Game Notes Countdown To The NHL -#18 New York Islanders

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NHL Team:  New York Islanders

Conference: Eastern

Division: Metropolitan

2022-23 Recap: The Isles made a coaching change, but they did not alter their style of play to reflect the new NHL in the regular season. They averaged under 3 goals per game ranking them in the bottom half of the league and the Power Play was atrocious. 

If Sorokin did not carry the team they wouldn't have sniffed the Wild Card. Barzal having 14 goals can not happen again, hopefully, all the jamming on the guitar this summer helps because he needs to be in the 30s at minimum.  

Biggest Loss: Josh Bailey - The first longtime Isles player had to be traded away. We started to see his ice time per game go down and was shipped out to open up more ice for the others. 

Biggest Addition: Pierre Engvall - Came over from Toronto for the last 18 games and showed his effectiveness with his speed on the forecheck. Got a questionable 7-year contract, but at 3 million a year, Lou could look like a genius if he continues to score over 15 goals a season.  

2023-24 Outlook: Scoring is always a question for this group but if Sorokin can match last year then this club will be in every game. If Barzal and Bo can tickle the twine more often this season then we will have a chance for more live streams at Borrelli's come Springtime, but it doesn't look promising.

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Player To Watch: Bo Horvat - His first 30 games were anything but spectacular and every fan besides Stu was upset with his play. He needs to be the elite goal scorer they paid the big price for.

2023-2024 Season Bet: Islanders to NOT make the playoffs -130 and Unders anytime Sorokin starts.

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