Thursday, October 7, 2010
Moved to Twitter
Former Islander Watch has moved to Twitter. Follow us @FormerIsles (http://twitter.com/FormerIsles). See you there!
Saturday, October 17, 2009
On Hiatus
We regret to inform you that Former Islander Watch has torn its ACL and will be out 4 to 8 months.
On a more serious note, FIW has struggled to get posts out, even at this early juncture in the year, and it has become apparent that regularly postings are near impossible with the current stressed here in Orange, California. Until further notice FIW will be on hiatus. Please check back with us in the future as we determine whether to continue this historic mission or fold it like the Lighthouse Project.
On a more serious note, FIW has struggled to get posts out, even at this early juncture in the year, and it has become apparent that regularly postings are near impossible with the current stressed here in Orange, California. Until further notice FIW will be on hiatus. Please check back with us in the future as we determine whether to continue this historic mission or fold it like the Lighthouse Project.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Trade: Aaron Johnson
Calgary obtained defenseman Aaron Johnson on Thursday from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for winger Kyle Greentree. Johnson had played in 38 games last season with the 'Hawks but had yet to suit up for a game this season. Last year Johnson notched 3 goals and 5 assists for 8 points in those contests.A 184 game veteran, Johnson was originally selected in the 3rd round, 85th overall in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft by Columbus. He has 10 goals and 26 assists for 36 points on his career. The Flames will be Johnson's fourth team after the Blue Jackets, Isles and Blackhawks.
We wish Aaron the best of luck in chilly Calgary!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
UFA Signing: Marc-Andre Bergeron
After losing veteran defenseman Andrei Markov for at least a month the Montreal Canadiens immediately sent out for some support. On Tuesday they signed Former Islander blueliner and unrestricted free agent Marc-Andre Bergeron to a 1 year deal. MAB played 72 games for Minnesota last year notching 14 goals (7 powerplay) and 18 assists for 32 points, a semi-resurgence after a trade from the Isles to Anaheim the season before landed the hard shooter in the minors. Bergeron has played in 339 games scoring 62 goals (36 powerplay) a 98 assists for 160 points. He has suited up for the Oilers, Isles, Ducks and Wild before joining his second Canadian squad. Financial terms of the deal are not yet known. We wish Marc-Andre the best on his new team.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
2009-10 Season Kickoff Half-Week
With a tight start to the season cram-packed with games from Thursday October 1 to Saturday October 3 things were exciting for Former Islanders, some in new locales, some comfortable in familiar surroundings. Here is a quick look:
Pittsburgh Penguin wingers Ruslan Fedotenko and Bill Guerin are the FIs of the week after having a fabulous start each receiving 2 points in their first 2 games. Fedotenko had a goal and an assist in the Pens 4-3 SO win over the Isles on Saturday including netting the tying goal. Guerin split assists over the Pens' first 2 games to notch a point-per-contest. Staying with Pittsburgh may pay off big dividends for the two two-time Stanley Cup winners.
Vancouver goaltender Roberto Luongo bombed his first week surrendering 7 goals on 49 shots between those two contests notching and 0-2-0 record with a 3.53 goals against average and an abysmal .857 goals against average. If the Canucks are to succeed it will be on the heals of Bobby Lu and vice versa.
Speaking of goalies Detroit's 1A backstopper Chris Osgood had a less than spectacular start surrendering 4 goals on 23 shots in his first start. He has an 0-1-0, an .826 save percentage and a 4.06 goals against average. Do you hear that ticking sound? It is the impending end of Ozzie's illustrious career.
Speaking of Red Wing washups, winger Todd Bertuzzi notched an assist for 1 point in 2 Detroit games over the opening weekend. Inane fact: Bert now has 370 assists on 826 games.
And to return to the Northwest let us look at a pair of FI centers. Calgary's own Olli Jokinen looked clueless notching only 1 assist on 2 games. He is going to have to step it up if the Flames are going to succeed. Surprise, surprise coming from Mike Comrie. The Brick notched 1 helper in Edmonton's lone weekend game, not surprisingly against the Flames. The born-again Oiler is looking to overcome his absolute awfulness that nearly destroyed his career last season.
For a much more impressive debut than any other FI we can give a head nod to Los Angeles winger Ryan Smyth who notched 2 powerplay assists in his first game as a King. Smyth received the 3rd star honor despite the fact that the host Kings were crushed heartily. It looks like Anze Kopitar may have found a new best friend.
In the "a Norris Trophy does not make you special" category we have Boston defenseman Zdeno Chara who wowed with 1 assist in 2 games. Way to go Big Z... no sarcasm at all.
Now to a more memorable FI defenseman, John Erskine. The blueliner had 1 assist in 2 games equaling Chara's excellence.
Oh and let us not forget Roman Hamrlik who notched a shorthanded helper in Montreal's lone weekend game. The shortie assist was Hamr's first since January 7.
While we are still in the Northeast let us peak in on two high-flying FIs. Buffalo center Tim Connolly notched a powerplay goal in his first game of the season. Way to go TimCo! Also helping out with the man advantage was Toronto winger Jason Blake who had 1 powerplay helper in 2 games.
Check in next week as we recap the FI events from Monday October 5 to Sunday October 11 here at FIW!
Pittsburgh Penguin wingers Ruslan Fedotenko and Bill Guerin are the FIs of the week after having a fabulous start each receiving 2 points in their first 2 games. Fedotenko had a goal and an assist in the Pens 4-3 SO win over the Isles on Saturday including netting the tying goal. Guerin split assists over the Pens' first 2 games to notch a point-per-contest. Staying with Pittsburgh may pay off big dividends for the two two-time Stanley Cup winners.Vancouver goaltender Roberto Luongo bombed his first week surrendering 7 goals on 49 shots between those two contests notching and 0-2-0 record with a 3.53 goals against average and an abysmal .857 goals against average. If the Canucks are to succeed it will be on the heals of Bobby Lu and vice versa.
