Its been a quiet off season for the Isles. Recent news has been about how clean the food and concessions are at the coliseum, mall appearances by players, golf tournaments and a few minor free agent signings. Its apparent that Garth Snow is sticking with his guns and we are rebuilding. And you know what, when did bringing in stars help us make the playoffs in the last 20 years? OK 2007, but the Sabres handed our asses to us in the first round. We have a team, a young team, but a focused young group of guys determined to bring hockey back to Long Island, so lets get excited and make some predictions about the season and each player.
I think the Islanders will improve from last season, will win around 42 games in regulation (vs 34 from last season), but will not make the playoffs. They'll finish in 9th or 10th place in the conference, but Islanders fans will be excited by what they see.
Lets start with the Islanders forwards.
Josh Bailey: In his first year as an Islander, Josh spent a lot of the time on the ice (literally on the ice), with size, maturity and experience, expect Josh to score up to 20 goals this season and have a bigger presence on the ice.
Blake Comeau: We all know Blake's got the mind and hands to be a great goal scorer in the league. Will he pick up where he left off last season?
Trevor Gillies: With few players to fight with now that the Islanders put together a team of goons, look for Gillies to shine in division games against the Rangers, Devils, Philly etc...
Trent Hunter: The Islanders need to get the puck to Trent more and give him space to shoot. He's got a rocket of a shot, but often ends up shooting from ridiculous angles.
Zenon Konopka: I'm not sure what to expect, just go after Gaborik and I'm happy. Zenon will help keep the younger guys secure on the ice. Great pickup.
Matt Moulson: After signing a 1 year $2.45 million deal with the Isles, the pressure is on Matt to show that last season wasn't a fluke. He is a work horse and I expect another great season. JT will overtake him this year in goals scored.
Frans Nielsen: Frans is an all around guy, he does it all and he does it well. Did anyone notice that he scored on the same exact shootout move all season? Wrist shot over the top right shoulder. Happy to have Frans on the team.
Kyle Okposo: Expect a breakout season from Okposo. He doesn't rest during the summer and should be in top shape for the 2010 season. I predict 23 goals.
Parenteau: In my mind, this was a great steal from the Rangers. Parentau is a great addition, a quiet one, but he will shine with the Isles.
Rob Schremp: Did you see the goal!? Robbie Schremp carries and shoots the puck extremely well, last season he showed that he deserves to play regularly.
John Tavares: 31 goals, 34 assists and a new clothing line JT91.
Islanders Defensemen:
Mark Eaton: A sound defenseman that protects the puck and will help the offense transition out of the zone better. Looking forward to his experience and defensive help.
Bruno Gervais: I'd like to see him shoot more.
Jack Hillen: One of the hardest working guys on the team, I love Hillen and love watching him play. He's all over the ice.
Milan Jurcina: Size does matter. Milan adds great size to the defensive squad and comes from a team with playoff experience.
Andrew MacDonald: His injury late last season after signing a new contract with the Isles was unfortunate. A fresh start this season is going to be great and Andrew will be a top defenseman in the league some day.
Radek Martinek: What can I say, recover and don't get hurt again.
Mark Streit: Probably the best player on the team, Mark has been great on defense and on the power play. I'm curious to see who Gordon pairs him up with this season.
Islanders Goalies
Rick DiPietro: ? Always a question mark here. DP is not a reliable goalie in my eyes anymore.
Dwayne Roloson: Our savior and hero last year, Dwayne was incredible, but I fear that his age will catch up soon.
New Comers & Prospects:
Nino Niddereiter (AKA El Nino): I'd love to see Nino start this season with the Islanders just like JT did.
Brock Nelson: Bridgeport, here I come.
Kirill Kabanov: Bridgeport, here I come. Keep an eye on this guy.
Matt Martin: Should be a full time Islander by mid-season. Love his grit and intensity on the ice.
Kiril Petrov: Bridgeport
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