Tim Wallace clamed by TB on waivers

After being sent down yesterday and placed on waivers to possibly make room for another call up candidate, forward Tim Wallace was claimed by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Wallace was not contributing much on the 4th line with only 1 assist in 31 games and a -7 in that time. He had 20 points in 24 games with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, so the hope was that he would be able to contribute to their unbelievable run to the playoffs.

No real harm with Wallace gone as Bridgeport has been fine without him, although it unfortunately leaves BPT with no replacement should the Isles call up another forward.

Season Preview: Rhett Rakhshani

Rhett Rakhshani

Position: RW

Height: 5'11"
Weight: 174 lbs
Birthdate: March 6th, 1988 (Age 23)
Birthplace: Huntington Beach, CA, US
Acquired: Draft, Round 4, 100th overall, 2006 NHL Entry Draft

2010-2011 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
2010-2011 Stats: 66 GP - 24 G - 38 A - 62 P - 32 PIM
2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Top 6 Winger

Last year: Rakhshani was one of the lone bright spots in an abysmal Bridgeport season last year. He put up the most points on the team, nearly hitting 40 assists on a team with barely any goal scoring ability. He was utilized almost consistently on the top line and really found a chemistry with the team, which led to his offensive outburst this past year. For a rookie in the AHL, what he was able to accomplish is nothing short of outstanding. Clearly the AHL saw that as well when they named him to the All-Rookie team, and he was noted around the league for his on-ice vision and ability to set up plays like very few can. He also had one game where he scored 3 straight goals in 119 seconds. AHL or not, that is something that will follow him for the rest of his life, and he will always be remembered for by anyone who has even the slightest attention in the AHL.

Expectations: Rakhshani doesn't really fit on to the Islanders this season and will almost definitely return to Bridgeport for another year, playing with a revamped forward corps. Whether he is placed with Casey Cizikas, David Ullstrom or Jeremy Colliton as his center is up to them, but seeing how well Rakhshani is able to set up plays and score magnificent goals, I doubt he'll have trouble with any of them. Rakhshani should be eclipsing what he was able to accomplish last year with this revamped team, so we should have a very exciting season on our hands.

Projections: GP 73 - 30 G - 42 A - 72 P

Thoughts:

AT: Rakhshani was a huge surprise after coming out of a hugely successful career at the University of Denver. We knew he would produce, but not to this level. It will be very exciting to watch him form chemistry on a proper AHL team, and his point production should increase dramatically if he really clicks. It is worth noting however that Rakhshani suffered a concussion in the first rookie game, his second one in the last 6 months. If he can stay healthy, big things will arise from this multi-national sleeper.

CH: Rakhshani had a magnificent AHL rookie campaign last season, and even saw some time on the NHL squad. He's small in size, but plays a lot bigger than he is. A fast skater with a hard shot, Rakhshani skills have translated to the professional ranks from Denver as his game is much more mature than the average AHL rookie. While it is unfortunate that he suffered a second concussion, once he gets back there is no reason to think he won't pick up right where he left off. Rakhshani has become a 4th round gem from Neil Smith's only draft as an Islander, and has become a key piece of the Isles depth forwards.

Season Preview: Dylan Reese

Dylan Reese

Position: Defense
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 205
Birthdate: August 29, 1984 (27 years old)
Birthplace: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
Acquired: Trade with Columbus Blue Jackets (3/1/10)

2010-2011 Teams: Bridgeport Sound Tigers/New York Islanders
2010-2011 Stats (BPT): 37 GP - 4 G - 14 A - 18 P - 30 PIM

2010-2011 Stats (NYI): 27 GP - 0 G - 6 A - 6 P - 15 PIM

2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Top 4 Defenseman

Last year: Reese played his first full year in the Islanders organization last year for both the AHL Sound  Tigers and NHL Islanders. He started the year in Bridgeport, but was called up fairly quickly after the Isles were decimated by injuries. After a solid debut in 2009-10, Reese regressed a bit as he struggled at the NHL level. He was playing in a position that was above his means, which led to sloppiness and mistakes. For Bridgeport, he was better, putting up a very respectable 18 points in 37 games. There is no question that he is a valued asset organizationally. However, he showed last year that he is not what the Isles should be looking for long-term.

