New York Islanders Josh Ho-Sang’s Top-Line Talent

Josh Ho-Sang impressed in his first stint with the New York Islanders. He could even find himself on the top line with John Tavares next year.

It might be tough to see the New York Islanders changing up their top line after its success last year but it might be in their best interest to at least give it a shot. Last year the combination of Anders Lee – John Tavares – Josh Bailey combined for 174 points.

The Isles top unit was amongst the most productive in the league and was actually an underrated unit. With that said I think it would be a smart decision to break up this line, and that reason is tthe emergence of Josh Ho-Sang.

Ho-Sang burst onto the scene last year with four goals and six assists for 10 points over his 21 game stretch. That would put him on a pace for a 39 point season over 82 games which is pretty impressive for a 21-year old just getting his first chance in the league. His numbers may not burst off the page but his impact on the ice was definitely noticeable.

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If Ho-Sang paired up with Tavares and Lee he would definitely see his point total increase. Alright picture this:

Tavares and Ho-Sang are both finesse players. They use their speed and good puck handling skills to their advantage. Lee is completely different, he’s not a very good skater and his game is built more around size.

It works for him though as he seems to aways be in the right position down low to bash home a rebound. Can you imagine the production of that line?

You would have two playmakers in Ho-Sang and JT all while having Lee down low setting screens ready for a rebound. Combine that with Nick Leddy and Johnny Boychuk on the blue line and the Isles can have a scary good offensive unit.

The counter argument from some is that the Isles should trade for a first line winger for John Tavares. To that, I say not so fast. Lee seems like he’s a perfect top line LW candidate for next year and Ho-Sang seems like he has the makings to be an offensive force.

Now, that’s not to say the Isles don’t need to make a move. They absolutely should make a trade, but if they go after the likes of Matt Duchene he should be their second line center.

Plus, as good of a year Bails had, he is more of a middle six forward anyway as opposed to that top line talent he was expected to be when the Isles drafted him in 2008.

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Under Doug Weight the “kids” got more of a shot than they did under Jack Capuano. Don’t be surprised if Anthony Beauvillier, Josh Ho-Sang and maybe even Mathew Barzal play a big role on the 2017-2018 team.