DiPietro Shut Down for Rest of Season

With the swelling in his left knee yet to subside and less than three weeks remaining in the season, injured goaltender Rick DiPietro is done for the year, Newsday has learned.

DiPietro, who was placed on injured reserve retroactive to February 28 with knee swelling, has not played in a game for almost three months—since the Islanders’ 3-1 loss to Carolina February 6—and will not appear in another game for the team this season.

Even if the swelling in his knee disappears and DiPietro shows signs of significant improvement in the near future, the 28-year-old netminder does not conceivably have enough practice time remaining to return to game shape before season’s end. With seven games left and the Islanders eight points removed the 8th place the Eastern Conference standings, a place in the post-season looks highly improbable.

Considering the long, grueling road DiPietro has taken to rehab his surgically-repaired knee, the team also does not want to rush him back for any reason and risk further aggravating the injury.

However, DiPietro will resume practicing with the team if he makes strides, if only to allow the team’s medical staff an opportunity to learn more about the condition.

Given the nature of DiPietro’s injury and his medical history—multiple surgeries over the past three years—the Islanders want to pinpoint what causes the knee swelling and how the condition can be treated or avoided in the future.

While this decision halts any speculation about a potential return before the end of the Islanders regular season April 11, questions regarding DiPietro’s long-term future will certainly persist.

DiPietro, who was 2-5-0 with a 9.00 save percentage and 2.60 goals against average in eight games this season, still has 11 years remaining on his 15-year, $67.5 million contract and has played only 13 games over the past two seasons.

Despite DiPietro’s unfortunate injury struggles, however, Islanders general manager Garth Snow said he’s optimistic that DiPietro can have a productive future with the team.

“We feel that working with our goaltending coaches this summer, Rick will return to top form,” Snow said.

Earlier this week, DiPietro told reporters he was encouraged by his return to the NHL back in January, but he remained uncertain whether he’d play again for the Islanders this season.

“It’s not a wasted year,” he said. “I proved I could come back and play in the NHL. I know I can play. I’ve already proved it. I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in.”

When asked about his most recent stint on injured reserve, DiPietro said:

“It’s not even a setback. You can’t turn back time. I did what the doctor said to do. Is it frustrating? Yeah. But it’s part of what happens to athletes.”

Copyright 2010 by Newsday

Shocker? No, not really.

At this point in time I really don't even care what the team decides to do with DiPietro. He hasn't played much in two years and now he's just hindering the team plans going forward.

Furthermore, there is still 12 years of this, as there are still 12 years remaining on his albatross of a contract.

I say sell him to any team willing to take him and get a bag of new pucks in return.

MacDonald Returns Tonight from Broken Foot

Finally a piece of good news for the Islanders seriously depleted defense.

Andy MacDonald has been penciled into the lineup for tonight's game against the New York Rangers at the Coliseum. MacDonald had been out with a broken foot since March 2, when he broke it blocking a shot in a win over the Chicago Blackhawks. MacDonald, 23, was in the midst of a breakout season - not exactly a Norris Trophy contender, but breakout where the Islanders are concerned - and had just signed a four-year, $2.2-million contract extension.

There was a chance he wouldn't be back this season, with a four-to-six-week prognosis for recovery, but Tuesday is the four-week mark, and he's ready to step back in. "You don't want your season to end not playing the last six weeks or so," MacDonald said. "It's important to get some games in here at the end of the year."

MacDonald's return is one small addition for a defensive corps that has only been subtracting since MacDonald went down. Andy Sutton (traded), Dustin Kohn (concussion) and Bruno Gervais (groin) are out, and on Saturday in Columbus, the Isles dressed only two defensemen ( Mark Streit and Freddy Meyer) who were on the roster to start the season.

The team has returned 20-year-old Anton Klementyev to Bridgeport Monday to make room for MacDonald on the roster. With seven games left and the Islanders eight points from a playoff spot, it's more important to develop up-and-comers such as MacDonald and Jack Hillen than busting it for a playoff berth.

MacDonald did take notice of which game was coming up as he worked to get back. "It kind of just happened that way, but that doesn't mean I wasn't aware this game was coming up," he said. "It's for bragging rights and it's a big deal around here."

MacDonald also said he wanted to be sharp so he can play for Bridgeport in the AHL playoffs if the Sound Tigers qualify.

Isles Call Up Klementyev to Fill in for Injured Gervais

Since he was the only remaining option in the team’s view, Anton Klementyev was recalled for last night's game in Columbus to take the place of injured defenseman Bruno Gervais and played sparingly in 6:20 of total ice time. Gervais injured his groin only minutes after scoring the winning goal in Thursday's 3-2 win over the Calgary Flames. Gervais is listed as day-to-day.

Klementyev, who turned 20 on Thursday, has been scratched for as many games as he has played (28) in Bridgeport this season.

The 6-1, 200-pound defenseman was a fifth round pick in 2009. He has some ability and was a member of Team Russia at the World Junior Championships. Although he’ll get by for a game or two, he just isn’t ready for the AHL or the NHL.

If the Islanders put Brendan Witt through re-entry waivers, the team that grabbed him couldn’t use him this season. However, they’d have Witt for 50 cents on the dollar next season, while the Islanders would have to pay him $1.5 million to play on another team. They do not seem to be okay with this.

Per Katie Strang, Andrew MacDonald could return in time for the Rangers game on Tuesday.

I don't really know much about this kid other than he is very young and definitely not NHL ready, but what other choice do the Islanders really have?

Their defense depth is growing very thin with all of these injuries, so they really didn't have much of a choice here.

Kenny Phillips May Not Be Ready for Training Camp

The outlook for Giants safety Kenny Phillips just keeps getting dimmer and dimmer.

Coach Tom Coughlin said yesterday that the Giants don't expect Phillips to be available for full participation at the start of training camp, and Coughlin wasn't exactly upbeat about Phillips in general.
Asked during the NFC coaches breakfast at the NFL's annual meetings if Phillips can come back this season, Coughlin said: "I think so."

Phillips, the promising free safety whose 2009 season ended abruptly after just two games because of arthritis in his left knee that resulted in microfracture surgery, has not yet been cleared to run.

Phillips, who isn't expected to participate in any of the offseason workouts or Big Blue's June minicamp, vowed publicly after the signing of Pro Bowl safety Antrel Rolle this month that he would be back for the start of camp.

Coughlin appeared to throw cold water on those hopes yesterday.

"Kenny's rehab is going very well, but he's in stages," Coughlin said. "He can't even go out right now and just run. He's still being very well-structured there. He's started to [work out], but it's not a do-anything-you-want-to-do type of a deal."

At best, Phillips might be able to participate in one of the two daily practices early in camp, Coughlin added. But it is clear the Giants don't plan to push the 2008 first-round pick.

"Like all people coming off that surgery, he's got to be kind of brought along," Coughlin said. "I don't foresee [the medical staff] just saying, 'Go ahead' [at the start of camp]. The restrictions could be one-a-day. I hope not, but that's the way it could be."

The Giants' concern about Phillips -- and the possibility that the microfracture surgery could end his career -- played a part in the signing of the ex-Cardinal Rolle to a $37 million deal on the first day of free agency.

The Giants are hoping to pair Phillips and Rolle for what would be one of the NFL's strongest safety combinations, but Coughlin's tone yesterday made it sound as if it could be wishful thinking for the foreseeable future.

Adding to Coughlin's worry, the only other safeties on the roster are Michael Johnson and C.C. Brown -- both of whom struggled mightily last season -- and former undrafted free agent Sha'reff Rashad. Aaron Rouse was released earlier this month.