Expectations: In a bit of a surprise, the Islanders qualified Reese over Jack Hillen, because they knew Hillen could not be used in an AHL role. Reese will be expected to come back as the 9th-10th defenseman on the depth chart, while providing veteran leadership and solid play in the AHL. While he may see some NHL time if the Islanders are decimated by injuries, Reese's main role will be as a veteran minor leaguer. Every team needs those - in fact, that's a main thing the Isles were missing last year. So while from an Islanders standpoint, he's neither in the long term plans nor expected to contribute, he is a nice asset to have to provide strength to a Bridgeport team that needs it in the worst way.

Projections: (AHL) GP 64 - 9 G - 20 A - 29 P

Thoughts:

CH: There is little question that Reese struggled at the NHL level last year. But we need to look at the big picture to understand the true value of a guy like Reese. He was not kept to play at the NHL level - he may not have even been kept for depth purposes. With guys like Mark Katic and Calvin de Haan waiting in the wings, along with guys like Ty Wishart right there, he may not even get a chance this year. If he does, it means the Isles have been hurt by injuries again. But the fact is that Reese is a solid AHL defenseman at worst, and could easily be considered a very good one. So his presence at the AHL level should only help. Depth is a great thing to have and was something the AHL team was really missing last year. And it's something that Reese can help provide for 2011-12.

AT: At this point Reese is not considered anything more than depth, but with the defensive injuries to Eaton, MacDonald, Streit and Jurcina last year, there's nothing wrong with that. With Calvin De Haan, Matt Donovan and Aaron Ness most likely playing full seasons with Bridgeport this year, it's uncertain where he will find himself on Bridgeport's depth chart, but considering the fact that he's a seasoned veteran who has been called up before, he would be above CDH, Donovan and Ness on the call up chart if need be. All Reese needs to do is continue to provide a veteran presence on the team and contribute offensively here and there and he will fill his role exceptionally.

Season Preview: David Ullstrom

David Ullstrom

Position: Center
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 198
Birthdate: April 22, 1989 (22 years old)

Credit: IslesInfo

Birthplace: Jonkoping, Sweden
Acquired: Draft, Round 4, 102nd overall, 2008 NHL Entry Draft

2010-2011 Teams: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
2010-2011 Stats (BPT): 67 GP - 17 G - 24 A - 41 P - 36 PIM
2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Top 6 Forward

Last year: Ullstrom came onto the North American scene last season, putting together a very solid season for a poor Bridgeport team. He scored 17 goals and 41 points over the course of his 67 game season, playing in a prominent role. This was a major change for Ullstrom, who is a player that played in the SEL as a teenager in limited minutes. Ullstrom proved last year that he is not a throwaway prospect, and makes the competition at forward much tougher.

Expectations: Ullstrom is going to be counted on this season to be one of the Tigers' more productive player. Now that Ullstrom is acquainted with the North American game, he should be ready to go and have a true AHL breakout season next year. He will be playing top-6 minutes all year, possibly with Rhett Rakhshani or Tim Wallace - two proven productive players in their own right. Whether the Isles are relying too heavily on their young players at the AHL level is up for debate. What is not up for debate is the fact that Ullstrom needs to be outstanding for the Tigers to make a playoff push this year.

Projections: GP 71 - 22 G - 31 A - 53 P

Thoughts:

CH: One of our common themes over the course of the AHL spectrum is that we are expecting every player to progress at a level that benefits the organization. Of course, if that was always the case the Isles would be in a great position. Since that is not the case, it's clear there are players that have the potential to regress over the next season. It is my belief that David Ullstrom is not one of these players. The tools are there - he can play good two-way hockey at a high level. What Ullstrom needs to do is further put his skills together to put forth a high-level, consistent season from top to bottom. It's already possible that he sees some NHL if injuries hit, but what he can do to expedite that process is continue to develop his all-around game while being productive on the scoreboard. Like most prospects, Ullstrom is certainly one to watch this season.

AT: A young player who I still have high hopes for, Ullstrom needs to have a very strong year in order to be considered for the system. With Brock Nelson, Ryan Strome, Anders Lee (though he may end up playing wing in the pros), Johan Sundstrom and Casey Cizikas in the fold, center depth is incredibly heavy. We know he has the vision to become a top 9 forward in the NHL, and it would be really great to see that come to pass. I doubt he's ever going to find his way onto the top line, but if for some reason Frans Nielsen is not retained then he would be a nice fill in considering his defensive prowess and puckhandling skills. If he can put it together and a slot opens up for him, he would be a fantastic addition to the Isles. This is a big season for him to see where he winds up on the depth chart.

