Predicting every NHL team’s future Hall of Famers

New York Islanders – Honorable Mentions

I included Barry Trotz with the Predators, so that means the Islanders don’t really have any slam dunk candidates. They’ve got three pretty interesting candidates that stand out to me, though.

First of all, let’s talk about our good buddy John Tavares. He’s been one of the best players in the NHL over the past decade. Tavares nearly won the Hart Trophy in 2013 and 2015, but unfortunately for him, he finished third each time. His Olympic gold medal in 2014 will help his cause, as will his World Cup of Hockey gold medal in 2016. So will his two WJC gold medals. But I think Tavares is a Stanley Cup away from emerging as a true candidate, even if it’s on another team.

Secondly, Mogilny’s going to get into the Hall of Fame one day (hopefully). If and when he does, Žigmund Pálffy could get some attention. Unfortunately, the case against Mogilny starts with his lack of longevity, and well, Pálffy played even fewer games than Mogilny. But Pálffy was a really great player whose best years came at the wrong time.

Thirdly, it’s time we talk about Pierre Turgeon. On paper, he’s arguably the most productive player who’s not yet in the Hall of Fame and isn’t a slam dunk. But on the other hand, he has no major awards, which really hurts his case. Also, Turgeon is far from a popular player, which is probably why he hasn’t made it yet.