Eyes On Isles
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New York Islanders Podcast: John Tavares Not To Blame

By Michel Anderson

AMPA, FL - JANUARY 27: John Tavares #91 of the New York Islanders looks on during the Enterprise NHL Fastest Skater during the 2018 GEICO NHL All-Star Skills Competition at Amalie Arena on January 27, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
AMPA, FL - JANUARY 27: John Tavares #91 of the New York Islanders looks on during the Enterprise NHL Fastest Skater during the 2018 GEICO NHL All-Star Skills Competition at Amalie Arena on January 27, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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In this week’s New York Islanders podcast, we go over a number of topics, none more important than addressing the doubters around John Tavares.

The New York Islanders are in an epic slump right now. Sure, they won a game, so technically they’re no longer on a losing streak. But let’s be honest, one win doesn’t erase the eight losses immediately preceding said win.

And none other than Islanders captain John Tavares has bee catching some heat. With five points in his last four games and 69 points over 69 games this season I don’t get.

Players slump, even the best players slump. And yes, the slump that Tavares went on was particularly long. What made it worse for Tavares is that the team around him wasn’t doing much either. Shinning whatever spotlight was already on Tavares a little bit brighter.

But is that enough to start doubting his qualities as a leader? A slump? Or even a losing streak? Are we gonna start blaming Tavares for the dearth of talent that’s around him right now?

Are we sure we’re not just trying to ease the potential pain that would come from John Tavares leaving in free agency? It’s like we’re trying to come up with reasons to dislike him so that if he leaves awe can use that to mask the hurt.

What Else We Talking About?

There are other things to talk about other than New York Islanders fans trying to Elaine Benes John Tavares.

  • Our own Matt O’Leary put together a ten-point plan on how to fix the Islanders. It’s thorough, it’s achievable, and more importantly, it has Garth Snow out of the organization.
  • The Islanders have played two games since the last we spoke. Two! The schedule has been absolutely mad!
  • Chris Gibson is sure making a name for himself in his three starts. Is it enough of a sample size to start projecting the future for the Finnish goalie?
  • Should the New York Islanders copy the Carolina Hurricanes and move their current GM into the President’s chair to easily and effectively get his hands off crafting the team? Yes. OMG Yes. Do it now.

Next: Who's Worse: Mike Milbury or Garth Snow?

As always make sure to follow all our New York Islanders coverage on the website and subscribe to the pod wherever you get your podcasts.

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