Season Preview: Mikko Koskinen

Mikko Koskinen

Height: 6'7"
Weight: 192 lbs
Birthdate: July 18, 1988 (23 years old)
Birthplace: Vantaa, Finland
Acquired: Draft, Round 2, 31st overall, 2009 NHL Entry Draft

2010-2011 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers/New York Islanders (call up)
2010-2011 Stats (BPT): 36 GP - 12-21-1 - 3.49 GAA - .892 SV% - 0 SO
2010-2011 Stats (NYI): 4 GP - 2-1-0 - 4.33 GAA - .873 SV% - 0 SO
2010-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Third String Goaltender

Last year: Koskinen had a whirlwind year last season after missing much of the 2009-10 campaign with a severe labrum injury. After having a poor start to the season with the Sound Tigers, Koskinen was called up to the NHL as the Islanders were hit with major injuries at the goaltending position. Koskinen notched his first to victories, a shootout win against the Montreal Canadiens and the Friday night massacre against the Pittsburgh Penguins, before being sent down when Rick DiPietro and Nathan Lawson returned from injury. He finished the season somewhat strong for the Sound Tigers, but barring a great training camp will fall to #3 on the depth chart behind Kevin Poulin and Anders Nilsson.

Expectations: It's really hard to expect anything from Koskinen, as the goaltending situation at the professional level is so uncertain that he could end up anywhere from being loaned to another AHL team to playing about half the games at Bridgeport. Koskinen is entering the last year of his ELC, and with the scarcity of spots at the goaltending position, he will have to prove that he is worthy of a qualifying offer, especially with Poulin and Nilsson seemingly ahead of him right now. This is the first summer Koskinen has gotten a full summer of healthy training as a professional, so it's important that he comes out strong. There's no question that he has talent, but it is very raw and losing a year of development time could prove to be a problem. Let's hope that he has a turnaround season and shows that the Isles have four valuable commodities in the net.

Projections: GP 31 - 11-15-5 - 2.89 GAA - .894 SV%

Thoughts:

CH: As we said earlier, it's so hard to project what Koskinen will be able to do this year. Who knows if he would accept an assignment to the ECHL if everyone comes out of camp completely healthy. My guess is that he wouldn't. So the Isles would be stuck with a three-goaltender rotation at the AHL and NHL levels. That's an unhealthy situation for everyone, especially with three developing goaltenders at Bridgeport. The Islanders are going to have to find somewhere for Koskinen to play, even if it means shipping him off for the season to another AHL team. Of course, that is nowhere near ideal, but the Isles need to find out what they have in Koskinen sooner rather than later. Hopefully, they find a way to configure a rotation at the AHL level where all three goalies can play 25+ games each, but quite frankly that isn't even enough. The goaltending depth will be one of the prime stories at training camp, and it will be very interesting to see it unfold.

AT: I have a feeling Koskinen gets traded in a package deal at some point, perhaps for the fabled top 4 d-man we're all awaiting. While he had a very up and down year last year the potential we saw in the NHL and his supreme stats at the end of last season showed he is and will be a great goalie in the NHL some day. But with Kevin Poulin who already showed he can play at the NHL level and is very capable of doing so and Anders Nilsson who put up outstanding stats in the SEL against players much older than him, it's hard to see Koskinen winning a top 2 slot in Bridgeport. Yet, is the ECHL right for him? Playing is better than not playing, sure, but the ECHL also won't teach him much. Kalamazoo and Bridgeport are two completely different teams in completely different leagues. Like Carey said, it's going to be extremely interesting to see how Garth handles this situation, and what he plans to do if he insists on keeping all 3 goalies. 

Season Preview: Jeremy Colliton

Jeremy Colliton

Height: 6'3"
Weight: 201 lbs
Birthdate: January 13, 1985 (Age 26)
Birthplace: Blackie, Alberta, Canada
Acquired: Draft, Round 2, 58th overall, 2003 NHL Entry Draft

2010-2011 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers/New York Islanders
2010-2011 Stats (BPT): 53 GP - 18 G - 27 A - 45 P - 57 PIM
2010-2011 Stats (NYI): 15 GP - 2 G - 1 A - 3 P - 10 PIM
2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Second Line Center

Last year: Colliton originally left the Islanders after the 2008-09 season to go play for Rogle in the Swedish Elite League. However, a call back from Garth Snow last season brought Colliton back into the organization in an AHL capacity. Soon after, injuries decimated the Islanders at the NHL level and brought Colliton back to the NHL. Playing on a line primarily with Rhett Rakhshani in the AHL, Colliton put up a very solid 45 points in 53 games. At the NHL level, Colliton joined up mostly with Blake Comeau and Josh Bailey and put in a 2 goal game against the Colorado Avalanche soon after his call-up. A defensively responsible center, Colliton is not asked to light the lamp often, but can play in all zones and was a big help for the Sound Tigers and a good call-up for the Islanders.

