15 year NHL career in which he played 863 games scoring 27 goals and 136 goals for 163 points, a +39 rating and 1,379 penalty minutes. A former first round pick (5th overall) in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft by the Islanders, Kaspar saw playing time with only 4 teams on his career, the Isles, Penguins, Avalanche and Rangers.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday October 30
Game play picked up a little bit on Tuesday night with 5 games. Here is a look at the only Former Islander action of the night:
* Thusfar, Chris Osgood is basking in the chance being given to him as Dominik Hasek continues to sit out with an injury. The Redwings goaltender stopped 15 of a relatively low 16 shots to steer Detroit to a 2-1 win over the host Edmonton Oilers. Osgood has won six straight games to start the season to improve to 6-0-0 with a .931 save percentage and an unbelievably low 1.50 goals against average. Since his last loss on January 6, Osgood's record has been an improbable 13-0-5 in 18 starts.
Check back for all the Former Islander action on FIW.
* Thusfar, Chris Osgood is basking in the chance being given to him as Dominik Hasek continues to sit out with an injury. The Redwings goaltender stopped 15 of a relatively low 16 shots to steer Detroit to a 2-1 win over the host Edmonton Oilers. Osgood has won six straight games to start the season to improve to 6-0-0 with a .931 save percentage and an unbelievably low 1.50 goals against average. Since his last loss on January 6, Osgood's record has been an improbable 13-0-5 in 18 starts.
Check back for all the Former Islander action on FIW.
Monday October 29
Three more games were on the NHL schedule on Monday night. Let us peruse the single game Former Islander happenings in which they scored 4 assists:
* A flurry of FIs were in play as the Washington Capitals tore down the host Toronto Maple Leafs 7-1. Jason Blake had an assist on the lone Toronto goal. Blake has notched 13 points (2 goals, 11 assists) in as many games this season. It seems that Blake's potential as a setup man has really paid off so far this season for the Leafs. Viktor Kozlov had 2 assists, 1 on the man advantage, game winner, to help fortify the Caps onslaught. With 4 points (all assists) in the last 4 games, Kozlov's numbers have improved. Kozzer has 7 points (2 goals, 5 assists) on 11 games. Defenseman John Erskine had a shorthanded assist on the game as well. It was the second assist in as many games for Erskine who now has 4 points (1 goal, 3 assists) on 8 games this season. The shorthanded assist was Erskine's first since December 11 of last year.
Check back with FIW for all the hottest NHL action.
* A flurry of FIs were in play as the Washington Capitals tore down the host Toronto Maple Leafs 7-1. Jason Blake had an assist on the lone Toronto goal. Blake has notched 13 points (2 goals, 11 assists) in as many games this season. It seems that Blake's potential as a setup man has really paid off so far this season for the Leafs. Viktor Kozlov had 2 assists, 1 on the man advantage, game winner, to help fortify the Caps onslaught. With 4 points (all assists) in the last 4 games, Kozlov's numbers have improved. Kozzer has 7 points (2 goals, 5 assists) on 11 games. Defenseman John Erskine had a shorthanded assist on the game as well. It was the second assist in as many games for Erskine who now has 4 points (1 goal, 3 assists) on 8 games this season. The shorthanded assist was Erskine's first since December 11 of last year.
Check back with FIW for all the hottest NHL action.
Sunday October 28
Only 3 games were on tap on Sunday night. Formers Islanders had 4 points (1 goal, 3 assists) and a 1-1 record in net. Let us take a look at the few bits of FI action:
* Ryan Smyth had 2 points (1 goal, 1 assist) in Colorado's 3-1 home win over the visiting Minnesota Wild. In 11 games Smyth has 5 goals and 4 assists for 9 points.
* Redwing goalie Chris Osgood continued his strong play in place of the injured Dominik Hasek. Ozzie stopped 27 of 29 shots in Detroit's 3-2 win over the host Vancouver Canucks. He now improves to 5-0-0 on the season. On the flipside, Roberto Luongo continued to struggle in goal for the Canucks. He stopped 29 of 32 shots but a lack of general team offense has dogged him all season. His record is now 4-7-0. He has a respectable .903 save percentage and a 2.92 goals against average. Taylor Pyatt had an assist for Vancouver, his third point in the last 2 games. In 12 games Pyatt has 4 goals and 1 assist for 5 points. As well, Trevor Linden had an assist for Vancouver on the opening goal of the game. Linden snapped a 7 game scoreless streak to register his first point. He has 1 assist in 8 games this season. This was the longest scoreless streak for Linden since an 11 game span between November 11 and December 12 of 2006.
Check back soon for all the FIW news.
* Ryan Smyth had 2 points (1 goal, 1 assist) in Colorado's 3-1 home win over the visiting Minnesota Wild. In 11 games Smyth has 5 goals and 4 assists for 9 points.
* Redwing goalie Chris Osgood continued his strong play in place of the injured Dominik Hasek. Ozzie stopped 27 of 29 shots in Detroit's 3-2 win over the host Vancouver Canucks. He now improves to 5-0-0 on the season. On the flipside, Roberto Luongo continued to struggle in goal for the Canucks. He stopped 29 of 32 shots but a lack of general team offense has dogged him all season. His record is now 4-7-0. He has a respectable .903 save percentage and a 2.92 goals against average. Taylor Pyatt had an assist for Vancouver, his third point in the last 2 games. In 12 games Pyatt has 4 goals and 1 assist for 5 points. As well, Trevor Linden had an assist for Vancouver on the opening goal of the game. Linden snapped a 7 game scoreless streak to register his first point. He has 1 assist in 8 games this season. This was the longest scoreless streak for Linden since an 11 game span between November 11 and December 12 of 2006.
Check back soon for all the FIW news.
Saturday October 27
Twelve games were on the schedule on Saturday night. Former Islanders were active players in a bunch of the games. FIs had 11 points (4 goals, 7 assists) in 8 of those games. Let us take a peek at the action:
* Zdeno Chara had a powerplay assist on the lone Boston goal in the Philadelphia Flyer's 2-1 win over the host Bruins. Captain Chara snapped a five game scoreless streak with the assist. He now has 5 points, all assists, in 10 games this season.
* Jason Blake assisted on the first Maple Leaf goal in Toronto's 4-1 road win over the New York Rangers. Blake has packed on the points so far this year with 12 (2 goals, 10 assists) in 12 games.
* Roman Hamrlik had another assist on Saturday night in Montreal's 4-3 SO win over the host Pittsburgh Penguins. The Canadiens d-man continues his point scoring streak with 6 points (1 goals, 5 assists) in 4 consecutive games.
* Jeff Hamilton had 2 more points on Saturday night in Carolina's 8-3 whooping of the host Isles. The winger had 2 assists, 1 on the powerplay, in the Hurricanes attack. Some confusion exists as the sports wires only have him registered for 1 point on the night. It seems Hamilton should have 4 goals and 6 assists for 11 points on the season.
* Tim Connolly had a powerplay assist in Buffalo's 4-3 OT win over the host Tampa Bay Lightning. The Sabres' Connolly continues to burn it up with his 10th assist in as many games. Connolly, not flashing much goal-scoring, has 11 points (1 goal, 10 assists) in 10 games.
* Olli Jokinen had a nice night scoring double powerplay goals in Florida Panthers 4-3 loss to the host Nashville Predators. O-Jok has scored 4 goals in the last 3 games and now has 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists) on 11 games this year.
* Eric Brewer notched his first goal of the season in St. Louis' 4-3 win over the visiting Washington Capitals. Blues defenseman Brewer, sidelined by a small injury through the middle of October, tallied his first point in his 5th game on the season. Caps d-man John Erskine scored an assist on Washington's first goal of the games. In 7 games Erskine now has 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists).
* Raffi Torres scored the lone Oilers goal in Edmonton's 4-1 loss to the energized, host Los Angeles Kings. Torres now has 7 points (4 goals, 3 assists) on 11 games this year.
Check back soon for more FI updates.
* Zdeno Chara had a powerplay assist on the lone Boston goal in the Philadelphia Flyer's 2-1 win over the host Bruins. Captain Chara snapped a five game scoreless streak with the assist. He now has 5 points, all assists, in 10 games this season.
* Jason Blake assisted on the first Maple Leaf goal in Toronto's 4-1 road win over the New York Rangers. Blake has packed on the points so far this year with 12 (2 goals, 10 assists) in 12 games.
* Roman Hamrlik had another assist on Saturday night in Montreal's 4-3 SO win over the host Pittsburgh Penguins. The Canadiens d-man continues his point scoring streak with 6 points (1 goals, 5 assists) in 4 consecutive games.
* Jeff Hamilton had 2 more points on Saturday night in Carolina's 8-3 whooping of the host Isles. The winger had 2 assists, 1 on the powerplay, in the Hurricanes attack. Some confusion exists as the sports wires only have him registered for 1 point on the night. It seems Hamilton should have 4 goals and 6 assists for 11 points on the season.
* Tim Connolly had a powerplay assist in Buffalo's 4-3 OT win over the host Tampa Bay Lightning. The Sabres' Connolly continues to burn it up with his 10th assist in as many games. Connolly, not flashing much goal-scoring, has 11 points (1 goal, 10 assists) in 10 games.