"[Pairing Phillips and Rolle] is what we would like to happen, but if it doesn't, we've got to do a better job of answering that than we did last season," Coughlin said of the safety play after Phillips went on injured reserve.

The Giants could target a safety high in the draft next month, but Rolle's arrival already is easing some of Coughlin's concerns about the position.

"Antrel Rolle is a guy who had an outstanding year," Coughlin said. "He's very athletic. He's an excellent football player."

Microfracture knee surgery is actually a very serious surgery in the world of sports. It almost ended the career of Phoenix Suns center Amar'e Stoudemire and has hindered the comeback attempts of several other athletes.

It takes a lot of time to come back from, and the Giants are being smart in taking things very slow with Phillips so he does not come back too soon and ruin his career. But if Phillips can come back strong, quarterbacks should watch out because going over the middle with Rolle and Phillips is like going to the outside with Jets cornerbacks Antonio Cromartie and Darrelle Revis; very dangerous and risky.

Tomlinson to Keep No. 21 with Jets

LaDainian Tomlinson will wear No. 21 for the Jets, with the Jets' former No. 21, Dwight Lowery, switching to No. 26.

Tomlinson wore No. 21 in his nine years with the Chargers, and Lowery was No. 21 in his two Jets seasons. Safety Brodney Pool, a free agent who wore No. 21 for the Browns, gets No. 22.
Antonio Cromartie, also acquired from the Chargers this offseason, is keeping his familiar No. 31, according to the team's Web site.

The No. 25 formerly worn by Kerry Rhodes (traded to Arizona) will be worn by defensive back Bo Smith.

Kohn Out Indefinitely With Concussion, Flood Called Up

Defenseman Dustin Kohn is out indefinitely after suffering a concussion on a hit from Sean Avery in the third period of the Islanders 5-0 embarrassing loss to the New York Rangers on Wednesday night. 

Kohn, who fell to the ice face first after the hit from Avery, was taken out mid way through the third period and did not return.

The Islanders have recalled defenseman Mark Flood from the organization's AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, to take Kohn's place in the line up.  Flood made his NHL debut tonight in a 3-2 Islanders win over the Calgary Flames. Flood logged 10:49 of ice time and was minus-2 tonight. 
 
Flood, playing in his first season within the Islanders' organization, had 32 points (10 goals and 22 assists) in 58 games with the Sound Tigers.  He was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 2003 in the sixth round, 188th overall but has played in the Carolina Hurricanes the last three seasons.  Flood played for the Hurricanes' AHL affiliate playing in 165 games and totaling 19 goals and 44 assists for 63 points.  


On a side note, former Islanders great Bob Nystrom watched his son, Eric, play and score a goal for the Calgary Flames in the Flames 3-2 loss to the Isles. It was the first time Eric had played a game at Nassau Coliseum (he is from Syosset and his family still lives there).

"My heart is with the Islanders, but for Eric, I'm so proud of what he's done," the four-time Cup-winner said. "It's a thrill. We've been waiting for this game for a long time. To see him play here and play well, it's phenomenal."


"I'm sure in a million years he never imagined his son would be playing in the NHL, skating in the same arena he did," said Eric, who wears the same No. 23 the Islanders retired for his father. "I think this is a pretty proud moment for him. Too bad we couldn't come out on top."

Apparently Bob Nystrom was working on the grill all Wednesday night, as Eric had the whole team over his parents' house for a barbeque.


Here's a thought: Eric Nystrom is an unrestricted free agent this summer, is young, and fits the Islanders system very well. He has better hands than his father did and skates better than his father as well. While he fits the grinder type mold, he is also a play maker, something the Islanders desperately need.

How incredible would that story be if Nystrom were to sign with the Islanders this July? It would be a match made in heaven for these two parties.

Maybe Bob would even unretire his number 23 for his son to wear. Now that would be cool, but probably still very weird for people to see 'Nystrom 23' skating around on the ice in an Isles uniform again.

Neon Leon Only Jet Missing from Workouts

New York Jets coach Rex Ryan is disappointed that injured running back Leon Washington is staying away from the team's voluntary workouts.

"He may have reasons for not being here or whatever, but the rest of the team volunteered to be here," Ryan said Thursday. "We would love to get Leon back."

The versatile Washington, recovering from a broken right leg, was rehabilitating at the team's facility until he was offered a second-round restricted free-agent tender earlier this month. He's free to sign an offer sheet with another team, and the Jets would have a week to match it.

The former Pro Bowl kick returner is currently rehabbing at Athletes Performance Institute in Pensacola, Fla., according to a person with knowledge of Washington's rehab who spoke on condition of anonymity because Washington has not publicly commented on the situation.

Jets spokesman Bruce Speight confirmed that club officials know where Washington is working out but said they prefer players to rehabilitate at the team's facility. If a player decides not to work with the team, the organization is obligated under the collective bargaining agreement to pay for "reasonable and customary rehabilitation expenses."

"I just know that no place is going to be as good as what we have here," Ryan said.
The person with knowledge of the situation said Washington is not angry at a possible reduced role in the offense with the recent signing of LaDainian Tomlinson but rather focused solely on getting healthy in time for the season.

Ryan added that Washington was doing "phenomenal" at the time he left the Jets' facility.

"I mean, this guy was working his tail off, just like we know Leon would do," he added. "He was getting better. I mean, he's getting close to really being back. That's why I hate to see him not take advantage of what we have here."

Ryan was asked if he thought Washington, the only player not at voluntary workouts, would jeopardize his chances of being 100 percent healthy for the start of the season by not rehabilitating at the team's facility.

"This is a huge year for us as an organization," Ryan said. "It's a huge year for Leon, personally. Then let's try to give yourself the best opportunity to be successful."

Ryan indicated he wouldn't speak to Washington to persuade him to join his teammates.

"There's nothing I can say that's going to get Leon back here," Ryan said. "This needs to be Leon's decision. It's a voluntary camp or whatever you want to call it. I'm going to leave that up to him."

Ryan reiterated statements he made earlier this week at the NFL owners' meetings in Orlando that he envisioned the versatile Washington more as a kick returner and third-down back, behind Shonn Greene and Tomlinson, than an every-down ball carrier.

"I said he's a third-down back and a Pro Bowl returner," Ryan said. "I mean, that's a pretty big thing. Do we expect him to come back from the surgery he had ... and you're going to put him in there instead of Shonn Greene or LaDainian Tomlinson? Maybe you would. I'm not comfortable with that.

"Let's see where he's at. I'm not just going to give him the ball 20 times a game coming off of that. He has to be ready to take that kind of role. If he's ready to take an expanded role, then obviously we could see that," Ryan said.

Washington's agent, Alvin Keels, tweeted on Monday that the running back is weighing his options and is expected to be cleared for running drills within the next two weeks.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

Can't really fault the guy for missing VOLUNTARY workouts.

They are what the title says they are, so right now it really isn't a big deal.

Furthermore, he doesn't currently have a contract so why would he risk it, that in addition to his severely broken leg that he is rehabbing.

For now Jets fans, don't read too much into this.

Jets to Star in HBO Reality Show "Hard Knocks"

HBO knows they have a TV star in Rex Ryan.

And they are pretty high on the Jets, too.

“After last year’s postseason run, this is certainly a championship-caliber team with big-name talent,” HBO president Ross Greenburg after announcing the Jets would be featured on this season’s "Hard Knocks."

