Isles Junkie
Registered User
I think everyone around the league assumed the NYI would be dog turds because they lost tavares. The reality of the situation is that while JT was obviously a huge part of the team, he was not the only good player they have. It seemed that way because they're a losing org. and tavares was the biggest name. But i'm not shocked at all that so far Barzal is producing as the 1st line center. I'm definitely not shocked at all that Bailey is still producing (he's been the islanders secret best player for a few years now, whatever line he's on, seems to be the best line the NYI have going for them any given night). Lee continuing to score shouldn't be surprising either.
The NYI may not make the playoffs this year, but I'd wager by the end of the year, barring major injuries, they are closer to being a playoff team than a lottery team. There's just too much talent on the club, and they are playing within a smart system for the first time since Ted Nolan was coaching them.
The NYI may not make the playoffs this year, but I'd wager by the end of the year, barring major injuries, they are closer to being a playoff team than a lottery team. There's just too much talent on the club, and they are playing within a smart system for the first time since Ted Nolan was coaching them.