Speaking of goalies Detroit's 1A backstopper Chris Osgood had a less than spectacular start surrendering 4 goals on 23 shots in his first start. He has an 0-1-0, an .826 save percentage and a 4.06 goals against average. Do you hear that ticking sound? It is the impending end of Ozzie's illustrious career.
Speaking of Red Wing washups, winger Todd Bertuzzi notched an assist for 1 point in 2 Detroit games over the opening weekend. Inane fact: Bert now has 370 assists on 826 games.
And to return to the Northwest let us look at a pair of FI centers. Calgary's own Olli Jokinen looked clueless notching only 1 assist on 2 games. He is going to have to step it up if the Flames are going to succeed. Surprise, surprise coming from Mike Comrie. The Brick notched 1 helper in Edmonton's lone weekend game, not surprisingly against the Flames. The born-again Oiler is looking to overcome his absolute awfulness that nearly destroyed his career last season.
For a much more impressive debut than any other FI we can give a head nod to Los Angeles winger Ryan Smyth who notched 2 powerplay assists in his first game as a King. Smyth received the 3rd star honor despite the fact that the host Kings were crushed heartily. It looks like Anze Kopitar may have found a new best friend.
In the "a Norris Trophy does not make you special" category we have Boston defenseman Zdeno Chara who wowed with 1 assist in 2 games. Way to go Big Z... no sarcasm at all.
Now to a more memorable FI defenseman, John Erskine. The blueliner had 1 assist in 2 games equaling Chara's excellence.
Oh and let us not forget Roman Hamrlik who notched a shorthanded helper in Montreal's lone weekend game. The shortie assist was Hamr's first since January 7.
While we are still in the Northeast let us peak in on two high-flying FIs. Buffalo center Tim Connolly notched a powerplay goal in his first game of the season. Way to go TimCo! Also helping out with the man advantage was Toronto winger Jason Blake who had 1 powerplay helper in 2 games.
Check in next week as we recap the FI events from Monday October 5 to Sunday October 11 here at FIW!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
New Format
As we approach the beginning of the 2009-10 season there are a couple of changes to note here at FIW.
#1 Daily updates are gone! In this age of micro-blogging who has the time to do an extensive blog post everyday? Instead we will recap Former Islander accomplishments on a week-by-week basis meaning less posts to read.
#2 Snappier and quicker summmaries! Less about the particulars of the big plays and more about the things we really care about - the stats. Player recaps will be about numbers, numbers, numbers.
#3 Updated pictures! As soon as the NHL teams role out the new team photos we will have new player pictures.
#4 More snark! As the NHL continues to be the bastion of major league sport intellect we will continue to find retorts that mean something. Take that Gary Bettman. (p.s. We love Charles Wang and company! Blue and Orange forever.)
#5 No Shawn Bates! He has not played in years for an NHL squad but it is never too late to keep reminding ourselves of that sweet fact.
By the way we do not recap preseason statistics since they are essentially meaningless. Join us after October 3 when the NHL kicks off.
Until then thank you for enjoying FIW.
#1 Daily updates are gone! In this age of micro-blogging who has the time to do an extensive blog post everyday? Instead we will recap Former Islander accomplishments on a week-by-week basis meaning less posts to read.
#2 Snappier and quicker summmaries! Less about the particulars of the big plays and more about the things we really care about - the stats. Player recaps will be about numbers, numbers, numbers.
#3 Updated pictures! As soon as the NHL teams role out the new team photos we will have new player pictures.
#4 More snark! As the NHL continues to be the bastion of major league sport intellect we will continue to find retorts that mean something. Take that Gary Bettman. (p.s. We love Charles Wang and company! Blue and Orange forever.)
#5 No Shawn Bates! He has not played in years for an NHL squad but it is never too late to keep reminding ourselves of that sweet fact.
By the way we do not recap preseason statistics since they are essentially meaningless. Join us after October 3 when the NHL kicks off.
Until then thank you for enjoying FIW.
Late-August Becomes Pre-Season
Realizing that one has been lax to one's blogging requirements is daunting knowledge. As school, work and life role on here in Orange County Former Islander Watch has suffered. Here is the end of summer update featuring news so old it cannot truly be called "new":
Defensive veteran and living fossil Mathieu "Coelecanth" Schneider signed a deal with the Vancouver Canucks on August 28. Schneids, who scored 32 points (9 goals, 23 assists) in 67 games last season between the Atlanta Thrashers and Montreal Canadiens will join his 9th team and 5th in the last 4 seasons. It is believed that Schneider signed a 1 year, $1.55 million deal. Best of luck Mathieu!
On September 2 goaltender Roberto Luongo signed a 12 year contract extension with the Canucks essentially ending all trade rumors involving the stud backstopper. Bobby Lu is all but guaranteed to be a 'Nuck for the rest of his playing career. The deal will net Luongo $7.5 million this year and about $80 million over the life of the contract at an average of $6.75 million per year but an exceedinly generous $10 million next year. Congratulations Roberto... wow!
That same day winger Taylor Pyatt said his final goodbyes to Vancouver and joined the Phoenix Coyotes (a.k.a. the Hamilton Blackberries) on a 1 year deal for an amount yet to be announced. The winger has 19 points (10 goals, 9 assists) last season with the 'Nucks in 69 games before sitting out the last part of the season and a portion of the playoffs due to the untimely passing of his fiance. We wish Taylor the best as he finds a home far from the colder confines of Long Island, Buffalo or Vancouver.
Center Mike Duff nee Comrie signed a 1 year deal with the Edmonton Oilers, a former squad, on September 10. Comrie struggled last season with a meager 27 points (10 goals, 17 assists) on 63 games between the Isles and Ottawa Senators. The deal is believed to $1.125 million... that should buy a lot of Hilary Duff cds. Congratulations Mike... Hope you find your touch again!
