New York Islanders More Losers Than Winners

Winner: Mathew Barzal

Mathew Barzal got just 2 NHL games under his belt before the Islanders shipped him back to Seattle. They were left with no choice, as there were just too many forwards and not enough empty slots.

Now, why does this classify Barzal as a winner? Well, now he is actually getting playing time on the ice instead of sitting in the press box eating popcorn.

The only way Mathew Barzal will get better is by playing. If you aren’t going to play him send him back to Seattle. The Islanders made the right choice with him and his team seemed to be happy he returned.

Barzal had no points in his first two NHL games. His stint will be best known for his well-documented mistake in the penalty box. He played the puck while in the box and took a penalty, a very rookie mistake.

Since returning to Seattle he has 3 assists in two games.

This does not mean the Barzal is a bust because he couldn’t make it on this team. He will get his chance eventually. The Islanders were actually smart to send him back when they realized there would be no room for him anyway.

I would’ve liked to pick someone actually playing as a winner, but the Islanders have played so poorly that nobody sticks out to me.