New York Islanders Oliver Wahlstrom May be up by November

After a big victory, many diehard New York Islanders fans want to hear what the coach has to say. However, the shortened online release of Barry Trotz’s post-game press conference omitted some fascinating insight.

In front of a small but energized Nassau Coliseum crowd, the New York Islanders gave a mostly dominant performance over the Winnipeg Jets, winning 4-1.

Barry Trotz’s post-game presser included his complete trust in lines one through four, comments on a flawless second period, how Thomas Greis killed the Jets will, the need to score ‘greasy’ goals on the power play, and what’s different about the Isles powerplay.

Dal Colle Spot on Line 2

But the most interesting part of Trotz’s presser was when he addressed the Islanders second line and Michael Dal Colle in particular. (Fast forward to the 4:11 mark to get the question and then Trotz’s full answer.)

Trotz shared that, MDC had some systematic challenges in the Winnipeg game. The Coach went on to explain that playing on the right side was unnatural for Dal Colle but he was doing that for a lot of reasons.

Aaaaannnnd, for what reasons might that be?

Trotz’s desire for a sniper upfront is no secret. He covets a goal scorer nearly as much as Ralphie Parker wanted that Red Ryder air rifle. This guy could fit the bill.

Trotz’s comments serve two-fold.

Despite a lack of familiarity on the off-wing, MDC is on notice to quickly acclimate. With a schedule that includes twenty-four games in October and November, Dal Colle will have ample time to prove he is ready for a top-six role.

That would be a best-case scenario.

In the event MDC falters, we can be sure that Lou will be working the phones.

Trotz also had some appreciative words for one Nikolaj Ehlers. Despite a recent clickbait trade rumor, and although not everyone agrees; Nikolaj Ehlers is very very good at hockey.

Supremely skilled and speedy, Ehlers and Barzal together would cement the first line for the next decade.

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However, if no trade should materialize and the second line falters, it would seem nineteen-year-old Oliver Wahlstrom (currently on a PPG pace), will be in the immediate rather than long term Islander plans.