Expectations: After the season, Colliton was rewarded for his good play and leadership (he wore an "A" in Bridgeport), and signed another one year, two-way deal from the Islanders. The Islanders have a lot of depth at forward this year, so unless the injury bug hits hard again it's unlikely we will see Colliton at the NHL level this season. But at the very least, he is in the running to be the captain at Bridgeport. At age 26, he is a veteran at the AHL level and will help young rookies like Casey Cizikas and Tyler McNeely settle in. It's no question that Colliton will be counted on as a leader for the Sound Tigers, the only thing that is left to wonder is if he can replicate the point production he gave last year.

Projections: 71 GP - 21 G - 29 A - 50 P

Thoughts:

CH: The Sound Tigers need Colliton to have a similar season he did last year, and there's no reason to think he won't given that he is just entering his prime. Colliton's defensive game has always been his driver, and to see his offensive game rounding out at the AHL level as he enters his prime is a nice surprise. Even if he never becomes a true NHL regular, he will always have a role in an NHL organization if he accepts assignment to the AHL. With Colliton, David Ullstrom, Casey Cizikas, and Trevor Frischmon - along with Tomas Marcinko and Tony Romano, the Islanders are set at center at the AHL level. While there are no true AHL superstars in that bunch, they are a solid crew that errs on the side of defense, which plays right into the strength of the team: goaltending. A lot of these players have the opportunity to learn from Colliton, which will only help down the road. As we said above, he is in the running for the captaincy at Bridgeport, and would make a fine choice.

AT: Colliton has always been a huge part of the Bridgeport team and even proved to be a decent NHL callup, having a multigoal game in his first game up with the Isles last season. He, along with Frischmon and Backman, is one of the oldest players on the team, but he is one who has been with the team the longest and knows the system like the back of his glove. He will be taking on a leadership role with the team and will guide the newcomers into Brent Thompson's new style of play as compared to Jack Capuano's. If you're looking for a captain for Bridgeport, I don't think you need to look any further than Colliton.

Season Preview: Sean Backman

Sean Backman


Position: RW
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 165
Birthdate: April 29, 1986 (25 years old)
Birthplace: Cos Cob, Connecticut, United States
Acquired: Signed Free Agent, 2011

2010-2011 Team: Texas Stars
2010-2011 Stats: 67 GP - 7 G - 16 A - 23 P - 20 PIM
2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Bottom 6 Forward

Last year: Backman spent the majority of his first professional season playing at Dallas' AHL affiliate in Texas. He did spend a small amount of time in Idaho, playing for the Steelheads of the ECHL as well, totaling 4 points in 5 games. The undersized forward came from Yale University, where he averaged over a point-per-game in 3 of his 4 collegiate seasons. He played a bottom-6 role for the AHL Stars last season, totaling 23 points in 67 games.

Expectations: Backman joins the Islanders organization for the 2011-12 season on a one-year, two-way (NHL/AHL contract). His ties to the organization go no further than being the brother-in-law of Matt Moulson, so he does have some familiarity with the team. This year, Backman will be expected to play in a depth forward role for the Sound Tigers, which is a good spot for him to get acquainted with Brent Thompson's system. In a sense, he reminds me of Sean Bentivoglio - he is the same type of player, undersized, and is trying to transition from the collegiate level to the professional level. Time will tell if he can show a similar level of progression, even though Bentivoglio never made it as a full-time pro.

Projections: 71 GP - 8 G - 19 A - 27 P

Thoughts:

CH: Nothing wrong with getting a guaranteed AHL contract to fill in the bottom 6 for the Sound Tigers, which is something they've been largely lacking over the past year or so. Playing with guys like Trevor Frischmon, Tyler McNeely, and Justin DiBenedetto, Backman will have a real opportunity to prove what he can do. In addition, the potential of guys like Micheal Haley on the team full-time will push the entire forward corps to be better, meaning Backman is going to have to show something to stay in the top-9. Either way, Backman is a solid addition to a team that needed any sort of AHL in the worst way.

