New York Islanders Mathew Barzal Ready for Take Off

The New York Islanders organization and their fans have been anxiously awaiting for the NHL arrival of Mathew Barzal. Barzal is now part of the Isles and he is ready for take off.

When Mathew Barzal slipped in the 2015 NHL Draft the New York Islanders pounced and made a deal with the Edmonton Oilers. Garth Snow probably couldn’t believe Barzal was still on the board when Edmonton’s turn came up with the sixteenth pick.

Since that day Islander fans have been waiting for Barzal to develop and become a key part of the Islanders. Isles fans don’t have to wait much longer.

Ready for Take Off

The last couple of games it has not been hard to notice Barzal. His speed and offensive skills have been very noticeable. Barzal appears to be flying on the ice.

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In Saturday’s game against the Sharks, he set up Andrew Ladd for the game-winning goal. The previous game at the Garden, Barzal scored his first NHL goal, as the Isles went on to beat the Blue Shirts in a shootout.

If it wasn’t for a couple of great saves by Henrik Lundqvist on Thursday night, Barzal might have walked away with a hat-trick.

Barzal is starting to see minutes on the power-play as well. If that unit can start clicking, Barzal could be a mainstay when the Isles have the extra man.

Clearly, each game Barzal is playing with more belief and confidence. That is going to translate to goals scored by the blue and orange.

Weight’s Confidence

Another thing that has been crystal clear is Doug Weight’s confidence in the rookie Barzal. The British Columbia kid has played in all eight games for the Isles this season.

In addition, Weight has given Barzal plenty of ice time. Barzal played over 15 minutes against San Jose and he logged over 18 minutes against the Rangers.

When the Isles went on the power play in overtime against the Rangers, Bazral was one of the four Islanders on the ice. That showed Weight’s confidence in the kid. A far cry from last year when Jack Capuano was the coach.

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There is an excellent chance Barzal will be a big part of the Isles core for years to come. Don’t be surprised if he winds up challenging for the Calder Trophy this season.