2016-17 record: 41-29-12 (94 points)
Missed the playoffs
Captain: John Tavares
The New York Islanders had a disappointing season, one that saw their head coach get fired midway through the season and their long-time starter get sent to the AHL for a chunk of the season. While Doug Weight was able to right the ship just enough to get the Islanders close to a playoff spot, it may prove to be a single patch on a boat that is springing several leaks. Yes, this year's Islanders will have the potential to be more exciting off the ice than on. Unfortunately, off-ice may consume the team's on-ice product if it doesn't get resolved.
Offensively, the Islanders ranked in the top third of the league, but that number is largely deceiving because the defensemen contributed a fair amount, as five players topped 20 points, and the front line remains top heavy. John Tavares still leads the way, but heading into his free agency year, his contract has the potential to be a distraction to himself, the team, or possibly both. Anders Lee led the team in goals, but the Isles need much more out of Andrew Ladd, who only amassed eight assists, which largely explains his paltry 31 point total. Jordan Eberle should help with the offensive totals, but the Isles are going younger, albeit a year or so too late. Matt Barzal, Josh Ho-Sang, and Anthony Beauvillier are all expected to have roles up front. The blue line has no trouble pitching in on offense, but they also contributed to the team's bottom third finish on defense. Losing Travis Hamonic won't help, as he was the team's best defender in his own end. Of course, it will help that the goaltending will finally have some semblance of order, as Halak and Thomas Greiss are splitting duties, which is a far cry from the weird three goalie system that also included the since departed J-F Berube. Halak was better after his AHL exile, and Greiss showed that he was ready to be the starter, and both will have plenty to prove. The penalty kill wasn't bad, but the power play was the team's undoing, as they were near the bottom of the league. Eberle figures to help with the man advantage.
Prediction: 7th in the Metropolitan Division
The Islanders almost always seem to be in some kind of turmoil off the ice, and certainly, issues with their home arena and Tavares' contract qualify. On the ice, the team should be better, but until goaltending and the power play both get resolved, the Islanders will have a hard time making way in a tough Metropolitan Division.
No comments:
Post a Comment