Diamonds in the rough
NHLHS New York Islanders correspondent Anthony Curatolo breaks down the news that came out recently about the New York Islanders and their e-mail invitation to all player agents for those players that are still available come training camp.
With the National Hockey League free agent period coming to a simmer, Islanders GM Garth Snow shocked the hockey world yet again with another potential ace up his sleeve.
What is starting to become more and more of a trend, the general manager decided to generate an e-mail to NHL player agents stating that any of the players they have available – and those who are willing to – may attend the New York Islanders training camp and pre-season period on a try-out basis.
What these remaining UFA players that are attempting to stay within the NHL will come to realize is that they should all witness this as a major competition to earn another NHL contract.
On the flip side, it will create a stronger and much improved competition from those currently on the roster attempting to make the NHL roster come October.
Now, when you think of the potential names that could very well be on this invitation list – there is potential for a “steal” or two especially when names like Miroslav Satan, Jose Theodore, Tim Kennedy, Slava Kozlov, Clarke MacArthur, Raffi Torres, Manny Legace, Jonathan Cheechoo, Arron Asham, Robert Nilsson, and Patrick O’Sullivan – to name a few – are all still available.
However, I encourage all fans of the New York Islanders to stay as realistic about this as possible. This “list” was a general e-mail sent out to all player agents which in turn means that each player has the option to appear at training camp, but it is not likely that all will. It would be a viable insurance policy if Theodore remains unsigned and shows up to camp prepared to battle for a paycheck and potential roster spot barring Rick DiPietro health issues.
Do not expect Antti Niemi to be an option here, as Katie Strang has tweeted that the New York Islanders have no interest in the Stanley Cup winning, young netminder.
The only real way anyone will see another netminder signed or brought into the system by the club will be if they fear Nathan Lawson, who performed very well at the AHL level last season, is not prepared for the NHL. Mikko Koskinen and Kevin Poulin will develop through the ranks, however be prepared for when the time comes for one of the two to battle out on the ice in their quest at becoming an NHL netminder. Both have number one capabilities, however we all know the difference between potential and actual performances.
Strang also tweeted that a “list” will be available in the near future as to who exactly was invited. Just another reason to be excited about the upcoming season which is now right around the corner.
Anthony Curatolo
NHLHS New York Islanders Correspondent
acuratolo@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @HockeyGuy_AC
That is not technically the Islanders logo anymore it’s been modified slightly. Brighter blue and 4 bands on the stick not 3.
I am a lifelong Islander fan now living in northeast PA. I was there for the 4 straight Stanley Cups, and to this day those are four of the best years of my life. Three people I would think seriously about signing, if you can get them for reasonable dollars.
TIM KENNEDY – The Isles have a solid group of good young kids on the way up. Kennedy would be a welcome addition.
JONATHAN CHEECHOO – Give him a 2-year deal.
Maybe he will re-discover the magic of 2006. If not, it didn’t cost you very much.
MAREK SVATOS – A good young player who has had trouble staying healthy. Worth the risk.
Also, DO NOT, under ANY circumstances, touch Kovalchuk. He is bad news. (See Alexi Yashin).