And So It Begins! Guest: Andrew Gross, Newsday

October 9, 2024
Posted in Show Recaps
October 9, 2024 Dylan Burhans

It’s official–hockey is back! Put on your sweaters and grab those biscuits, because Sean Cuthbert and Stefen Rosner are back with the second episode of the season. Alongside Newsday’s Andrew Gross, Sean and Stefen discuss the Islanders’ roster heading into opening night.

2:10 — Experience Points! presented by Main Street Board Game Café

Sean and Stefen share their thoughts on the 22-man roster. Of note, Oliver Wahlstrom earned his place on the fourth-line right wing spot, while speedster Pierre Engvall was sent down to Bridgeport. Other players sent through waivers include Hudson Fasching and Sam Bolduc.

5:40 – Why was Bolduc waived? Stefen explains how the strong showings of Marshall Warren, Dennis Cholowski, Grant Hutton, Calle Odelius, and Isaiah George have created a logjam of talent for the defensive side of things.

6:20 – Stefen provides an analysis on Dennis Cholowski as the seventh D-man. According to head coach Patrick Roy, Cholowski had a strong camp. Rosner elaborates on this–Cholowski is a mobile defenseman who can skate on the power play if need be. He also seems to be a great fit for Roy’s system. 

7:30 – The boys break down the new fourth line. Kyle MacLean is penciled in alongside veteran Casey Cizikas and Oliver Wahlstrom. Overall, this line should be extremely dangerous for opposing teams. MacLean fits Roy’s system to a T–he is fast, aggressive, excels at getting the puck up the ice, and he has strong hockey IQ. Cizikas and Wahlstrom both bring a physical edge but can provide a scoring touch. The fourth line has the potential to generate more offense than in previous years.

Ilya Sorokin will backup Semyon Varlamov vs. Utah

9:55 – The question every single Islanders fan has been asking is finally answered–Ilya Sorokin is back. Sorokin looked healthy and was playing like his usual self when he returned to camp. Sorokin played with 100% effort during practices, and he was even working out twice a day to return to form (according to Sorokin’s favorite road trip partner, Alex Romanov).

13:00 – Sean and Stefen examine the top line, which now features free-agent acquisition Anthony Duclair next to Bo Horvat and Mat Barzal. The speed and chemistry the trio displayed during the preseason gives the impression that they have all played together for years. Rosner points out that this could be a top-10 first line in the NHL. However, it is important to remember that there needs to be consistency from all four lines. Overall, this line should be very exciting to watch.

14:30 – Stefen gives newcomer Maxim Tsyplakov 800 (!) experience points, pointing out that he’s leveled up through the lineup three times. Many speculated on whether or not Tsyplakov could translate his game to the NHL level. From being considered a fringe NHLer to starting on the fourth line to now playing top-six minutes, Maxim Tsyplakov is looking poised for a solid first season in North America. Sean follows suit, granting Tsyplakov a very specific 765 experience points for the amazing camp he had.

17:50 – What’s on Tap, presented by Centre Station Bar and Grill

The Islanders open the season at home on Thursday, October 10th against the Utah Hockey Club. The team is looking ready to go under Roy, appearing more prepared than in previous years. Roy has had them skating hard since day one, and used training camp to establish structure. Roy mentioned how it does not matter that he wants to succeed, the team needs to want it. So far, they want it. Stefen described how the players are all buying into Roy’s system, asking questions, and putting in a full team effort. 

22:00 – Hero of the Week!

Sean’s Pick: Maxim Tsyplakov

The Russian power forward has exceeded expectations and is looking like the real deal. He has the size and physicality, but also the patience and poise to make plays.

Stefen’s Pick: Patrick Roy

During the open practice at UBS Arena, Roy gave an inspiring speech on how the team wants to make the fans proud. Stefen also wanted to point out that Roy says “on” Long Island. 