FI camp invitees include: winger Mitch Fritz with Phoenix, winger Mike York with the Florida Panthers, winger Mark Parrish with the Canucks, winger Kip Brennan with the Oilers, a shortlived relationship with center Shawn Bates and the Colorado Avalanche that has already ended... more as they are discovered.
More transactions when they pop back to memory... Thanks for reading.
Defensive veteran and living fossil Mathieu "Coelecanth" Schneider signed a deal with the Vancouver Canucks on August 28. Schneids, who scored 32 points (9 goals, 23 assists) in 67 games last season between the Atlanta Thrashers and Montreal Canadiens will join his 9th team and 5th in the last 4 seasons. It is believed that Schneider signed a 1 year, $1.55 million deal. Best of luck Mathieu!
On September 2 goaltender Roberto Luongo signed a 12 year contract extension with the Canucks essentially ending all trade rumors involving the stud backstopper. Bobby Lu is all but guaranteed to be a 'Nuck for the rest of his playing career. The deal will net Luongo $7.5 million this year and about $80 million over the life of the contract at an average of $6.75 million per year but an exceedinly generous $10 million next year. Congratulations Roberto... wow!
That same day winger Taylor Pyatt said his final goodbyes to Vancouver and joined the Phoenix Coyotes (a.k.a. the Hamilton Blackberries) on a 1 year deal for an amount yet to be announced. The winger has 19 points (10 goals, 9 assists) last season with the 'Nucks in 69 games before sitting out the last part of the season and a portion of the playoffs due to the untimely passing of his fiance. We wish Taylor the best as he finds a home far from the colder confines of Long Island, Buffalo or Vancouver.
Center Mike Duff nee Comrie signed a 1 year deal with the Edmonton Oilers, a former squad, on September 10. Comrie struggled last season with a meager 27 points (10 goals, 17 assists) on 63 games between the Isles and Ottawa Senators. The deal is believed to $1.125 million... that should buy a lot of Hilary Duff cds. Congratulations Mike... Hope you find your touch again!
FI camp invitees include: winger Mitch Fritz with Phoenix, winger Mike York with the Florida Panthers, winger Mark Parrish with the Canucks, winger Kip Brennan with the Oilers, a shortlived relationship with center Shawn Bates and the Colorado Avalanche that has already ended... more as they are discovered.
More transactions when they pop back to memory... Thanks for reading.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Mid-August Updates
It has been a pathetically slow reaction time here at Former Islander Watch as we have been snoozing in these dog days of summer. Here are the recaps, signings and FI happenings for roughly the last month (i.e. July 18-August 18). Will the hockey season ever start? By the way, Santa Barbara is a beautiful city... so much more so than San Jose. However, at least San Jose has a successful hockey club with many Conference and Stanley Cup championships to their credit... oh wait. Here is the not so new news:
Stud defenseman Denis Grebeshkov got a big raise from the Edmonton Oilers on July 21 garnering a 1 year, $3.15 million deal - a compromise result that had both sides avoid the arbitration table for the 26 year old Restricted Free Agent. Talks had broken down on a longer term deal late last season and this was the stopgap measure put in place. Greb earned $1.5 million last season, a career year with 7 goals and 32 assists for 39 points on 72 games.
2008-09 1A/1B goalie for the Isles, Joey MacDonald, inked a deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs on August 10. Terms of the deal have yet to be released but the deal is probably a two-way signing since the Leafs currently appear to have two one-way goalies. Mac played in 49 games (46 starts) last season for the Isles recording a 14-26-6 record with a 3.37 goals against average, a .901 save percentage and 1 shutout. In 66 career games between the Isles and Detroit Red Wings MacDonald in 17-34-9 with a 3.31 goals against average, a .900 save percentage and 1 goose egg. The Halifax, Nova Scotia native, MacDonald joins his first Canadian squad.
Finally, winger Todd Bertuzzi inked a 1 year, $1.5 million dollar deal with a former team, the Red Wings on August 18. After spending a month and a half on the free agent list Bert was finally picked up for next season albeit at decreasingly declining contract amounts ($1.95 million last season with Calgary). Bert had 44 points (15 goals, 29 assists) on 66 games last season with the Flames and came out storming but cooled off considerably in the last 2/3rds of the season. Originally drafted in the 1st Round, 23rd overall by the Isles in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft Bertuzzi has 624 points (255 goals, 369 assists) on 859 career games. Bert has played for the Isles, Canucks, Wings, Panthers, Ducks and Flames.
Check back soon with FIW for more updates and news.
Stud defenseman Denis Grebeshkov got a big raise from the Edmonton Oilers on July 21 garnering a 1 year, $3.15 million deal - a compromise result that had both sides avoid the arbitration table for the 26 year old Restricted Free Agent. Talks had broken down on a longer term deal late last season and this was the stopgap measure put in place. Greb earned $1.5 million last season, a career year with 7 goals and 32 assists for 39 points on 72 games. 
2008-09 1A/1B goalie for the Isles, Joey MacDonald, inked a deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs on August 10. Terms of the deal have yet to be released but the deal is probably a two-way signing since the Leafs currently appear to have two one-way goalies. Mac played in 49 games (46 starts) last season for the Isles recording a 14-26-6 record with a 3.37 goals against average, a .901 save percentage and 1 shutout. In 66 career games between the Isles and Detroit Red Wings MacDonald in 17-34-9 with a 3.31 goals against average, a .900 save percentage and 1 goose egg. The Halifax, Nova Scotia native, MacDonald joins his first Canadian squad. 
