Predicting when every NHL team will win its next Stanley Cup

New York Islanders

Some of the thickest-skinned fans in the NHL would be that of the New York Islanders. It’s been an exciting ride on the Island at times, but more times than not it’s been devastating.

New York isn’t necessarily close to wining a Stanley Cup, but its day is coming.

Yes, John Tavares leaving upset the loyal Orange and Blue faithful; but was it more of how he left that bothered the Islanders rather than him actually leaving to sign a seven-year deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs?

Tavares leaving New York is a blessing in disguise and an opportunity to build a more complete, plus younger team; rather than one that’s focused on one player that’s only won one Stanley Cup Playoff series in his nine-year career.

“That kid who won the Calder,” Matthew Barzal is without a doubt an up and coming superstar in the making, and his competitive edge is what will drive this Islanders team back to the promise land. Last year’s rookie sensation proved just how dynamic he can be, and he’s also strong on the puck which separates him from other young stars around the league.

There are some other strong prospects in the pipeline for the Isles, and the team’s two first-round draft picks, Oliver Wahlstrom and Noah Dobson, from this year’s draft class could end up being compared to a similar case of the Anaheim Ducks’ Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry who were both selected in the first round at the 2003 NHL Draft. Yes, Dobson is a defenseman, but it’s the concept that’s comparable.

Ilya Sorokin will be in the net soon to rescue the Isles from their goaltending drama, and Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz have what it takes to at least groom a championship squad for the future. The New York Islanders’ next Stanley Cup is in 2025.