New York Islanders 2016-17 Season Wish List Fell Flat

Mathew Barzal To Get Calder Talk

Let’s make one thing clear. When I say Calder talk, I don’t mean to win it. But to be in the conversation for the rookie of the year award.

We’ve heard so much about this kid. His talents had been so hyped that it was hard not to get lost in the excitement of Barzal not only going to camp and impressing but actually getting an active roster spot over someone like P.A. Parenteau.

Looking back I bit off way more than I can chew. I’d hoped Barzal could notch 86 points in 2016-17. That was crazy. Not in retrospect even. That’s an insane number of points for anyone to score. Considering only four players hit 86 or more points in the entire league in 2016-17.

Barzal played a total of two games for the New York Islanders in 2016-17. Notching a total of zero points. Not a single one before he was sent back to the WHL to gain more experience.

I can’t be too mad. I’d called for Barzal to be sent back after that terrible play where he handled the puck while still standing in the penalty box.

Must Read: Is Mathew Barzal Ready?

It took a while but Garth took a tough stance, ending Barzal’s incredibly short audition and sending him back to juniors.

This just means that he’s still eligible for the Calder Trophy in 2017-18!