“Get ready for some of Coach Ryan’s ‘blunt force trauma’ behind the scenes with this staff and this talent.”

This will be the sixth installment of the series which follows teams through camp. The Cincinnati Bengals were featured last summer.

The Jets seem perfect subjects, starting with the loquacious Ryan, a Baltimore assistant during the show's first season in 2001, and trash-talking linebacker Bart Scott. Quarterback Mark Sanchez, cornerback Darrelle Revis and newly signed LaDainian Tomlinson also are sure to get plenty of camera time.

“We are committed to being an organization that is open and accessible,” Jets chairman and CEO Woody Johnson said. “’Hard Knocks’ serves as a tremendous vehicle for fans everywhere to receive unprecedented access and a fascinating behind-the-scenes look as we prepare for the 2010 season. HBO and NFL Films have an award-winning track record and we are excited about working with them.”

A 24-person NFL Films crew will live at the Jets’ training camp in Cortland, shooting more than 1,000 hours of video. Camera and sound crews will be given access to the players’ and coaches’ meeting rooms, training rooms, dormitories and practice fields.

"We're going to be ourselves. We won't hide anything," Ryan told newyorkjets.com. "All we want to do is portray who we are and let the whole country see why I brag about our players and assistant coaches."

"Hard Knocks" debuted with the Baltimore Ravens in 2001, when Ryan was on their defensive staff. The show highlighted the Dallas Cowboys in 2002, then vanished until it resumed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2007. The Cowboys were featured in 2008 and the Bengals last year.

This should be really interesting.

Rex Ryan: Unplugged, if you will. This will be good for the Jets to get more exposure to fans throughout the country and to enable us to find out what goes on behind the scenes and in practice to get Gang Green ready for the season.

I know I am excited about it. As T.O. says "Get your popcorn ready, it's gunna be a show."

Reyes Back in Action at Spring Training

New York Mets shortstop Jose Reyes was back in camp Wednesday and working out for the first time in 19 days after being sidelined because of a hyperactive thyroid.

Reyes was all smiles, even in between sprints that clearly had him winded. He resumed workouts his first day back and said he couldn't be happier to be preparing for baseball again.

"I feel like a little kid again," said Reyes, whose bloodwork from a team physical raised enough concern with team doctors to pull him from stretching March 5.

After further tests, Reyes was prohibited from doing any physical activity until his thyroid levels returned to normal. He will be tested weekly and remains on a special diet that excludes eating seafood.

The 26-year-old shortstop was tested again Monday and found out Tuesday morning he could resume baseball activities. Reyes said he was relieved after the initial prognosis indicated he might miss as many as eight weeks.

"Every time I did a test, I expected to be better," Reyes said. "I went the next day and waited for good news. It was [always] bad news, 'You have to wait another week.' That was the tough thing for me because I wanted good news. They gave me the good news yesterday morning so I was happy about that."

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

This is great news for the Mets, but with their rotation still having several question marks, I wonder if they will be able to stay out of fourth place in the NL East.

Reyes will be Reyes, but the Mets have much bigger problems that.

Can they be 'Amazin'' in 2010? It's a long season, let's see what happens.

Hughes Wins Battle for Fifth Spot

The Yankees announced today that Phil Hughes has won the job to become the team's fifth starter, beating out Joba Chamberlain, Sergio Mitre, Alfredo Aceves and Chad Gaudin, who was placed on waivers yesterday.

Hughes, who turns 24 in June, will be slotted in the rotation behind ace C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, Andy Pettitte and Javier Vazquez.

"It was what I set out in the spring to do," Hughes said manager Joe Girardi announced the decision. "I grew up a starter in high school, minor leagues, even my first couple partial seasons in the big leagues. It was something that I really wanted and I feel like I'm ready for the challenge and ready for the season that lies ahead. "

Chamberlain will be inserted into the eighth inning set-up man role, becoming the main piece in the bridge to closer Mariano Rivera.

The manager said that was based on a number of factors: Hughes can pitch more innings than Chamberlain at this point in his career; Hughes has gotten better command of his fastball, and is bigger and more mature than he was.

Chamberlain was at the Yankees' complex about an hour before Girardi announced the winner and said "You go with the flow. That's what I've done."

Hughes will pitch Friday on three days' rest to line him up to take his turn the first time in the regular season. This spring, he has a 4.05 ERA and .240 batting average against, with 10 strikeouts and two walks. 

Hughes and Chamberlain spoke briefly at Steinbrenner Field.

"He just said 'congrats," Hughes said. "I think we all trust in the front office and the coaching staff to make the right decisions. We just get paid to go out and throw the ball. There's no bitterness or anything like that. We're all pulling for the same goal, to do what we did last year. The roles might be switched but we're pulling for each other."

Hughes made seven starts at the beginning of last season, then was moved to the bullpen after Chien-Ming Wang got hurt. Chamberlain was in the rotation during the regular season, then was shifted in the postseason to the relief role, which appeared to suit him better.

"I felt like everyone had been given an equal opportunity," Hughes said.

Mitre and Aceves, long shots to win the spot, also likely will pitch out of the bullpen.

Gaudin, who turned 27 on Wednesday, will receive $725,410 in termination pay rather than the non-guaranteed $2.95 million salary he and the team agreed to in January to avoid salary arbitration.

New York acquired Gaudin from San Diego in August for cash, and he went 2-0 with a 3.43 ERA in six starts and five relief appearances for the Yankees last season. He was on the roster for all three rounds of the postseason but appeared in just one game, a one-inning relief appearance against the Los Angeles Angels in the AL championship series.

Perfect move by the Yankees; I couldn't agree with it more.

Hughes, as I've stated before, has better projected stuff as a starter than Chamberlain does, and in my opinion, Chamberlain should be the heir apparent to Mariano.

This is good for Hughes too because even though he is on an innings limit, around 175 innings pitched, he will be able to learn from four excellent starting pitchers on how to be a successful major league pitcher and it will bode well for him in the future.

Hughes will not be counted on to be a savior for this team, which at this stage in his career, he can not be counted on as. He will be needed as a number five starter, who will probably be called upon to win between 10 and 12 games.

Good News For Thames; Hoffmann Returned to Dodgers

Rule 5 pick Jamie Hoffmann cleared waivers and was returned to the Dodgers today, paving the way for Marcus Thames to make the Yankees' season-opening roster. Hoffmann was hitting .130 (3-for-23) this spring, and while Thames (.107) is doing even less, he has a big-league track record.

Hoffmann heads back to the Dodgers for now, but don't be surprised to see him back in the Yankees organization at some point. There have been plenty of whispers in recent weeks about the Yankees sending either Chad Gaudin or Sergio Mitre to Los Angeles for Hoffmann, who the Yankees could then send to Triple-A. As a Rule 5 pick, Hoffmann had to stay on the 25-man roster or be returned to the Dodgers.

Can't really say much about this, as I have not really been watching many spring training games, but Hoffmann is well liked by Yankees officials and has some potential at the plate.

So as previously stated, don't be surprised if Hoffmann ends back with the Yanks in the coming weeks.

Jets Resign T-Rich

The Jets have announced the re-signing of veteran FB Tony Richardson and the signing of former Dolphins unrestricted free agent defensive end Rodrique Wright, who was out of football in 2009.

The signing of Richardson, 38, to a one-year deal is somewhat significant. While the Jets have seemingly done their best to try to dismantle the league's top-ranked rushing offense -- not re-signing Thomas Jones and giving Leon Washington only a second-round tender -- the blocking of Richardson often goes overlooked.

