Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Will Markov Sign?

I usually try to avoid rumors, but this one is interesting considering this was one player I was hoping the Islanders would sign this offseason. There have been heavy rumors that the Islanders are close to signing him. By signing Markov to a contract, I think that would take care of the defense at least for the first half of the season. The Islanders need to let Campoli, and Gervais, and even Meyer play more games to really see the potential out of these players, and I'm one of those fans who does not like to see any more prospects traded so they can prosper somewhere else. The Islanders still have enough cap space to sign Markov, and then concentrate on the offense. Could The Islanders be looking at a restricted free agent going into arbitration? Possibly. The Islanders can resign Hunter, and can still make a pitch to any free agent that a certain team can no longer afford. If the Islanders cannot pry a restricted free agent from another team look for someone like Josef Vasicek to be signed. Third line forward, possibly second, Nolan-type player with offensive upside.

Chris Simon Signs

The Islanders signed Chris Simon to a one year $475,000 contract yesterday. He will recieve bonuses if he plays a certain amount of games for the season. I've been reading a lot of comments from other fans, and they are mixed indeed. Most say it was a good move to resign. I agree with them. I think Simons role will be limited however this year. If the Islander fans remember, he was put on the first line with Yashin and Blake. That did not pan out as well as hoped, which is why Asham also saw time on the first line. This year a first line has been established with the recent aquisitions, so Simon will be in a checking role, and defending his teammates. Some fans have asked me, what about Tambellini? Tambellini, will probably make the team this year. Where do the Islanders put him? Look for the third line with Hilbert and Hunter for now assuming that the Islanders dont sign anyone on offense. Simon will get playing time, but it will be limited, and depending on injuries will probably play against the "enforcer" teams.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Something is Up

Just looking over the players at NewYorkIslanders.com and noticed that Trent Hunter is not on that list......stay tuned.