New York Islanders: Predicting The Isles Top 5 Point Leaders In 2016-17

By Matt O'Leary

Oct 9, 2016

Apr 27, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Islanders center John Tavares (91) reacts after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period in game one of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

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Apr 9, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Chicago Blackhawks left wing Andrew Ladd (16) against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. The Blue Jackets won 5-4 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

Number 2: Andrew Ladd

Andrew Ladd was brought in to replace the production of Kyle Okposo. Okposo was great for the Islanders but they decided to go a different route. They decided to go with playoff experience and winning pedigree despite a slight age difference.

Ladd is coming off a season with 42 points. Playing alongside John Tavares should increase his numbers.

Ladd is a very smart player and I’m excited to see what he can do alongside Tavares. I’m expecting that both players elevate each others game.

The one issue is time, the Islanders top line has spent very little time together so the chemistry won’t be there initially. Expect a slow start but they should be able to pick it up rather quickly. Hopefully Capuano sticks it out and doesn’t shuffle up the lines, then building chemistry would be near impossible.

Overall I think Okposo and Ladd will put up similar numbers this year and you can’t question Ladd’s experience and intangibles.

Final Prediction: 58 points