New York Islanders Top Prospects looking at Position Spots

The New York Islanders and their fans will be looking to see if their young stars like Matt Barzal and Anthony Beauvillier can make the team come September.

When Islanders general manager Garth Snow made the trade up for Matt Barzal, fans were excited and believed in the future of the team. It was a great deal for the Islanders. Now Barzal and fellow prospect Anthony Beauvillier are looking to make a regular roster spot in the upcoming season.

But both face obstacles in trying to make the roster for September. With a solid lineup and a deep prospect pool it may take a more for them to get to Brooklyn.

Barzal knows that he narrowly missed making the team this past season. The 19-year-old will make sure he does not make the same mistakes, however, that does not guarantee him a roster spot at this time.

With several players still waiting on word if they will be traded or signed, Barzal knows this is his time to prove what he has. Matthew Barzal is coming off an awesome season in Seattle. Last year, the then 18-year-old went on to produce 27 goals and 61 assists for his Thunderbirds..

Anthony Beauvillier Not Far Behind

The other top Islanders prospect is Anthony Beauvillier. Who like Barzal had an amazing season, with 40 goals and 39 assists for the Shawinigan Cataractes. He’s not scared to fight for the puck and would fit right into an Islanders team that has some rough guys.

Beauvillier, unlike Barzal, probably won’t make the team this September. While Beauvillier has talent, he will need some time in the minors to bulk up.

Depending on which Islanders stay and which leaves will truly determine if both Barzal and Beauviller can make the roster come September.

Also, it may come down to what the Islanders can do good in the free agent market that may decide their fates. With interest in Steven Stamkos, the team may not have a spot on the roster. However if Matt Martin does not re-sign something may open up after all.

Next: Isles Need to Spend to Succeed

Certainly the team does not want past experiences to happen again. For example, Josh Bailey has not truly been the star that he was supposed to be, and Ryan Strome has regressed significantly. It will probably be best for the Islanders to wait for these young guys to develop more.

Luckily fans will get an opportunity to see them both, coming up in the Islanders annual blue and white scrimmage game.