* Olli Jokinen had a nice night scoring double powerplay goals in Florida Panthers 4-3 loss to the host Nashville Predators. O-Jok has scored 4 goals in the last 3 games and now has 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists) on 11 games this year.
* Eric Brewer notched his first goal of the season in St. Louis' 4-3 win over the visiting Washington Capitals. Blues defenseman Brewer, sidelined by a small injury through the middle of October, tallied his first point in his 5th game on the season. Caps d-man John Erskine scored an assist on Washington's first goal of the games. In 7 games Erskine now has 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists).
* Raffi Torres scored the lone Oilers goal in Edmonton's 4-1 loss to the energized, host Los Angeles Kings. Torres now has 7 points (4 goals, 3 assists) on 11 games this year.
Check back soon for more FI updates.
Friday October 26
Five games were on the schedule on Friday night. The start of a big weekend in the NHL. FIs had a good night with 4 goals and 4 assists for 8 points and 2 wins in net. Here is a quick recap of FI events:
* Jeff Hamilton scored the first Carolina goal in Montreal's 7-4 whipping of the host Hurricanes. In 11 games the 'Canes forward has 9 points (4 goals, 5 assists). Canadiens defenseman Roman Hamrlik had a powerplay assist on the game winner. Hamrlik now has 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in the last 3 games. In 9 games this season Hamrlik has 6 points (1 goals, 5 assists), a nice showing so far for the d-man signed to help fill part of the void created by the Sheldon Souray exodus in the offseason.
* Taylor Pyatt scored 2 goals, including the game winning, powerplay goal in Vancouver's 3-2 edge of the host host Washington Capitals. Canuck Pyatt has 4 goals on the season in 11 games including two with the man advantage. Viktor Kozlov had a powerplay assist on the second Capitals second goal of the game. In 9 games he has 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points. Roberto Luongo stopped 26 of 28 shots to improve to 4-6-0.
* Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood, filling in for an injured Dominik Hasek, steered his team to a 5-1 home win over the San Jose Sharks. The Redwing back up keeper improved to 4-0-0 while facing an unbelievable low 11 shots. Osgood even registered an assist (his 2nd of the year) on the opening goal of the game.
* Ryan Smyth scored the game winner 23 seconds into OT to lead the Avalanche to a 3-2 win over the host Calgary Flames. The goal was Smyth's 4th of the season but he continues his relatively slow start with only 4 goals and 3 assists for 7 points in 10 games. Considering the high profile nature of his move to Colorado these numbers are disappointing to say the least. Adrian Aucoin continues to pile on the points notching another assist on Calgary's first goal of the game. Aucoin now has 7 points (1 goals, 6 assists) in the first 11 games of the season.
Check back soon for all the FIW news.
* Jeff Hamilton scored the first Carolina goal in Montreal's 7-4 whipping of the host Hurricanes. In 11 games the 'Canes forward has 9 points (4 goals, 5 assists). Canadiens defenseman Roman Hamrlik had a powerplay assist on the game winner. Hamrlik now has 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in the last 3 games. In 9 games this season Hamrlik has 6 points (1 goals, 5 assists), a nice showing so far for the d-man signed to help fill part of the void created by the Sheldon Souray exodus in the offseason.
* Taylor Pyatt scored 2 goals, including the game winning, powerplay goal in Vancouver's 3-2 edge of the host host Washington Capitals. Canuck Pyatt has 4 goals on the season in 11 games including two with the man advantage. Viktor Kozlov had a powerplay assist on the second Capitals second goal of the game. In 9 games he has 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points. Roberto Luongo stopped 26 of 28 shots to improve to 4-6-0.
* Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood, filling in for an injured Dominik Hasek, steered his team to a 5-1 home win over the San Jose Sharks. The Redwing back up keeper improved to 4-0-0 while facing an unbelievable low 11 shots. Osgood even registered an assist (his 2nd of the year) on the opening goal of the game.
* Ryan Smyth scored the game winner 23 seconds into OT to lead the Avalanche to a 3-2 win over the host Calgary Flames. The goal was Smyth's 4th of the season but he continues his relatively slow start with only 4 goals and 3 assists for 7 points in 10 games. Considering the high profile nature of his move to Colorado these numbers are disappointing to say the least. Adrian Aucoin continues to pile on the points notching another assist on Calgary's first goal of the game. Aucoin now has 7 points (1 goals, 6 assists) in the first 11 games of the season.
Check back soon for all the FIW news.
Thursday October 25
Nine games were on the NHL schedule on Thursday night. Action was a little more muted than Wednesday. FIs only had 1 goal and 4 assists for 5 points on the night. Let us a take a look:
* Raffi Torres had a huge night scoring 3 assists (1 powerplay) in Edmonton's 5-4 SO win over the visiting Minnesota Wild. The Oilers winger also missed a chance for a SO goal. The season has been a bit of a struggle for Torres so far as he only has 6 points (3 goals, 3 assists) in 10 games this season. Fellow FI Denis Grebeshkov had a powerplay assist on the Oilers third goal of the game. The assist was Grebeshkov's first point of the season in five games. Mark Parrish scored the tying goal 9 minutes into the third period to force OT. It was the third straight game that Parrish scored a goal. This was the first time Parrish scored goals in three straight games since December 31-January 4 of last season when he tallied 4 goals in 3 games.
* Derek Armstrong assisted on the game winner in Los Angeles' 2-1 squeaker over the visiting Dallas Stars. The assist was Armstrong's third in as many games.
Check back soon for weekend highlights on FIW.
* Raffi Torres had a huge night scoring 3 assists (1 powerplay) in Edmonton's 5-4 SO win over the visiting Minnesota Wild. The Oilers winger also missed a chance for a SO goal. The season has been a bit of a struggle for Torres so far as he only has 6 points (3 goals, 3 assists) in 10 games this season. Fellow FI Denis Grebeshkov had a powerplay assist on the Oilers third goal of the game. The assist was Grebeshkov's first point of the season in five games. Mark Parrish scored the tying goal 9 minutes into the third period to force OT. It was the third straight game that Parrish scored a goal. This was the first time Parrish scored goals in three straight games since December 31-January 4 of last season when he tallied 4 goals in 3 games.
* Derek Armstrong assisted on the game winner in Los Angeles' 2-1 squeaker over the visiting Dallas Stars. The assist was Armstrong's third in as many games.
Check back soon for weekend highlights on FIW.
Wednesday October 24
Five games were on the schedule on Wednesday night. The Former Islander action is definitely heating up. FIs accounted for 11 points (4 goals, 7 assists) and a loss in net. Let us take a look:
* Tim Connolly assisted on both Sabres goals in Buffalo's 6-2 loss to the host Carolina Hurricanes. The Buffalo registered one of those assists on the man advantage and has 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists) in only 10 games. 5 of his 9 assists have come with the man advantage. Postseason signing Jeff Hamilton has continued to show off for the 'Canes scoring an insurance powerplay goal. Hamilton now 8 points (3 goals, 5 assists) in the first 10 games of the season.
* Viktor Kozlov assisted on the second Washington goal in the Capitals 5-3 home win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Kozlov has 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in 8 games.
* Roberto Luongo stopped 36 of 39 shots but took the loss in Detroit Redwing's 3-2 win over visiting Vancouver. The Canucks goaltender is struggling to get on par this season and is even seeing solid efforts foiled by his team's offensive struggles. Luongo continued to sink further below .500 and is now 3-6-0.
* FIs Olli Jokinen and Richard Zednik had big nights on Wednesday. Jokinen scored 2 goals, 1 on the powerplay, in Florida's 4-3 eke of a win over the visiting Philadelphia Flyers. The Panthers center is finally ramping it up and now has 8 points (4 goals, 4 assists) in 9 games. Zednik assisted on both O-Jok goals. With 3 points in the last 3 games Zed now has 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in 7 games.
* Adrian Aucoin had 2 assists (1 powerplay) as part of a huge Flames comeback in Calgary's 5-3 win over the Minnesota Wild. The Flames erased a 3 goal deficit in the last 30 minutes of ice time. One of Aucoin's assists came on the game winner. Aucoin now has 6 points (1 goal, 5 assists) in 10 games. Mark Parrish scored a powerplay goal. It was the second straight game that Parrish scored in. In 9 games, Parrish has 3 goals on the season.
Check back soon for all the FIW updates.
* Tim Connolly assisted on both Sabres goals in Buffalo's 6-2 loss to the host Carolina Hurricanes. The Buffalo registered one of those assists on the man advantage and has 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists) in only 10 games. 5 of his 9 assists have come with the man advantage. Postseason signing Jeff Hamilton has continued to show off for the 'Canes scoring an insurance powerplay goal. Hamilton now 8 points (3 goals, 5 assists) in the first 10 games of the season.
* Viktor Kozlov assisted on the second Washington goal in the Capitals 5-3 home win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Kozlov has 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in 8 games.
* Roberto Luongo stopped 36 of 39 shots but took the loss in Detroit Redwing's 3-2 win over visiting Vancouver. The Canucks goaltender is struggling to get on par this season and is even seeing solid efforts foiled by his team's offensive struggles. Luongo continued to sink further below .500 and is now 3-6-0.