Finally, winger Todd Bertuzzi inked a 1 year, $1.5 million dollar deal with a former team, the Red Wings on August 18. After spending a month and a half on the free agent list Bert was finally picked up for next season albeit at decreasingly declining contract amounts ($1.95 million last season with Calgary). Bert had 44 points (15 goals, 29 assists) on 66 games last season with the Flames and came out storming but cooled off considerably in the last 2/3rds of the season. Originally drafted in the 1st Round, 23rd overall by the Isles in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft Bertuzzi has 624 points (255 goals, 369 assists) on 859 career games. Bert has played for the Isles, Canucks, Wings, Panthers, Ducks and Flames. Check back soon with FIW for more updates and news.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Mid-July Updates
There are a pair of signings of note in the Former Islander world. Let us take a look at the happenings:
FI defenseman inked a deal with the President's Trophy winning San Jose Sharks on Thursday July 16. Originally drafted in the 3rd Round, 70th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, it would take 7 years before the blueliner would break into the league midway through the 2008-09 season with the Isles. Callahan suited up in 18 games with the Islanders compiling 2 assists, a +5 rating and a gentlemanly 4 penalty minutes. Callahan could compete for a regular role on the Sharks' backend, one that features such seasoned veterans as Rob Blake, Dan Boyle and Brad Lukowich. Terms of the deal have yet to be released.
FI backup goaltender Wade Dubielewicz signed with the Minnesota Wild on Friday July 17. Terms of the deal have not be released yet. Dubie played with the Columbus Blue Jackets late last season after being dropped from his Russian team in the Kontinental Hockey League midway through the year. Dubie played in only 3 games (2 starts) compiling a 1-2-0 record with a 3.56 goals against average and an .870 save percentage. An undrafted signing by the Isles midway through this decade, Dubielewicz has played in 40 games (29 starts) with a 17-5-1-1 record (W-L-T-OTL), a 2.64 goals against average and .916 save percentage. Dubie's signing adds an extra level of depth to the Minnesota goal sending their lineup 3 deep in the backstop position.
Check back soon for more signings as they happen here at FIW.
FI defenseman inked a deal with the President's Trophy winning San Jose Sharks on Thursday July 16. Originally drafted in the 3rd Round, 70th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, it would take 7 years before the blueliner would break into the league midway through the 2008-09 season with the Isles. Callahan suited up in 18 games with the Islanders compiling 2 assists, a +5 rating and a gentlemanly 4 penalty minutes. Callahan could compete for a regular role on the Sharks' backend, one that features such seasoned veterans as Rob Blake, Dan Boyle and Brad Lukowich. Terms of the deal have yet to be released. 
FI backup goaltender Wade Dubielewicz signed with the Minnesota Wild on Friday July 17. Terms of the deal have not be released yet. Dubie played with the Columbus Blue Jackets late last season after being dropped from his Russian team in the Kontinental Hockey League midway through the year. Dubie played in only 3 games (2 starts) compiling a 1-2-0 record with a 3.56 goals against average and an .870 save percentage. An undrafted signing by the Isles midway through this decade, Dubielewicz has played in 40 games (29 starts) with a 17-5-1-1 record (W-L-T-OTL), a 2.64 goals against average and .916 save percentage. Dubie's signing adds an extra level of depth to the Minnesota goal sending their lineup 3 deep in the backstop position. Check back soon for more signings as they happen here at FIW.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
More FI Movement
There has been a handful more Former Islander happenings of note over the last week. Let us take a look at the activity:
A pair of FIs inked with the Atlanta Thrashers including center Jason Krog, a one-time Thrasher and young goaltender Peter Mannino. Krog, an AHL powerhouse, suited up for the Vancouver Canucks last season netting a goal. A sporadic NHLer, Krog has played in 202 games scoring 22 goals and adding 37 assists for 59 points. An undrafted acquisition by the Isles during the 1999-2000 season he has played for the Blue & Orange, the Ducks, the Rangers, the Thrashers and the 'Nucks. The terms of Krog's deal are unknown but it is probable that the contract features a two-way deal in which he would have an AHL salary schedule and an NHL salary schedule in case he finds his way to the big leagues. If not Krog should be back with the AHL Chicago Wolves, the team with which he took league's scoring title during the 2007-08 season. Another unsigned Isles acquisition, young goalie Mannino has already found a new squad. Mannino played in 3 games with the Isles last season compiling a 1-1-0 record with a 4.52 goals against average and an .885 save percentage. Since the 2008-09 campaign was Mannino's introduction to the NHL that win served as the first of his career. The terms of the deal were not yet unveiled and only time will tell if Mannino finds some more NHL starts in his future.
Chicago defenseman Aaron Johnson avoided salary arbitration and signed a 1 year, $540,000 deal with the Blackhawks. The move all but guarantees that Johnson will find some more playing time with the 'Hawks next season. He played in 38 games for Chicago during the 2008-09 season netting 3 goals and adding 5 assists for 8 points.
Boston inked defenseman Drew Fata to a 1 year deal on Tuesday July 7. Monetary and other terms of the deal have not yet been released. The tough blueliner has only ever played in the NHL for the Isles despite having signed with the Phoenix Coyotes after the 2007-08 season. Originally picked in the 3rd Round, 86th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, Fata eventually signed with the Islanders and played in 8 games over 2 seasons scoring 1 goal and 1 assist for 2 points.
Goaltender Yann Danis signed with the rival New Jersey Devils on Friday July 10. Terms of the contract have not yet been released. With backup goalies Scott Clemmensen bailing ship and Kevin Weekes in limbo Danis may have lined himself up to be Martin Brodeur's new backup tender. Considering Danis came into last season with only 6 games of NHL experience under his belt he increased his ability exponentially with 31 appearances (29 starts) compiling a 10-17-3 record with a 2.86 goals against average and a .910 save percentage. Originally an unsigned pick up by the Montreal Canadiens Danis has had the privilege to play for the Blue & Orange and the Rouge, Blanc et Bleu. He has a career 13-19-3 record in 37 games (34 starts) with a 2.84 save percentage, a .910 save percentage and 3 shutouts.
Check back soon for more signings and movements at FIW.
