New York Islanders Sign Steve Bernier Fan Reaction

The New York Islanders signed veteran player Steve Bernier yesterday and fans, for some reason, weren’t happy about it.

The New York Islanders announced on Friday that they had signed veteran NHL/AHL player Steve Bernier to a two-year two-way deal. And Isles fans let their frustrations be known for some reason.

I get it. Everyone just wants to hear how the team is going to get better next season. They want to see that marquee trade happen. They don’t want to see depth movement at the AHL level.

Steve Bernier wasn’t the problem with the Islanders. He played the entire 2016-17 season with Bridgeport putting up 26 points in 33 games. But he also not the answer for the Islanders. Nor should his signing be seen as anything but a depth AHL move.

He’s on a two-way deal, the team has no plans to keep him in the NHL unless the roster is unfortunately decimated with injury. And with 230 points in 633 NHL, the club can do worse in terms of depth.

Want your voice heard? Join the Eyes On Isles team!

Write for us!

Duchene He Is Not

He’s not the name that every Isles fan is dying to hear be announced by the club. I get it. Wherever an Isles fan turns online there’s a Darren Dreger report that Matt Duchene will be traded.

Followed by a Gord Miller report that indicates the Islanders front and center for a trade to land the Colorado center and third overall pick in the 2009 entry draft.

These constant reminders are building expectations in all of our minds. So when the Isles announce a depth AHL move everyone is initially disappointed and then upset. I get it. But let’s not confuse Steve Bernier for Matt Duchene.

Next: Don't Play The Waiting Game With Tavares

The Islanders still need to address depth at the top of the roster. There’s no question. From everything we’ve heard it seems like a matter of when rather than if. So hold on to your hats, because this offseason is just getting started so to speak.