Giving the Kids a Shot

When the New York Islanders and head coach Scott Gordon announced their opening day roster, members of the media as well as fans world wide were given a reason to cringe.  It looked as if this would be another season of disgust and embarrassment.

The focus quickly shifted to this team being a potential for the playoffs. A late season slide has the Islanders looking at a top five draft choice at this years upcoming draft instead of a playoff birth.  One way or the other, both will benefit the team moving forward so whichever happens Islanders fans there is no reason to panic.

John Tavares started out on a tear, slowed a bit but seems to have found a comfortable balance to his game. The difficulties a first year player goes through in adapting to the speed and structure of the game at it’s highest level can not be left unnoticed.

However, Tavares’ rookie year has not been that much of a let down. Through 70 games played, JT has scored 21 goals and added 20 assists for 41 points on the year.

Tavares is ranked third on the Islanders in points earned.

Kyle Okposo was the exact opposite. A slow start to the season created an Olympic sized let down. Okposo was not selected to participate for Team USA in Vancouver during the 2010 Winter Olympics.

The “snub” was frustrating for Okposo. However, it brought new life to his game.  He is 28th in the league for shots taken at 217. And although he only has 14 goals on the season, Kyle is second on the Islanders in points with 42.

Matt Moulson leads all Islanders skaters in scoring with 43 points on the year. His 26 goals have been quite impressive, even if most of them haven’t been highlight reel. Playing a top six role for the Isles has created an opportunity for Moulson that was never even a thought at one point in time.

Josh Bailey has become a much more responsible player. Also earning top six ice time has created confidence in Bailey’s game. He’s played in 63 games for the Islanders and although he has only scored 32 points and has been shifted between Center and Winger, he has been important to both the offense as well as the defense aspects of the game. Keep an eye on Bailey as next year moves along. He has the potential to be a full time top six player as long as his offensive side of the game takes a slight step forward.

Jack Hillen’s recognition can not be overlooked. Not so much for his offensive output, but more so for his overall game. Hillen has been a rock on the Islanders blue line this year when healthy.

Rob Schremp even makes the cut. Prior to his injury, he appeared in 44 games for the Islanders and has tallied 25 points. The Oilers outcast has finally earned enough ice time and confidence to show his skills in the big dance.

The season is not over yet. However, the Islanders are a couple of losses from being eliminated from their hopeful playoff run.

The positive to take from any of this; the development of the teams youth. Next season has a lot of potential being created around it.

Remember though, this season is not over yet.