Islanders Face Dilemma As Beauvillier Return Looms

Sep 5, 2020; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Islanders forward Anthony Beauvillier (18) carries the puck against the Philadelphia Flyers during game seven of the second round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena. New York defeated Philadelphia. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 5, 2020; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Islanders forward Anthony Beauvillier (18) carries the puck against the Philadelphia Flyers during game seven of the second round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena. New York defeated Philadelphia. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

New York Islanders left wing Anthony Beauvillier has been out since January 24th when he sustained a lower-body injury in their 2-0 loss to the New Jersey Devils. On the season, Beauvillier has one assist in his first five games played.

In his five games this season, Beauvillier last played on the second line with Josh Bailey and Brock Nelson. The three have been a cohesive unit, but changes might becoming. As Beauvillier’s return to the ice looms, the Islanders will be faced with a few big decisions on what to do when he’s fit.

Islanders Second Line Right Now

The second line has been playing very well still, even since Beau got injured. Michael Del Colle, Brock Nelson, and Jordan Eberle have been playing great together.

Dal Colle has managed to rack up two assists in the Islanders previous two games and Brock Nelson managed to get one as well. Jordan Eberle has also provided a great deal to the Islanders this season with his play. So what do the Islanders do with Beau when he gets back?

Where Does Beau Go?

One of the most logical places to put Beau when he gets back is on the third line. The third line right now consists of Leo Komarov, Jean-Gabriel Pageau, and Oliver Wahlstrom. JGP and Wahlstrom have been playing well and providing for the team with strong play and hustle.

The best place for Beau to go when he returns is to be put with JG Pageau and Wahlstrom on the third line. Beauvillier and Pageau have already shown to have chemistry so this could definitely be the start of something good.

One thing we do know for certain is that the Islanders have been playing well recently in just about every aspect of the game. Great offensive, great defense, and a great showing from our goalies. Coach Trotz has been making good changes in the line-ups that have been working.