Islanders' Future Looks Bright

Though because of the latest slump, the Islanders playoff hopes look bleak, there is reason to believe that within a few season, the Islanders have a legit chance of becoming a good team for years to come. After 55 games of the NHL season, the New York Islanders are making a statement to the league, that the youth movement can actually pay off. No, the Islanders aren't destroying their opponents, or running away with the Atlantic division, but are in fact sitting last in the division with a 23-24 record good enough for 54 points on the season. Why the optimism for the future? Even the thought of the Islanders contending for a spot in the playoffs, for pretty much most of the season is a big improvement from what we have seen from the past few years of misery known as New York Islanders hockey.

So what is the difference between this this year, and last season's team? It starts with goaltending. After last year's terrible performances by Yann Dannis, and Joey MacDonald in goal, the Isles went out and signed two goalies, both capable of starting, Martin Biron, and Dwayne Roloson. Both goalies have been splitting time most of this season, keeping the Islanders in most every game played. The long awaited comeback of young phenom goalie, Rick DiPipietro, has been a pleasant surprise, going 2-3 with a shutout against the Devils, since returning. The Islanders first round pick, John Tavares sure isn't Alex Ovechkin, or Sidney Crosby....yet, but has been a spark for the team, and is an early season favorite for contention for rookie of the year. From goal tending, to goal scoring, the Islanders are an all around better team than what we have seen over the past few seasons. With promising youngsters such as John Tavares, and Kyle Okposo, to reliable veterans, Richard Park, and captain Doug Weight, the New York Islanders are a team that will improve, and improve fast over the next few years.