The Islanders are not a "now" team. No one can dispute that. They have become a future team.
It's all the Islanders talk or speak about, so let's take a moment or two to consider the future.
The young core of the Islanders is just about in place, with young players succeeding at the NHL level instead of just taking up space for a change. The NHL has transformed into a young players' league, Chris Chelios notwithstanding.
It has become commonplace for 18- and 19-year-olds to come directly to the NHL instead of going through their growing pains in the minors or in the juniors. Age is no longer a factor. It's only a matter of if you can play or not, whether you're 18 or 48.
With John Tavares making strides in not only his offensive game but also his total game, he will be the cornerstone of making this team a contender. He currently has 20 goals and 41 points, which is right on par with what the serious expectations were.
Could we see a next season Steven Stamkos-like jump in production for Tavares? Not likely, because the talent around Stamkos outweighs what the Islanders can put out there—at least for now.
The Islande ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Frank Trovato
Looking to the New York Islanders’ Future: Can Youth Movement Bring Success?
March 18th, 2010 by Frank Trovato Leave a reply »
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