26:00 – Snake Den with Jake “the Snake” Radonis

Jake, Sean, and Stefen discuss Pierre Engvall’s future with the Islanders. Jake also gives 700 experience points to Maxim Tsyplakov, stating that he can be an impact player for the Islanders this season (these guys are very generous).

“It looks like Duclair’s been playing with Barzal for years.”

-Stefen Rosner on the Islanders new first line

30:10 – Questions Brewing!

You asked, we answered! During shows, fans can submit live questions to Sean and Stefen.

1 – At 5v5 this preseason, the Isles were fourth in the NHL in puck possession and first in the NHL in scoring chance share. Is this irrelevant or a sign of their depth and structure?

2 – Gauthier makes it out of yet another camp. How long before he inevitably gets sent back down?

3 – Did you watch “Faceoff: Inside the NHL” on Prime? I thought it was great. Would love to see some of the Islanders players on there!

4 – Any chance that Tsyplakov is at least runner up for the Calder this year?

5 – Will we see a hot Brocktober or a lackluster one?

6 – How did Sorokin look at practice and will we see him start in the next few weeks?

7 – Who picks up the Martin role of being the muscle?

8 – Does Maxim Tsyplakov get to play on PP1 from the start?

9 – What is Roy’s expectations of this fourth line with Wahlstrom? I would have to think they’re expected to be more than just a straight checking line. 

10 – If Engvall clears, do you see him reporting to Bridgeport?

11 – I thought Foudy and Hutton were solid in preseason. What was your take?

44:10 — On The Line: Andrew Gross, Newsday

Andrew Gross assesses the Islanders’ roster, including the decision to waive Engvall. Gross also analyzes Wahlstrom’s performance during training camp and how he fits into the forward corps

50:30 – Sean asks Gross about Simon Holmstrom and his place in the lineup. According to Gross, Holmstrom is an integral piece of the group–he is a reliable, steady player who is now gaining more confidence in his abilities. Holmstrom can score goals and kill penalties, all while under a team-friendly contract. 

Catch the latest episode of HNiNY as the fellas recapped camp and looked towards the start of the season with Andrew Gross of Newsday!

53:40 – Stefen brings up long-time Islander Matt Martin, who is still on a PTO but was not offered a contract. His veteran presence is huge for the team dynamic, especially with the absence of Cal Clutterbuck. Gross calls Martin’s leadership an “intangible” asset for Lou Lamoriello and the team. In terms of role, Martin is taking it day-by-day. However, he did reiterate that his primary goal if he plays in the NHL again is to remain with the Islanders.

56:50 – Gross touches on Scott Mayfield, who is now fully healthy after suffering a broken ankle in last year’s season opener. 

58:35 – As the final topic, Gross provides his thoughts on Duclair on the top line–not only is he quickly building chemistry with Barzal and Horvat, but he has the skating abilities to complement them. His presence will also open up time and space for Barzal.

1:01:30 – Thanks again to Andrew Gross for joining this week’s show! He can be followed on X (formerly Twitter) – @AGrossNewsday.

Lou Lamoriello elaborates on Engvall’s demotion (Andrew Gross, Newsday)

1:02:05 – Sean and Stefen play a quote from Bo Horvat to close things out. Horvat, who was recently named second alternate captain, talks about the importance of sticking up for one another and making the fans proud. 

1:04:30 – Be sure to join our new Patreon here! Members can receive exclusive content such as Q & A’s, columns, videos, behind-the-scenes, merch, partner discounts, and even an invitation to hang out at Floored Media (located in Rockville Center) during the live airing of a show! A newsletter will also be coming out soon. Live events are making a comeback–watch parties at Centre Station Bar and Grill are scheduled for Sunday, November 3rd at 1:00 when the Islanders face the Rangers at MSG, and on Saturday, November 16th. More details to come!

ockey Night in New York has returned to cover the New York Islanders all season long! Join hosts Sean Cuthbert and Stefen Rosner live from Floored Media in Rockville Centre Sundays at 8PM ET at your favorite streaming platforms! (available at YouTubeTwitchTwitter, and Facebook)

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