A pair of FIs inked with the Atlanta Thrashers including center Jason Krog, a one-time Thrasher and young goaltender Peter Mannino. Krog, an AHL powerhouse, suited up for the Vancouver Canucks last season netting a goal. A sporadic NHLer, Krog has played in 202 games scoring 22 goals and adding 37 assists for 59 points. An undrafted acquisition by the Isles during the 1999-2000 season he has played for the Blue & Orange, the Ducks, the Rangers, the Thrashers and the 'Nucks. The terms of Krog's deal are unknown but it is probable that the contract features a two-way deal in which he would have an AHL salary schedule and an NHL salary schedule in case he finds his way to the big leagues. If not Krog should be back with the AHL Chicago Wolves, the team with which he took league's scoring title during the 2007-08 season. Another unsigned Isles acquisition, young goalie Mannino has already found a new squad. Mannino played in 3 games with the Isles last season compiling a 1-1-0 record with a 4.52 goals against average and an .885 save percentage. Since the 2008-09 campaign was Mannino's introduction to the NHL that win served as the first of his career. The terms of the deal were not yet unveiled and only time will tell if Mannino finds some more NHL starts in his future.Chicago defenseman Aaron Johnson avoided salary arbitration and signed a 1 year, $540,000 deal with the Blackhawks. The move all but guarantees that Johnson will find some more playing time with the 'Hawks next season. He played in 38 games for Chicago during the 2008-09 season netting 3 goals and adding 5 assists for 8 points. 
Boston inked defenseman Drew Fata to a 1 year deal on Tuesday July 7. Monetary and other terms of the deal have not yet been released. The tough blueliner has only ever played in the NHL for the Isles despite having signed with the Phoenix Coyotes after the 2007-08 season. Originally picked in the 3rd Round, 86th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, Fata eventually signed with the Islanders and played in 8 games over 2 seasons scoring 1 goal and 1 assist for 2 points. 
Goaltender Yann Danis signed with the rival New Jersey Devils on Friday July 10. Terms of the contract have not yet been released. With backup goalies Scott Clemmensen bailing ship and Kevin Weekes in limbo Danis may have lined himself up to be Martin Brodeur's new backup tender. Considering Danis came into last season with only 6 games of NHL experience under his belt he increased his ability exponentially with 31 appearances (29 starts) compiling a 10-17-3 record with a 2.86 goals against average and a .910 save percentage. Originally an unsigned pick up by the Montreal Canadiens Danis has had the privilege to play for the Blue & Orange and the Rouge, Blanc et Bleu. He has a career 13-19-3 record in 37 games (34 starts) with a 2.84 save percentage, a .910 save percentage and 3 shutouts. Check back soon for more signings and movements at FIW.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Front Office: Tom Fitzgerald
Former Islander winger Tom Fitzgerald signed on as the new Pittsburgh Penguins Assistant General Manager on Friday. Fitz weighed continuing to coach or return to management after becoming an assistant coach with Pens Cup winning rookie coach Dan Bylsma. Fitzgerald's primary objective will be to track and cultivate prospects here and abroad. A former 1st Round pick, Fitz was chosen 17th overall by the Isles in the 1986 NHL Entry Draft. He played 1,097 games with the Isles, Panthers, Avalanche, Predators, Blackhawks, Maple Leafs and Bruins before retiring after the 2005-06 season. Over than time he notched 139 goals and 190 assists for 329 points.
UFA Signing: Bill Guerin
Pittsburgh winger Bill Guerin opted to take a large pay cut ($4.5 million down to $2 million) to stay with the championship team. Guerin notched 48 points (21 goals, 27 assists) on 78 games last season including 12 (5 goals, 7 assists) on 17 games with the Penguins after being trade near the deadline. Billy G then went on to score 7 goals and add 8 assists for 15 points on 24 playoff games as he captured his second Stanley Cup and first since he was a member of the 1995 New Jersey Devils. An 1,185 game veteran, Guerin was chosen in the 1st Round, 5th overall by the Devils in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft. He has played for a wide variety of squads including the Devs, Oilers, Bruins, Stars, Sharks, Blues, Isles and Pens. On his career he has an impressive 408 goals and 403 assists for 811 points.
Former Islander UFAs and Signings
With the free agency market having opened on July 1 things have been busy for Former Islanders. Here is a look at the action to date:
Edmonton signed defenseman/winger Jason Strudwick to a 1 year deal worth $700K after the 12 year veteran put up a career best 9 points (2 goals, 7 assists) on 71 games last season. A fusion player who can play the blueline or a 4th line winger role has played in 559 games for the Isles, Canucks, Blackhawks, Rangers and Oilers. Over that span Strud has posted 13 goals and 34 assists for 47 points. Strudwick was original taken in the 3rd Round, 63rd overall in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft by the Islanders.
Veteran defenseman Adrian Aucoin bailed on Calgary and is heading to the Phoenix Coyotes on a 1 year, $2.25 million deal. Aucoin had spent the last 2 seasons with the Flames after suffering back injuries as captain in Chicago. Aucoin has revived his career and last season posted a respectable 34 points (10 goals, 24 assists) on 81 games. Originally taken in the 5th Round, 117th overall in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft by the Canucks, Aucoin has played for the 'Nucks, Lightning and Isles as well as the Blackhawks and Flames. Aucoin has played in 851 games scoring 108 goals and adding 228 assists for 336 points. He has posted back-to-back 10 goal seasons for only the second time in his career.
Winger Ruslan Fedotenko opted to take a pay cut if that meant staying with the championship Pittsburgh Penguins as the forward signed off on a 1 year deal worth $1.8 million, a nearly half a million dollar cut from last year's contract. Fedo played well in his first season in Pitt notching 39 points (16 goals, 23 assists) on 65 injury-shortened games. He also notched 14 points (7 goals, 7 assists) in the team's 24 game playoff run. A 597 game veteran, Fedo has 139 goals and 139 assists for 278 points and can now boast of his 2 Stanley Cup rings. Fedotenko has played for the Flyers, Lightning, Isles and Pens.