AT: A proven scorer at the NCAA level, Backman should find himself a nice slot on the Sound Tigers. With the amount of talented centers now at the AHL level, Backman should be producing at a decent level. Sure, he was probably brought in solely as a favor to Matt Moulson, but he is a talented player who will provide all of the help he possibly can at the AHL level. We needed it, and now we have it. Not sure if Backman will ever even see call-up time in the NHL, but along with Frischmon, McNeely and Colliton, depth is something you can never have enough of. Especially if you're the New York Islanders organization.

Season Preview: Trevor Frischmon

Bloggers note: Apologies for the absence the past few days. Obviously, Long Island was hit by Hurricane Irene which left me without cable/internet until about an hour ago. Back full time now and I hope all of our readers are safe and sound as well.

Trevor Frischmon 

Position: C

Height: 5'11"
Weight: 203
Birthdate: August 5th, 1981(30 years old)
Birthplace: Ham Lake, Minnesota, United States
Acquired: Signed Free Agent

2010-2011 Team: Springfield Falcons
2010-2011 Stats: 80 GP - 4 G - 29 A - 39 PIM
2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Bottom 6 Forward

Last year: Frischmon spent most of last year with the Blue Jackets' AHL affiliate, the Springfield Falcons. A veteran presence on a very young Springfield team, Frischmon's role was mostly a lower line set up man, and he racked up nearly 30 assists in doing so. Frishmon provided leadership and a great learning presence to the many young prospects that have been racked up in the Columbus system.

Expectations: Frischmon is another great addition (and ANOTHER center in the system) to the Bridgeport core. He's not a prospect and will probably not see any time in the NHL, but players like him are completely invaluable to gaining a proper AHL team that can compete for the Calder cup and bring in that winning culture that this organization so desperately needs. He will most likely replace the role that Rob Hisey filled last year.

Projections: GP - 78 - 6 G - 29 A - 35 P

Thoughts:

AT: While some laugh and mock signings like these, they are completely essential to the organization in the long run. Having leadership material in the AHL is just as important to the organization as having leadership in the NHL, because if players like Calvin De Haan and Matt Donovan have nobody to guide them along in their path to the NHL, who can they look to? Frischmon was a solid AHL depth signing and we hope he fills the role he was designed to fill exceptionally.

CH: Very solid depth signing here. It creates competition within the Bridgeport system, which is a lot better than just throwing kids into roles. That doesn't work at the NHL level, and it doesn't work in the minors either. Frischmon certainly won't light the lamp a ton, but he is a solid defensive center that has a good head on his shoulders. Certainly not a core player, but the type of player that is good to have around. And comparatively, he's much better than the ATO's and ECHLers being called to the the Tigers time after time. Hopefully, the Isles don't penny pinch at the AHL level and use the Hershey Bears model of replenishment. The upbringing up prospects is essential to a winning atmosphere. Hopefully, Frischmon can be part of that.

Season Preview: Anton Klementyev

Anton Klementyev

Position: D
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 203 lbs
Birthdate: March 25th, 1990 (21 years old)
Birthplace: Togliatti, Russia
Acquired: Draft, 5th round, 122th overall, 2009 NHL Entry Draft

2010-2011 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
2010-2011 Stats (Bridgeport): 51 GP - 2 G - 7 A - 9 P - 28 PIM
2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Top 4 Defenseman

Last year: Klementyev had a quiet, but solid second season in the AHL, finishing with 9 points playing on a depleted Bridgeport corps. The 2009 draft pick did play one game for the Islanders in 2009-10, but was used only as a emergency injury replacement. Last year, he did not get the same opportunity, but was able to refine some of his game with the Sound Tigers. He finished the year on the injured list, and at last check was still rehabilitating his ankle over the summer, but is said to be ready to go for training camp.

Expectations: Like players like Justin DiBenedetto and Tony Romano, Klementyev is heading into the last year of his entry-level contract, which makes this year of extreme importance to him. The influx to defensemen coming into the Islanders pro system is huge, and Klementyev is going to have to distinguish himself to retain a spot in the organization next year. A very young veteran at 21, Klementyev is going to have to hold down a spot in the top-6 this year playing with AHL rookies like Matt Donovan and Aaron Ness. It's not out of the realm of possibility that he does this, as he plays a good stay-at-home, physical game, which is an element the Islanders organization certainly lacks.

