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New York Islanders Draftees: Current v Playing Elsewhere

Apr 17, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Ryan Pulock (6) celebrates his goal against the Florida Panthers with New York Islanders center John Tavares (91) during the second period of game three of the first round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 17, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Ryan Pulock (6) celebrates his goal against the Florida Panthers with New York Islanders center John Tavares (91) during the second period of game three of the first round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 3, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee (27) tries to tip a shot against Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Michal Rozsival (32) in front of goalie Corey Crawford (50) during the second period at the United Center. Chicago won 2-1 in a shootout. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 3, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee (27) tries to tip a shot against Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Michal Rozsival (32) in front of goalie Corey Crawford (50) during the second period at the United Center. Chicago won 2-1 in a shootout. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

Left Wing: Anders Lee/Nino Niederreiter

Before breaking out this season with 34 goals, Anders Lee looked like a fine middle tier hockey player. The type of guy that can compliment a lineup, but not one that could form its core.

But this season we saw exactly what Anders Lee can do. His hand-eye coordination is unbelievable, deflecting shots that he has absolutely no business doing.

Taken in the sixth round, scouts weren’t even sure Anders Lee would play hockey so no one took a chance on him. Until the Isles came calling at number 152. A full 60 picks after Casey Cizikas.

Nino Niederreiter was a first round pick in 2010. But it turns out he didn’t like being sent to the AHL, being placed on the fourth line, and not generally being given the right opportunity to flourish.

He didn’t like the Isles way of developing prospects. A process that has yet to prove that it’s the right way. So, the Isles sent him to Minnesota after he asked for a trade.

Where, with significantly more ice time and an attacking role, he’s put up 173 points over four seasons.

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