It is clear what the Islanders’ biggest holes are on the roster. Islander General Manager Garth Snow has already tried to solve some of these glaring issues. He has addressed the goaltending by trading for and signing goalie Jaroslav Halak. Snow is actively trying to address the defense as well. It is looking like defenseman Dan Boyle will test free agency on July 1st however it is clear the Garth is aggressively trying to sure up a defense that was an eye sore during the 2013/2104 season. The Islanders also need a top six winger, however, the line that needs to be addressed the most is where many in Isles country disagree.
I have been saying for weeks that it is imperative the Islanders sign a winger who can play on the second line with center Frans Nielsen. Nielsen had a career year last season playing with a cast of characters and Josh Bailey. Despite playing with numerous wingers and one who has not lived up to expectation, Nielsen still recorded 25 goals and 33 assists.
The only way the Isles can dream of chasing the playoffs next year is by improving their team at even strength. A new goaltender should help. A veteran presence on the blue line is critical. However the Islanders need balance scoring and the only way to get that is to acquire a reliable goal scoring winger who can be counted on for 20-25 goals on the second line.
I’m not looking for the home run in Thomas Vanek or even Marian Gaborik. The Isles need a solid doubles hitter and the likes of Radim Vrbata or Jussi Jokinen would be a good fit playing alongside Frans Nielsen. If the Islanders are serious about competing, Josh Bailey cannot be playing top six minutes. Many will argue that he shouldn’t be on the roster, but I’m trying to look at this realistically. In theory, it will be difficult to move Bailey’s contract after his play last season, however if his role is changed to third line winger we may be able to live with a 35 point season.
I honestly feel that there are good internal options that can play with John Tavares and Kyle Okposo. I would like to see Brock Nelson or Anders Lee play on the top line. In my opinion, some size and grit would go a long way, creating time and space for Tavares and Okposo. I know most don’t want to put pressure on these kids, but playing them in this situation is low risk. If it doesn’t work out then you juggle the lines. P.A. Parenteau, Matt Moulson and Brad Boyes have all flourished playing with John Tavares. There is no denying the talent that Nelson and Lee possess, therefore I don’t think it is risk to let one of them earn that job in training camp and I think the winner can thrive playing on the top line.
It all comes back to the word balance. The Islanders do not have it. It is up to Garth Snow to actively address it this offseason. Look at the blueprint that the top teams in this league are using. The best teams in this league have quality goalies, strong defense with a blend of size and puck movers and four lines that can rolled and used in all situations. The Islanders blueprints are not as clear right now. It is up to the Snow to create this strong foundation that can make last season a distant memory for Islander fans. As always, for more on all things hockey please follow me on twitter at @DanDanNoodles78.
New York Islanders Blogger • 
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