New York Islanders Propect: Reece Newkirk Impresses In WHL

The New York Islanders 2019 fifth-round pick had himself an impressive week with six points in three games in the WHL.

The 2019 New York Islanders, had five swings in the NHL Draft. They had a first, second, fifth, sixth, and seventh. Thanks to some previous trades, the Isles were missing a couple of picks but Lou Lamoriello attempted to make the most of it.

In the fifth round, the Isles decided to go with Reece Newkirk out of the WHL. The 18-year old put up 59 points (23 goals, 36 assists) in 68 games with the Winterhawks last year, landing himself on the Islanders radar.

He can score, but he’s more described as a playmaker and someone who can set other people around him up. This is what Bill Placzek had to say on the prospect:

"Undersided (sic) forward capable of playing with the big boys. Smart passer with improving puck handling skill, he battles for all contested ice and crashes his way to the blue paint. He is not afraid of anyone."

He’s off to a hot start in 2019-2020. This past week, in three games, Newkirk had six points (1 goal, 5 assists). His play early on this year has helped Portland to a 5-3-1 record in the WHL, good enough for third in the Western Conference.

The Canadian born center is over a point per game on the season, 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists) in nine games with the club. He hasn’t signed an ELC yet but perhaps a strong season in Portland urges Lou Lamoriello to sign him.

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