Richardson, a 15-year veteran, has blocked for a 1,000-yard rusher eight times in his career. By now, it's no coincidence.

The Jets, however, like practice-squad fullback Jason Davis (5-10, 242 pounds) and Richardson isn't a lock to make the team.

Excellent move by the Jets. This guy is maybe the best fullback in football and when playing at the level that T-Rich plays, a fullback is one of the most important players in a rushing attack.

The Jets rushing offense is still going to do very well, especially with T-Rich back on board.

Coach Ryan Gets Weight Loss Surgery

New York Jets coach Rex Ryan underwent a weight-loss procedure Saturday to help him fight obesity.

The husky Ryan had lap-band surgery at NYU Medical Center, and was relaxing at his home Saturday night in New Jersey, team spokesman Bruce Speight told The Associated Press.

Speight said Ryan also had a hernia repaired.

The New York Daily News first reported the story on its Web site Sunday morning.

The outpatient procedure came a day after Ryan and the Jets wined and dined free agent running back LaDainian Tomlinson, trying to persuade him to join the team that had the league's No. 1 rushing offense last season.

The 47-year-old Ryan frequently has poked fun at himself and his rotund midsection, including after unflattering belly-baring photos of him changing into a Hurricanes jersey during a Florida-Carolina NHL game last month floated around the Internet.

"I'm watching ESPN and I'm like, 'Whoa, that's not a real good shot,' " Ryan said during the NFL combine. "I mean, don't get me wrong, I get hit on all the time by women."

Ryan also partially blamed his weight for him not getting the head coaching job with the Atlanta Falcons after the 2007 season. He thought he was a shoo-in for the job that eventually went to friend and former Baltimore Ravens colleague Mike Smith.

"I think I was too fat," Ryan said with a laugh in December.

Ryan weighed 340 pounds at the start of last season, gaining at least 30 pounds after he was hired by the Jets in January 2009. He even tried a liquid diet during training camp and lost 20 pounds, but quickly gained it right back.

"You're always concerned," Ryan said at the time. "I want to see my kids grow, I want to see my grandkids. The thing that gets me is, my cholesterol is fine, my blood pressure is fine. I'm a genetic freak, I guess."

Ryan is married with two kids.

The surgery entails placing an adjustable gastric band around the upper part of the stomach. It makes the stomach smaller so it holds less food. Eventually, the appetite decreases, leading to weight loss.
There is no cutting or stapling of the stomach, and the surgery is reversible.

All I have to say is, good move Rex. Thank god you went that route because whatever else you were doing was not working.

This is great for his health and could potentially save his life. Congratulations, Rex, on finally seeing a problem with it.

L.T. Signs with Jets

LaDainian Tomlinson is bolting for the Big Apple.

Tomlinson's agent, Tom Condon, said Sunday that the Jets signed the former Chargers running back to a two-year contract.

The Jets confirmed that they have agreed to a deal, adding the aging star to the NFL's top-ranked rushing offense last season.

A source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter that Tomlinson's contract is for $5.1 million with an escalator that could boost it to $5.6 million.

"He wanted to go to a team that he thought had a chance to compete for the championship," Condon told the AP. "He wanted to go somewhere where he had a chance to have a significant role, and so with the Jets he also was going to be very familiar with the offensive system."

The Jets reached the AFC Championship Game last season, eliminating Tomlinson and the Chargers along the way.

The 2006 NFL MVP, cut last month by San Diego, chose New York over Minnesota after visiting the Vikings on Thursday. Tomlinson spent Friday with the Jets, capping it with dinner with coach Rex Ryan, general manager Mike Tannenbaum and other team officials.

The Jets went after Tomlinson hard even though he turns 31 in June, is coming off his least productive season and there are questions whether he has much left. New York apparently still saw plenty to like from Tomlinson, who ranks eighth on the NFL's career rushing list with 12,490 yards.

Once one of the NFL's most dynamic players, Tomlinson is expected to back up second-year running back Shonn Greene, who emerged in his rookie season and made Thomas Jones expendable. Jones signed with Kansas City last week after running for a career-high 1,402 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Tomlinson was welcomed to the Jets by several of his new teammates on Twitter, including left tackle Damien Woody, defensive end Mike DeVito and All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis.

"Good move by the organization," Revis tweeted. "I couldn't be more excited about this."
Added Woody: "LaDainian running behind our line ... I think he'll put up better numbers than people think."

Former Chargers teammate Antonio Cromartie, acquired by the Jets before the start of free agency on March 4, said: "Congrats to my homie L.T."

Tomlinson ran for 730 yards -- his first season under 1,000 -- on 223 carries for an average of 3.3 yards per carry, all career lows. He scored 12 touchdowns, but his role was reduced in an offense that shifted its focus to quarterback Philip Rivers and the passing game.

He's still regarded as an excellent route runner and superb receiver, two qualities that made him attractive to both New York and Minnesota.

With the Jets moving into the new Meadowlands Stadium, the 82,500-seat, $1.6 billion home they'll share with the Giants, Tomlinson's star power could potentially help the team sell more personal seat licenses.

More than that, though, New York hopes Tomlinson's contributions on the field are greater. While he likely won't be the focal point of the offense, as he had been for so many years with the Chargers -- a role he has said he's OK with -- the Jets are hoping he can still be a dangerous presence with the ball in his hands.

He's also familiar with the Jets' style of offense and coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, who was San Diego's quarterbacks coach from 2002-05. The Jets have Sanchez returning for a second season, along with a solid offensive line that helped pave the way for New York to average a league-leading 172.2 yards on the ground per game.

Those factors might have helped the Jets beat out the Vikings for Tomlinson's services. While Minnesota was also just a game away from the Super Bowl, the uncertainty surrounding Favre's return might have caused Tomlinson to hesitate about signing with the Vikings.

Tomlinson met with Minnesota team officials Thursday, but left for the New York area without a deal. He then spent all of Friday with the Jets -- touring the team's facility and the new stadium -- before returning home to San Diego to mull his options on Saturday.

Well there goes that idea of not signing L.T. and signing Justin Fargas instead.

I am not sure I get this signing. L.T. signed for LESS money than the Jets would have had to pay Thomas Jones in the 2010 seaason, $5.1 million to $5.8 million. Jones had a career year last season while L.T. had a career worst season.

Maybe the Jets saw something in Jones that they are not telling us about, maybe his game really was sliding. I guess we'll find out come September.

It is a good signing for the Jets, though, in the sense that they replace Jones's leadership in the locker room with a guy in L.T. that is a great locker room presence and an excellent leader.

Apparently the Jets believe that he will have a much better season running behind the great Jets offensive line. But the good thing is, he is not going to be needed as the key cog at running back.

Weight Out for Season; Will Get Shoulder Surgery

New York Islanders captain Doug Weight will have shoulder surgery that will certainly finish his season and could also end the center's 18-year NHL career.

The 39-year-old Weight has a torn rotator cuff and labrum in his left shoulder, injuries sustained in November. He has played through the pain, but said Saturday before the Islanders' morning skate in advance of their game against New Jersey that he will undergo surgery Thursday.

Weight had only one goal and 16 assists in 36 games this season. New York began Saturday in 14th place in the Eastern Conference, 11 points off the playoff pace with only 15 games remaining.

"It was probably inevitable and I don't know if I would've made it through the year even if we were in eighth or ninth," Weight said. "But I don't regret trying it."

Weight, a second-round pick of the New York Rangers in 1990, has 276 goals and 1,024 points in 1,220 NHL games. He was in the lineup Thursday when the Islanders lost 2-1 in a shootout to the St. Louis Blues, one of Weight's former teams.

