Islanders: Zach Parise Expectations For 2021-2022

After getting bought out by the Minnesota Wild, the New York Islanders pounced at the opportunity to bring in Zach Parise. It came as no surprise to Islanders fans, as Lou Lamoriello tried to trade for Parise just two years ago.

Now at age 37, he’s not the player he once was. Long gone are the days of 30 or more goals and a point per game production but that’s fine. The Islanders aren’t bringing him in to be the player that he was in New Jersey.

Last season, Parise’s role was significantly decreased. He averaged just 13:57 of ice time and had 18 points (7 goals, 11 assists) in 45 games played. Still, even at age 36 and playing third-line minutes, that’s a pace of 33 points.

It’s not phenomenal but for the veteran minimum, I think just about anybody would sign up for 33 points from a third liner. Especially after having to deal with Ross Johnston, Michael Dal Colle, or Leo Komarov in that spot last year.

In fact, there’s a good chance that Parise could actually put up better numbers than he did last year. Think about it, the two years prior he netted 25 and 28 goals. Sure, it was in a much bigger role, but his linemates will be improved this year compared to last season.

2021-2022 Zach Parise Expectations

Zach Parise will be playing on the third line, likely averaging a little over 14 minutes per night. He’ll play with JG Pageau, the best third-line center in the sport, and most likely Oliver Wahlstrom on the right side.

Parise will also be a welcomed addition to the power play this season. He didn’t score a power play goal last year, but the two years prior had 12 and 10 goals on the man advantage. On the season overall, you’re likely looking at a 37 point (18 goals, 19 assists) season from Zach Parise.

Of those 18 goals, six will come on the power play and Parise will also add a clutch depth scoring level come playoff time. In Parise’s last 39 playoff games, he has 15 goals and 36 points. We know how important depth scoring is in the playoffs and the addition of Parise to go along with JG Pageau will be huge.

Again, nobody is expecting him to be a goal-scoring savior. If he can give the Islanders 15+ goals and help bring along Oliver Wahlstrom then Zach Parise is worth his weight in gold to this team.