New York Islanders Should Trade Chimera and Call-Up Ho-Sang

The New York Islanders have depth on their NHL roster. That is certainly a good problem to have but it has caused some issues regarding getting their young guns into the lineup. The Isles should trade Chimera and call-up Ho-Sang.

The New York Islanders are off to a positive start (7-5-1). Their schedule hasn’t been easy. There are still a number of area’s the Isles need to improve, one of which is secondary scoring.

Secondary Scoring

On most nights scoring goals hasn’t been a problem for the Isles. However, their secondary scoring can greatly improve.

John Tavares (12 Goals) and Anders Lee (8 Goals) are off to sensational starts, but the Isles need more scoring production from the rest of the lineup, specifically the third and fourth lines.

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The Isles fourth line of Casey Cizikas, Cal Clutterbuck, and Nikolai Kulemin is fine. Like to see that unit return to form where many hockey people called them the best fourth line in hockey.

Jason Chimera finds himself on the Isles third line. It’s been a tough start to the season for the 38-year old winger (0G, 2A, -2 in 13 games).

Last year, Chimera posted 20 goals for the blue and orange. The Isles need that kind of production this season as well.

Ho-Sang

Josh Ho-Sang wasn’t assigned to Bridgeport because of poor play. It was a numbers game that sent Ho-Sang to the Sound Tigers. The 2014 first-round pick did provide some offense for the Isles while he suited up to start the season (4 Points in 6 Games & +1).

Ho-Sang provides a lot of skill, speed, and offense. Let’s remember with just a number of NHL games under his belt, Ho-Sang is still rounding out his game, especially away from the puck.

If the Isles recall Ho-Sang, look for a solid return on that investment after a number of games.

Ho-Sang could force the issue if he continues to play well at Bridgeport (1 Goal & 2 Points in 2 Games).

Making the Call

Not saying Chimera is done but the clock is ticking. The best players should play.

The argument against making such a move now is there will be injuries and the Isles would miss Chimera’s veteran voice in the locker room. However, that doesn’t mean Chimera can continue to play at this level. If things don’t change by Thanksgiving then Garth Snow needs to make this move.

Keep in mind if the Isles move Chimera it’s all about making room for Ho-Sang. Given Chimera’s production, age, cap hit, and the fact he is an unrestricted free agent at season’s end, the Isles wouldn’t get more than a fifth or sixth round draft pick in return.

Next: Rookie Roundup - Bellows on Fire

Yours truly is hoping Chimera gets going and does it soon. The Isles need production from him otherwise, Ho-Sang is going to take his spot.