New York Islanders Top 5 Draft Picks of Garth Snow Era

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Feb 14, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Islanders forward Casey Cizikas (53) looks on during warm ups prior to the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports\ /

Number 4: Casey Cizikas (Round 4 Pick 92 2009)

If you love grit you probably love Casey Cizikas. Although we ranked Cizikas’ cap hit as one of the worst on the team that isn’t his fault. Actually, it’s the person we’re grading’s fault. We’re back to discussing value.

With the 92nd overall pick the Islanders found a dependable NHL player. Fun fact he was taken three spots ahead of J.F. Berube! Just think of Berube’s NHL value (none) and then compare it to Cizikas who can kill penalties and is a part of a solid fourth line unit.

His career high in points on a season is 29, which came in the 2015-2016 season but that’s not his purpose on this team. He’s meant to kill penalties and to check people and he does that pretty well.

Well enough for a five-year $16.75 million contract. So we tip our hats to Garth Snow for finding him in the fourth round but we question his decision to offer him a big contract.

If you look at the 2009 fourth round selections there’s maybe only two guys you could argue taking over Zeeker and that’s Marcus Foligno and Craih Smith. Regardless, this Cizikas selection is good enough to find it’s way on the top five.