* FIs Olli Jokinen and Richard Zednik had big nights on Wednesday. Jokinen scored 2 goals, 1 on the powerplay, in Florida's 4-3 eke of a win over the visiting Philadelphia Flyers. The Panthers center is finally ramping it up and now has 8 points (4 goals, 4 assists) in 9 games. Zednik assisted on both O-Jok goals. With 3 points in the last 3 games Zed now has 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in 7 games.
* Adrian Aucoin had 2 assists (1 powerplay) as part of a huge Flames comeback in Calgary's 5-3 win over the Minnesota Wild. The Flames erased a 3 goal deficit in the last 30 minutes of ice time. One of Aucoin's assists came on the game winner. Aucoin now has 6 points (1 goal, 5 assists) in 10 games. Mark Parrish scored a powerplay goal. It was the second straight game that Parrish scored in. In 9 games, Parrish has 3 goals on the season.
Check back soon for all the FIW updates.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Tuesday October 23
The NHL picked up the pace a little bit on Tuesday night with 6 games. FIs were active everywhere. Let us take a look:
* Jason Blake had a huge night for the Toronto Maple Leafs in their 5-4 SO loss to the visiting Atlanta Thrashers. Blake had 3 assists including one with the man advantage but failed to convert on a SO attempt instantly turning the effort into an Atlanta win. Blake, who is playing concurrently with treatment for a form of leukemia, is on a tear with 11 points (2 goals, 9 assists) in only 10 games.
* Another FI, Michael Peca, also had a 3 assist night. Peca helped power a 7-4 Columbus Blue Jackets win over the host Chicago Blackhawks. Peca now has 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in 6 games with his new team.
* FI Wyatt Smith had his first point of the season for the Colorado Avalanche, an assist on the empty netter in their 4-2 win over the host Edmonton Oilers. It took Smith 9 games to final for the scorecard.
* Derek Armstrong assisted on the 3rd goal in Los Angeles' 6-0 thumping of the visiting Nashville Predators. Armstrong now has 3 points, all assists, in 10 games this season.
Check back soon with FIW.
* Jason Blake had a huge night for the Toronto Maple Leafs in their 5-4 SO loss to the visiting Atlanta Thrashers. Blake had 3 assists including one with the man advantage but failed to convert on a SO attempt instantly turning the effort into an Atlanta win. Blake, who is playing concurrently with treatment for a form of leukemia, is on a tear with 11 points (2 goals, 9 assists) in only 10 games.
* Another FI, Michael Peca, also had a 3 assist night. Peca helped power a 7-4 Columbus Blue Jackets win over the host Chicago Blackhawks. Peca now has 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in 6 games with his new team.
* FI Wyatt Smith had his first point of the season for the Colorado Avalanche, an assist on the empty netter in their 4-2 win over the host Edmonton Oilers. It took Smith 9 games to final for the scorecard.
* Derek Armstrong assisted on the 3rd goal in Los Angeles' 6-0 thumping of the visiting Nashville Predators. Armstrong now has 3 points, all assists, in 10 games this season.
Check back soon with FIW.
Monday October 22
A whopping 3 games were on the NHL schedule on Monday night. Yet FIs had some play scoring 3 assists in 2 games. Let us take a look:
* Despite a strong performance, 28 of 30 shots stopped, Roberto Luongo took the loss in Vancouver's 3-1 fall to the host Carolina Hurricanes. Luongo has started the season 3-5-0. Teammate and FI Brad Isbister had his 2nd assist of the season in only his 5th game played.
* Roman Hamrlik scored his fourth point in 2 games with an assist in Montreal's 6-1 route over the visiting Boston Bruins. Fellow Canadien Bryan Smolinski also had a point for the second straight game with an assist on the fifth Montreal goal. Hamrlik now has 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in only 8 games while teammate Smolinski has 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) in that time.
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* Despite a strong performance, 28 of 30 shots stopped, Roberto Luongo took the loss in Vancouver's 3-1 fall to the host Carolina Hurricanes. Luongo has started the season 3-5-0. Teammate and FI Brad Isbister had his 2nd assist of the season in only his 5th game played.
* Roman Hamrlik scored his fourth point in 2 games with an assist in Montreal's 6-1 route over the visiting Boston Bruins. Fellow Canadien Bryan Smolinski also had a point for the second straight game with an assist on the fifth Montreal goal. Hamrlik now has 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in only 8 games while teammate Smolinski has 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) in that time.
Thank you for checking in with FIW. Keep logging on for the hottest NHL/FI updates.
Sunday October 21
Only 2 games were played on Sunday. Here is a quick look at the only tidbit of Former Islander action:
* Mark Parrish scored his 2nd goal of the season, a powerplay tally, to open the game in Minnesota's 3-2 win over the visiting Colorado Avalanche. Parrish has only 2 points (all goals) in 8 games this season.
Check back soon for more FIW updates.
* Mark Parrish scored his 2nd goal of the season, a powerplay tally, to open the game in Minnesota's 3-2 win over the visiting Colorado Avalanche. Parrish has only 2 points (all goals) in 8 games this season.
Check back soon for more FIW updates.
Saturday October 20
The NHL jumped into high gear on Saturday with 13 games. Former Islanders were active as well accounting for a healthy 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) in 6 games. Here is the recap:
* Randy Robitaille is back. After playing only 14 games in Russia (Yaroslavl) with fellow FI Alexei Yashin. In Russia, Robitaille had 3 goals and 6 assists for 9 points. On Tuesday the 16th the Ottawa Senators announced they had signed Robitaille to a 1-year, $625,000 contrant. In his second game with the Sens, Robitaille had a powerplay assist on the insurance goal in a 4-1 win over the visiting Florida Panthers. An Ottawa native, Robitaille joins his 9th team after having seen playing time with the Bruins, Predators, Kings, Penguins, Isles, Thrashers, Wild and Flyers. As well, FI Richard Zednik scored the only Panthers goal, an unassisted powerplay netter that temporarily cut the Ottawa lead in half. The goal was his 2nd of the season.
* Jeff Hamilton continued his torrid play for the Hurricanes notching another assist in Carolina's 3-2 OT loss to the host Philadelphia Flyers. Hamilton has 7 points (2 goals, 5 assists) in only 8 games this season.
* Kevin Weekes could not hold out for the full 65 minutes against his former team as the Islanders downed the New Jersey Devils at home despite an impress comeback attempt. The Isles peppered Weekes with 36 shots in a 4-3 OT win putting the Devils away with a powerplay goal at the 4:56 mark of the extra frame. In his two starts, Weekes is 1-0-1 with a respectable 2.40 goals against average and an impressive .928 save percentage.
* Three FIs were active in the Montreal Canadiens' 4-2 win over the visiting Buffalo Sabres. Roman Hamrlik had game winning powerplay goal and 2 assists (1 powerplay) in an impressive display of defensive offensemanship. The d-man whose signing in the postseason helped replace the loss of Sheldon Souray, has 4 points (1 goal, 3 assists) in 7 games. Teammate and fellow FI Bryan Smolinski also had a powerplay goal, his first as a Canadien. The goal was only the 2nd point for Smolinski in 7 games with Montreal. Last but not least, Tim Connolly had a powerplay assist for the Sabres. Connolly has 8 points (1 goal, 7 assists) in only 7 games with 5 of those points coming on the man advantage.
* Two FIs had two assists nights in Chicago's 6-4 win over the host Toronto Maple Leafs. Blackhawks postseason defensive signing Brent Sopel had two assists including one on the powerplay game winner. Playing well over 20 minutes a night, Sopel has not disappointed. He now has 3 assists in 8 games. Jason Blake had two even strength assists including one on the shortlived Toronto lead. Blake is doing well for himself with 8 points in 9 games. But despite these good numbers, Blake has only 2 goals in that time.
* FI defenseman Adrian Aucoin scored his first goal as a Flame. With less than 2 minutes to go in the game Aucoin netted a powerplay goal in Calgary's 4-1 win over the visiting Edmonton Oilers. Aucoin now has 4 points (1 goal, 3 assists) in 8 games with the Flames. This was his first goal since February 25 of this year snapping a 24 game goal-less streak.
That was the wild night for FIs around the league. Check back soon for more recaps on FIW.
* Randy Robitaille is back. After playing only 14 games in Russia (Yaroslavl) with fellow FI Alexei Yashin. In Russia, Robitaille had 3 goals and 6 assists for 9 points. On Tuesday the 16th the Ottawa Senators announced they had signed Robitaille to a 1-year, $625,000 contrant. In his second game with the Sens, Robitaille had a powerplay assist on the insurance goal in a 4-1 win over the visiting Florida Panthers. An Ottawa native, Robitaille joins his 9th team after having seen playing time with the Bruins, Predators, Kings, Penguins, Isles, Thrashers, Wild and Flyers. As well, FI Richard Zednik scored the only Panthers goal, an unassisted powerplay netter that temporarily cut the Ottawa lead in half. The goal was his 2nd of the season.
