New York Islanders: Previews, breakdowns, and prediction for the 2018-2019 Season
Prediction and final thoughts
The New York Islanders, although we have talked about why they can make the playoffs, have just as many reasons as to why they cannot.
The Isles, on paper, do not look like a playoff team. Even if they somehow get in, it would be as a Wild Card due to some random luck.
However, none of those things will happen. Last season, I predicted the Isles would make the playoffs under a full season with Doug Weight.
Maybe in some sort of over correction from that, or maybe I have just got wiser since then, the New York Islanders WILL NOT end up making the playoffs this season.
It seems nice, but after seeing the roster moves and coming back down to earth to realize the prospects, Keiffer Bellows, Ho-Sang, David Quenneville, etc. are just not ready, the Isles did not get talent that makes them better.
The Isles will score exactly 80 points. They will miss the playoffs and finish seventh in the Metropolitan Division.
That is a realistic approach to the season. If they do better, great one step closer. If they do worse than 80 points, great a better draft pick to work with.
Overall, there will only be one first season under Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz. There might be none or many after. But, just one first.
So, if all else fails this season, then just learn how Trotz coaches, see the type of deadline moves Lou makes, and just know that all the talent in the system is close, really close to being NHL ready.
Next. 5 most imortant Islander players for next year. dark
It is the New York Islanders, after all. With that, there is always next year, right?