Projections: 61 GP - 3 G - 8 A - 11 P

Thoughts:

CH: Klementyev is going to have to give a strong season to the Sound Tigers, as they are a team that is very young on the blueline this season. As a Sound Tiger veteran at 21, he is in a situation he may not exactly be ready for. While not an ideal situation, Klementyev has the potential to show that he is ready to take the next step by leading with guys like Calvin de Haan and Matt Donovan pushing to claim his spot. What we do now is that Klementyev provides some stability on the defense that the Sound Tigers will need to make a playoff push, because going with all rookies - even skilled ones - is not going to cut it.

AT: With Klementyev, Ness, Donovan and CDH helming the top 4 in Bridgeport most likely, this is looking like a really strong year for the Sound Tigers (as I've mentioned 1000 times before). It's pretty crazy how well Garth Snow has restocked the cabinet in terms of defensive prospects, where at one point in 2005 we had very few legitimate D-men in the system, now it looks like we have 4 who are maybe a year away from the NHL. It will be exciting to see how the D plays, especially if Kevin Poulin remains healthy all season. Defense wins games, and with this kind of d corps, it's hard not to see a major playoff push ensuing soon. Klementyev is a bigger, stronger d-man that every system needs, and seeing what he does this season will be of extreme importance in determining where he lies in organizational depth.

Season Preview: Tyler McNeely

Tyler McNeely


Position: LW
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 165 lbs
Birthdate: April 8th, 1987 (24 years old)
Birthplace: Burnaby, British Columbia
Acquired: Signed Free Agent
Drafted: N/A

2010-2011 Team: Northeastern University, Bridgeport Sound Tigers
2010-2011 Stats: 38 GP - 13 G - 21 A - 34 P - 52 PIM, 10 GP - 5 G - 6 A - 11 P - 4 PIM
2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Top 9 forward

Last year: Tyler McNeely had a whirlwind year last year. He was the captain of the Greg Cronin lead Northeastern collegiate team to start the year, totaling a very solid 34 points in 38 games including 13 goals. He followed that up by signing an AHL only contract with Bridgeport, where he played the Sound Tigers' final 10 games of the season, averaging over a point-per-game getting top minutes with a depleted lineup and linemates such as Jeremy Colliton and Rhett Rakhshani. McNeely, who finished with a +9 rating in Bridgeport, fit right in and was said to bring outstanding chemistry to that line.

Expectations: The Islanders rewarded McNeely by signing him to a two-way NHL/AHL contract after the season ended, which they were right to do. There was little doubt McNeely was going to get NHL two-way offers with the way he finished the season out in Bridgeport, so the Isles got a head start and got a deal done quickly. McNeely now has the opportunity to show that he is professional level material, as he will most likely continue to be on a like with Colliton and Rakhshani. If not, the Sound Tigers have very capable centers in David Ullstrom, Casey Cizikas, and Tony Romano, so there are options for McNeely to produce. With the Sound Tigers lineup getting younger and more full with Islander draft picks, McNeely has a chance to be one to stand out and show that it isn't just about the draft.

Projections: 64 GP - 16 G - 23 A - 39 P

Thoughts: 

CH: McNeely is one of those under-the-radar guys that no one hears about until they start producing at the AHL level. There is certainly a lot of potential there - he is a hard worker who was a leader on his Northeastern team in college. He scored at a very productive rate last year and I'm sure is looking to prove that he belongs. It should be very exciting to see how he develops this year as he will certainly get an opportunity on a Bridgeport team that is still somewhat bereft of top-end AHL talent. The wings are a little crowded with Rhett Rakhshani, Justin DiBenedetto, Tim Wallace, Sean Backman, and potentially Micheal Haley, but if McNeely plays in camp the way he did last year there is no doubt he will get an opportunity. It's a big year for Tyler, and a good one will certainly be a catalyst for the beginning of a solid professional career.

AT: McNeely is still somewhat young and has time to produce in Bridgeport. If what we saw last year is any indication, he is ready for the professional leagues and can and will produce when placed on a line that accentuates his skillset. He came out of nowhere after Bridgeport was severely depleted from callups and injuries last year, so it's great to see he's taking advantage of this unique opportunity provided to him. I expect to see an offensive outburst from him this year on a line with Ullstrom or Cizikas. 