* Jeff Hamilton continued his torrid play for the Hurricanes notching another assist in Carolina's 3-2 OT loss to the host Philadelphia Flyers. Hamilton has 7 points (2 goals, 5 assists) in only 8 games this season.
* Kevin Weekes could not hold out for the full 65 minutes against his former team as the Islanders downed the New Jersey Devils at home despite an impress comeback attempt. The Isles peppered Weekes with 36 shots in a 4-3 OT win putting the Devils away with a powerplay goal at the 4:56 mark of the extra frame. In his two starts, Weekes is 1-0-1 with a respectable 2.40 goals against average and an impressive .928 save percentage.
* Three FIs were active in the Montreal Canadiens' 4-2 win over the visiting Buffalo Sabres. Roman Hamrlik had game winning powerplay goal and 2 assists (1 powerplay) in an impressive display of defensive offensemanship. The d-man whose signing in the postseason helped replace the loss of Sheldon Souray, has 4 points (1 goal, 3 assists) in 7 games. Teammate and fellow FI Bryan Smolinski also had a powerplay goal, his first as a Canadien. The goal was only the 2nd point for Smolinski in 7 games with Montreal. Last but not least, Tim Connolly had a powerplay assist for the Sabres. Connolly has 8 points (1 goal, 7 assists) in only 7 games with 5 of those points coming on the man advantage.
* Two FIs had two assists nights in Chicago's 6-4 win over the host Toronto Maple Leafs. Blackhawks postseason defensive signing Brent Sopel had two assists including one on the powerplay game winner. Playing well over 20 minutes a night, Sopel has not disappointed. He now has 3 assists in 8 games. Jason Blake had two even strength assists including one on the shortlived Toronto lead. Blake is doing well for himself with 8 points in 9 games. But despite these good numbers, Blake has only 2 goals in that time.
* FI defenseman Adrian Aucoin scored his first goal as a Flame. With less than 2 minutes to go in the game Aucoin netted a powerplay goal in Calgary's 4-1 win over the visiting Edmonton Oilers. Aucoin now has 4 points (1 goal, 3 assists) in 8 games with the Flames. This was his first goal since February 25 of this year snapping a 24 game goal-less streak.
That was the wild night for FIs around the league. Check back soon for more recaps on FIW.
Friday October 19
A fairly slow Friday night, the NHL only had 4 games on the schedule but Former Islanders were involved in all of them. Let us look at the limited Former Islander work:
* Jeff Hamilton scored a SO goal to little avail in Carolina's 4-3 sudden death loss to the host Pittsburgh Penguins. The Hurricane forward continues to impress his new teammates.
* It took Michael Peca 4 games but he finally made an offensive impact for his new team, the Columbus Blue Jackets, in their 3-0 plugging of the host Buffalo Sabres. Peca scored the game winner and added a powerplay assist.
* Ryan Smyth scored his 3rd goal of the season, a powerplay tally, in Colorado's 5-3 loss to the host Chicago Blackhawks. New Avalanch Smyth is not doing too bad for himself accounting for 6 points (3 goals, 3 assists) in 7 games.
* 2007 Vezina Finalist Roberto Luongo is struggling to start the season. Luongo stopped 13 of only 16 shots as the visiting Los Angeles Kings downed the Vancouver Canucks. 7 games into the season, Luongo is only 3-4-0 with a save percentage below .900 while allowing over 3 goals per game. Kings forward Derek Armstrong continues to struggle as he notched only his 3rd assist in 9 games. He's still looking to net hist first goal of the season.
Check back soon for more updates here on FIW.
* Jeff Hamilton scored a SO goal to little avail in Carolina's 4-3 sudden death loss to the host Pittsburgh Penguins. The Hurricane forward continues to impress his new teammates.
* It took Michael Peca 4 games but he finally made an offensive impact for his new team, the Columbus Blue Jackets, in their 3-0 plugging of the host Buffalo Sabres. Peca scored the game winner and added a powerplay assist.
* Ryan Smyth scored his 3rd goal of the season, a powerplay tally, in Colorado's 5-3 loss to the host Chicago Blackhawks. New Avalanch Smyth is not doing too bad for himself accounting for 6 points (3 goals, 3 assists) in 7 games.
* 2007 Vezina Finalist Roberto Luongo is struggling to start the season. Luongo stopped 13 of only 16 shots as the visiting Los Angeles Kings downed the Vancouver Canucks. 7 games into the season, Luongo is only 3-4-0 with a save percentage below .900 while allowing over 3 goals per game. Kings forward Derek Armstrong continues to struggle as he notched only his 3rd assist in 9 games. He's still looking to net hist first goal of the season.
Check back soon for more updates here on FIW.
Thursday October 18
Nine games dominated the NHL landscape Thursday night. Let us look at all the wild Former Islander action:
* Averaging less than 10 minutes per night, forward Jim Dowd scored for his new team, the Philadelphia Flyers, in their 4-0 domination of the visiting New Jersey Devils. The 7th game in the Orange and Black was a positive one for Dowd. His goal capped a 3 goal spurt in a 7 minute span.
* FIs Jason Blake and Bryan McCabe powered a Toronto comeback in the Maple Leafs 3-2 win over the visiting Florida Panthers. Jason Blake cut the Panther lead in half only 24 seconds into the second period for his second goal as a Leaf and McCabe tied it up with a powerplay goal only 6:25 later for his second as well.
* Two FIs had multipoint nights for the Oilers in Edmonton's 4-2 road win over the struggling Phoenix Coyotes. Raffi Torres opened the scoring then netted the game winner for his first multi-goal game since January 31st of this year. Defenseman Dick Tarnstrom, who returned to the NHL after playing in Europe last season, assisted on the other 2 Edmonton goals. Six games into the season, the d-man logged his first points since the 6th game of the 2006 Stanley Cup when Tarnstrom assisted on a powerplay goal in the series evening game.
* Redwing goaltender Chris Osgood continued his excellent play on Thursday. He stopped 23 of 25 shots in Detroit's 4-2 road win over the San Jose Sharks then and notched an assist on one of the Wings powerplay goals. Osgood has started the season 3-0-0 with a 1.67 goals against average and a remarkable .932 save percentage.
Check back soon for more FIW updates.
* Averaging less than 10 minutes per night, forward Jim Dowd scored for his new team, the Philadelphia Flyers, in their 4-0 domination of the visiting New Jersey Devils. The 7th game in the Orange and Black was a positive one for Dowd. His goal capped a 3 goal spurt in a 7 minute span.
* FIs Jason Blake and Bryan McCabe powered a Toronto comeback in the Maple Leafs 3-2 win over the visiting Florida Panthers. Jason Blake cut the Panther lead in half only 24 seconds into the second period for his second goal as a Leaf and McCabe tied it up with a powerplay goal only 6:25 later for his second as well.
* Two FIs had multipoint nights for the Oilers in Edmonton's 4-2 road win over the struggling Phoenix Coyotes. Raffi Torres opened the scoring then netted the game winner for his first multi-goal game since January 31st of this year. Defenseman Dick Tarnstrom, who returned to the NHL after playing in Europe last season, assisted on the other 2 Edmonton goals. Six games into the season, the d-man logged his first points since the 6th game of the 2006 Stanley Cup when Tarnstrom assisted on a powerplay goal in the series evening game.
* Redwing goaltender Chris Osgood continued his excellent play on Thursday. He stopped 23 of 25 shots in Detroit's 4-2 road win over the San Jose Sharks then and notched an assist on one of the Wings powerplay goals. Osgood has started the season 3-0-0 with a 1.67 goals against average and a remarkable .932 save percentage.
Check back soon for more FIW updates.
Wednesday October 17
With four games on Wednesday night let us take a look at the one Former Islander happening:
* Arron Asham scored the game winner 10:38 into the third period for the Devils as they downed the host Pittsburgh Penguins 5-4. The FI and New Jersey forward has proven very useful for his new team as he has 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in 6 games.
Check back soon for more FI updates.
* Arron Asham scored the game winner 10:38 into the third period for the Devils as they downed the host Pittsburgh Penguins 5-4. The FI and New Jersey forward has proven very useful for his new team as he has 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in 6 games.
Check back soon for more FI updates.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Tuesday October 16
Four games were on the NHL schedule on Tuesday night. Let us take a brief look at the Former Islander action:
* One of the newest Canadiens, FI defensman Roman Hamrlik, had a powerplay assist on the opening goal of the game in the Florida Panthers' 2-1 SO win over host Montreal. The point was Hamrlik's first in 5 games as a Canadien.
* Ryan Smyth netted a goal, added an assist and scored a SO goal in Colorado's 5-4 SO win over the visiting Calgary Flames. Smyth helped spur an Avs comeback from a 4-0 deficit in the second period to force OT. FI d-man Adrian Aucoin notched an assist on the 4th Flames goal of the game giving him a combined 3 assists in the last 2 games.
FIs accounted for 1 goal and 3 assists for 4 points in those 4 games. Check back soon for all the Former Islander happenings here at FIW.
* One of the newest Canadiens, FI defensman Roman Hamrlik, had a powerplay assist on the opening goal of the game in the Florida Panthers' 2-1 SO win over host Montreal. The point was Hamrlik's first in 5 games as a Canadien.
