Empire Writes Back
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NHL All-Star Game: Building an all New York/New Jersey team

By John Carroll Jr.

(Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)
(Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images) /

Forwards

The forwards are:

  • Josh Bailey (Islanders)*
  • John Tavares (Islanders)*
  • Brian Boyle (Devils)*
  • Nico Hischier (Devils)
  • Mat Barzal  (Islanders)
  • Michael Grabner (Rangers)
  • Taylor Hall (Devils) +

The three who qualify speak for themselves. Tavares is a perennial All-Star and Josh Bailey is the glue that holds the Isles’ top line together. Nico makes this list not only because he is the top overall pick but is also fun to watch.

Barzal has the argument to be playing in Tampa on Sunday but his speed, awareness, and veteran poise as a rookie definitely deserve his spot here. There’s a good chance he even wins the Calder Trophy.

Grabner is not too high on the Blue Shirts point list but the goal-scoring ability and breakaway speed of this ex-Islander and current Ranger make for an exciting All-Star game skill set. His +13 is impressive no matter what you think of that stat.

We all know the Brian Boyle story. From cancer to All-Star. His on and off the ice contributions are why he is an all-star for the Metro and therefore our Empire Division.

Taylor Hall meets the automatic bid with a whopping 48 points this year but the ill-timed injury prevents him from playing.

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