Season Preview: Tomas Marcinko

Tomas Marcinko

Position: C
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 201 lbs
Birthdate: April 11, 1988 (23 years old)
Birthplace: Poprad, Slovakia
Acquired: Draft, 4th round, 115th overall, 2006 NHL Entry Draft
Contract Status: 1 year, 2-way: $605K/$62.5K

2010-2011 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
2010-2011 Stats: 66 GP - 4 G - 7 A - 11 P - 56 PIM
2011-2012 Team: Bridgeport Sound Tigers
Team Role: Fourth Line Center

Last year: Marcinko finished his third and final year of his entry level contract by having a solid AHL season on Bridgeport's fourth line, scoring 11 points in 66 games. The depth player may not have had developed as well as the Isles would have liked as a fourth round pick, but Marcinko has proven to be a solid presence on the Sound Tiger bottom line. Marcinko is big and a good skater, but focuses more on the defensive side of the game. Playing with mostly ECHL call-ups as Bridgeport struggled in the standings last season.

Expectations: This year, it could be more of the same for Marcinko and the Sound Tigers. In somewhat of a surprise move, Marcinko was qualified for next season, in which he will most likely regain his spot on the Sound Tiger fourth line. With centers David Ullstrom, Casey Cizikas, and Trevor Frischmon, Bridgeport is not very strong down the middle. It's important that Marcinko have a healthy season and play well defensively so the Tigers do not get stretched even thinner down the middle.

Projections: 71 GP - 6 G - 9 A - 15 P

Thoughts:

CH: It's clear Marcinko has not developed to what the Islanders thought they were getting when they drafted him. That said, he has become a solid depth player for the Sound Tigers, even though his offensive talents are limited at best. If nothing else, he seems to be more of an AHL placeholder at this point as the Islanders wait for prospects such as Anders Lee and Brock Nelson to push other prospects down the depth chart. Long term, the Islanders have the ability to develop a factory of a thriving AHL team, but that hasn't been the case as of yet due to a lack of league veterans who can help bring the kids along. Marcinko is getting to the point where he is becoming an AHL veteran, which hopefully means he will come into his own as a bottom-6 AHL player and one that can contribute in some capacity, be it offensively or defensively.

AT: At 23, I think Marcinko has accepted his role as a depth player in the AHL. Obviously, nobody wants to be a career AHL guy, but players like him are quintessential to having an elite AHL team to provide a winning culture for the younger players on the team, especially incoming players like Casey Cizikas and Calvin De Haan, assuming they don't make the Islanders out of camp. After such an abysmal season in 2011, the Sound Tigers look poised to make a major turnaround. Players like Marcinko, while playing smaller roles, are absolutely invaluable to the team. Just as Marty Reasoner will play his role for the Islanders on the 4th line, Marcinko will play his on Bridgeport. 

News: Islanders Sign F Tim Wallace

As reported earlier by Katie Strang, the Islanders have signed AHL F Tim Wallace to a one year, two-way contract for the 2011-12 season. Wallace, 26, is an Anchorage, Alaska native who has spent his entire 5-year professional career in the Pittsburgh Penguins organization. 

He finished with 20 goals and 37 points in 62 AHL games with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins last season.

CH: Obviously this is a depth signing for the Sound Tigers, and it's one they needed. I know that a lot of people will take the cynical view to these types of signings, especially with the NHL team needing work in itself, but when you look at the move in a bubble, this helps a Bridgeport team in need of an influx of talent. Wallace will replace Jesse Joensuu in a top-6 role down on the farm with the option for a call-up. He does have 24 games in the NHL under his belt, with only 2 assists. That said, good depth signing and Bridgeport's looks a little brighter today.

News: Islanders Re-Sign C Jeremy Colliton

As reported by Katie Strang today, the New York Islanders have re-signed forward Jeremy Colliton to a one year, two-way deal. Terms of the deal are unknown at this time. 

Colliton had 2 goals and 1 assist in 15 NHL games last year, primarily playing on a line with Blake Comeau and Josh Bailey.

CH: Obviously, this is a depth signing, but it's not a bad one. People will look at Colliton's NHL career and think this is a waste of time, but he has put together a very nice, solid career at Bridgeport. He joins a center core of David Ullstrom, Casey Cizikas, Trevor Frischmon, and Tony Romano and is sure to get top-6 minutes next year. It's no secret Bridgeport needed veteran help, and they got some by keeping Colliton in the organization. The rub here is that we cannot see a repeat of last year with Colliton in the NHL again. Nothing personal, of course, but the team needs to take the next step and playing a guy like Colliton for any extended period of time means things are not going as planned on Long Island. Let's hope that Colliton stays in Bridgeport, where he is sure to have a solid AHL season for the Sound Tigers.