He plans to work as hard as he can to resume his career next season. But the complexity of the surgery might make that impossible.

"I'm going to approach it with the aspirations of still playing hockey," Weight said. "I've still got the fire in my stomach when I hit the ice. My legs still feel strong, I feel strong on the puck. The rest will be written in the summer. I'll approach it to come back with 100 percent aggression.

"I'm going to attack this like I'm 25 and have to get ready for camp. But if Thursday was my last game, I have no regrets."

Weight is in his second season with the Islanders, but first as captain. Injuries - including a bout with swine flu in October - have limited him to 89 games since he came to Long Island as a free agent in 2008.

"It's not the type of hockey I wanted to play," Weight said. "I couldn't finish a check, I couldn't take a check, I couldn't handle the puck, I couldn't shoot the puck with velocity I was used to. I was spending 80 percent of my shift positioning myself so I didn't blow my shoulder out.

"I felt like if I could come back and rehab as hard as I could and contribute to a team that might make the playoffs, I would like to play in the playoffs."

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press.

Big woop. 

Weight has been nothing but an extra body out there on the ice all season long. He has done nothing on offense and nothing on defense and was becoming as useless as Brendan Witt had become. 

The guy is way past his prime and if the Islanders were smart they would severe ties with the guy in July and name Kyle Okposo the next team captain.

Jeter May Be Called to Testify in Clemens Case

Brian McNamee's defense attorneys might call on Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera to testify about their former Yankees teammate Roger Clemens as the ex-pitcher attempts to appeal a judge's decision to dismiss his defamation suit against his former trainer.

The New York Daily News reported Saturday that McNamee's defense lawyers sent a 60-page brief to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals saying they might call on Rivera, Derek Jeter and pitcher Andy Pettitte for sworn testimony.

The brief was sent to the court on Friday in response to Clemens' appeal of a lower court's ruling last year that dismissed the defamation suit against McNamee.
McNamee has sued Clemens for defamation in Brooklyn federal court.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

This could get messy real fast. In fact, it's already an extremely messy situation. My take on all things steroids is that the individual in question is innocent until proven guilty, so yes, that means in my eyes Clemens, Barry Bonds, Sammy Sosa and others are innocent until someone with definitive proof tells me or shows me otherwise. 

Season Over for Schremp

UPDATE: 1:53PM-3/17/2010: Rob Schremp started physical therapy today at the Professional Athletic Performance Center in Garden City. He says his knee is doing well, but is a little sore.

The surgery he opted for was not a major surgery and the recovery time is approximately four weeks.




It has been reported by Islanders Point Blank's Chris Botta that 23 year old forward Rob Schremp is out for the rest of the season with a torn meniscus in his right knee. The injury requires surgery, but the date of surgery is so far unknown.

The injury, according to Schremp, occurred way back in November. He was afraid to lose playing time, so he decided to play through the pain. In Tuesday night's 3-2 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers, Schremp says he felt his knee buckle, which he knew was not a good sign. Every time he went on the forecheck for the rest of the night he was nervous to get into the corners for loose pucks because he did not want guys such as Scott Hartnell and Chris Pronger hitting him hard, thus ruining his knee completely.

Schremp finished the season with seven goals and 18 assists for 25 points in 44 games.

And another one bites the dust. Schremp was having a solid season before this injury had occured.

He is a class act who loves the game. His talent level is very high, he has just yet to display it all in full force. He has hands of gold and at times has showed it. Maybe next season will be a break out year for him. Here's to a speedy recovery for Rob Schremp.

Gordon Unhappy with GM Snow's Lack of Trades at the Deadline?

The night before the NHL trading deadline, New York Islanders GM Garth Snow traded away his most physical and biggest player and defenseman when he traded Andy Sutton to the Ottawa Senators for San Jose's second round pick, acquired by Ottawa in the Dany Heatley trade.

Only hours after that deal was completed, Isles defenseman Andy MacDonald broke his foot blocking a shot against the Chicago Blackhawks, he is out 4-6 weeks (basically the rest of the season).

Once Sutton was traded, the next biggest Islander became Trent Hunter, but he got hurt in the game against the Blackhawks too and is out about two weeks.

Not only did Garth Snow not add anything to the already overmatched, undersized, non-physical defense group, but he gave away all of those aforementioned traits when he traded Sutton.

Islanders fans are already unhappy with Snow's lack of moves if the team is, in fact, competing for a playoff spot. But one person in particular sounds very unhappy, and this person may surprise you: head coach Scott Gordon.

Gordon is now left with very little to work with and he really is none too happy about it.

Here’s what the coach said after the 3-2 loss to the much bigger Bruins on Saturday when asked about playoff aspirations (as seen on Islanders TV):

“Let’s stop beating us up as to what the guys are thinking. At the end of the day, we’re pretty depleted on defense. We’re at a huge disadvantage.

“It’s not going to be easy. We’re going to get the effort. I know we’re going to get the effort, and we’re going to be better. But to immediately take out two guys that were playing 23, 24-plus minutes (Sutton and MacDonald), and insert a guy who’s never played an NHL game (Dylan Reese) - who has come in and done a good job - to insert a guy who’s been off for a month and a half (Jack Hillen) and is playing with the thought of what it’s like to have a puck hit you in the face, we’re at a huge disadvantage."

As Islanders Point Blank's Chris Botta writes, "After the game on Saturday, Gordon looked genuinely upset - as if he truly believed the team had no options but to field the roster they did. With the knowledge that MacDonald was injured, they could have grabbed a depth defenseman (or two) for late-round picks. They could have done something. They are 0-2 since."

Snow was sure to hear some criticism from the media, but it's possible Gordon is unhappy with him, too. If this losing continues, the Isles may soon pack it up and scrap their playoff plans.

Playoff plans?! Let's be realistic here.

The Islanders will not make the playoffs this season and probably not next season either. I love my Islanders, but they just are not competitive at all. They have no size anywhere on the ice, they are not a physical team, they have no scoring (the guys that are supposed to be scoring go cold for several games at a time) and their defense is shoddy night in and night out.

How can you be a playoff team when you can't protect your goaltender in front of the net because the guy screening him is five inches taller than the defenseman and when the team is constantly blowing multiple goal leads in the third period?!

I will say this. They are a better team than last season. But if I'm Garth Snow, I give Scott Gordon one more year to show real improvement, as in maybe ninth place, and if that is not seen, I don't give him a new contract.

This is getting ridiculous. I understand the youth movement, but all the youth is years away from coming up.

The Isles are at the salary floor, they have only $30 million in payroll committed to next year's team, and theoretically could spend another $25 million under the cap if they so choose. They could go out and spend that wealth of money on young restricted free agents or unrestricted ones. Why didn't they make a move for a young guy at the deadline for later round picks? Good question. No one knows but good ole Garth; not even Gordon knows.

They gave up an extremely physical defenseman in Sutton and lost MacDonald for probably the year with a broken foot, you would think they would bring back some grit and physicality.

It is tough to compete night in and night out when your tallest player is defenseman Dustin Kohn, at 6'2'' and 200 lbs (and Trevor Gillies doesn't count and neither does Tim Jackman, because let's be real, what is Jackman good for anyway? Nothing really).

They are constantly out-muscled in the corners and they have no one to stand in front of the net to take a beating and screen the goaltender like Mark Parrish used to and like Tomas Holmstrom does for the Detroit Red Wings.

