Some analysts call it one of the best fourth lines in hockey. They can hit, score, defend, fight, and more. The Islanders’ identity line is very crucial to team success. They hit you as hard as they can and will score when you least expect it. Why are Casey Cizikas, Cal Clutterbuck, and Matt Martin so crucial to the team?

Identity Line Sets The Tone

In multiple Islanders regular season and playoff games, the starting line consists of the Islanders’ identity line. The reason for that was because they set the tone. They start the game and as soon the opposing team touches the puck, they hit you. The hits energize the crowd and crowd. It boosts the morale of the team.

In the playoffs, it’s crucial to have the crowd and team fired up early in the game. The identity line would be as physical as possible. The team and fans absolutely love it.

Identity Line Allows Islanders To Play All Four Lines

A lot of teams in the NHL do not have a good fourth line. Sometimes, fourth lines consist of unproven rookies or washed-up veterans. The Islanders’ fourth line features three talented players who can do anything you ask. That talent allows Barry Trotz to roll all four lines throughout any game. He can expect defense, goals, and hits from all lines. It allows him to be flexible during situations and give other lines rest.

The Islanders can trust their fourth line in overtime during the playoffs. Often, a team might shorten their bench in these crucial situations to give their best players more ice time. Not the Islanders. Last playoffs, Casey Cizikas scored in overtime of game 2 against the Bruins to tie the series. Immediately there to celebrate with him were his linemates. The Islanders can get production out of every line and that leads to success.

Identity Line Protects Players

If you lay a dirty hit on an Islanders player, you better watch out because one of the three players on the identity line is going to try and punish you. Some teams have one player that is the main fighter that will step up in these situations. The Islanders have an entire line that will punish you for your actions. The identity line will protect any Islanders player at any cost. Matt Martin currently has a total of 992 PIM in his career. A lot of those were fighting majors and you can expect that to go up even more. This line is the heart of the team and is loved by almost every coach, player, and fan.

John Smark