New York Islanders: 5 People Responsible For Playoff Berth

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UNIONDALE, NEW YORK – MARCH 30: Barry Trotz of the New York Islanders handles bench duties against the Buffalo Sabres at NYCB Live’s Nassau Coliseum on March 30, 2019 in Uniondale, New York. The Islanders defeated the Sabres 5-1 to qualify for the playoffs. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

Barry Trotz

After winning the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals it was nearly a foregone conclusion that he would return as their coach despite not having a contract. Instead, the Caps decided to go a different direction making Barry Trotz available.

Trotz was quickly scooped up by the New York Islanders and they were off and running. As I mentioned my expectations were low for this year but I thought long-term this hiring was unbelievable for the Islanders.

Well, Barry worked his magic right from the start. The biggest difference is goals against. Last year the Isles lead the league in that category and it was one of the reasons they were so awful. This year, they’ve allowed the fewest goals in the league (193).

It seems that no matter what buttons Barry Trotz pushes it works out for the Islanders. He clearly doesn’t have the most skilled lineup but he gets the most out of each guy and every player has a unique role that is executed to perfection like a well-oiled machine.

There’s a reason why fans feel the need to chant his name at games, he’s already the second best coach in franchise history and it’s not really all that close.