* Ryan Smyth netted a goal, added an assist and scored a SO goal in Colorado's 5-4 SO win over the visiting Calgary Flames. Smyth helped spur an Avs comeback from a 4-0 deficit in the second period to force OT. FI d-man Adrian Aucoin notched an assist on the 4th Flames goal of the game giving him a combined 3 assists in the last 2 games.
FIs accounted for 1 goal and 3 assists for 4 points in those 4 games. Check back soon for all the Former Islander happenings here at FIW.
Monday October 15
3 more games were on the NHL schedule on Monday night. Former Islanders were active in 2 of the 3 scoring 1 goal and 3 assists for 4 points and a loss in net. Here is an in depth look:
* Tim Connolly scored 2 more assists for the Buffalo Sabres in their 5-4 OT at home against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Sabres forward is already having a heck of a year scoring 7 points (1 goal, 6 assists) in only 5 games.
* Roberto Luongo took the loss in Vancouver's 4-2 home defeat at the hands of the San Jose Sharks. The Canucks goaltender saw his record drop to 3-3-0. He stopped 30 of 34 shots but it was not enough. FI Taylor Pyatt opened the scoring with a powerplay goal and second tally in as many games. Yet another FI, Brad Isbister, who signed in the offseason, assisted on that Pyatt powerplay goal. It was Isbister's first point in only his third game as a Canuck.
Check back soon for more FI nightly updates.
* Tim Connolly scored 2 more assists for the Buffalo Sabres in their 5-4 OT at home against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Sabres forward is already having a heck of a year scoring 7 points (1 goal, 6 assists) in only 5 games.
* Roberto Luongo took the loss in Vancouver's 4-2 home defeat at the hands of the San Jose Sharks. The Canucks goaltender saw his record drop to 3-3-0. He stopped 30 of 34 shots but it was not enough. FI Taylor Pyatt opened the scoring with a powerplay goal and second tally in as many games. Yet another FI, Brad Isbister, who signed in the offseason, assisted on that Pyatt powerplay goal. It was Isbister's first point in only his third game as a Canuck.
Check back soon for more FI nightly updates.
Sunday October 14
It was a considerable slow down on Sunday night as only 2 games were on tap. With no hope for a 17 point Former Islander night, all was not lost. FIs accounted for a win in net and a goal. Here is the recap:
* Chris Osgood improved to 2-0-0 as he stopped 27 of 28 shots in Detroit's 4-1 win over the host Los Angeles Kings. The Redwings goaltender should be remained Chris "Sogood" considering he has not lost in regulation for almost the entire calendar year of 2007. Osgood has not had a regulation loss since January 6. Since then he has gone an impressive 9-0-5.
* Mark Parrish scored the insurance goal, his first of the season, in Minnesota's 2-0 win over the defending Stanley Cup Champion Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center on Sunday. Since coming to his home state, Parrish has been an enigma. This was his first point in 5 games and continues a cycle of disappoint stemming back to last season when the highly touted forward scored only 39 points in 76 games.
Check back soon fore more FIW highlights.
* Chris Osgood improved to 2-0-0 as he stopped 27 of 28 shots in Detroit's 4-1 win over the host Los Angeles Kings. The Redwings goaltender should be remained Chris "Sogood" considering he has not lost in regulation for almost the entire calendar year of 2007. Osgood has not had a regulation loss since January 6. Since then he has gone an impressive 9-0-5.
* Mark Parrish scored the insurance goal, his first of the season, in Minnesota's 2-0 win over the defending Stanley Cup Champion Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center on Sunday. Since coming to his home state, Parrish has been an enigma. This was his first point in 5 games and continues a cycle of disappoint stemming back to last season when the highly touted forward scored only 39 points in 76 games.
Check back soon fore more FIW highlights.
Saturday October 13
The NHL was in near full swing on Saturday with 13 games on the 13th day of the first month of play. FIs were on fire scoring 5 goals and 12 assists for 17 points with 1 win in net. Here is a look at the details:
* Tom Poti assisted for the second straight game in Washington's 7-3 thrashing of a loss to the host Buffalo Sabres on Saturday. The Capitals defenseman also exceeded 25 minutes of ice time for the second straight game. The assist came on the powerplay. Fellow FI Tim Connolly notched a powerplay assist on the final goal of the game.
* Winger Jason Blake scored his first goal and had his first multi-point night as a Maple Leaf accounting for a goal and an assist in Toronto's 6-4 home loss to the the Pittsburgh Penguins. Blake is paying off sufficiently for the Blue and White having scored 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in 6 games.
* Olli Jokinen had a big night in Florida's 6-4 evisceration of the visiting Tampa Bay Lightning. O-Jok scored a goal and posted 2 assists in the Panthers win. The goal and 1 assist came with the man advantage. As well, FI Richard Zednik scored his first goal and recorded his first point since signing with the Panthers in the offseason. Brad Lukowich, Lightning defenseman, also posted an assist on the final Tampa Bay goal. This was a busy game for FIs with 2 goals, 3 assists and 5 points recorded.
* Put FIs down for another couple of points. Devil Arron Asham nabbed a powerplay assist on the opening goal of the game in New Jersey's 6-5 win over the host Atlanta Thrashers on Saturday. Power defenseman and FI Alexei Zhitnik also notched a powerplay assist for the Thrashers for what was a shortlived 2-2 tie.
* Jeff Hamilton kept on impressing as he scored a powerplay assist in Carolina's 3-1 win over the host Montreal Canadiens. A postseason, free agent acquisition, Hamilton has shown some skill accounting for 6 points (2 goals, 4 assists) in only 6 games.
* Adrian Aucoin scored his first points since coming to Calgary is a postseason trade in the Flames 7-4 domination of the host Nashville Predators. Aucoin record 2 even strength assists. Toughman right winger Eric Godard scored the game winner, the first of his career, and his first goal since the 2005-06 season in the win. Godard missed most of last season with an injury that sidelined him for all but 19 games. The goal was only his 3rd in 129 career games.
* Power forward Ryan Smyth recorded a powerplay assist in Colorado's dominating 5-1 win over the visiting Columbus Blue Jackets. Since signing as a free agent with the Avalanche in the offseason, Smyth has only 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) in 5 games.
* Roberto Luongo backstopped the Canucks to a 4-1 win over the visiting Edmonton Oilers. With the win, Luongo improved to 3-2-0 and helped Vancouver pull off the home-and-home sweep. Luongo stopped 27 of 28 shots. Fellow FI Taylor Pyatt, fresh off a new contract, scored his first goal of the season. It took Pyatt 5 games and 10 shots to find net.
The hottest night of FI action should just be a precursor to more exciting contention to come. Stick with FIW for all the NHL updates.
* Tom Poti assisted for the second straight game in Washington's 7-3 thrashing of a loss to the host Buffalo Sabres on Saturday. The Capitals defenseman also exceeded 25 minutes of ice time for the second straight game. The assist came on the powerplay. Fellow FI Tim Connolly notched a powerplay assist on the final goal of the game.
* Winger Jason Blake scored his first goal and had his first multi-point night as a Maple Leaf accounting for a goal and an assist in Toronto's 6-4 home loss to the the Pittsburgh Penguins. Blake is paying off sufficiently for the Blue and White having scored 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in 6 games.
* Olli Jokinen had a big night in Florida's 6-4 evisceration of the visiting Tampa Bay Lightning. O-Jok scored a goal and posted 2 assists in the Panthers win. The goal and 1 assist came with the man advantage. As well, FI Richard Zednik scored his first goal and recorded his first point since signing with the Panthers in the offseason. Brad Lukowich, Lightning defenseman, also posted an assist on the final Tampa Bay goal. This was a busy game for FIs with 2 goals, 3 assists and 5 points recorded.
* Put FIs down for another couple of points. Devil Arron Asham nabbed a powerplay assist on the opening goal of the game in New Jersey's 6-5 win over the host Atlanta Thrashers on Saturday. Power defenseman and FI Alexei Zhitnik also notched a powerplay assist for the Thrashers for what was a shortlived 2-2 tie.
* Jeff Hamilton kept on impressing as he scored a powerplay assist in Carolina's 3-1 win over the host Montreal Canadiens. A postseason, free agent acquisition, Hamilton has shown some skill accounting for 6 points (2 goals, 4 assists) in only 6 games.
* Adrian Aucoin scored his first points since coming to Calgary is a postseason trade in the Flames 7-4 domination of the host Nashville Predators. Aucoin record 2 even strength assists. Toughman right winger Eric Godard scored the game winner, the first of his career, and his first goal since the 2005-06 season in the win. Godard missed most of last season with an injury that sidelined him for all but 19 games. The goal was only his 3rd in 129 career games.
* Power forward Ryan Smyth recorded a powerplay assist in Colorado's dominating 5-1 win over the visiting Columbus Blue Jackets. Since signing as a free agent with the Avalanche in the offseason, Smyth has only 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) in 5 games.
* Roberto Luongo backstopped the Canucks to a 4-1 win over the visiting Edmonton Oilers. With the win, Luongo improved to 3-2-0 and helped Vancouver pull off the home-and-home sweep. Luongo stopped 27 of 28 shots. Fellow FI Taylor Pyatt, fresh off a new contract, scored his first goal of the season. It took Pyatt 5 games and 10 shots to find net.