Their biggest guy, Matt Martin, is 22 years old and must work on his skating to be a successful NHL player, but the kid is a banger and is willing to stand in front of the net and take the beating.

Take the Nashville Predators game from February 9, for instance. Martin stood in front of the net and it resulted in two goals. The Isles went on to win the game in a shootout.

Martin brings a piece of the game that the Islanders don't have and I still don't understand why he isn't with the big club. His size is definitely needed.

This team is the laughingstock of the NHL, and have been since our dear friend, Mike Milbury, began trading away our future stars because he couldn't get along with them and what not.

The youth movement is a fine idea if you surround the great youthful talent (Okposo, Bailey, Moulson, Tavares) with veterans that can still play the game, not guys like Doug Weight and Richard Park who are on fumes at this point in their careers.

Back to the point of the Islanders depleted defense.

The problem with these guys is that too many of them are offensive minded, but can't even score. Jack Hillen, Freddy Meyer, MacDonald, and Bruno Gervais all pinch up in the play too much and get caught in the offensive zone.

Notice how I left out Mark Streit. It's because he is the only one that can score and still be remotely responsible in his own end.

If I was the GM of this club I would go out into free agency in July and sign some physical, rather young defenseman that play well in their own end, but can help on the rush.

Dump Doug Weight and Richard Park and go out and get some veterans that can make more of a difference than the one goal that Doug Weight has this season.

Thomas Jones: Gone to KC

Thomas Jones has signed a free agent deal to pair with Jamaal Charles in the Kansas City Chiefs' backfield. Jones signed a two year deal worth $5 million this afternoon, reports ESPN NFL Insider, and my friend, Adam Schefter.

Jones was released by the Jets last week after being due a $3 million roster bonus on top of a $2.8 million base salary this season. He and the Jets failed to reach a compromise on restructuring his contract; the team wanted him to take a pay cut.

The Chiefs canceled a meeting with another free agent running back that was scheduled for Thursday, Willie Parker, after Jones came to visit. They knew that they wanted to sign Jones, and they were very aggressive in doing so.

The 31-year-old Jones is expected to supplement third-year running back Jamaal Charles, who was Kansas City's MVP last season with 1,120 rushing yards and seven touchdowns.

I got two things out of hearing about this. The first is this: why would he want to sign with the Chiefs? They are a rebuilding team that is a couple years away from competing. Plus, Jones stats were really boosted plenty by the fact that the Jets have the best offensive line in the NFL. What is it going to be like for Jones running behind a below average-to-terrible line that is the Chiefs' offensive line. 


I mean, the Chiefs line gave up 45 sacks last season (6th most in the NFL), 85 QB hits (12th most in the NFL) and they had the 6th worst overall line in the NFL. The Chiefs only had 30 rushes for first downs last season, 22nd in the NFL, and had 17 rushes up the middle for negative yards (3rd worst) and 21 to the right (5th worst). The Chiefs line, from the center over to the right tackle, is horrendous, but the left side was actually rather productive last season with rising star left tackle Brandon Albert and veteran left guard Brian Waters.

The second thing I got out of hearing about this signing was what are the Jets going to now do to replace him?

There were reports that the Jets were going to try to re-sign Jones, but a lot of people inside the league said that was very unlikely. However, I think there is now a perfect replacement on the market for the Jets to go in and swoop up. His name? Justin Fargas.

Fargas has been stuck on the atrocious Raiders the last seven seasons, drafted by them in the third round of the 2003 draft, but he has been a somewhat bright spot for them.

His best season came in 2007 when he rushed for 1,009 yards and 4 touchdowns. Fargas has never carried the ball all that much with the Raiders, other than in 2007, which can be a positive as a 30 year old back because there is not a lot of mileage in his legs.

Scouts, Inc. says this about Fargas: Fargas has excellent size and speed, but durability has been an issue with him every year. He has very good vision and acceleration. He hits the hole quickly and has explosive burst once he gets in space. Fargas doesn't have a lot of lateral quickness to make multiple cuts or leave defenders grasping at air, but his speed and acceleration are impressive. He can break long gains if he can get to the second level without having to avoid a lot of contact at the line of scrimmage. He has good burst when he decides to bounce outside but he's really at his best when he can make one cut and get up field. He tends to run with a narrow base and can be tripped easily at times. He has adequate hands as a receiver out of the backfield but he can still improve as a blocker and reacting to blitzes when he is left in to protect. (Copyright 2010 Scouts, Inc.)

I think this would be a perfect fit to compliment Shonn Greene and Leon Washington. As my very good friend, Evan Glasner, said, and I agree completely with him, "if the Jets don't have to spend to much to get Fargas, then they should, in fact, go after him and sign him. Fargas is an insurance policy incase something happens to Greene" because Greene is now the starter, as we saw with the release of Thomas Jones. Hopefully the Jets make this happen.

Jets Trade Rhodes to the Desert

After making a trade to acquire San Diego's malcontent defensive player on Friday afternoon, the Jets traded their own unhappy defensive star Saturday night. Safety Kerry Rhodes was dealt to the Arizona Cardinals for fourth and seventh round picks in this year's draft.

This trade was a long time coming, as many believed that Rhodes was more interested in his acting career than playing football. His nickname in the locker room, "Hollywood," did not sit well with his teammates and many believed he did not work hard enough this past season.

The coaches began to have doubts about the desire of Rhodes, who has aspirations of having an acting career after football. So head coach Rex Ryan and defensive coordinator Mike Pettine pulled him from the base defensive package in favor of Eric Smith.

He returned to the starting lineup at Tampa Bay on Dec. 13 following a meeting with defensive backs coach Dennis Thurman -- one of the conditions set by Ryan.

After being demoted, Rhodes got his head on straight and when he returned to the starting base defense, he looked as if he was a man on a mission, finishing the season with three interceptions and a career high 13 passes defensed.

The deal came a day after Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum said he expected Rhodes to participate in the offseason program in a few weeks, and play in New York this year and beyond "unless something changes."

Apparently, something did change -- and Tannenbaum jumped at the chance to deal Rhodes, whose future with the Jets was uncertain after a shaky season in which he feuded with coaches over his role.
Rhodes has four years left on his contract and was due a $2 million roster bonus next week. Expected to be one of the standouts on coach Rex Ryan's defense last year, Rhodes struggled and even lost his starting job.

After Ryan was hired as the Jets' coach last year, he immediately compared Rhodes to Pro Bowler Ed Reed. He said Rhodes could fill the playmaking role Reed excelled in under Ryan for several years in Baltimore.

The high praise was the result of the 12 interceptions, nine sacks and five forced fumbles Rhodes had in his first four seasons. But Rhodes struggled to live up to that hype, producing no turnovers through the first 10 games.

Rhodes acknowledged he was frustrated, but humbled by last season. He had been noncommittal about whether he would want to return to the team, but met with the coaches and had a different outlook in the offseason.

"To be honest, I really do want to be here," Rhodes said in an interview with television station SportsNet New York in January. "This is New York. This is the team that gave me my first shot. They gave me the big contract. ... I'm letting the fans know I do want to be here to end my career as a Jet, but sometimes circumstances happen."

Rhodes, a fourth-round pick out of Louisville in 2005, has 15 career interceptions.

This is a good move for the Jets because they rid themselves of a player who seemed to be very selfish at times and one who did not fit Rex Ryan's defensive system. Imagine how many missed tackles the Jets would amass next season if they had Cromartie AND Rhodes in their starting secondary.