The Colorado Avalanche have offloaded "Captain Canada" Ryan Smyth and his hearty $6.5 million dollars due next year and the $10 million due for the next 2 years after that in exchange for Los Angeles defensemen Tom Preissing, Kyle Quincey and a 5th Round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Smyth played well this past year leading the team with 59 points (26 goals, 33 assists) on 77 games but never really met up to the Avs' expectations as the team has failed to make the playoffs for 2 straight years. On the flipside the woeful and youthful Kings have been trying to bolster their team with a veteran presence. A 920 game veteran Smyth has 310 goals and 350 assists for 660 points on his career. Originally selected in the 1st Round, 6th overall in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft, Smyth played his first 12 seasons in the league with the Edmontion Oilers before going to the Isles late in the 2006-07 season. Smyth bailed on the Isles lures to keep him and opted for a 5 year deal with Avalanche and now finds himself in exile from the Mile High City after a failed experiment. Smyth was one of the major catalysts as the Oil made it to Game 7 of the 2006 Stanley Cup Final - the closest taste of success for the vaunted winger.
A pair of notable FIs have decided to take their chances at arbitration. Young d-man Denis Grebeshkov has spurned Edmonton's lowball offers and has decided to leave the decision up to the league about how much he deserves. Greb is coming off a breakout year in which he compiled 39 points (7 goals, 32 assists) on 72 games. He now has 176 games under his belt with 10 goals and 53 assists for 63 points. A former 1st Round pick, Grebeshkov was taken 18th in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft by the Los Angeles Kings. Greb has played with the Kings, Isles and Oil. Slightly more seasoned is Chicago d-man Aaron Johnson who is looking for a pay raise. Johnson had a hot start last season with the Blackhawks before tailing off midway through and then being demoted. He notched 3 goals and added 5 assists for 8 points on 38 games. Johnson has played in 184 games scoring 10 goals and adding 26 assists for 36 points. Johnson was originally taken in the 3rd Round, 85th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. He has suited up for the BJs, Isles and 'Hawks.
Check back soon as the players continue to fall into place for the 2009-2010 season.
Edmonton signed defenseman/winger Jason Strudwick to a 1 year deal worth $700K after the 12 year veteran put up a career best 9 points (2 goals, 7 assists) on 71 games last season. A fusion player who can play the blueline or a 4th line winger role has played in 559 games for the Isles, Canucks, Blackhawks, Rangers and Oilers. Over that span Strud has posted 13 goals and 34 assists for 47 points. Strudwick was original taken in the 3rd Round, 63rd overall in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft by the Islanders.
Veteran defenseman Adrian Aucoin bailed on Calgary and is heading to the Phoenix Coyotes on a 1 year, $2.25 million deal. Aucoin had spent the last 2 seasons with the Flames after suffering back injuries as captain in Chicago. Aucoin has revived his career and last season posted a respectable 34 points (10 goals, 24 assists) on 81 games. Originally taken in the 5th Round, 117th overall in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft by the Canucks, Aucoin has played for the 'Nucks, Lightning and Isles as well as the Blackhawks and Flames. Aucoin has played in 851 games scoring 108 goals and adding 228 assists for 336 points. He has posted back-to-back 10 goal seasons for only the second time in his career.
Winger Ruslan Fedotenko opted to take a pay cut if that meant staying with the championship Pittsburgh Penguins as the forward signed off on a 1 year deal worth $1.8 million, a nearly half a million dollar cut from last year's contract. Fedo played well in his first season in Pitt notching 39 points (16 goals, 23 assists) on 65 injury-shortened games. He also notched 14 points (7 goals, 7 assists) in the team's 24 game playoff run. A 597 game veteran, Fedo has 139 goals and 139 assists for 278 points and can now boast of his 2 Stanley Cup rings. Fedotenko has played for the Flyers, Lightning, Isles and Pens.
The Colorado Avalanche have offloaded "Captain Canada" Ryan Smyth and his hearty $6.5 million dollars due next year and the $10 million due for the next 2 years after that in exchange for Los Angeles defensemen Tom Preissing, Kyle Quincey and a 5th Round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Smyth played well this past year leading the team with 59 points (26 goals, 33 assists) on 77 games but never really met up to the Avs' expectations as the team has failed to make the playoffs for 2 straight years. On the flipside the woeful and youthful Kings have been trying to bolster their team with a veteran presence. A 920 game veteran Smyth has 310 goals and 350 assists for 660 points on his career. Originally selected in the 1st Round, 6th overall in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft, Smyth played his first 12 seasons in the league with the Edmontion Oilers before going to the Isles late in the 2006-07 season. Smyth bailed on the Isles lures to keep him and opted for a 5 year deal with Avalanche and now finds himself in exile from the Mile High City after a failed experiment. Smyth was one of the major catalysts as the Oil made it to Game 7 of the 2006 Stanley Cup Final - the closest taste of success for the vaunted winger.
A pair of notable FIs have decided to take their chances at arbitration. Young d-man Denis Grebeshkov has spurned Edmonton's lowball offers and has decided to leave the decision up to the league about how much he deserves. Greb is coming off a breakout year in which he compiled 39 points (7 goals, 32 assists) on 72 games. He now has 176 games under his belt with 10 goals and 53 assists for 63 points. A former 1st Round pick, Grebeshkov was taken 18th in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft by the Los Angeles Kings. Greb has played with the Kings, Isles and Oil. Slightly more seasoned is Chicago d-man Aaron Johnson who is looking for a pay raise. Johnson had a hot start last season with the Blackhawks before tailing off midway through and then being demoted. He notched 3 goals and added 5 assists for 8 points on 38 games. Johnson has played in 184 games scoring 10 goals and adding 26 assists for 36 points. Johnson was originally taken in the 3rd Round, 85th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. He has suited up for the BJs, Isles and 'Hawks.Check back soon as the players continue to fall into place for the 2009-2010 season.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Norris Trophy Winner: Zdeno Chara
Former Islander defenseman Zdeno Chara cleaned up at the 2009 NHL Awards held on Thursday June 18 in Las Vegas. This is the first major award for the gigantic Boston Bruins' d-man. Chara had another impressive season recording a single season best 19 goals and a respectable 31 assists for an even 50 points capping his 2nd straight 50+ point campaign. Congratulations to Zdeno - you earned it, well almost as much as Mike Green (Washington) did!
