Things To Like And Dislike During Islanders COVID-19 Pause
The New York Islanders returned from a 11-day pause induced by a shutdown due to COVID-19 on Dec. 30. The Islanders played the Buffalo Sabres at UBS Arena, winning 4-1. Two days later, the Islanders beat the Edmonton Oilers 3-2 in overtime. As the Islanders are in the midst of yet another pause caused by COVID-19 — this one is 12 days — let’s go over things to like and things to dislike about the team right now.
To Like: Kieffer Bellows
Kieffer Bellows is on fire. Bellows has recorded three points in his last two games, including the game-winning goal against the Sabres. Bellows is taking his game to a new level and is arguably the most improved player on the team.
To Dislike: Zdeno Chara
While Chara has been improving his game recently, he is still not playing at an NHL-level. Chara can still be a very valuable locker room presence. But Chara simply cannot be a regular player, especially against the elite teams in the NHL. When Ryan Pulock eventually comes back from injury, Chara should be scratched.
To Like: The Islanders Offense
The Islanders’ offense, including Anthony Beauvillier and Mathew Barzal, has been improving recently. For example, in the third period Saturday against the Oilers, the Islanders outshot their opponents 16-2. But the player that has had the biggest impact on the offense recently has been Noah Dobson. Dobson is currently playing the best hockey of his NHL career, and he is helping the Islanders start to climb back towards a playoff spot.
To Dislike: The Identity Line
The fourth line goes to war every game. However, this season, they look old and slow. Their effectiveness in their own zone is not as good as it has been in previous years. It is now time for the front office to seriously consider replacing the fourth line in the offseason, even though Martin and Cizikas are signed long-term. With Austin Czarnik and Kieffer Bellows playing great right now, there is no real reason to keep Martin, Cizikas and Cal Clutterbuck together in every game.
To Like: Ilya Sorokin
Ilya Sorokin deserves so much more credit than he is getting. Sorokin is the main reason why the Islanders still have a chance at making the playoffs. As a second-year goalie on a team that tends to ease young players into the NHL, Sorokin has already taken over the starting role for the Islanders.
Islanders’ fans: the season is not done yet. If the Islanders continue to improve their play, they can get into the playoffs, because there is a lot to like about the team right now.
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.
