Chris Simon; Devils today; Trent signs for 5 years!

BREAKING NEWS: Trent Hunter signs a 5-year deal for ten million bucks. We are very excited for Trent, who is one of our favorite Islanders. The moves sends a good message to the other guys in the room that the organization wants to take care of their own core.

Well, I guess the Islanders brass was a bit surprised at the welcome afforded Chris Simon the other night against the Lightning.

I wasn't.

You see, while the Islanders like to promote themselves as a family organization, the truth is that sometimes, people in your family screw up royally and it pisses you off. Pisses you off or worse, embarrasses you. While Simon's troubles in and out of hockey have been documented to the point of making you want to skip over it all and forget about it, he still is a man who is trying to deal with his issues. For that, you have to give him respect; however begrudging that respect may be.

The question begs that if he had not had this personal relationship with Ted Nolan, would he enjoy these many second chances. Charles Wang has shown that he tries to run a compassionate organization, but to be fooled twice puts everyone on edge. That's why we boo.

Devils this afternoon. We'll post if we can. Isles going for seven in a row!