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

2 of 26

NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 05: Mathew Barzal #13 of the New York Islanders wears a “DIFD – Do It For Daron” hat during warmups prior to their game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Barclays Center on January 5, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The charitible venture supports mental health initiatives and is named in honor of Daron Richardson the daughter of the Islanders assistant coach Luke Richardson. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

25: Mathew Barzal eclipses 90 points

Mathew Barzal burst onto the scene with the New York Islanders last year in his rookie season. He ended up finishing with 85 points (22 goals, 63 assists) as he would go on to win the Calder Trophy with ease.

In a down year for the team, Barzal was a bright spot. The team only finished with 80 points after a hot first two months of the season, but Barzy was appointment television every night.

He exceeded any and all expectations for his rookie year and he had fans thanking their lucky stars that he wasn’t in a trade package for Matt Duchene. At no point did the 20-year-old Barzal look like a rookie.

Heading into his second full season Barzal should be able to grow on his impressive rookie campaign. For starters, since Tavares is gone Barzal will center the top line, resulting in more playing time.

He averaged 17:46 of ice time per game last year. With that number likely closer to 20:00 this year, his production should continue to increase. Also, he’ll likely keep the same linemates, Anthony Beauvillier and Jordan Eberle who he was extremely effective with.

A 90 point season should certainly be in the cards for the Coquitlam native.