X-Factors For the New York Islanders 2014-2015 Season

Feb 6, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Blues goalie

(41) blocks the net against the Boston Bruins during the first period at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Jaroslav Halak: After acquiring his rights and signing him to a 4-year, $18 million contract ,the Islanders need to get solid goaltending from Jaroslav Halak in order to be in contention for the playoffs this season. This past season, Halak posted a strong 29-13-7 record with a .921 save percentage and a 2.25 goals-against average. These numbers are far better than last year’s starter Evgeni Nabakov who ended up signing a 1–year deal with the Tampa Bay Lightning this summer. If the Islanders can get similar numbers from Halak this season, the team should have no problem getting to the playoffs.