Should and Will Kyle Palmieri Be Back in Islanders’ Lineup?
Prior to his injury, Kyle Palmieri was arguably the most disappointing player in the Islanders’ lineup this season. He was unable to generate offense no matter what line he was on. Palmieri has been out of the lineup since Dec. 17 when he was placed on the club’s Injured Reserve List with a lower body injury. On Jan. 3, Palmieri was cleared to practice again. However, when Palmieri is fully healthy, he should remain out of the lineup so a more consistent player can play.
2021-22 Season
Palmieri is in his first year of a four-year, $20 million contract. The contract has turned out to be a big mistake thus far. In 25 games, Palmieri has scored only one goal and has a mere seven points.
Not only is Palmieri struggling offensively, but he has also been having issues defensively. The 30-year-old right wing is a -11 — good for worst on the team.
Kieffer Bellows Is Hot
The Islanders have had three games since Palmieri was placed on IR and Kieffer Bellows has been in the lineup for all of them. In Bellows’ last three games, he has registered two goals and two assists. One of his goals was the game-winner and two of his four points came on the power-play. Bellows also recorded nine shots on goal.
Bellows’ stellar performance has not only drawn fans’ attention, but head coach Barry Trotz has noticed his potential as well.
“He’s taking on the challenges that we’ve given him. I pull him out of the lineup sometimes for some of the older guys,” Trotz said after a game against the Buffalo Sabers on Dec. 30. “But he’s making a case for himself.”
Bellows in for Palmieri
Palmieri has been given several opportunities to succeed this season. He has played on nearly every line but has struggled to put up points. The Islanders desperately need to go on a winning-streak to earn a playoff spot. Therefore, they cannot afford to give lineup spots to players who are not producing.
Trotz has also touched on what will happen to Palmieri when he returns from his injury.
“When he’s ready, we’ll see if we put him in or not,” Trotz said — also on Dec. 30. “There’s guys right now that are playing well. So, we’ll get him a hundred percent and then we’ll see if we put him back in.”
Bellows is an ideal candidate to replace Palmieri in the Islanders’ lineup. He has been on fire recently and he will only continue to improve if he gets more playing time and can build chemistry with his linemates.
While Trotz usually opts for putting veterans in over young guys, Bellows has certainly proved he has what it takes to play in every game. Therefore, Bellows should take Palmieri’s place permanently.
I am a huge Islanders fan and love spreading my passion for the team here at Drive4Five. Along with writing, I also co-manage the Drive4Five TikTok and Facebook accounts.