The hottest night of FI action should just be a precursor to more exciting contention to come. Stick with FIW for all the NHL updates.
Friday October 12
With 6 games on the schedule in the NHL on Friday night we will summarize the myriad of Former Islander action:
* Tom Poti assisted on the lone Washington goal in the Capitals 3-1 road loss to the New York Rangers on Friday. The powerplay assist was Poti's first point since signing with the Caps in the offseason. He also notched an unhuman 28:22 of ice time. Martin Straka notched his second 2nd goal of the season, a powerplay tally and the game winner in the Blueshirts win.
* Roberto Luongo bounced back from his prior awful start to record a win in Vancouver's 5-2 road win over the Edmonton Oilers. He stopped 28 of 30 shots and earned his 2nd assist of the season in the effort. With the win Luongo improved the 2-2-0. Raffi Torres scored his first of the season on the powerplay a goal that briefly cut the Canucks lead to 3-2.
* Kings forward Derek Armstrong briefly tied the game at 5-5 in Los Angeles' 8-6 score-a-thon loss to the visiting Bruins. Boston Captain Zdeno Chara accounted for 2 assists including the secondary on the game winner and one on the powerplay earlier in the match. Chara is off to a hot start with 4 assists in 4 games and the 2 points extend his streak to 4 points in his last 3 overall.
Again FIs kept it busy with 2 goals and 5 assists for 7 points in only 6 games leaguewide. Stay connected to FIW for all the exciting hockey action.
* Tom Poti assisted on the lone Washington goal in the Capitals 3-1 road loss to the New York Rangers on Friday. The powerplay assist was Poti's first point since signing with the Caps in the offseason. He also notched an unhuman 28:22 of ice time. Martin Straka notched his second 2nd goal of the season, a powerplay tally and the game winner in the Blueshirts win.
* Roberto Luongo bounced back from his prior awful start to record a win in Vancouver's 5-2 road win over the Edmonton Oilers. He stopped 28 of 30 shots and earned his 2nd assist of the season in the effort. With the win Luongo improved the 2-2-0. Raffi Torres scored his first of the season on the powerplay a goal that briefly cut the Canucks lead to 3-2.
* Kings forward Derek Armstrong briefly tied the game at 5-5 in Los Angeles' 8-6 score-a-thon loss to the visiting Bruins. Boston Captain Zdeno Chara accounted for 2 assists including the secondary on the game winner and one on the powerplay earlier in the match. Chara is off to a hot start with 4 assists in 4 games and the 2 points extend his streak to 4 points in his last 3 overall.
Again FIs kept it busy with 2 goals and 5 assists for 7 points in only 6 games leaguewide. Stay connected to FIW for all the exciting hockey action.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Thursday October 11
Former Islanders were a little more lively on a slower night in the NHL. Only 5 games were on the schedule. Let us look at the FI happenings:
* Tim Connolly notched a goal and 2 assists (all powerplay) in the first period of Buffalo's 6-0 domination of the visiting Atlanta Thrashers. Connolly, when healthy, is bound to be a force for this year's Sabres team.
* Jeff Hamilton notched a powerplay assist on the opening goal in Carolina's surprising 5-3 win over the host Ottawa Senators. Hamilton has yet to disappoint since signing with the Hurricanes in the offseason. He has 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points in the first 5 games.
* Recently diagnosed with a treatable form of leukemia, FI Jason Blake registered an assist on the third Maple Leafs goal in their 8-1 destruction of the Isles in Toronto. Star blueliner and FI Bryan McCabe also notched a powerplay assist, this time on the last goal of the game.
* Olli Jokinen scored his first, a powerplay goal in the second period, in Florida's 3-0 win over the visiting New Jersey Devils. The Panthers captain is looking to spark some offense with his teammates.
A total 7 points (2 goals, 5 assists) were notched by FIs on Thursday. Quite a feat in only 5 games. Check back soon with FIW.
* Tim Connolly notched a goal and 2 assists (all powerplay) in the first period of Buffalo's 6-0 domination of the visiting Atlanta Thrashers. Connolly, when healthy, is bound to be a force for this year's Sabres team.
* Jeff Hamilton notched a powerplay assist on the opening goal in Carolina's surprising 5-3 win over the host Ottawa Senators. Hamilton has yet to disappoint since signing with the Hurricanes in the offseason. He has 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points in the first 5 games.
* Recently diagnosed with a treatable form of leukemia, FI Jason Blake registered an assist on the third Maple Leafs goal in their 8-1 destruction of the Isles in Toronto. Star blueliner and FI Bryan McCabe also notched a powerplay assist, this time on the last goal of the game.
* Olli Jokinen scored his first, a powerplay goal in the second period, in Florida's 3-0 win over the visiting New Jersey Devils. The Panthers captain is looking to spark some offense with his teammates.
A total 7 points (2 goals, 5 assists) were notched by FIs on Thursday. Quite a feat in only 5 games. Check back soon with FIW.
Wednesday October 10
The league continued its early flurry of activity with 12 games on the schedule. Former Islanders were around and hard to find as they accounted for only 3 assists and a 1-1 record in net. Here is a quick look:
* Martin Straka assisted on the lone Rangers goal as the Blueshirts dropped a close one in regulation to the host Islanders 2-1. The goal that Straka assisted on helped knot the score at 1 a piece but the Isles would win it less than 12 minutes later as Former Islander turned Former Ranger turned Islander Bryan Berard scored the game winner on a 5-on-3 powerplay.
* Chris Osgood backstopped the Detroit Redwings to a 4-2 home win over the Calgary Flames in his first start of the season. Going back to last season, Osgood has not lost in regulation on the calendar year.
* Olli Jokinen assisted on the only Panther goal in Florida's 2-1 road loss to the cross-state rival Tampa Bay Lightning. Jokinen and company have yet to hit their offensive stride this season.
* Captain and 6' 9" defenseman Zdeno Chara assisted on the only goal for the Bruins in Boston's 2-1 road loss to the Anaheim Ducks. The goal, 1:05 into the 1st period, was the only sign of life the entire game for a thusfar lackluster Bruins squad.
* Roberto Luongo got chased from net early in a thumping by the visiting Philadelphia Flyers. Philly shut down the Vancouver Canucks 8-2 on Wednesday. Luongo stopped 9 of 13 shots before being pulled during the first intermission.
Thursday is bound to be a slower night with only 5 games on tap. Until next time.
* Martin Straka assisted on the lone Rangers goal as the Blueshirts dropped a close one in regulation to the host Islanders 2-1. The goal that Straka assisted on helped knot the score at 1 a piece but the Isles would win it less than 12 minutes later as Former Islander turned Former Ranger turned Islander Bryan Berard scored the game winner on a 5-on-3 powerplay.
* Chris Osgood backstopped the Detroit Redwings to a 4-2 home win over the Calgary Flames in his first start of the season. Going back to last season, Osgood has not lost in regulation on the calendar year.
* Olli Jokinen assisted on the only Panther goal in Florida's 2-1 road loss to the cross-state rival Tampa Bay Lightning. Jokinen and company have yet to hit their offensive stride this season.
* Captain and 6' 9" defenseman Zdeno Chara assisted on the only goal for the Bruins in Boston's 2-1 road loss to the Anaheim Ducks. The goal, 1:05 into the 1st period, was the only sign of life the entire game for a thusfar lackluster Bruins squad.
* Roberto Luongo got chased from net early in a thumping by the visiting Philadelphia Flyers. Philly shut down the Vancouver Canucks 8-2 on Wednesday. Luongo stopped 9 of 13 shots before being pulled during the first intermission.
Thursday is bound to be a slower night with only 5 games on tap. Until next time.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Bryan Berard Signed
In a rare move, a Former Islander is returning home as the Isles signed Bryan Berard on Wednesday to a 1-year, $725,000 deal. A camp invitee, Berard impressed the Islanders coaching staff with his dedication to return to form. After stints with Maple Leafs, Rangers, Bruins, Blackhawks and Blue Jackets, Berard wants to return to that offensive style that has defined his injury-plagued career. A Calder Trophy winner as Rookie of the Year following the 1996-97 season, Berard suffered a major eye injury in 2000 as a member of the Maple Leafs. After reconstructive surgery, the road got no easier for Berard as he was the first person to test positive for a performance enhancing substance under NHL testing guidelines. No rules in place yet meant Berard was left unpunished. He was however banned from international competition for 2 seasons. In the past couple of years a serious back injury seemed to threaten what remained of Berard's pro career but he has gained the confidences of Ted Nolan and company and is once again wearing the Orange and Blue.
Tuesday October 9
With only one game on the schedule how much Former Islander action could there really be? Enough. FIs notched 2 goals on the 1 game played. Here is a look:
* If the Toronto Maple Leafs want to get back to the playoffs they need to play better than this! Especially at home! The Blue and White got trashed 7-1 by the Carolina Hurricanes. After FI Bryan McCabe opened the scoring with a powerplay goal, his first of the season, at 4:21 of the 1st period, the team all but fell apart from there. Carolina's 7 unanswered goals included a powerplay tally by offseason signing and FI Jeff Hamilton, his second goal of the season. Hamilton now has 4 points in 4 games (2 goals, 2 assists) and is looking to build on his breakout performance from last season when he amassed 39 points in only 70 games for the Chicago Blackhawks. He is definitely one of the top FI names to watch this season.
