JT Day at the Coliseum

While it was far less exciting than the recent Islanders draft party, there was plenty of buzz at the Nassau Coliseum this afternoon as John Tavares was introduced to the media as a New York Islander. In front of a crowd of about 350 fans and a sizable amount of media, Tavares was presented with the #91 sweater. Following introductions from MC Howie Rose, Garth Snow, a several minute tribute video, and the jersey presentation, Tavares spoke about being "excited, thrilled, and humbled to be with the New York Islanders and in this community."

Unfortunately for the fans, however, Tavares faced only a few questions from the media before Tavares and the reporters moved to a private area for the remainder of the press conference. Still, the day seemed to be more about ceremony than hard-nosed journalism.

I hope you all enjoyed the HNLI twitter updates throughout the afternoon and will enjoy the pictures above. Stay Classy, Long Island

1-A Goalie in the Bag: Dwayne Roloson

The Islanders answered a major question heading into the upcoming NHL season by signing goaltender Dwayne Roloson to a 2 year deal worth $5 million. Props to HNLI Guest and Newsday Beat Writer Greg Logan for being the first to break the story.

All in all, a decent signing by Garth Snow. The need for a solid backup goaltender was there with the question marks surrounding Ricky's health, and Roloson is certainly a guy who can step in a perform. Roloson played extremely well for Edmonton last season and posted very good numbers.

28 Wins-24 Losses
2.77 GAA
.910 SV%

Granted, he's 40 years old, but for 2 years and a relatively small cap hit, the age is a non-issue. Roloson has proven to be a true professional throughout his career and he is somebody who will be able to step in and perform when if DP gets hurt again.

Keep following HNLI Alex's twitter updates today at twitter.com/hockeynightli or in the blog post below!

Arbour Returns To Coach One Game with the Isles

The Islanders have announced that Hall of Fame coach Al Arbour will coach his 1,500 regular season game with the team on November 3, 2007 against the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Nassau Coliseum. Current Isles coach Ted Nolan sent an invitation to Arbour earlier this week so that the legendary coach can reach an important milestone. He will sign a one-day contract on 11/2. The NHL approved the Islanders request of making him the coach for a game. I think this is a great gesture made by the team. Fans will enjoy seeing Arbour coach one last game for the team, having it be his 1,500 with the Islanders. It is great how Ted Nolan, Garth Snow, and Charles Wang continue to be very active in maintaining the great history that surrounds the team. This game is actually very big for the Isles since they are going to be facing Sidney Crosby and the Pens in an Atlantic Division battle. The Pens should be a great team this season and hopefully Arbour will be able to help get the Islander their 2 points for the game. This definitely tops the list on notable games for the Islanders this upcoming season.

Programming Update:

*Hockey Night on Long Island will be having an episode next week. Please keep checking this site for updated schedule information.