New York Islanders Top-10 players under 24
By Ed Stein
6. Simon Holmstrom (18), Right Wing, 2019 1st round, 23rd overall
The New York Islanders first-round pick is a bit of a mixed bag. His talent is far from a question mark, he’s got plenty. Holmstrom’s health, on the other hand, is often in doubt. When he is ready to play, the young wing has game. He has impressed on the world stage including eight points in 10 games for Sweden’s U-18 team last year.
Getting back to the talent part, Holmstrom is a threat in the offensive zone. First, he can make plays from his wing position by utilizing his excellent vision and strong passing ability. Defenses can’t lay off him because Holmstrom will make them pay with his shot. His outstanding hockey sense allows him to make the right decision.
5. Oliver Wahlstrom (19), Right Wing, 2018 1st round, 11th overall
To be polite, the 2018-19 season was a big learning experience for NYI’s 2018 first-round pick. Wahlstrom made the jump from the United States Development Program to Boston College. Coming off a stellar 2017-18 where he scored 94 points in 68 games for USA’s U18 team plus an additional nine points (seven goals) in the WJC U18 tournament. BC was a rude awakening, he scored just 19 points last season as college hockey proved to be a tough adjustment.
Much was expected from Wahlstrom, as it should have been, due to his skill. While his defense still needs work, what he brings to the table in the offensive zone is top quality. The rising sophomore has an array of shots which he can take anywhere in the zone. That’s good because Wahlstrom can create shots for himself by taking advantage of his skating and puckhandling. He should take a step up this season.