New York Islanders Happy Birthday Mathew Barzal

New York Islanders prospect Mathew Barzal is celebrating his 20th birthday today. We weren’t invited to his birthday party, but this is probably what he was asking for.

New York Islanders Mathew Barzal is celebrating his 20th birthday today. Happy birthday, Barzal. Our invitation must have been lost in the mail. We get it, no big deal.

But because we weren’t there we’ll have to imagine what you’ll be asking for. We might not be right on the money, but I’m sure you’ll see that we aren’t far off.

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Birthday Wishlist

Top of the list must be a fair tryout. Last season’s two-game evaluation was an absolute failure. He played relatively well, but a simple error changed everything and earned him a one-way ticket to the WHL.

What else was Garth to do? He’d already sent P.A. Parenteau through waivers and had him claimed but eh new Jersey Devils. Barzal had to pay for Snow’s miscalculation.

Second has to be given the chance to prove he has character. After losing to the Saint John Sea Dogs and being eliminated from the Memorial Cup, Barzal’s coach had the following to say about him and his teammates:

"To me, we just didn’t have enough mentally. They’re all good character kids. It’s not that they didn’t work hard, there’s just no juice left mentally to keep fighting and pushing"

It kinda falls into the first one, but you know that it’s burning him to get the chance to show the hockey world that he’s got the goods, mentally.

Third, and likely last is the chance to do what he does best and not place him on defensive duties with the likes of Casey Cizikas or Cal Clutterbuck. That’s not meant as snide at either player. The role they play is invaluable and necessary. But have Barzal learn the defensive aspects of the game another way then

But have Barzal learn the defensive aspects of the game another way than having him play for nine minutes a night taking 60% of his starts in the defensive zone. Put him on a low opposition scoring line such as the third line.

Next: Return to Nassau For Preseason Likely a Go

We hope you got and get everything you wanted and want this year and in the years to come.