All kidding aside, I love Kerry Rhodes and I think he is a phenomenal football player with gifted abilities, but he did not fit into the Jets locker room with his "Hollywood" mentality.

In Arizona, he will step right in and start opposite All-Pro safety Adrian Wilson. Rhodes seems better fitted in Arizona and they make a great move to get him after losing linebacker Karlos Dansby to the Dolphins and Antrel Rolle to the Giants.

Back to the Jets now.

This leaves a big hole in the Jets secondary at the safety position. There are not really any quality free agents out there to fill Rhodes' spot but they may take a look at Ravens restricted free agent saftey Dawan Landry. However, they probably won't do anything more than speak with him because it would cost the Jets a second round pick to sign Landry.

So which leads us to believe that this now changes the Jets' draft plan. They now need a safety and who better than the safety from my favorite college football team, the USC Trojans, Taylor Mays.

Mays hits as hard as anyone, ran one of the fastest 40s at the combine, has borderline outside linebacker size, but he needs some work with his game. However, he is projected to go in the latter portion of the first round. You're going to say a player like that doesn't have Rex Ryan licking his chops? I think so! I love, love Taylor Mays and I would love nothing more than to see him in green and white in 2010.

Let the Debates Begin!

Yankees right-hander Joba Chamberlain has struggled in his first spring training appearance, allowing five runs, three hits and three walks in New York's 12-7 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays.

Chamberlain, slowed by flulike symptoms this week, pitched 1 1/3 innings Friday in relief of Phil Hughes, his main rival for the Yankees' fifth starter spot.

Chamberlain replaced Hughes to the start the third and gave up three runs two hits and two walks during the inning. He left with runners on second and third and one out in the fourth.

Hughes allowed one run and one hit, a solo shot in the first inning, in two innings.

Tampa Bay left-hander David Price allowed two hits over 1 2/3 scoreless innings. He struck out two and walked one.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

Manager Joe Girardi has continually said that the Yankees won't judge the first outings as much as later outings because the pitchers will be stronger and more along in their throwing routines in two weeks as opposed to now.

Hopefully this is not a sign of things to come for either pitcher, but both will, of course, be watched very carefully as this spring training unfolds.

Reyes Returns to NY for Testing

Mets shortstop Jose Reyes plans to undergo tests in New York after doctors in Florida discovered a thyroid imbalance, the team said Friday.

Reyes will have tests on Monday and it could take up to 48 hours for doctors to receive the results. Reyes is not expected to take part in any physical activity while he is gone.

"We're going to be conservative," Mets general manager Omar Minaya said.

The thyroid is a gland in the neck that produces hormones that help control metabolism.

Doctors cleared Reyes to play Friday after he took a follow-up blood test to one conducted during his physical. However, Minaya said team doctors in New York wanted to take a closer look at the speedy infielder and pulled him out of pregame stretching.

Reyes appeared in only 36 games last season because of a hamstring injury, which Reyes said has healed. The Mets have discussed moving him from the leadoff spot to third in the lineup while outfielder Carlos Beltran recovers from offseason knee surgery.

Reyes said he felt fine and has not experienced any dizziness, fatigue or any other symptoms of a thyroid problem. He said he was anxious to find out what is happening.

"We're not talking about my leg, nothing like that, we're talking about my health," he said, "so I have to be concerned about it."

Reyes said this is the first time an imbalance was found in a blood test, and maintained that he does not feel "haunted" by injuries after being summoned to New York.

"I don't want to say unlucky because leg-wise everything feels good," he said. "But this is different. We're not talking about an injury on the field."

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

DiPietro Back Where He Started the Season, Leaves Goalie Situation in Shambles

Rick DiPietro is right back where he started the season, on injured reserve.

After playing in just five games last season before shutting it down because of a knee injury that required surgery, DiPietro began rehabbing his surgically repaired knee in August. He sat out until January 8, 2010, over a year after playing his last game, losing his first game back to the Dallas Stars.

From there Ricky was used sparringly, playing in only seven games leading up to the Olympic break, and none since February 6, a 3-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. I had said originally that the extended time off from the Olympic break would hurt DiPietro more than help, and it appears I was right.

Just one day before the Islanders resumed their season following the Olympic break, DiPietro did not practice because he felt stiffness and swelling in his left knee after practice Sunday.

DiPietro said all tests showed his left knee is structurally sound. "I think at this point, it's precautionary," he said. "After seven or eight days off, to kick it back into full gear might have irritated it a little bit. There's nothing major to report, just the stuff that goes along with the territory coming back from serious injury."

DiPietro was placed on IR (knee swelling) on Tuesday retroactive to February 28 and remains out indefinitely. However, Islanders GM Garth Snow did say that he is optimistic that DiPietro will return sometime this season and expects that the latest setback will sideline him 7-10 days.

Until then, Snow has Dwayne Roloson and Martin Biron to assume goaltending duties. Having both netminders remain with the Islanders is somewhat surprising, given the team's long-standing plan to move one, but Snow said that the latest development with DiPietro had no impact on the team's maneuvering at the deadline.

"Coming into the season we were sitting there with Rick not being healthy and we thought it was a great luxury to have two number one goalies. Rick is out right now and we have two number one goalies and we're battling for a playoff spot," Snow said.

The Islanders signed Biron July 22 with the intention of trading him once DiPietro returned healthy after rehabbing a surgically repaired left knee. Snow had been fielding inquiries for the past two months about Biron once that scenario came to fruition and although Roloson's strong play and resultant value garnered speculation that the Islanders might re-prioritize which goaltender to trade, Biron was the one they actively tried to move.

Had the team received significant interest in Biron, they would have moved him, but they did not. It is believed that Biron's price tag was a deterrent, even with his one-year, $1.4 million deal prorated for the last six weeks of the season.

While Snow received interest for Roloson, he focused his efforts on dealing Biron.

"Roloson is our MVP," Snow said. "You saw the way he played [Tuesday] night [against the Blackhawks]."

The Islanders now revert to a situation similar to the beginning of the season, with Roloson and Biron in the mix and DiPietro's status lingering tenuously overhead. It is no secret that the situation is not ideal for any of the parties involved, but Snow said that this is an inevitable part of the business.

Obviously this is a really unwanted situation that the Islanders have in goal and it even has miffed some current Islanders players, according to Newsday. When the Islanders decided not to trade neither Roloson nor Biron at the trading deadline on Wednesday, many players in the Isles locker room were not happy.


"It doesn't play out well at all for anybody," a source said. "It's not in the best interest of anyone on the team, whether it be the players involved, other players or the coaching staff. It's a tough situation for everyone."

Those unnamed players that are unhappy with the current goaltending situation are taking the stance that the organization's efforts to get DiPietro back into the lineup have resulted in a difficult situation for all parties involved.

"If that continues, the organization will never improve," a source said. "Things will only continue to plummet."

A source also said the team's performance has been hindered by the undesirable dynamic of having three goaltenders in play.

"Look at where we were at, we had a playoff spot," said a player who requested anonymity. "Then we went on a losing streak and now we're on the outside looking in."

"You just can't have three goaltenders," another player said. "It's not great for anyone."

I couldn't agree more, but Martin Biron had to have known the situation when he signed with the team back in July. With that being said, it would be easy to understand why Biron would be upset, if he in fact is, about not being dealt at the trading deadline after it was essentially promised to him that it would happen.

Roloson has played outstanding all season and to his defense, the Islanders defense couldn't rattle your grandmother with a check with all of them being very undersized, as well as not very physical.