Action should be hot Wednesday night as 24 teams clash in 12 heated battles including the first Islanders-Rangers game of the season! Check back soon with FIW.
* If the Toronto Maple Leafs want to get back to the playoffs they need to play better than this! Especially at home! The Blue and White got trashed 7-1 by the Carolina Hurricanes. After FI Bryan McCabe opened the scoring with a powerplay goal, his first of the season, at 4:21 of the 1st period, the team all but fell apart from there. Carolina's 7 unanswered goals included a powerplay tally by offseason signing and FI Jeff Hamilton, his second goal of the season. Hamilton now has 4 points in 4 games (2 goals, 2 assists) and is looking to build on his breakout performance from last season when he amassed 39 points in only 70 games for the Chicago Blackhawks. He is definitely one of the top FI names to watch this season.
Action should be hot Wednesday night as 24 teams clash in 12 heated battles including the first Islanders-Rangers game of the season! Check back soon with FIW.
Jason Blake Ill
Former Islander and big name signing from the postseason Jason Blake announced that he has a treatable form of leukemia. Blake will undergo treatment while playing this season. Our prayers go out to Jason and his family at this time (despite his new allegiance to the Maple Leafs, all joking aside).
Monday October 8
Three games were on the schedule for Monday night. With opportunity for Former Islander happenings to be low will take a look at the surprisingly good 2 goals and 1 assist pocketed by the active FIs:
* Viktor Kozlov, who bailed the Island while riding the heals of his return to form, scored against his old team as the Capitals downed the New York Islanders 2-1 in Uniondale. His second goal of the season, Kozlov is expected to benefit from shared time with Washington superstar Alex Ovechkin.
* Arron Asham, who was given the pass by the Isles after last season, scored his first goal for the Devils. New Jersey, noticing a potential diamond in the rough, snatched up the rough-and-tumble winger in the offseason. New Jersey, however, in the midst of a 9-game road trip to start the season lost 4-2 to the Ottawa Senators.
* Robert Nilsson, who was exiled to Edmonton last season in the trade that brought Ryan Smyth to the Isles (briefly), scored his first point of the season. Nilsson assisted on the second Oilers goal in their 4-2 loss to the host Detroit Redwings. Nilsson is looking to play his first full season in the NHL having been given a vote of confidence from the Oilers coaching staff.
Tuesday night action is expected to be slow as only matchup will take place. Check with FIW shortly for more night-by-night summaries.
* Viktor Kozlov, who bailed the Island while riding the heals of his return to form, scored against his old team as the Capitals downed the New York Islanders 2-1 in Uniondale. His second goal of the season, Kozlov is expected to benefit from shared time with Washington superstar Alex Ovechkin.
* Arron Asham, who was given the pass by the Isles after last season, scored his first goal for the Devils. New Jersey, noticing a potential diamond in the rough, snatched up the rough-and-tumble winger in the offseason. New Jersey, however, in the midst of a 9-game road trip to start the season lost 4-2 to the Ottawa Senators.
* Robert Nilsson, who was exiled to Edmonton last season in the trade that brought Ryan Smyth to the Isles (briefly), scored his first point of the season. Nilsson assisted on the second Oilers goal in their 4-2 loss to the host Detroit Redwings. Nilsson is looking to play his first full season in the NHL having been given a vote of confidence from the Oilers coaching staff.
Tuesday night action is expected to be slow as only matchup will take place. Check with FIW shortly for more night-by-night summaries.
Sunday October 7
With only one game on the schedule Sunday night Former Islander action was destined to be slim. But there was some FI action in the Mile High City. Here is a quick look:
* It only took 3 games but FI Ryan Smyth finally made his way on to the scoresheet. The Avalanche left wing scored his first goal and received his first assist in Colorado's 6-2 whooping of the San Jose Sharks. Pairing with phenom sophomore Paul Stastny looks like it may prove to be an explosive combination.
Monday night has three games on tap. Check back as the NHL action heats up here on FIW.
* It only took 3 games but FI Ryan Smyth finally made his way on to the scoresheet. The Avalanche left wing scored his first goal and received his first assist in Colorado's 6-2 whooping of the San Jose Sharks. Pairing with phenom sophomore Paul Stastny looks like it may prove to be an explosive combination.
Monday night has three games on tap. Check back as the NHL action heats up here on FIW.
Saturday October 6
A busy night around the NHL as 28 teams matched up in 14 highly intense, early season action. Former Islanders made their mark totalling 10 assists and 2 wins in net. Let us take a quick look:
* Tim Connolly assisted on Buffalo's second goal of the game in the Sabres 3-2 loss to the host Islanders. Connolly, who has had consecutive injury-plagued seasons, is looking to bounce back to form this year.
* Arron Asham assisted on the first Devils goal of the game while Panthers Captain Olli Jokinen assisted on the short-lived tying goal in New Jersey's 4-1 road win over Florida. After a career year, Jokinen is looking to lead Florida to the playoff promised land for the first time in recent memory. FI goaltender Kevin Weekes played formidably in his first start since joining the Devils. He stopped 32 of 33 shots and looks to provide solid backing for Martin Brodeur. Weekes is hoping to bounce back from his injury-plagued stint with the Rangers.
* FI Viktor Kozlov continues to show off with his new team, the Capitals, tallying an assist on the first goal of the game and Alex Ovechkin's first of the season in Washington's 2-0 shutout of the visiting Carolina Hurricanes. FI d-man John Erskine was credited with the secondary assist on that goal as well. Both are looking to help revitalize the lost Capitals franchise with Kozlov having already jump-started his sagging career in his 1-year stint with the Isles last season.
* A couple of big-time FI names made on impact on both sides of the scoresheet in Toronto's 4-3 OT win over the Montreal Canadiens. Bryan Smolinski notched his first point as a Canadien with an assist on the opening goal of the game. Brought in for veteran help, Smolinski is hoping to take Les Habs back to the playoffs after the team missed the postseason in what could only be viewed as a disappointing year. Bryan McCabe tallied his first assist of the season on the early tying goal (1-1). McCabe, as well, is looking to bring the Leafs back to the playoffs while trying to prove his more than just a point-accumulating, overpaid, defensive windbag (to put it nicely).
* Brent Sopel, who is now suiting up for the Chicago Blackhawks, assisted on Chicago's second goal in their 4-3 home SO win over the Detroit Redwings. With a newly formed team, it will be interesting how much play Sopel will get on the blueline for the Hawks.
* Roberto Luongo received his first point and his first win of the season in the same night. Luongo assisted on the second goal of Canucks goal of the game and bailed his team out with a 26 save performance in Vancouver's last second 4-3 OT against the host Calgary Flames. With the performance, Luongo pulled his record to 1-1-0.
* Captain Zdeno Chara and Co. beat the Phoenix Coyotes 3-1 in the desert on Saturday. The Boston Bruins d-man notched his first assist, a powerplay point, on the first goal of the game. Chara, like some many other big name FIs, is trying to lead his team back to playoff contention.
Sunday would be considerably less active. Check back soon to FIW.
* Tim Connolly assisted on Buffalo's second goal of the game in the Sabres 3-2 loss to the host Islanders. Connolly, who has had consecutive injury-plagued seasons, is looking to bounce back to form this year.
* Arron Asham assisted on the first Devils goal of the game while Panthers Captain Olli Jokinen assisted on the short-lived tying goal in New Jersey's 4-1 road win over Florida. After a career year, Jokinen is looking to lead Florida to the playoff promised land for the first time in recent memory. FI goaltender Kevin Weekes played formidably in his first start since joining the Devils. He stopped 32 of 33 shots and looks to provide solid backing for Martin Brodeur. Weekes is hoping to bounce back from his injury-plagued stint with the Rangers.
* FI Viktor Kozlov continues to show off with his new team, the Capitals, tallying an assist on the first goal of the game and Alex Ovechkin's first of the season in Washington's 2-0 shutout of the visiting Carolina Hurricanes. FI d-man John Erskine was credited with the secondary assist on that goal as well. Both are looking to help revitalize the lost Capitals franchise with Kozlov having already jump-started his sagging career in his 1-year stint with the Isles last season.
* A couple of big-time FI names made on impact on both sides of the scoresheet in Toronto's 4-3 OT win over the Montreal Canadiens. Bryan Smolinski notched his first point as a Canadien with an assist on the opening goal of the game. Brought in for veteran help, Smolinski is hoping to take Les Habs back to the playoffs after the team missed the postseason in what could only be viewed as a disappointing year. Bryan McCabe tallied his first assist of the season on the early tying goal (1-1). McCabe, as well, is looking to bring the Leafs back to the playoffs while trying to prove his more than just a point-accumulating, overpaid, defensive windbag (to put it nicely).
* Brent Sopel, who is now suiting up for the Chicago Blackhawks, assisted on Chicago's second goal in their 4-3 home SO win over the Detroit Redwings. With a newly formed team, it will be interesting how much play Sopel will get on the blueline for the Hawks.
