We Made Trades? No But It Will Feel Like One

Yes - the Islanders did get Emil Heineman from the Canadiens in the Noah Dobson trade.

Yes - the Islanders acquired Jonathan Drouin from free agency.

But did you know we made two other acquisitions (not including Max Shabonov)?

That's right.  We got, hopefully, two healthy guys, that will make the team that finshed the season even more of a better lineup this upcoming season.  Getting Mat Barzal and Anthony Duclair at 100 percent - this team does not look like the organization that missed the playoffs.

The lineup will be much stronger - even with our old friend Brock Nelson playing in Denver.  The top 6 (Lee, Barzal, Duclair, Drouin, Palmieri, and Horvat) will be a strong set of two lines.  Of course, all injuries situations change this lineup considerably.

This season - the third line can prove to be a little more formidable than in the past.  Putting JG Pageau with Simon Holmstrom and newcomer Max Shabonov will provide speed as well as grit.  Shabonov, despite his small stature, plays a lot bigger than he is.  That will be a plus, along with his lethal stick.  The Islanders, with the most Russians in an NHL lineup, will be able to contend better becuase you will have 9 as opposed to 6 that defenses will have to worry about.

And don't forget line 4!

Casey Cizikas, Emil Heineman and Max Tsyplakov will not only be able to be physical and shut down the top lines, but can put the puck in the net.  When the Identity line was at its best, they were able to help with the odd goal and spark the team.  They will not be a physical (how can you replace #15 and #17), but they will not be shy.  We need the Casey of 2023 to spark a strong 4th line to get the team back to the graces of the early 2020s.

The goaltending - we just hope that Varly can return.  David Rittich can be a capable number 2, so there is not the absolute impetiment to hav #40 return as quickly as possible.  Can they last with three goalies on the roster?  Yes - I believe so.

That is it for now - the next blog - we will talk about the defense, and how Matthew Schaefer fits in.  

Do I think Matt can make the team?

Tune into the next blog to find out my opinion?  (PS - Paul K from Isles Talk is not going to like it!)