New York Islanders: 25 Bold Predictions For 2018-2019 Season

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GLENDALE, AZ – JANUARY 22: Anthony Beauvillier #72 of the New York Islanders awaits a face off against the Arizona Coyotes during the NHL game at Gila River Arena on January 22, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Coyotes defeated the Islanders 3-2 in overtime. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

9: 5 of 6 of the Islanders top-six will eclipse 50 points

Last year the New York Islanders had one of the most productive top-sixes in the entire league. Even with Tavares gone it’ll still be a productive top-two lines, but obviously not as dominant as it was last year.

Still, there’s no reason why the Islanders can’t have at least five out of the six top-sixers to finish with 50 points or more.

Mathew Barzal on the top line should have 50 points by the trade deadline so he’s the one you have to worry about the least. On his right side, Josh Bailey has finished with 50 or more points each of the last two years, he’s a candidate for 60 or more points. Then there’s Anthony Beauvillier, who finished with 36 points last year. He’s a candidate for a breakout year and 50 points is certainly in the cards for him.

On the second line, Anders Lee is a candidate for 35-40 goals so as long as he can net 15 assists or so he’ll be in the mix for 50 points. On the right side you have Jordan Eberle, who finished with 59 points in his first year with the Islanders, he should be able to do it again too.

The only one who won’t is Brock Nelson, centering the second line. He’s never eclipsed the 50 point mark before and even on a UFA year, I can’t see it happening.