Often the scapegoat on the blue line, Scott Mayfield has been great these playoffs, but he doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves. That is often due to him being overshadowed by other amazing defenders on this team. Despite being paired with a defenseman who has not had the best postseason, Mayfield has been at his best.

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Defensively, Mayfield deserves to be recognized. He is currently leading the team and is second in the entire league with 46 blocked shots in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Playing alongside Adam Pelech on the penalty kill, he has been physical down low and has been one of the team’s best players while down a man. During even-strength play, he has been just as good. Mayfield has been successful in neutralizing the depth of the teams that the Islanders have faced. While Adam Pelech and Ryan Pulock are usually put out against the top line, Mayfield and Nick Leddy have primarily been in charge of defending against the middle-six.

Offensively, he has been just as good. When he has been paired with Nick Leddy, he often gets more offensive zone time, and he has been contributing while in the offensive zone, tallying one goal and four assists. It is not only about putting up points, it’s also about staying in the offensive zone. Mayfield has been amazing knowing when and when not to pinch into the zone and keep the play alive. That is something that hasn’t always been in his game in his career.

His contributions have led to some big moments in the spring for the Islanders, whether it has been fighting Taylor Hall in Game 4, or assisting Mathew Barzal for the game-winning goal in that same game. The most impressive stat regarding Scott Mayfield is having a plus/minus of +12. That not only leads the team but the entire league. While a lot of people debate whether plus/minus is a good way to judge a player, having a high plus/minus is always good. When your team scores more than the opponent when you’re on the ice, it is never a bad thing.

Despite not having the best regular season, Scott Mayfield has really come into his own these playoffs. Even though the playoffs end soon, his performances deserve to be recognized. For the Islanders, however, this is hopefully a sign of good things to come. If the Islanders can keep the majority of the defensive core together ahead of next season, they will be in great shape. Until then, Mayfield deserves more recognition for his great play from the fans in the playoffs.

All statistics are as of June 20, 2021, prior to Game 4 between the Vegas Golden Knights and Montreal Canadiens.

Jack Kobil

Hi, my name is Jack Kobil. I am currently attending Woodrow Wilson High School in Washington DC. I am a huge Islanders fan and I love to share my passion for this team.