Grading The New York Islanders’ 2022 Offseason So Far
The New York Islanders, at one time, were one of the most feared teams in the league, making the playoffs fourteen straight years and winning four straight Stanley Cups. The Islanders want to bring back that winning pedigree and want to start sooner than later.
New York began the offseason with the 2022 NHL Draft. During this year’s draft, they selected defenseman Calle Odelius, left winger Quinn Finley, defenseman Isaiah George, right winger Matt Maggio, and left winger Daylan Kuefler.
While they did not have many selections, they did stockpile their prospect pool with a variety of needs being filled.
While it is way too early to say how these prospects will pan out, the Islanders now have some talent coming their way in the near future, preferably sooner than later. Most will be sent back to their junior clubs while some may be sent to the Islanders’ AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Islanders.
What grade do the Islanders get for the 2022 offseason so far?
The main roster remains a mystery, as they have made no additions via trade or free agency. The opinion was that they make look for offense in free agency since their offense was ranked 23rd in the league last season with 2.79 goals per game average.
With just over $11 million in cap space, they do have room to add some pieces, with Nazem Kadri and Phil Kessel still out there.
Kadri would be an interesting addition, fresh off of a career-high in points and a Stanley Cup. The Islanders could use additional scoring and center depth, both of which Kadri could provide. Kessel is older and had an off year last season, but he has shown he can still produce at his age.
As far as the Islanders’ offense goes, Brock Nelson led the team in scoring last season, finishing with 37 goals and 22 assists or 59 points in 72 games. With Mathew Barzal and Anders Lee also main contributors, the offense dries up after that.
Kessel and Kadri could both be had to help offensively, but their contracts added up to $12.5 million last season (Kadri $4.5 million and Kessel $8 million).
However, they may already be signed. Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello had made it a habit of signing players and then announcing the move or moves months later. With the Islanders lacking offensive depth and not getting any help this offseason, their offseason grade, as of now, is a D.
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The Islanders had plenty of chances to upgrade their team via free agency and trade but failed to do so. Unless moves are made, they likely will not see the playoffs next season.