Assistant Coach: Dean Chynoweth
Somewhere between Orange, California and Long Island there exists my Dean Chynoweth rookie card. Why does it exist? Not quite sure. But on Friday the Islanders announced that they signed alumnus Chynoweth as an assistant coach for the 2009-2010 season. For the last 5 seasons Chynoweth has been the head coach/general manager for the Swift Current Broncos of the Western Hockey League. Over that span Chynoweth compiled a 162-163-6-1-1 record (W-L-T-OTL-SOL). Before that Chynoweth had been with the Utah Grizzlies of the now defunct International Hockey League (IHL), a former Isles affiliate. Originally drafted in the 1st Round, 13th overall in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft by the Isles the defenseman went onto a 10 season career spending 7 with the Isles and the last 3 with the Boston Bruins. On his career Chynoweth played in 241 games scoring 4 goals and adding 18 assists for 22 points along with 667 penalty minutes.
Welcome back to the organization Dean. We wish you the best of luck behind the bench with Scott Gordon!
Friday, June 12, 2009
Friday June 12: Game 7, Stanley Cup Final
With all the cards on the table, the most beautiful trophy in all of sports out of the case and the title of Champion up for grabs the Pittsburgh Penguins tangled with the host Detroit Red Wings in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final on Friday night. The game was amazing, the outcome somewhat surprising as a hobbled Sidney Crosby and the Pens pulled off a 2-1 victory of the Wings to pull a complete 180 defeating the team that had downed them just a year prior in the Final. Let us put it simply: the Pittsburgh Penguins are the 2009 Stanley Cup Champions! Only one Former Islander played a major role in the game. Here is a look:
Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood gave a valiant effort stopping 16 of 18 shots but it was 2 of 3 shots off the stick of Pitt forward Max Talbot that stumped him as his team's offense failed to pull him even in the closing minutes of regulation. Ozzie played well throughout the 2009 playoffs sporting an impressive 15-8 record with a 2.00 goals against average and a save percentage right around .925 with 2 shutouts. However Ozzie lost 4 of his last 5 starts as the Pens overcame 2-0 and 3-2 series deficits. Our kudos go to Chris for playing with talent and overcoming a terrible regular season to become the most commanding backstopper of the playoffs.
Congratulations must really go, however, to the 4 FIs who will now sport Stanley Cup rings as members of the Penguins. First up is aging winger Bill Guerin who was traded right before the deadline by the Isles for a draft pick. Guerin wins his 2nd ring after being a member of the triumphant 1995 New Jersey Devils. Guerin had 15 points (7 goals, 8 assists) on 24 games but was scoreless in his last 5. Alas, way to go Billy G! Also sealing up his second Stanley Cup victory is winger Ruslan Fedotenko who played for the Tampa Bay Lightning when they won in 2004. Fedo had 14 points (7 goals, 7 assists) on 24 games including 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) against Detroit. Congrats Ruslan! Despite going point-less in his last 6 games, winger Miroslav Satan is now a Stanley Cup winner. Satan has 1 goal and 5 assists for 6 points on 17 games. Way to earn it Miro! Finally, though he did not play in a single playoff game winger Eric Godard should receive his name on the Cup after putting in 71 games of service during the regular season. Congratulations Eric.
Well that wraps it up the 2008-09 season here at Former Islander Watch. Check back occasionally during the summer months as we will have some updates especially when we reach the opening of free agency on July 1. Thanks for reading!
Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood gave a valiant effort stopping 16 of 18 shots but it was 2 of 3 shots off the stick of Pitt forward Max Talbot that stumped him as his team's offense failed to pull him even in the closing minutes of regulation. Ozzie played well throughout the 2009 playoffs sporting an impressive 15-8 record with a 2.00 goals against average and a save percentage right around .925 with 2 shutouts. However Ozzie lost 4 of his last 5 starts as the Pens overcame 2-0 and 3-2 series deficits. Our kudos go to Chris for playing with talent and overcoming a terrible regular season to become the most commanding backstopper of the playoffs.
Congratulations must really go, however, to the 4 FIs who will now sport Stanley Cup rings as members of the Penguins. First up is aging winger Bill Guerin who was traded right before the deadline by the Isles for a draft pick. Guerin wins his 2nd ring after being a member of the triumphant 1995 New Jersey Devils. Guerin had 15 points (7 goals, 8 assists) on 24 games but was scoreless in his last 5. Alas, way to go Billy G! Also sealing up his second Stanley Cup victory is winger Ruslan Fedotenko who played for the Tampa Bay Lightning when they won in 2004. Fedo had 14 points (7 goals, 7 assists) on 24 games including 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) against Detroit. Congrats Ruslan! Despite going point-less in his last 6 games, winger Miroslav Satan is now a Stanley Cup winner. Satan has 1 goal and 5 assists for 6 points on 17 games. Way to earn it Miro! Finally, though he did not play in a single playoff game winger Eric Godard should receive his name on the Cup after putting in 71 games of service during the regular season. Congratulations Eric. Well that wraps it up the 2008-09 season here at Former Islander Watch. Check back occasionally during the summer months as we will have some updates especially when we reach the opening of free agency on July 1. Thanks for reading!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Tuesday June 9
With the Stanley Cup repeat only 1 win away the Detroit Red Wings fell short on Tuesday opening the door for a Pittsburgh comeback as the Penguins downed the visiting Wings 2-1 to even the series at 3-3. Game 7 is Friday night and after that we will officially have a champion. The home team has won each of the first 6 games which would seem to swing the pendulum in Detroit's favor but Pittsburgh does have 3 active Former Islanders which undoubtedly gives them the upper hand. Ooh... Only time will tell. However, 2 FIs did try to help in Game 6. Here is a look:
Pitt winger Ruslan Fedotenko had the secondary assist on the game winning goal at the 5:35 mark of the 3rd Period. Fedo now has a balanced 7 goals and 7 assists for 14 points on 23 games. Tank has been inconsistent, however, in this final with only 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) on 6 games. Playing like a champ but taking the loss was Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood who looked stellar stopping 29 of 31 shots faced. Ozzie still deserves some serious Conn Smyth consideration and Game 6 was one of his best this postseason. Alas the loss drops him to 15-7 on the postseason while his goals against average remained steady at 2.00 and his save percentage raised slightly to .927. How do you like them apples?
