Anthony Beauvillier Needs to Take a Jump for the Islanders
Many players on the New York Islanders struggled this year, but Anthony Beauvillier was one of the most disappointing players on the team. Therefore, Beauvillier needs to improve his play next season.
History
Beauvillier was drafted by the Islanders 28th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft. He has been productive thus far in his young NHL career.
During the 2020 NHL playoffs, Beauvillier recorded 14 points in 23 games, while scoring nine goals. And during last year’s postseason, Beauvillier recorded 13 points in 19 games. His ability to perform under pressure during the Stanley Cup Playoffs is incredibly valuable.
Last Season
However, Beauvillier’s had a massively underwhelming 2021-22 season. In 75 games played, Beauvillier recorded only 12 goals and 34 points. He had his fewest points per game since the 2018-19 season when he recorded 28 points in 81 games.
Beauvillier’s play this year was a big blow to the Islanders. Many thought Beauvillier would take his game to another level and improve, including former head coach Barry Trotz.
“He’s grown as a player,” Trotz said prior to the 2021-22 NHL season. “His confidence has grown. He’s been a very important player for us. My trust in him continues to grow. I think he’s going to have a breakout season where he’s going to have a big jump in totals. If it happens this year or next year, I’m not sure. But I think it’s coming.”
Unfortunately, this was not the case.
Next Year
Beauvillier is at the point in his career where he needs to take another step, especially if he wants to be a part of this Islanders’ team in the long-term future. He is crucial to this roster, as older players become less and less valuable.
Beauvillier has the skills to give the Islanders more, as proven by the Islanders committing to him last offseason with a three-year, $12.45 million contract extension. Therefore, it is important for the Islanders’ success next season that Beauvillier improves.
Ethan is an Economics Major at the University of Florida looking to pursue a double major in Sports Management with a minor in political science.