* Roberto Luongo received his first point and his first win of the season in the same night. Luongo assisted on the second goal of Canucks goal of the game and bailed his team out with a 26 save performance in Vancouver's last second 4-3 OT against the host Calgary Flames. With the performance, Luongo pulled his record to 1-1-0.
* Captain Zdeno Chara and Co. beat the Phoenix Coyotes 3-1 in the desert on Saturday. The Boston Bruins d-man notched his first assist, a powerplay point, on the first goal of the game. Chara, like some many other big name FIs, is trying to lead his team back to playoff contention.
Sunday would be considerably less active. Check back soon to FIW.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Friday October 5
With six games on Friday night Former Islander action was hot. FIs accounted for 2 goals, 3 assists and a loss in net. Here is a quick recap:
* Jeff Hamilton, in his second game in a Hurricanes jersey after signing in the offseason, had his first big game. He notched a powerplay goal and 2 assists. Carolina knocked the Pittsburgh Penguins off 4-1 at home.
* The Washington Capitals, touting a revamped offense, beat the host Atlanta Thrashers 3-1. FIs made an impact on both sides of scoresheet. Viktor Kozlov scored the icer to cap the scoring at 3-1 for his first goal of the season. Defenseman Alexei Zhitnik assisted on the only Atlanta goal.
* 2007 Vezina finalist Roberto Luongo took the loss in Vancouver's 3-1 home loss to the San Jose Sharks on Friday. The Canucks tender, who often carries the lackluster Vancouver offense, could not do it all. He stopped 28 of 31 shots in the effort.
28 teams are in combat on Saturday as the league is now in full gear. Stay tuned to FIW.
* Jeff Hamilton, in his second game in a Hurricanes jersey after signing in the offseason, had his first big game. He notched a powerplay goal and 2 assists. Carolina knocked the Pittsburgh Penguins off 4-1 at home.
* The Washington Capitals, touting a revamped offense, beat the host Atlanta Thrashers 3-1. FIs made an impact on both sides of scoresheet. Viktor Kozlov scored the icer to cap the scoring at 3-1 for his first goal of the season. Defenseman Alexei Zhitnik assisted on the only Atlanta goal.
* 2007 Vezina finalist Roberto Luongo took the loss in Vancouver's 3-1 home loss to the San Jose Sharks on Friday. The Canucks tender, who often carries the lackluster Vancouver offense, could not do it all. He stopped 28 of 31 shots in the effort.
28 teams are in combat on Saturday as the league is now in full gear. Stay tuned to FIW.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Thursday October 4
With teams around the league getting their feet wet with regular season play, Thursday was a big night around the NHL with 8 games continuing the action. For Former Islanders the return was fairly paltry with only 2 goals and an assist to hold them over until next time. Here is a recap from the FI perspective:
* Martin Straka tallied the final goal in the New York Rangers 5-2 whomping of the visiting Florida Panthers. On a night where new addition Chris Drury shone the brightest for the Blueshirts, mainstay FI Straka continued to flex his scoring muscle.
* For the second straight night Jason Blake scored an assist for the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Ottawa Senators. For the second straight nights the Leafs lost to the Sens, this time in regulation, 3-2. Blake now has 2 points in 2 games with his new club.
* Robert Nilsson, part of the trade bait that brought Ryan Smyth to the Island (albeit temporarily), netted an extremely important shootout goal in the Edmonton Oiler's 3-2 home win over the San Jose Sharks. Though not officially a point, Nilsson might be showing a preview of what he can do as a full-time forward for the Oil.
* Mike York, who signed a 1-year deal with the Phoenix Coyotes in the offseason, began paying off with a shorthanded goal. The Yotes beat the St. Louis Blues 3-2 at home. York, who took a severe pay cut over the summer, is looking to bounce back to form after poor play between the Isles and Flyers last year.
Friday night is loaded with action as, among other things, the Islanders' season kicks off in Buffalo. Until next time.
* Martin Straka tallied the final goal in the New York Rangers 5-2 whomping of the visiting Florida Panthers. On a night where new addition Chris Drury shone the brightest for the Blueshirts, mainstay FI Straka continued to flex his scoring muscle.
* For the second straight night Jason Blake scored an assist for the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Ottawa Senators. For the second straight nights the Leafs lost to the Sens, this time in regulation, 3-2. Blake now has 2 points in 2 games with his new club.
* Robert Nilsson, part of the trade bait that brought Ryan Smyth to the Island (albeit temporarily), netted an extremely important shootout goal in the Edmonton Oiler's 3-2 home win over the San Jose Sharks. Though not officially a point, Nilsson might be showing a preview of what he can do as a full-time forward for the Oil.
* Mike York, who signed a 1-year deal with the Phoenix Coyotes in the offseason, began paying off with a shorthanded goal. The Yotes beat the St. Louis Blues 3-2 at home. York, who took a severe pay cut over the summer, is looking to bounce back to form after poor play between the Isles and Flyers last year.
Friday night is loaded with action as, among other things, the Islanders' season kicks off in Buffalo. Until next time.
Wednesday October 3
The more-or-less official night to the NHL season opened on Wednesday night following 2 regular season games between the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks "really" kicked things off in late September. After a wacky and wild offseason where big names flew the coup in surprising numbers, hockey fans were rewarded with a hard fought first night of hockey. For Former Islanders, they have already begun to make their impact. With 4 games on the schedule Wednesday, FIs accounted for a goal and 2 assists. Here is a quick look:
* In Anaheim's 3-2 SO loss to the host Detroit Redwings, Todd Bertuzzi notched his first points as a Duck with a goal and an assist. In the shootout, Bertuzzi was stuffed by Hasek on his attempt. Bertuzzi finally cracks out of the invisibility mode he seems to consistently find himself in to make his first impact with his newest team.
* One of the off-season's biggest signings, Jason Blake, did not disappoint in his debut with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Blake was credited with an assist on the Leafs first goal of the season. On the other hand, the Leafs almost always disappoint as they dropped a thriller, 4-3, in overtime to the Sens at home.
Until next time thank you for returning and/or joining the Former Islander fun at FIW.
P.S. On Wednesday, the Philadelphis Flyers signed FI Jim Dowd to a 1 year deal. The 38 year old veteran played most recently for the New Jersey Devils. No financial terms have been disclosed. In 656 career games the native of Brick, NJ has tallied 66 goals and 163 assists for 229 points. Dowd has previously played for the Devils, Canucks, Isles, Flames, Oilers, Wild, Canadiens, Blackhawks and Avalanche.
* In Anaheim's 3-2 SO loss to the host Detroit Redwings, Todd Bertuzzi notched his first points as a Duck with a goal and an assist. In the shootout, Bertuzzi was stuffed by Hasek on his attempt. Bertuzzi finally cracks out of the invisibility mode he seems to consistently find himself in to make his first impact with his newest team.
* One of the off-season's biggest signings, Jason Blake, did not disappoint in his debut with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Blake was credited with an assist on the Leafs first goal of the season. On the other hand, the Leafs almost always disappoint as they dropped a thriller, 4-3, in overtime to the Sens at home.
Until next time thank you for returning and/or joining the Former Islander fun at FIW.
P.S. On Wednesday, the Philadelphis Flyers signed FI Jim Dowd to a 1 year deal. The 38 year old veteran played most recently for the New Jersey Devils. No financial terms have been disclosed. In 656 career games the native of Brick, NJ has tallied 66 goals and 163 assists for 229 points. Dowd has previously played for the Devils, Canucks, Isles, Flames, Oilers, Wild, Canadiens, Blackhawks and Avalanche.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Sunday September 30
The Anaheim Ducks made a complete 360 rotation in less than 24 hours. After losing opening night to the Los Angeles Kings 4-1 the night before in host London, the Ducks turned the tables pulling out a 4-1 win over the Kings in the tail-end of the back-to-back series. For the second straight night, FI Todd Bertuzzi was nowhere to be found (a return to form we wonder?). For the Kings, FI Derek Armstrong notched an assist on LA's only goal which officially opened the scoring season for him. Expectations are high for Armstrong who has scored 35+ points in the last 4 seasons while playing no more than 67 games in any of those seasons. A healthy Armstrong could be a top producer for this Kings squad. Play picks up again on October 3. Until next time, we wait with baited breath for the full-blown kickoff to the season.
Saturday September 29 - Season Begins
In one of those weird and quirky behaviors of professional sports leagues, the season started on September 29 in London as the Los Angeles Kings and Stanley Cup Champion Anaheim Ducks played the first of back to back games. For the fourth time in the history of the NHL, the season started outside of Canada or the United States with the other three times coming in Japan (1997, 1998 and 2000). The O2 Arena played home to the two Southern California teams for two days. I mention this all only as a reference point to the season to come.
A 4-1 win by the Kings, FI Todd Bertuzzi was unexceptional in his Duck debut while fellow FI Derek Armstrong had a slow start with LA.
A 4-1 win by the Kings, FI Todd Bertuzzi was unexceptional in his Duck debut while fellow FI Derek Armstrong had a slow start with LA.
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