New York Islanders Roundtable: Who Gets the Best out of Tavares

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Oct 15, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; New York Islanders right wing Ryan Strome (18) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Washington Capitals in the second period at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Matt O’Leary

Finding a winger for John Tavares shouldn’t be difficult in theory, but it is something the Islanders have struggled with since his arrival. Although he hasn’t shown it yet, Andrew Ladd will be a good fit on his left side; it’s the right side that is the issue.

The Islanders tried Jason Chimera but that experiment didn’t last long. They switched to Josh Bailey, who has played well so far but isn’t a top line talent. What are the Islanders to do?

I have two options for the Isles, one is calling up Josh Ho-Sang. This one is extremely unlikely and is asking a lot of a kid to play on the top line. His talent level and potential is all too tempting so I find myself yearning for a top line of Ladd-Tavares-Ho-Sang.

I thought last year Ryan Strome could develop into the RW on the top line. After 50 points the sky was the limit, well he finished the year with 28. Can Ryan Strome be the top line winger for Tavares?

Of the two options, I think this is the more likely. Strome has a ton of potential, plus they have already moved him out of his natural position of center.

Ultimately, Jack Capuano will probably give everyone a chance at the position until someone establishes themselves. In my opinion, Chimera and Bailey aren’t fit for the position. Of everyone on the roster currently, Strome makes the most sense.