AT: Colliton is a very last resort for a callup with the new depth, so I don't think we'll be seeing him soon. He's a great AHL vet who knows the system, knows the core and should develop a strong bond with Thompson, the new coach. He put up very good points last year and will almost certainly help Bridgeport succeed this year. Smaller signing, but a good one.

News: Islanders Sign F Trevor Frischmon

The New York Islanders have signed forward Trevor Frischmon to a one year, two-way contract, which was announced by the Isles AHL affiliate Bridgeport.

Frischmon, 29, has spent his entire professional career in the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, playing at for both Syracuse and Springfield of the AHL. He had a career year in Springfield last year, as he notched 29 points (4 goals) with a +6 in 80 games. The playmaking center has 102 points in 327 career AHL games. 

The center, who is 6'0" and 200 lbs., played three games with the Blue Jackets in 2009-10, going scoreless.

CH: The Islanders let Rob Hisey go, so this is the guy that will probably replace him in Bridgeport. Frischmon, who is a checking line center, adds veteran stability to the Sound Tigers, which is something they sorely needed over the past few years. He will round out the Sound Tigers centers, most likely, joining David Ullstrom, Casey Cizikas, Tony Romano, and Tomas Marcinko. The Tigers still need more forward help on the wings, as Rhett Rakhshani, Tyler McNeely, and Justin DiBenedetto are the only signed players down there. From that perspective, look for a bunch more depth signings in the coming weeks. Solid signing, and addressed a need that the organization needed.

AT: There's definitely a lot more depth in Bridgeport nowadays. With the influx of young players, re-signing of Marcinko, and with some more moves to come, I think Bridgeport is pretty well off next season. Let's just hope Poulin can stay healthy and perform at the level he had before he was called up. Let's also hope he doesn't need to be called up.

Minors: Sound Tigers Name Brent Thompson As Coach

ECHL

The Islanders and Sound Tigers have announced that Brent Thompson has been named the new head coach of the team. Thompson was most recently the coach of the ECHL's Alaska Aces for the past two seasons, where he compiled an 83-50-11 record, leading the team to the Kelly Cup (ECHL's championship) in 2010-11. He also won the 2011 John Brophy Award, which goes to the ECHL's best coach. Before that, Thompson was an assistant for St. Louis' farm team, the Peoria Rivermen from 2005-09. 

Thompson was a second round pick of the Los Angeles Kings, and plated 120 NHL games with the Kings, Winnipeg Jets, and Phoenix Coyotes.

CH: I really like this. Thompson definitely seems ready to make the next step in his coaching career, and the Isles were in a good opportunity to give it to him. The Sound Tigers were miserable last year, and were in need of a new personality. Thompson is faced with a very important task, as it is extremely important for Bridgeport to have a good season next year. He also has a chance to propel himself into the NHL circle with a solid job across the Sound. Overall, a good hire as both entities will be better off for it. Now, Snow has to go get some AHL depth in free agency to round out the tons of Isles prospects down there.

AT: He seems like the kind of guy who was ready to take the next step to the AHL. Obviously he knows the game even if it was at the equivalent of Single A baseball. Can't wait to see what he does with the Sound Tigers especially with an influx of extremely talented players coming in such as De Haan, Donovan, Ness and Cizikas. Good luck, Brent!

News: Islanders Re-Sign Tomas Marcinko

The Islanders have re-signed Bridgeport forward Tomas Marcinko to a two-way (AHL/NHL) contract, according to the team's official Twitter.

Marcinko scored 4 goals and had 5 assists in 66 games for the Sound Tigers last season. The Slovakian center was selected in the fourth round of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

CH: There were doubts Marcinko would be staying in the organization after he was not qualified yesterday, but clearly the Isles and his camp were working on this extension. Marcinko is a good depth centerman for the Sound Tigers. Now an AHL veteran (this will be his fourth season), he will be able to help mentor some of the Islanders' prospects as they enter the professional level. Even though he most likely will never make the NHL full-time, he still provides value to the organization, which is why they are keeping him around for another season. To be completely honest, I was a little shocked by this as I would have let him go, but depth at the pro level cannot be ignored. It's been a problem for years and we are finally getting to the point where it's becoming less of an issue.

AT: Minor signing but a good one. It's good to have the same people on the Sound Tigers to keep a solid chemistry for kids like Donovan, Ness, Cizikas and De Haan all coming in looking to play for a solid team and to create a winning atmosphere. He's that kind of minor signing which is important on a scale that many people don't realize. It's the micromanaging like this that ends up being the biggest factors in the long run.