Each NHL team’s biggest burning question in 2018
By Simon Vacca
New York Islanders: How will they move on from the John Tavares era?
Last summer, the hearts of New York Islanders fans were broken by the news that John Tavares — captain, leader, and pilot of one of hockey’s most historically significant franchises — would be leaving the team that drafted him for a chance at fulfilling a childhood dream: to attempt to win a Stanley Cup as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Islanders’ administrative body, it seemed, had exhausted all of its options in convincing Tavares to stay — Lou Lamoriello was brought in to serve as the club’s next GM, Barry Trotz was hired as the team’s coach, meetings were had and a host of attempts at engagement were made. But at the end of the day, it was not enough. Kyle Dubas emerged victorious, securing a win for the books in his first major move as GM of the Maple Leafs. Radio silence enveloped Long Island.
If there is a constant that underlines the up and coming campaign, it is that of a theme of new beginnings. And even though the Islanders most certainly would have preferred tor Tavares to lead such circumstances, there is good reason to believe that this particular rebuild can potentially alter the dynamic of a franchise that is in a state of perpetual longing for better days.
From an administrative front, the Islanders are well ahead of the game — Lamoriello and Trotz, in short, are as good as they come. To the surprise — and frustration — of many, ex-Leafs Matt Martin and Leo Komarov have brought in on two and four-year deals, respectively. Neither player introduces much of an offensive upside to the club’s lineup, but the spirit of community that they offer is incredibly valuable to the morale of any team of which they are a part — especially in trying times like these. (Just ask Maple Leafs fans for proof of this reality.)
At its most basic level, the essence of the Islanders’ rebuild looks promising in scope. Calder Trophy winner Mathew Barzal, new captain Anders Lee, recent all-star Josh Bailey, respected defender Nick Leddy, and valuable pieces in the form of Jordan Eberle, Anthony Beauvillier and Robin Lehner — ready as ever to usher forth a comeback — are set to front a roster that has been increasingly glossed over by the hockey world. Noteworthy talent is there, indeed — it’s reasonable, therefore, to expect “Loophole Lou” to embrace the practice of arm-twisting through which he has made himself a career as the organization aims to improve its depth.
Few would doubt that the Islanders’ season will be a difficult one. But some clubs thrive under the premise of underestimation.
There’s a curious sense of promise to this team, so underrate them as you will.