New York Islanders Round Table: Deciding a Crunch Time 6

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 09: Ryan Pulock #6 of the New York Islanders celebrates his game winning goal at 2:23 of overtime against the Colorado Avalanche at the Barclays Center on February 09, 2019 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Islanders defeated the Avalanche 4-3. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

Matt Hawkins

Barzal-Lee-Nelson-Pulock-Toews-Cizikas

My Islanders “Crunch Time 6” are based on playmaking ability, goal-scoring ability, and who is trustworthy.

First, Mathew Barzal. One of, if not, the best playmakers on the Islanders, Barzy currently has 42 assists. Additionally, Barzal also has 17 goals. Barzal should surpass 20 goals and 60 points again. Barzal gives himself and the team a nice advantage with his quick hands, feet, and excellent vision.

Next, our captain, Anders Lee. Lee is the Isles top goal scorer this season and should exceed 50 points for the third straight year. Out of Lee’s 27 goals, nine are powerplay and five are game winners. You really cannot spell “Islanders” without “Anders.”

Brock Nelson has finally been what we all thought he could be, a consistent goal-scoring center. Nelson’s longest goal drought this season is eight games, which is much improved from last year’s 17 games. With a deadly wrister, Nelson is always a threat to score. Be careful not to give him too much space and time or he will pick his spot, he’s already done so 24 times.

The Islanders best defenseman this season has arguably been Ryan Pulock. Pulock is sporting an impressive +/- of 19 and is leading the team in time on ice per game. Being one of Trotz’s most trusted defenseman, Pulock can be seen during any game situation – powerplay, penalty kill, even strength, and overtime.

Devon Toews has impressed since the night he was called up in late December. Toews was almost immediately put on the Islanders second powerplay unit and since then has made his way up to the first unit. In 42 games, Toews has five goals and 11 assists. Two of these goals are game winners. Toews can make a huge difference with his speed and ability to jump up in plays.

One of the biggest surprises on the Islanders this season has been the production by Casey Cizikas. Cizikas has set career highs in goals and points this season, with 19 and 30, respectively. Finally, Cizikas is getting offensive production along with his hard, gritty play and great defense.