New York Islanders Five Bold Predictions for Rest of 2018-19 Season

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GLENDALE, ARIZONA – DECEMBER 18: Head coach Barry Trotz of the New York Islanders during the NHL game against the Arizona Coyotes at Gila River Arena on December 18, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Islanders defeated the Coyotes 3-1. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Barry Trotz Wins Jack Adams

It doesn’t sound like a bold claim when you consider where the New York Islanders rare currently in the standings and where they should be on paper. The difference in where they are and where they should be is Barry Trotz. That should make him a shoe in for the Jack Adams award.

There are a few NHL coaches that are being favoured for the award, even though Barry is the best choice. But for argument’s sake here’s a few coaches that might get the nod, but ultimately don’t deserve it over Barry Trotz.

Phil Housley in Buffalo has done a good job taking this team from the bottom to a playoff position. But then again he received significant upgrades in the offseason. The Sabres drafted Rasmus Dahlin first overall, they acquired Jeff Skinner (28 goals) from Carolina, and they brought in a good goalie in Carter Hutton in free agency. If anything GM Jason Botterill is responsible for the success of his team.

Jared Bednar in Colorado is yet another coach that’s impressed this year. His team is one of the more offensively dominant teams this season with Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen. But his team made the playoffs last season after that same offence started clicking in the second half of 2017-18.

In Barry Trotz’s case, the New York Islanders ended the 2017-18 season 17 points out of a playoff spot. Before the start of the 2018-19 they also lost their number one center and top scorer in John Tavares. And they brought in players that weren’t supposed to make the team any better just more competitive. Yet, thanks to Barry’s strategy this team is right in there for a playoff spot.