Check back soon as Friday will officially end the 2008-09 season/2009 playoffs. What a glorious ride it has been here at FIW. Thanks for reading.
Pitt winger Ruslan Fedotenko had the secondary assist on the game winning goal at the 5:35 mark of the 3rd Period. Fedo now has a balanced 7 goals and 7 assists for 14 points on 23 games. Tank has been inconsistent, however, in this final with only 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) on 6 games. Playing like a champ but taking the loss was Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood who looked stellar stopping 29 of 31 shots faced. Ozzie still deserves some serious Conn Smyth consideration and Game 6 was one of his best this postseason. Alas the loss drops him to 15-7 on the postseason while his goals against average remained steady at 2.00 and his save percentage raised slightly to .927. How do you like them apples? Check back soon as Friday will officially end the 2008-09 season/2009 playoffs. What a glorious ride it has been here at FIW. Thanks for reading.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Saturday June 6
Detroit put those two recent losses to the Penguins behind them as they crushed Pittsburgh 5-0 at home to grab a 3-2 series lead. The Red Wings are now 1 win shy of their 2nd straight Stanley Cup Championship. One of the keys to the Game 5 victory was goaltender and Former Islander Chris Osgood. Let us take a look:
Ozzie stopped all 22 shots he faced and received the 3rd star honor in recording the blanking. The Detroit offense did the rest of the work staking the backstopper to a 4-0 less than half way into play. Osgood is now 15-6 on the postseason with a 2.00 goals against average, a .927 save percentage and 2 shutouts. To add to that, Osgood assisted on the Wing's 2nd goal, his 2nd helper of the playoffs. Those 2 assists sent a single postseason record for the goalie who now has 5 playoff helpers on his career. The blanking was the 15th of his playoff career.
Check back soon as play continues on Tuesday June 9 as the Red Wings can close out the Pittsburgh Penguins for a 2nd straight year to grab Lord Stanley's Cup - the holy grail of sportsdom.
Ozzie stopped all 22 shots he faced and received the 3rd star honor in recording the blanking. The Detroit offense did the rest of the work staking the backstopper to a 4-0 less than half way into play. Osgood is now 15-6 on the postseason with a 2.00 goals against average, a .927 save percentage and 2 shutouts. To add to that, Osgood assisted on the Wing's 2nd goal, his 2nd helper of the playoffs. Those 2 assists sent a single postseason record for the goalie who now has 5 playoff helpers on his career. The blanking was the 15th of his playoff career.Check back soon as play continues on Tuesday June 9 as the Red Wings can close out the Pittsburgh Penguins for a 2nd straight year to grab Lord Stanley's Cup - the holy grail of sportsdom.
Thursday June 4
Two games at home has done good for the Pittsburgh Penguins as they swept their visit to Mellon Arena and evened their series at 2 wins apiece against the defending Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings. Just like the first 2 games of the series, Games 3 and 4 had a familiar look with the Pens pulling off 4-2 victories in each of those matchups. No Pitt Former Islander stepped up in this one but of course we can take a look at the effort from the lone Detroit FI:
Wings' goaltender Chris Osgood performed just adequately stopping 27 of 31 shots en route to the loss. Ozzie is now 14-6 on the postseason and has lost 2 straight for only the second time in this playoffs and first since the 2nd round series against the Anaheim Ducks in the only time this postseason the Wings have trailed in a series (down 1-2 at that point). Osgood will look to regain his 1-goal form that he had in that 4 game bridge between the Chicago series and the Final when play resumes of Saturday June 6.
Check back with FIW soon for more updates.
Wings' goaltender Chris Osgood performed just adequately stopping 27 of 31 shots en route to the loss. Ozzie is now 14-6 on the postseason and has lost 2 straight for only the second time in this playoffs and first since the 2nd round series against the Anaheim Ducks in the only time this postseason the Wings have trailed in a series (down 1-2 at that point). Osgood will look to regain his 1-goal form that he had in that 4 game bridge between the Chicago series and the Final when play resumes of Saturday June 6.Check back with FIW soon for more updates.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
FI Coach: Joe Sacco
The day after they cleaned house, including the expulsion of Former Islander goaltender and team goalie coach Jeff Hackett, the Colorado Avalanche announced the signing of another FI, Joe Sacco, as the team's new head coach. A 738 game veteran, Sacco played a career that took him the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, the Isles, the Washington Capitals and the Philadelphia Flyers. Sacco played 98 games for the Blue & Orange between 1998 and 1999 in which he notched 6 goals and 3 assists for 9 points. On his career Sacco had 213 points on 94 goals and 119 assists. Sacco ended his NHL career during the 2002-03 season.In 2007 Sacco became the head coach for the Avs' AHL affiliate the Lake Erie Monsters where he compiled a 26-41-13 record in his first season. With a move to the big-time we will have to wait and see how Sacco fairs in the Mile High City. Best of luck to you, Joe!
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