At the draft last year the Isles took two goaltenders, with the one drafted in the second round, Mikko Koskinen, projected to be quite good, especially standing at 6'5". With that being said, I think this summer the Islanders need to put DiPietro on the block and see what they can get for him and trade him for whatever the might be able to receive, which at this point doesn't seem to be much.

Have Roloson start again next year with Koskinen learning from him and backing him up and get Biron and DiPietro out of town.

Jets Trade with Chargers to Get Cromartie

The New York Jets have acquired cornerback Antonio Cromartie from the San Diego Chargers for a 2011 third round pick that could become a second rounder on the eve of the start of free agency.

Cromartie has one year left on his contract and there are no plans for his deal to be redone now.

Cromartie was an All-Pro in 2007 and will team with Darrelle Revis in the Jets' secondary, making them possibly the best cornerback tandem in the NFL. He replaces Lito Sheppard, who was released earlier in the day after one disappointing season.

Rex Ryan undoubtedly loves Cromartie's physical skills, but he'll have to help him cover consistently, as Cromartie will get plenty of targets playing opposite Revis Island.

Despite 15 interceptions in four seasons, the Chargers were dissatisfied with Cromartie's performance late last season and in the playoffs. General manager A.J. Smith made it clear he would try to trade him.

A great acquisition by the Jets. This could potentially be a huge steal for the Jets, although a still a risky move at this point if Cromartie plays like he did down the stretch last season. However, if he plays like he has in the past, giving up a third round pick for him would make Mike Tannenbaum a genius.

This acquisition gives the Jets maybe the best 1-2 cornerback punch in the NFL. Cromartie is an interception machine and when quarterbacks drop back to pass they can decide if they want to get picked off by Cromartie or have every pass batted down by Revis. Great move by Mike Tannenbaum and the Jets on the eve of free agency!

Jets Release Thomas Jones and Lito Sheppard

The New York Jets have announced that they will release runningback Thomas Jones. Jones, acquired prior to the 2007 season from the Chicago Bears, was a three year starter for the Jets. After deciding not to restructure his contract, the Jets informed him that he would be released. Jones was slated to receive a $3 million roster bonus March 9 and a $2.8 million base salary in 2010.

Jones set a career high in rushing yards, 1402, and rushing touchdowns, 14, in his last season with the Jets in 2009. In 2008, Jones scored a then career high 13 rushing touchdowns, while rushing for 1312 yards, his second best rushing total at that time. He was also a popular presence in the locker room, twice being voted the team's most inspirational player by his teammates.

Jones had a career-high 331 carries in the regular season and appeared to wear down a bit down the stretch as rookie Shonn Greene got the majority of carries. Still, with the game on the line against San Diego and the Jets facing fourth-and-1 late, coach Rex Ryan put the ball in Jones' hands to make a first down that clinched a trip to Indianapolis.

"Thomas joined us three years ago and has been a productive, passionate leader both on and off the field who has served as a positive influence for our younger players," Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum said in a statement. "We were fortunate to acquire Thomas and wish him the best."

Jones' departure leaves Greene, the team's third-round pick last year, as the likely starter in the backfield. The Jets also anticipate having a healthy Leon Washington, who's recovering from a broken right leg that sidelined him for the last nine games of the regular season and the playoffs.
The Jets might also consider adding a veteran free-agent backup, perhaps Chester Taylor or Mike Bell, to add some depth.

He finished third in the NFL in rushing this past season, a year after leading the AFC and making his first Pro Bowl. Jones ranks second only to LaDainian Tomlinson in yards rushing since 2005.

While he's at an age, 32 in August, when many running backs start to slow down and, in some cases, break down, he said earlier in the season that he thinks he can play another four or five years.

"Whoever came up with that rule obviously didn't play running back in this league, didn't prepare like I prepare, didn't watch film like I watch film, didn't take care of their body like I take care of my body," Jones said last October. "Physically, I feel like a rookie."

That's for sure. Have you ever seen this guy's arms and legs?! Each of his biceps are bigger than both of mine combined and his quads are maybe literally tree trunks, obviously I'm exaggerating, but you get the point. He keeps himself in terrific shape with a strict workout routine and also doesn't have the wear and tear that perhaps other running backs his age have. He never had more than 138 carries until his fifth season.

Also, the Jets released cornerback Lito Sheppard, a team source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. The move was expected, what with Sheppard's disappointing season after being acquired from Philadelphia last offseason; he also was due a $10 million roster bonus.

I'm going to have to say that I am not a huge fan of the release of Thomas Jones, but word around the league is that the Jets will try to re-sign him.

Many in the Jets locker room are not pleased with his release, with one unnamed player saying "I can tell you, it's not going to be a popular move in the locker room. We loved T.J. The man loved the game and put it all on the line only to get dumped after his best season. I think you should reward players for performance. You dump him but give Vernon (Gholston) another shot? Doesn't make sense."

I am going to have to agree with this unnamed Jet in a sense. Gholston is now in year two of the Rex Ryan era, so look for improvement out of him this year. Jones had his best season last year and the Jets are refusing to pay him a $3 million roster bonus and a $2.8 million salary? I mean this is the sports world of ridiculously high contracts and they Jets couldn't afford to pay that to Thomas Jones? I think they should've bit the bullet and given Jones his money.

On the Lito Sheppard front: who cares? The guy was terrible last season and everyone knew he was going to be released. He couldn't cover anyone, started only nine games this past season, and was burned in the AFC Championship game. Good luck elsewhere in 2010, Lito. Don't let the door hit you on the way out. 

Islanders Trade Sutton to Senators

The Islanders have traded their biggest and most physical defenseman, Andy Sutton, to the Ottawa Senators for the second round pick that Ottawa acquired in the Dany Heatley deal with San Jose in September.

Sutton, standing at 6'6" 245 lbs, was the Isles most physical defenseman and the man that gave up his body the most to block shots. He is the only player in the league with more than 150 hits and 150 blocked shots this season, so needless to say the Islanders will miss his his size and supreme shot blocking ability.

Sutton was signed by the Islanders on August 10, 2007 as a free agent and has played on Long Island over the past three seasons.  Over the course, Sutton has played in 135 games for the Islanders, scoring seven goals and 23 assists.  This year, Sutton totaled four goals and eight assists for 12 points in 54 games with the Islanders, while having one of his best seasons defensively.

"(Islanders GM Garth Snow) knew what he could get elsewhere and he was certainly fielding questions from other general managers," said Senators GM Bryan Murray. "At the end of the day he came back and we talked and I guess I owe him something or vice versa, but we were able to make the deal."

Yeah, Bryan Murray for sure owed Garth Snow something. He owed him sweet revenge for ripping him off on the Chris Campoli deal from last year, where Snow finagled a first round pick out of Ottawa. 

Well this time the joke is on you Garth, buddy! Way to blow this trade.

Snow basically received a third round pick for Sutton because San Jose has one of the best records in the league. I don't believe that he didn't have any better offers for Sutton.

I will say that a second round pick is good value for Sutton, but not the pick that the Isles got. Garth Snow got fleeced on this deal and Bryan Murray is now the one laughing, as opposed to Snow last February after the Campoli deal.

I, along with several other Islanders fans, are none too happy about the value Snow got from this trade.

And this trade looks worse now that Andy MacDonald is out four to six weeks, just about the rest of the season, with a broken foot that he sustained while blocking a shot in Tuesday night's 5-3 win over the Blackhawks. Now the Isles have called up the newly acquired Dylan Reese to take MacDonald's spot. Reese, incase you were wondering, is 6'1". Not exactly a bruiser out there.