5 moves the Islanders can make to get back to the playoffs

1. Acquire a legitimate starting goaltender

Far and away, the Islanders’ biggest problem is its lack of a No. 1 goaltender.

This past season, the team’s crease was split between Jaroslav Halak, Thomas Greiss and Christopher Gibson. None of them succeeded in putting up favorable totals:

• Halak: 20 W, 26 L, 6 OTL, 1 SO, 3.19 GAA, .908 SV%
• Greiss: 13 W, 8 L, 2 OTL, 1 SO, 3.82 GAA, .892 SV%
• Gibson: 2 W, 3 L, 2 OTL, 0 SO, 3.37 GAA, .908 SV%

As such, Lamoriello will have to bring in a legitimate force that can potentially serve as the backbone of an organization in transit. Philipp Grubauer’s name was frequently mentioned by many a pundit in attempts to brainstorm solutions to the Islanders’ goaltending issue, but a recent deal with the Avalanche has spelled an end to that narrative.

Carter Hutton is yet another intriguing option. The 32-year-old had a remarkable 2017-18 campaign, tallying 17 wins in 32 contests, during which he amassed 3 shutouts, a 2.09 goals against average and a .931 save percentage. The risk in offering Hutton a full-time job, however, is more than high. A career backup, the netminder succeeded in forcing Jake Allen to undertake part-time work, but critics worry that the past season was his ultimate peak. Bringing him in, therefore, is a gutsy move — as with all things goaltending, there are no guarantees.

Kari Lehtonen is also set to test the market. The 34-year-old is something of a contentious figure in the hockey world, as his career totals are average at best. Robin Lehner, too, has indicated that his days in Buffalo are done, but buyer beware: bringing him in comes with baggage.

An intriguing option could also come in the form of Jonathan Bernier. The 29-year-old is set to give the market a run after a season in which he put up 19 wins in 37 contests, amassing 2 shutouts, a 2.85 goals against average and a .913 save percentage. An unfavorable performance in the Stanley Cup playoffs, however, may diminish his value.

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Whatever the case, look for Lamoriello to delve into the goaltending charts as early as possible. And while we entertain some of his options, keep an eye on Greiss. As Elliotte Friedman speculated about a month and a half ago, the Islanders’ (hopeful) backup shall look to improve his game:

"Adam Francilia, who has gained positive publicity through his off-season goalie-specific training with Devan Dubnyk and Connor Hellebuyck, is adding two new clients this summer. Michal Neuvirth already told Philadelphia reporters that he’s hired the British Columbia native. Meanwhile, Thomas Greiss, who split with Francilia two years ago, is re-uniting with him. Greiss had a very difficult 2017-18."