New York Islanders Roster Power Rankings Mathew Barzal On Top

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NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 06: Valtteri Filppula #51 of the New York Islanders skates against the Nashville Predators at the Barclays Center on October 06, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Predators defeated the Islanders 4-3. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

4. Brock Nelson

To almost no surprise Brock Nelson has gotten off to a productive start. He loves playing in October and March, it’s the middle months that are usually a struggle.

He has a goal and an assist in the first five games putting him on pace for his 20 goals and 40 point season. Hopefully, that keeps up for Brock “Brocktober” Nelson.

5. Ryan Pulock

Ryan Pulock has emerged as the best defender on the New York Islanders. Part of the reason is the Nick Leddy regression but the other half his him developing into a legit talent on the blue line.

He finished 2016-2017 with 32 points and with more power play time he should be closing in on 40 or more points this season.

6. Valtteri Filppula

How about Valtteri Filppula telling all those analytics guys to get lost. He has two goals, which is nearly a fifth of his total from last year, in just four games this year.

He’s arguably been one of the more productive bottom six forwards the Islanders have had this year. The possession numbers are still really bad but at least he’s giving you something offensively.